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Why We Do This Work

At Avalon Wellness & Recovery, our mission is rooted in compassion, community, and the belief that every person deserves a chance to heal in a space that honors their full humanity. We were founded to fill a gap—to bring care that is real, relational, and rooted in recovery. We’re not just here to treat—we’re here to transform lives, strengthen families, and uplift our communities.

Connect with Us

Built in Lawrence – Committed to Kansas

Avalon was founded by people who live and work in this community—local leaders who saw a need and chose to act. From the very beginning, we set out to create something meaningful for Lawrence—and for the wider region. We are proud to be a local program with a statewide and regional mission.​

Local Ownership, Driven by Purpose

Our ownership group is made up of Kansas-based professionals and community members who have walked beside individuals and families struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. They didn’t just want to build a program—they wanted to make a difference. So they created Avalon: a place that values healing over volume, people over policy, and purpose over profit. This local leadership is visible in everything we do—from how we hire and train our staff, to the partnerships we form, to the community projects we support. We exist to help our neighbors thrive.

Over 100 Years of Personal Recovery

Avalon is more than just a treatment center. It’s a community of people who truly understand what recovery takes. Across our team—from clinicians and peers to leadership and support staff—we bring over 100 years of personal recovery experience to this work.We know recovery is possible, because we’ve lived it.

 

We know healing is real, because we’ve seen it—again and again. Our team leads with empathy, without judgment, and with a fierce belief in the potential of every individual we serve. We don’t just show up—we invest, we walk beside, and we celebrate each step forward.

Recovery That Respects The Whole Person

From the start, Avalon was created to challenge the status quo in treatment. We believe people need more than just symptom management or short-term solutions. They need connection. They need trust. They need a care team that sees who they are—not just what they’ve been through. That’s why we practice human-centered, trauma-informed care. Our programs are individualized, evidence-based, and built to meet people where they are. We honor the diversity of recovery paths, and we support each client in crafting a journey that works for them.

Our Mission

“Avalon proudly serves the entire state of Kansas. Whether someone comes from down the street or across the region, they will find a team here that welcomes them with care, respect, and a deep understanding of what recovery can be. We don’t just help people survive—we help them build lives they’re proud of. Because every person matters.


 

We’re not a franchise. We’re not corporate. We’re Kansas. We’re local. We’re here to help.”

—Avalon Wellness & Recovery

Compassionate Care by Clinical Experts: Meet Our Team

David Hawley is the founder of Avalon Wellness and Recovery and a person in long-term recovery, proudly celebrating over 21 years of sobriety. His lived experience and deep commitment to helping others find freedom have shaped Avalon into a place where dignity, healing, and transformation are at the heart of care. 


 

David’s vision for Avalon was born from a desire to create something different—a recovery center grounded in compassion, community, and person-centered values. Drawing on both his personal journey and professional insight, he built Avalon to be a sanctuary for individuals facing substance use and mental health challenges, offering evidence-based treatment in an environment of hope. 



 

With strong roots in the Lawrence, Kansas area, David remains actively involved in shaping Avalon’s growth and culture. His passion is not only to help people get well, but to remind them that recovery is possible—and that they are never alone in the process.

Kenneth A. Vick is a passionate leader in behavioral health and addiction recovery with over a decade of experience in clinical leadership, program development, and harm reduction. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Avalon Wellness & Recovery, overseeing residential and outpatient services focused on person-centered, evidence-based care.

 

Kenneth holds a master’s in organizational leadership and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. He is also the Founder of Recovery Consulting LLC, providing training and consultation for behavioral health organizations nationwide.

 

With certifications including LAC, CRADC, HRS, and Clinical Supervisor, Kenneth is known for advancing recovery systems through innovative care models, staff development, and community partnerships. He has served on several professional boards and is committed to reducing stigma and improving access to recovery support

Samantha Rush is a compassionate and committed healthcare professional with a strong dedication to serving individuals on their journey to wellness and recovery. As a Family Nurse Practitioner with advanced training and clinical expertise, Samantha brings more than a decade of experience in emergency medicine, behavioral health, and substance use treatment to her role as Medical Director of Residential & Withdrawal Services.

