For years, Trevor Bolme lived under the weight of his addiction, convinced he had no way out.
“I thought I was broken beyond repair,” he says. “I had made so many mistakes and hurt so many people. I didn’t think I deserved redemption.”
Substance use led Trevor down a path of self-destruction that included incarceration and a cycle of shame and despair. But his life took a turn when he found himself in a recovery program that introduced him to SMART Recovery. The program’s approach to addressing both behavior and mindset resonated deeply with him.
“SMART Recovery taught me to challenge the lies I had believed about myself for so long,” explains Trevor. “It wasn’t just about stopping the substance use—it was about learning to value myself again.”
As Trevor progressed in his recovery, he discovered a passion for helping others. He joined Free Through Recovery, a program that combines peer support and case management to empower individuals on their journey to wellness.
“I wanted to give back because I know how isolating and overwhelming recovery can feel,” he says. Trevor now works as a peer support specialist with Face It TOGETHER, in Bismarck, a role that allows him to connect with individuals from all walks of life.
“My job is to show people that they’re not alone, no matter how hopeless things seem,” he describes.
One of Trevor’s proudest moments came when he helped a client secure stable housing after years of living in shelters.
“Seeing someone regain their dignity and sense of security is incredible,” says Trevor. “It reminds me of how far I’ve come and how much is possible for others.”
Trevor emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in his work.
“People in recovery often feel judged or dismissed,” he explains. “As a peer, I can say, ‘I’ve been there. I understand.’ That connection can be life-changing.”
Through his role, Trevor has also become an advocate for systemic change. “Recovery isn’t just an individual effort—it’s about creating communities that support and uplift people,” he says. “We need to address barriers like housing, employment, and stigma to truly make a difference.”
Trevor’s journey from despair to determination is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
“Recovery gave me my life back, but more importantly, it gave me a purpose,” says Trevor. “If I can help even one person believe in themselves again, then everything I’ve been through is worth it.”
If you are interested in becoming a certified peer support specialist or want to learn about certification opportunities, please visit the North Dakota HHS Peer Support Certification webpage. This page provides details about the certification process and available programs. Starting your journey could help someone else begin theirs.