- Amare, NFP

MEET OUR TEAM

Welcome to Amare, where we have brought together a remarkable team of individuals who possess a profound connection and a deep understanding of the challenges associated with drug or alcohol addiction. Our staff comprises individuals who have personally experienced the impact of addiction, either through their own personal journeys or by supporting loved ones through recovery. This unique personal perspective empowers us to offer a level of care and support that is truly empathetic and compassionate; we have over 45 years of combined recovery with our staff that identify as a person in long-term recovery.

Ty A. Bechel, MNM, CPRSFounder & Business Development

Ty, Founder, holds his Bachelor’s in Communication, Master’s in Nonprofit Management, and is certified through the State of Illinois as a National Recovery Coach. He hosts and produces Recovery Uncensored, an interview-based podcast and the live radio show on 107.1 FM, Recovery Uncensored LIVE!.

Carson ConnExecutive Director

Carson earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in December 2021, bolstering her understanding of human behavior and societal dynamics. Currently, she is diligently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Mental Health and Clinical Counseling at McKendree University.

Jenna RamosAssociate Director

Jen has a deep understanding of grief and trauma through lived experience. Serving a combined 15 years in the Army and IL National Guard, deploying three times to the Middle East. Her experiences as a veteran and the healing God provided through free counseling offered by the VA hospital has inspired Jen to pursue a career in peer support.

Alida Kistler, CPRSRecovery Manager

Alida is Amare’s Recovery Manager, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, and has a passion for helping individuals find recovery and healing.

Alida’s recovery date: Decemeber 29, 2011

Jaime ArmstrongFamily Connections Program Coordinator

Jaime helps provide evidence-based recovery support services to families that have loved ones that have been impacted by a substance use disorder or dependency.

Tyrone Hill, CPRS, CRSSRecovery Coach and Outreach Specialist

Tyrone is one of the most honest men anyone could meet and his passion for recovery and helping others is top-notch because of it. He is also a recovery coach for Oxford Houses in the metro-east.

Tyrone’s recovery date: April 10, 2019

Amy Trittschuh, CPRSRecovery Coach

Amy is a Illinois Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with a passion for empowering individuals on their recovery journeys. She believes in meeting people where they are and supporting them in discovering their unique path to healing.

Amy’s recovery date: January 23, 2020.

Jason Farley, CPRS, CRSSCo-occuring Recovery Coach

Jason is a Certified Recovery Support Specialist, with a deep passion for helping individuals become self-sustaining in their recovery and in their life. Jason has strong expertise in employment coaching and resource navigation. He is a WRAP facilitator and sits on the Board of NAMI Southwestern Illinois as Vice President.

Jason’s recovery date: Novemeber 11, 2014.

Samantha Dugan, CPRSHospital-Based Recovery Coach

If you had just 5 minutes to sit down and hear Samantha’s personal testimony, you would not leave tearless. She is a true survivor of more than just addiction.

Samantha’s recovery date: Feburary 2, 2022

Lindsey McCoyFamily Recovery Coach

Lindsey approaches her work with enthusiasm, dedicated to supporting individuals who love or care for someone battling addiction. With a passion for fostering connection and community, Lindsey helps those in need find a supportive network to navigate their challenges and find strength together.
Lindsey is also a fantastic photographer, who uses her skills to help expand Amare’s outreach and visual storytelling.

Liz McKay, CPRSColliegate Recovery Coach

Liz utilizes her professional experience with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville to provide support for individuals pursing an career in peer recovery support services.

Liz’s recovery date: July 4, 2014

Brittney YotterRecovery Navigator (Recovery Corps)

Brittney’s unique experiences and passion for helping individuals find recovery make her an excellent addition to our team.

Brittney’s recovery date: July 17, 2023

Mary MullinsExecutive Administrative Assistant

Mary has a rich history working with youth, counseling with her CADC, and being supportive and caring towards those that have been impacted by drug and alcohol addiction.

Cindy ManosVolunteer Marketing & Outreach Assistant

Cindy has a special place in her heart for those that have struggled with addiction and has brought her skills to Amare to help with her field of expertise.