 

She began her academic journey at Neosho County Community College and Ottawa University, where she was honored with induction into Phi Theta Kappa for academic excellence. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Rockhurst University, becoming a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Driven by a commitment to continuous growth and service, Samantha is currently pursuing additional certifications as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a master’s degree in medical Spanish.

 

Samantha has served in community mental health and detox programs for the past two years, where she has been recognized for her holistic, person-centered approach to care. Prior to this, she served as an emergency department charge nurse for ten years, bringing leadership and critical care expertise to fast-paced clinical environments.

In 2024, Samantha was honored as one of the top five finalists for Best of Lawrence and has been nominated again for 2025, a reflection of her outstanding reputation and dedication to the community.

 

Outside of her professional life, Samantha is a proud wife and mother to five children and one stepson. She is actively involved in her family’s life as a dedicated cheer mom, baseball mom, and soccer mom—roles she embraces with the same passion and energy she brings to her clinical work.

Dr. Anthony Strickland is a board-certified Family Medicine physician and Addiction Medicine specialist with a deep commitment to person-centered, socially just healthcare. As Medical Director at Avalon Wellness & Recovery, he brings decades of clinical experience and leadership in the treatment of substance use disorders—along with a passion for building integrated systems that deliver lasting impact.

 

Dr. Strickland’s career has spanned diverse healthcare settings, where he has collaborated with hospitals, community organizations, and behavioral health programs to implement innovative, evidence-based treatment strategies. Known for his collaborative and systems-oriented approach, he works to break down silos in care delivery and ensure that individuals affected by addiction have access to the comprehensive support they deserve.

 

His leadership at Avalon supports the organization’s mission of providing compassionate, effective care in both residential and outpatient settings. Whether working directly with clients or shaping broader clinical strategy, Dr. Strickland is guided by the belief that recovery is possible for everyone—and that healing begins with dignity and trust.

 

Dr. Strickland lives in Lawrence with his wife, Aniesa, their two sons, Henry and Miles, and their beloved dog, Hank. Outside the clinic, he enjoys fishing, kayaking, and traveling with his family.

Sandi Brooks is a Licensed Master Addiction Counselor (LMAC) with over a decade of experience providing compassionate, person-centered substance use treatment. Originally from western Kansas, Sandi began her career in the field as a peer mentor in Wichita—an experience that continues to inform her empathetic and client-focused approach to care.

 

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Pittsburg State University and a Master’s in Addiction Counseling from Washburn University. As Lead Counselor at Avalon Wellness and Recovery, Sandi is dedicated to helping individuals navigate recovery with dignity, structure, and support

 

Sandi lives in Eudora with her husband and three children. She proudly celebrates 13 years of continuous sobriety as of January 2025 and remains actively involved in the recovery community. She is also a passionate advocate for Oxford House Sober Living, believing in the power of peer-driven support systems.

In her free time, Sandi enjoys fishing for catfish with her family and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs.

Amara Carson was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, and brings both professional dedication and personal passion to her role as Intake Manager. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and is currently pursuing her master’s in clinical social work from the University of Kansas.

Amara is deeply committed to advocacy and supporting individuals who are navigating mental health and substance use challenges. At Avalon, she leads the intake process with compassion and precision, ensuring that each new client is welcomed with care and placed into the level of treatment that best meets their needs. Her role includes conducting initial evaluations, gathering essential documentation, and facilitating referrals—all while promoting a trauma-informed, person-centered approach to recovery.

Amara currently resides in Kansas City, MO with her husband, her dog Ponyboy, and her cat Jeffrey. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, exploring new restaurants, going to the gym, and spending meaningful time with close friends and family.

Kevin Bruce brings nearly two decades of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in helping individuals and small businesses optimize their financial strategies for long-term success. His professional focus centers on coaching small business owners to grow their enterprises with intention—ensuring the business serves its owner, not the other way around.

As Chief Financial Officer and Partner at Avalon, Kevin oversees the financial vision and strategic planning necessary to sustain and scale a locally owned and funded startup. He plays an integral role in shaping Avalon’s culture, ensuring that fiscal responsibility aligns with the organization’s mission of healing, recovery, and person-centered care.

