High Watch Recovery Center's Newest Program Director

[Kent, CT – February 17] -- High Watch Recovery Center — the world’s first 12 Step treatment center — today announced it recently hired a new Program Director, Nicholas “Nico” Fitzgerald, a Connecticut native who gave up a career in Hollywood to join High Watch and help make a difference in the lives of others. As Program Director, he is tasked with ensuring each guest at High Watch is provided with a safe, loving and nurturing environment, allowing them to focus on their recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol.

Prior to joining High Watch, Nicholas — who grew up in Washington Depot, CT — worked as an Assistant Director in Hollywood, California on feature films, episodic network television programs and commercials. His 20 years in the industry working on films including Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and About Schmidt; and with stars such as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Mel Gibson and Halle Berry have well-prepared him with the logistical, interpersonal, time management and planning skills necessary for success as Program Director at High Watch.

“Nico has been an amazing addition to High Watch,” said Janina Kean, President/CEO of High Watch Recovery Center. “His past experience dealing with different personalities and managing difficult logistics, along with his previous history at High Watch gives him a unique voice here that resonates with guests and is a great asset in helping their recovery. We are blessed to have him on board.”

Nicholas’ first introduction to High Watch took place years ago as a guest, being treated for alcoholism. Having been inspired by the staff and his experiences at High Watch, after returning to work in Hollywood Nicholas eventually decided he wanted to live a more fulfilling life by helping others who were going through what he did. He decided to return to his roots and moved back to Connecticut to be closer to family - his mother, brother and twin sister. He worked part-time at High Watch while freelancing with local production companies and was later recommended for the Program Director position, when it became available in December 2014.

“There are no words that capture how much High Watch has impacted my life and every day I am thankful for what the program has done for me. Now it is my turn to do the same for someone else,” said Nicholas. “What better testament to the success of the program than for me to be on staff as a former guest. I am able to tell guests I’ve been in the same seat and know what you’re going through, and serve as an example of what can be attained if they follow through and commit to their treatment program.”

As Program Director, Nicholas is responsible for implementing and overseeing the 12 Step Program at High Watch. The program includes morning reflections, Living Sober, Chapel, Big Book seminars, inside and outside AA meetings, and offers extracurricular activities such as Yoga, Guided Meditation, Nature Walks, Art Therapy and the Fitness Center. He also coordinates the 12 Step Coaching program, ensures proper staffing is in place and serves as a liaison between guests of High Watch and the clinical and nursing staffs.

Nicholas earned his B.A. degree in Political Science/International Relations from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) as well as an ESL (English as a Second Language) Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from St. Mary’s College of California. He speaks Italian and Spanish, and is a member of the Director’s Guild of America. Nicholas currently resides in Litchfield, CT.

High Watch Recovery Center ­­­was established in 1940 as the world’s first 12 Step treatment center under significant guidance from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) co-founder Bill W. and other founding members. It is a leader in the treatment of alcoholism and substance abuse, dedicated to providing affordable, compassionate and effective care to those suffering from these chronic diseases. The renowned residential medical facility has evolved into a proven and unique, state of the art treatment program, integrating the time-tested spiritual teachings of the 12 Steps with the latest breakthroughs in addiction medicine to treat both the neurobiology of addiction and any co-occurring disorders (such as depression, anxiety or bi-polar disorder). Located in Kent, CT nestled on 200 serene acres of land in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, High Watch provides a tranquil and spiritual environment that is conducive to guests’ treatment. For anyone who needs help or would like more information about High Watch, call (860) 927-3772 or visit www.HighWatchRecovery.com or www.facebook.com/HighWatchRecoveryCenter.

# # #