Pam Williams: Circle Park Treatment Director

For many decades, addiction was viewed as a simple, one dimensional condition: criminal. It was primarily met with punishment and individuals struggling with substance use were thoughtlessly categorized as having “weakness of the mind” and “moral failings.” However, addiction proved to be a far more complicated issue than previously thought. Today, addiction is recognized as a complex and chronic disease of the brain, involving psychological reward, motivation, and memory. Like other chronic diseases, addiction has demonstrated familial heritability, the capacity to be influenced by biopsychosocial factors, and a positive response to medical and therapeutic treatment. The American Medical Association ofcially recognized addiction as a disease in 1987 and it was declared a medical subspecialty in 1990. There is a high prevalence of childhood trauma and stress-inducing events in the backgrounds of many struggling with addiction, which is why professional counseling is one of the most crucial aspects of treatment. Circle Park Behavioral Health Services is proud to employ an outstanding treatment team dedicated to helping those on the path to recovery. At the forefront of this team is Pam Williams (LPC/S, LPC, CS, MAC, LAC, SAP), the Director of Outpatient Treatment Services, who has devoted her career to helping individuals overcome addiction and lead stable, more fulfilling lives. Ms. Williams is a Florence native and graduated with her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Francis Marion University in 2004. One of her driving motivations to enter the field was her interest in psychology and desire to help those in need. Addiction is a widespread issue afecting individuals from all backgrounds and communities and she recognized it as an area she could make a notable diference. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys fitness and recently completed the Cooper River Bridge Run in Mount Pleasant, SC and is participating in her first obstacle course in less than two weeks. She is also a devoted animal lover and has a pet rabbit named Bif, whom she adores very much. She began her counseling career at the Spring Branch Detox Center located in Marion, SC in 2004 and transitioned to Circle Park in 2005 as the Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Coordinator, which she held for 11 years. For 8 of those 11 years,

Pam Williams

Circle Park Treatment Director

“I was always grateful to serve patients in any capacity but was especially excited to join an agency that demonstrates excellence and dedication to the Florence community.”

she directly conducted IOP groups. Regarding her transition to Circle Park, she stated: “I was always grateful to serve patients in any capacity but was especially excited to join an agency that demonstrates excellence and dedication to the Florence community.” During this time, she also served as the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP) coordinator for the agency. The goal of ADSAP is to help those with a DUI or like ofense lower their risk of future alcohol and drug problems by completing recommended educational/treatment services and reobtaining their driver’s license. Since 2016, she has also served on the ADSAP Advisory Committee. In 2017, Ms. Williams began her role as the Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Coordinator, where she facilitated clients’ entry into the program and ensured they were receiving the appropriate services. Circle Park’s MAT program utilizes Suboxone, Subutex, and Vivitrol for those struggling with alcohol and opioid use and through this partnership, clients can also be assessed for other medications and access general medical care. In April of 2020, she transitioned into her current role as the agency’s Treatment Director, where she manages and directs all clinical services for outpatient treatment. Throughout her career, she has earned numerous professional certifications, including her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC). She demonstrates commendable leadership qualities and promotes a harmonious and safe environment that benefits both clients and staf. Along with the services previously mentioned, Circle Park is also proud to ofer a variety of other resources for substance use and beyond. Ms. Williams manages an array of specialized services, including Individual, Group, Family, and Couples counseling, along with Adolescent and Pre-trial Intervention Services. She is delighted to work for an agency that prioritizes clients’ individual needs and strives for the highest quality of care possible. She looks forward to continuing serving the Florence community and improving the lives of those afected by this disease. Circle Park and the community are incredibly thankful for her service and dedication. For more information regarding our programs, contact Circle Park at 843-665-9349 or visit us on our website www.circlepark.com.