As the Founder of Empowered Recovery Center, Forrest brings both personal experience and passion to the mission of helping others reclaim their lives from addiction. Having been in recovery for more than 10 years, Forrest has walked the same difficult road that many of our clients face today. His journey exposed him to the full spectrum of recovery programs, which inspired him to create a place where treatment goes beyond surface-level solutions.

Forrest’s vision for Empowered Recovery Center is rooted in a comprehensive approach that addresses the mental, physical, and emotional challenges of addiction. He is committed to building a safe, supportive environment where individuals and families can begin to heal, while also ensuring the facility evolves with the changing needs of the recovery community. Above all, Forrest emphasizes integrity, compassion, and patient-centered care, keeping wellness at the heart of every decision.

At Empowered, Forrest and the team work to empower each individual with the confidence, tools, and support necessary for lasting recovery. From his own experience, Forrest knows that true empowerment begins when people are equipped to reclaim their power over addiction.

Robert is the Director of Operations at Empowered Recovery Center, where he helps ensure that day-to-day functions run smoothly so clients and staff can stay focused on the work of recovery. His leadership and organizational skills support Empowered Recovery Center’s mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care.

Outside of work, Robert enjoys going to the gym, hiking, running, traveling, playing guitar, and—by his own admission—eating a little too much.

Autumn serves as the Executive Director and Clinical Director at Empowered Recovery Center, bringing both clinical expertise and compassionate leadership to the team. She earned her Bachelor’s in Human Services and her Master’s in Social Work from Kennesaw State University. Autumn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which she integrates into her work with clients and staff alike.

Since beginning her career in the addiction and mental health field in 2016, Autumn has remained passionate about helping people heal and grow. She strongly believes in the power of community and the inherent worth of every individual, values that guide her work and leadership style.

Outside of Empowered Recovery, Autumn enjoys reading, bowling, crafting, and playing board games. Above all, she treasures time spent with her wonderful 1-year-old son.

Shivali is a Primary Therapist at Empowered Recovery Center. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University and her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from the University of Georgia. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), bringing strong clinical expertise to her role.

As a therapist, Shivali is passionate about guiding clients through their healing journey with compassion and evidence-based care. Her background and training allow her to support individuals in building resilience and creating meaningful, lasting change.

Outside of work, Shivali enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and exploring Reiki, divination, and other spiritual practices.

Dylan has been a dedicated member of the Empowered Recovery Center team since August 2022, serving as an Admission Coordinator and helping individuals and families take the first step toward recovery. He is currently continuing his CADC education and is certified in Experiential Therapy, bringing both knowledge and lived experience to his role.

In addition to supporting admissions, Dylan also leads ERC’s Alumni meetings and get-togethers, helping graduates stay connected and supported in their recovery journeys. He has been sober since July 12, 2021, and uses his personal experience to inspire hope and encouragement for others beginning treatment.

Outside of work, Dylan is a proud father of twin girls and enjoys spending his free time with art, music, anime, reading, and working on cars and motorcycles.

Kat has been working in the recovery field since 2018 and serves as an Admissions Coordinator at Empowered Recovery Center. She has experience across multiple pathways to recovery and is the former co-owner of a women’s sober living residence. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Kat is passionate about making treatment accessible and welcoming to all.

Outside of work, Kat enjoys reading, learning about science, tackling giant jigsaw puzzles, and both watching and playing sports. She is also a proud cat mom to three, who she lovingly refers to as her children.

Jules is the SEO Manager at Empowered Recovery Center, where she brings four years of marketing experience in the healthcare industry. She previously managed facility websites and local SEO at American Addiction Centers and has also worked in marketing for dental practices across the U.S. Jules earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University and is Google Analytics Certified.

With a strong background in digital strategy, Jules is passionate about using SEO to help connect people with the resources and support they need in recovery.

Outside of work, Jules enjoys playing volleyball, spending time at the beach, and going on long walks and runs with her German Shepherd, Link. She also loves to bake, with cheesecake being her specialty.

Estephania is a Marketing Representative at Empowered Recovery Center and has been part of the team since January 2025. She is pursuing her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing with a minor in Sport and Entertainment Marketing at Kennesaw State University, with graduation expected in fall 2026.

In her role, Estephania enjoys using creativity to spread awareness about recovery and the resources Empowered Recovery Center provides. She is also passionate about social justice and animal advocacy, values that guide both her professional and personal life.

Outside of work, Estephania enjoys working out, spending time outdoors, playing video games, reading, watching TV, and being with her family and dog.