Provider Spotlight: Bekky Keller
Bekky is a wonderful addition to our team, bringing valuable lived experience and a strong willingness to jump in and do hard things right away. Even as a new provider, she has already stepped up to prepare for facilitating SMART Recovery groups here at At The Roots, showing dedication, compassion, and leadership from the start. We are so excited to have her here and look forward to the impact she will continue to make for our clients and community. Read on to find out more about Bekky in her own words:
Where are you from/where did you grow up?
I grew up in Altoona, moved away briefly, now have been living in Eau Claire for a long time.
When/why did you get into peer support?
I was operating a business that closed recently, so I was kind of forced into a career change. Thinking about what I liked most about my previous role was that I was fortunate to meet so many awesome people. Some of them were open about dealing with all kinds of challenges, but I wasn't able to be in a position to support them as they may have needed, or I would have wanted to at the time. I was looking for a place that I would be still be able to connect with awesome people and give that support in a more direct and focused approach. I found At the Roots at the right time, have learned a lot, and am now in a position to support people in a way that matters.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I get to connect with people. I can have a meaningful conversation with someone and I get to feel like I am able to really be present with them to help work through some of the challenging bits they are facing. Just being able to meet new people and listen to who they are is a really cool experience.
What are some of the challenges in your job?
Practicing patience. Meeting people where they are can mean waiting for them to be ready to meet. I am learning to be able to go with the flow a lot more than I have before, and adjust to a less structured timeline for myself.
Any hobbies or interests outside of work?
I like to be outside when it's warm. I like to garden, although I don't have a lot of patience for weeds. I enjoy camping, and kayaking. I have a lot of artsy interests - I have a lot of projects started, but usually some new interest will distract me from finishing them; painting, drawing, re-purposed material creations, furniture refinishing, etc. I am a huge Milwaukee Bucks fan, and also follow all things WNBA.
What is your favorite movie/book/TV show?
Movie: The Patriot. Book: I'm overthinking this question, and can't pick a favorite! TV show: the Office.
Anything interesting or weird that your coworkers might not know about you?
My lawn is full of pink flamingos and red hat gnomes (some have made it inside too).
What is the best piece of advice you have ever gotten?
When I was struggling with reshaping my identity early in recovery, my sponsor told me, "Other people’s opinions of you are none of your business." It really changed my perspective throughout life. Other's will always have their own opinions and perspectives, but how I see myself and feel about myself is what matters most - their opinions don't get to define who I am.
