FHR hires Director at Fairwinds Clubhouse

Thomas Couhig joins staff at Fairwinds Clubhouse in Falmouth

Contributed by: Erika Sloan, Public Relations/Web Content Coordinator

Falmouth, MA – December 28, 2011 -Fellowship Health Resources, Inc. (FHR) hired Thomas Couhig last month as the new Director of Fairwinds Clubhouse at 155 Katharine Lee Bates Road.
“I’ve been working as a Clinician for FHR in the Upper Cape Region for the past two years,” said Couhig. “I’ve really enjoyed the switch of now working in a clubhouse atmosphere because it’s so hands-on; there’s really nothing else like it.”
“Tom is very supportive of FHR and our mission,” said FHR Chief Operating Officer Rich Graziano. “He’s willing to take on anything if it benefits the individuals we serve and the organization itself. He’s done a great job in the many roles that he’s had on the Cape.”
Prior to working for FHR, Couhig worked as an Emergency Services Clinician at Jordan Hospital in Plymouth for over 10 years. As a Falmouth resident, the status change made sense for him and his family as well.
“It’s a small staff at Fairwinds, so you really get to know all of the members who walk in the door every day. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in Falmouth, but we’re hoping to open up this secret and continue to add new members,” Couhig said. There are about 40 members who visit Fairwinds daily to participate in learning groups, to receive counseling, to discuss educational and employment opportunities, or to simply hang out with peers.
“The Studio 35 groups (part of FHR’s creative arts and music recovery program) are really popular and are a big attraction day to day,” Couhig expressed. “It keeps people coming back for more because there’s always something new to learn or to do.”
Couhig set goals early on of expanding the educational and employment opportunities for Fairwinds members as well. “We’re building upon the G.E.D. Program and helping members reach their own personal goals in terms of finishing school and finding a job,” he said.
“Attendance at the Clubhouse is up, thanks in part to Tom’s leadership,” said FHR President/CEO Joe Dziobek. “He has a strong clinical background; and that, combined with his creativity and enthusiasm, has re-energized Fairwinds Clubhouse.”
As a Worcester native, Couhig attended Assumption College for his undergraduate and graduate career. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Psychology and Sociology and a Masters in Clinical Psychology.
“My clinical background is definitely helpful in this role,” Couhig said. “The number one goal here is to help those who are recovering from mental illness and substance abuse disorders. Fairwinds provide a safe and comfortable place for people to come and find out that they’re not alone in their journey to recovery.”
For more information about Fairwinds Clubhouse, contact Tom Couhig at 774-313-0634.