In a world where the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use remains unrelenting, Damilola Amire stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. A Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Addiction Counselor, Damilola’s commitment to the field of mental health and addiction recovery is not just a profession, it’s a calling rooted in personal experience and a steadfast belief in the power of healing.

A Personal Mission for Change
Damilola’s passion for substance use recovery was ignited by her own lived experiences. Witnessing loved ones grapple with mental health challenges and addiction left an indelible mark on her heart. Instead of standing on the sidelines, she stepped forward, determined to understand the complexities of these struggles and find ways to support others. This deep personal motivation propelled her to pursue a master’s in social work and a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Addiction Counseling from East Tennessee State University (ETSU).

With a heart driven by empathy, Damilola has dedicated her career to advocating for those society often marginalizes. Her background in public health research spans over six years, during which she worked with vulnerable populations, including incarcerated individuals, adolescents, youths and women facing addiction. Her research and hands-on experience opened her eyes to the devastating effects of substance use and the gaps in mental health services, particularly in her home country of Nigeria.

Breaking Barriers and Fighting Stigma
Nigeria, like many nations, faces a rising substance use epidemic. Yet, the conversation around mental health and addiction remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. Damilola is on a mission to change that narrative. She has tirelessly advocated for evidence-based treatment, community collaboration, and increased access to mental health resources.

Through her blog, Mindful Recovery Hub: Damilola offers a sanctuary of knowledge and support. The platform provides educational content, coping strategies, and a comprehensive directory of resources for individuals in recovery, their loved ones, and mental health professionals. Her writings on Gatekeeper.ng further amplify her voice, addressing critical issues on substance use and mental health awareness.

A Collaborative Approach to Healing
Damilola’s work extends beyond virtual platforms. As a clinical mental health therapist at a behavioral health hospital, she supports individuals through individual, family, and group therapy. Her approach is holistic, addressing not only the symptoms of addiction but the underlying emotional and social factors contributing to it. Additionally, as a proud board member of the Johnson City Recovery Center, she actively contributes to community-based recovery efforts.
Her commitment to service is evident in her willingness to partner with schools, organizations, and institutions to offer psychoeducation on substance use and mental health wellness. Through workshops, training sessions, and public speaking engagements, she seeks to foster open conversations and provide actionable solutions.

From Nigeria to the World
Damilola’s impact transcends borders. She holds memberships in esteemed organizations, including the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), and the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP). Her dedication to global collaboration ensures that she remains at the forefront of innovative recovery practices.

A Call to Action
“Recovery is a journey that no one should walk alone,” Damilola often says. Her life’s work is a testament to the belief that healing is possible, even in the face of stigma and adversity. Through her writing, counseling, and advocacy, she extends a compassionate hand to those in need, reminding them that their stories matter.