Meet Our Trainers
Rachel Fowler, MS, APTD, RCPF
Director of Training & Professional Development
Rachel is a person in recovery from substance use disorder, trauma, and anxiety. She began her recovery journey in 1999 when she was impacted by the criminal justice system. Since that time, she has ventured down many diverse and divergent pathways on the road to healing. Rachel has a master’s degree in Applied Positive Psychology, is an Associate Professional in Talent Development, and a Recovery Coach Professional Facilitator. She is the Director of Training and Professional Development at Serenity Recovery Connection.
“I have a strong commitment to fostering learning environments that promote growth, resilience, and collaboration. My training philosophy is rooted in recovery-based learning as it is my belief that most people are in recovery from something. I prioritize personal and professional development by listening to individual needs and tailoring programs that build not only skills but confidence and adaptability. I hope to encourage participants to embrace changes, reflect on experiences, and continuously refine their approaches to achieve sustainable progress. I focus on creating positive, engaging learning environments where individuals feel supported and motivated to reach their full potential. The workshops are designed to balance theory and practice, allowing participants to apply concepts during activities designed to build self-efficacy.”
Rachel’s Accreditations:
Master Positive Psychology Coach & Trainer, IDEA Advocate, Inclusive Leadership Development Facilitator, Recovery Coach Professional Facilitator (RCPF) by Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR), SHE RECOVERS Coach Designation, Curriculum Developer
Melissa Nugin, CPFS
Training Assistant
Melissa (a.k.a. Mel) is a state certified Peer Recovery Specialist, as well as a non-binary person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders. Melissa became involved with SRC after a lengthy hospitalization related to substance use. Afterwards, Melissa started volunteering at SRC, supporting with Telephone Recovery Support calls, eventually, earning a position in SRC’s Internship Program. Shortly thereafter, Melissa attained a permanent position as a Healthcare Coach, where they were able to provide coaching in the same hospital where they had formerly been a patient. After taking the core classes through the Peer Recovery Coach Academy, Melissa took and passed the state exam for their CPFS. Melissa realized that they had a passion for the material and curriculum and became interested in becoming a trainer. They officially transferred to the Training Team at SRC in July of 2024. Throughout the course of Melissa’s time at SRC, they have taken courses in Ethics, Professionalism, DEI, Spirituality, Forensics, Healthcare, and several others. Melissa is dedicated to continue learning as much as possible about the recovery field, so that they can continue to provide hope, support, and relevant trainings to the next generation of recovery coaches.
Mel’s Accreditations:
Colorado Peer and Family Specialist (CPFS) by COPA
Claudia Barajas, RCPF
Family Advocate
Claudia is a woman in long-term recovery from trauma and PTSD. Claudia began her journey to recovery in 2017 after having first-hand experience with the justice system. Since then, Claudia has embarked on a life journey to self-healing and to help heal others who suffer from untreated trauma. In 2022, Claudia received her Peer Recovery Coaching training and in 2024, Claudia was hired at SRC as a family advocate and began using C.R.A.F.T to educate families of loved ones who suffer from SUD. Claudia was hired on as part of the CCAR training team in 2025 and continues to help educate families as well as train individuals in the Peer Recovery Coaching Academy. Claudia has implemented her life experience and extensive training to better serve the recovery community.
Claudia’s Accreditations:
(RCPF)-CCAR Recovery Coach Professional Facilitator, (CRAFT)- Community Reinforcement and Family Training Facilitator, Jordan Peer Family Peer Recovery, Choices Train the Trainer, (MHFA) – Mental Health First Aid, Healthcare Training, Naloxone Training, Mandatory Reporter