Introducing Our New Executive Director: Tanis Hayden

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Tanis Hayden as the new Executive Director of SLO Recovery Center. Tanis brings a wealth of experience, deep empathy, and a profound commitment to helping others on their path to recovery. Her journey from becoming a counselor to leading our team as Executive Director is both inspiring and exemplary of her dedication to the field.

Vision and Mission for Executive Director of SLO Recovery Center

Tanis began her career much like many others in recovery, driven by a passion for supporting individuals in establishing their own sustained recovery. Her initial role was at a Methadone clinic, a challenging environment that provided her with invaluable experience on the front lines of addiction treatment. This early work helped shape Tanis into the compassionate and resilient leader she is today.

While working at the Methadone clinic, Tanis was simultaneously completing her clinical hours for her Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC1) certification and finishing her Associate’s Degree in General Education. This period was marked by intense learning and growth, laying the foundation for her future endeavors in the treatment industry.

Tanis continued her undergraduate studies at George Fox University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Studies. During this time, she also worked in clinical outreach for an organization that opened a medical detox facility. This role expanded her understanding of the treatment industry from both medical and clinical perspectives, further enriching her expertise.

A pivotal moment in Tanis’s career was her appointment as Admissions Director at Awakenings By The Sea, a treatment program where she was previously a patient. It was here that Tanis not only solidified her professional skills but also met her future mentor, Serenna. With Serenna’s guidance and support, Tanis completed her Master’s Degree in Human Services from Warner Pacific University.

Driven by a desire to grow and take on new challenges, Tanis joined SLO Recovery Center, where she worked closely with Serenna. Under Serenna’s mentorship, Tanis honed the skills and developed the understanding necessary to assume the role of Executive Director. Her certification as a CADCIII and recognition as a Qualified Mental Health Professional by MHACBO in Oregon are testaments to her dedication and expertise.

Tanis’s personal experiences have profoundly influenced her professional journey. Raised in a family affected by alcoholism, she understood the nature of the disease from a young age. Tragically, she lost both of her parents to addiction, with her mother passing away from Cirrhosis of the liver just last year. These personal losses have instilled in Tanis a deep empathy and compassion for those struggling with addiction, fueling her commitment to the work she does every day.

Native to Oregon, Tanis has a deep love for the Pacific Northwest and enjoys hiking and skiing in her free time. She is also happily married and the proud mother of two wonderful children. Her personal and professional experiences converge to make her a leader who is not only skilled and knowledgeable but also profoundly compassionate and dedicated to her mission.

As the Executive Director, Tanis aims to lead with empathy and inspire her team to help others find long-lasting recovery. Her journey from the front lines of addiction treatment to this leadership role exemplifies her dedication to the cause and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

We are excited to have Tanis at the helm and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly make on our community. Please join us in welcoming Tanis to her new role as Executive Director of SLO Recovery Center.