Addiction care, known from the inside out

Robert Pols knows better than anyone that searching online for help with addiction is never a choice made freely. He has been in recovery since 2005, following his last clinical treatment — a recovery made possible by contact with peer workers and peer supporters.

Alongside his own recovery there was room for professional growth. He started as a peer expert in mental health care, delivering individual and group interventions, psycho-education within (F-ACT) teams and facilitating recovery groups. Over time his role shifted to that of addiction specialist.

He contributed actively to developing a treatment ward for clients with a dual diagnosis at GGZ Oost Brabant, worked as a counsellor in a 12-step (Minnesota model) clinic, and has more than a decade of experience as a case manager.

Education & registrations

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSc)
• GGZ-agoog (certified mental health social worker)
• AGB code 41549095 · Chamber of Commerce 96029315

Sharing knowledge

Robert lectures at universities (including HAN and Radboud University Nijmegen), speaks at symposia and is consulted by municipalities, care organisations and the media. See also In the media.

His conviction has never changed: giving up is never an option.