Kevin’s passion for people drives his work. He believes in building systems that support both operational success and human impact, and he’s proud to be part of a team that helps individuals reclaim their lives and find lasting freedom.

Kevin lives in rural Douglas County with his wife, Katie, and their three children—Colton, Emery, and Lyla. Outside the office, he’s an avid off-roader, enjoying dirt biking and UTV adventures. He also spends his summers on the lake, plays guitar and bass, and embraces just about any activity that keeps him outdoors and connected to nature.

Chris is the Lead Peer Mentor at Avalon Wellness and Recovery, where he draws on his own recovery journey to support clients with compassion, authenticity, and hope. A native of Fall River, Massachusetts, Chris was a standout student-athlete and later studied psychology at Bethany College in Kansas, where he has lived since 2010.
After struggling with alcohol and prescription medications, Chris entered treatment in 2021 and committed fully to his recovery through detox, residential treatment, and sober living. Inspired by the mentors who supported him, he now brings that same encouragement to others starting their own path.
Chris lives locally with his wife, Heather, and their five dogs. He maintains his recovery through A.A., SMART Recovery, journaling, and spending time with family, outdoors, or at the ballpark. At Avalon, Chris and the Peer Mentor Team are here to walk alongside you with lived experience and real support.

Mac is an experienced mental health professional with a diverse background in clinical practice, management, and research. Holding bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Anthropology and a Master’s in Social Work, Mac combines a solid academic foundation with over a decade of practical experience in the mental health field.

Throughout his career, Mac has taken on key roles including DBT Therapist, Child and Family Program Manager, Clinical Director, Regional Director, and Consultant. His experience encompasses more than eight years of research and five years in management, highlighting their expertise in various mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) treatment modalities. Mac’s proficiency spans outpatient services, intensive outpatient programming, residential treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Motivational Interviewing (MT), and several other modalities in both mental health, substance use, and dual-diagnosis treatment.

Why Avalon Wellness & Recovery?

100+ Years of Combined Recovery Experience

Spa & Wellness Experiences

Withdrawal Stabilization Services + Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Trauma-Informed Care & Evidence-Based Therapies

Holistic Healing To Address the Mind, Body, and Spirit

Outdoor Recreation & Integration with Nature

How to Begin Your Recovery Journey

STEP #1

Give us a call and speak to one of our dedicated admissions specialists.

STEP #2

Discuss any questions, logistics, and verify insurance.

 

STEP #3

Get assessed and evaluated so we can better understand your history, current challenges, and goals for treatment.

 

Step #4

Our team will develop a personalized care plan designed around your unique goals for recovery, ensuring you feel supported from day one.

+1 (785) 340-0300

Stories of Hope and Healing

Chantiel Hevel

I can’t say enough about how nice this facility is and how amazing the staff is. As a family member of a recovering addict it truly brings relief to my heart knowing the workers at Avalon genuinely want to help and bring recovery for the people we love. The love and support without judgement is healing and I cannot recommend them enough! Truly, so grateful for them.

Donald Rayton iii jr

Avalon saved my life!
I was in a pit of misery and despair. My twenty plus years of addiction to meth, and my frequent visits to prison took so much time from my family that I felt like a outcast. In my darkest times I had lost the will to live.
Avalon met my wife and I where we were. Meaning in our addiction. They treated us with kindness and absolute understanding, because many of the staff have been down the same paths. There’s nothing like a bunch of complete strangers treating you like they’ve known you for years. Not passing judgement, or acting like they’re above you.
Their approach to addiction counseling is so easy going and understandable that it’s a wonder they ever have open beds. This place is beautiful. The staff is amazing! The CEO makes himself available to clients for small talk and wisdom. The Director is a Wizard! From the Nursing Staff to the Clinical Staff everyone comes to work smiling. You can clearly tell everyone in the building has your best interest at heart.
Today my wife and I are doing amazing. Avalon has armed us with tools to battle our addiction. The work is a constant grind. But it is worth every minute. I’m now available for my family in a way I have never been.
There is no way to measure the gratitude I have for the people at 801 Iowa St. These people are my family now. They are genuine and intentional in all they do. Lawrence, Kansas is lucky to have this place in the community. For it not for them I would still be either in jail, prison, or worse DEAD.
Thank you Avalon! For helping me to take back my life.
God Bless

Derek Fuller

I would recommend Avalon to anyone looking to make a positive and healthy change in their life. I’ve personally struggled with addiction and alcoholism all of my adult life and needed a change, was dreading rehab based on what I had heard from people I knew who had went to various different places. Avalon made me feel comfortable from the very beginning delivering a family oriented atmosphere that allowed me to feel confident in opening up, getting to the root causes of what lead me to and kept me in my addiction for so long. The facilities are amazing with a game room, spa, weight room and soon a pool, however, these are all just bonuses to the amazing staff who genuinely care about everyone who walks through their doors. They are focused on a unique approach to recovery that focuses on both physical and mental health in a relaxed caring atmosphere that has given me everything needed to move forward in life sober and healthy!!

P.S. I will forever be grateful to my new found Avalon Fam keep up the good work the world is a better place with y’all in it!!

Sandi Brooks

I have never stepped foot in a more beautiful place to recover. Not only that, but I have never been apart of such an amazing, supportive team of people that all have the same vision of helping the next addict/alcoholic find their way to their own recovery journey. This place has by far exceeded any expectations that I had. I only wish that I would have had a chance to start my own recovery journey off here over 13 years ago. Top Notch!!

Robert Woody

Amazing leadership and a client centered mentality. They use Evidence based recovery techniques combined with 12 step programs. Brand new facility just opened a bit over a month ago. Has a gym, sauna, client recreation with old style stand up arcade games, air hockey, and TV. I wish this facility had been available when I started my recovery. Full inpatient treatment with medically assisted detox! They are even working on opening up the pool! This place is great!!

Andrew Richards

If anyone, and i mean ANYONE is seeking help with addiction, i highly, HIGHLY recommend Avalon. I started their program on June 27th, and im about to celebrate 30 days of recovery on the 19th, and i graduate on the 25th. My life is 100x better than it has been in the last 5 years, and its all thanks to Avalon!!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we work with most commercial insurance providers, however, we do not accept Medicare, Medicaid, or Oscar Health. Contact our admissions team to learn more and verify your benefits.

We can assist you with transportation within a 50 to 75-mile radius, and outside of that on a case-by-case basis. Contact our admissions team to explore your options.

No, we currently only provide treatment for adults 18 and older.

We offer a full spectrum of programs to meet you where you are on your recovery journey. Each program is tailored to your unique needs to ensure the best outcomes.

  • Withdrawal & Stabilization Services: Provide around-the-clock medical support and medications as necessary for a safe, supervised detox. 
  • Residential Treatment: 24/7 immersive care in a supportive environment.
  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Intensive day treatment with the flexibility to return home each evening.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Flexible care that allows you to balance recovery with daily responsibilities.
  • Outpatient Services: Ongoing therapy and support for lasting wellness.

Family involvement is a vital part of recovery. Our family sessions help loved ones understand the recovery process, improve communication, and build a supportive environment for healing. We provide education and resources to empower families to be active participants in their journey toward lasting wellness. Classes for families can be held in person or online. 

Recovery is a lifelong journey, and we’re committed to helping you maintain your progress and thrive long after treatment. Our aftercare services include:

  • Intensive Outpatient (IOP): A step down from inpatient care, allowing you to attend structured, daily treatment multiple times a week while still maintaining family or home commitments. 
  • Outpatient Therapy & Ongoing Peer Support: Helps you stay connected to support, continue practicing coping skills, and is key to preventing relapse. 
  • Case Management: A team dedicated to helping you connect with community resources and support services.
  • Alumni Program: A thriving network of past clients offering ongoing support, events, and resources.

Ready to Begin? Let Us Help You Start Your Journey Today

Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and to help you take the first step toward recovery.
Call us at +1 (785) 340-0300 or reach out online to begin your journey today.

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