07/19/2025
PLEASE SHARE.
I SENT THIS TO MANY GOVERNMENT AGENCIES.
Good Morning,
I hope this message finds you well. My name is Kristy Conklin, and I serve as a Clinical Director in the field of addiction treatment here in Maryland. I’m writing to express my deep concern about the current barriers to licensure for qualified addiction counselors—barriers that are directly impacting our ability to respond to the state’s escalating overdose crisis.
Maryland is experiencing a historic public health emergency:
In 2023, the state recorded 2,513 fatal overdoses, and while this marked a slight decline from the previous year, the numbers remain devastating .
Between December 2023 and November 2024, 1,689 Marylanders died from overdoses
The state continues to report high rates of Hepatitis C, which now kills more Americans than any other infectious disease.
There is also a notable rise in opioid-related amputations, a tragic consequence of prolonged injection drug use and delayed medical care.
Despite this urgent need for skilled professionals, Maryland remains one of the most stringent states for addiction counselor licensure—particularly for individuals with decades-old criminal records who have since transformed their lives and are now committed to helping others.
Two recent examples from my team:
One applicant was denied licensure due to a 27-year-old charge.
Another has been waiting over six months for a decision on a 34-year-old charge.
Both individuals are highly educated, passionate, and in long-term recovery. They are exactly the kind of counselors we need on the front lines. Yet, they are being sidelined by a system that lacks transparency, flexibility, and compassion.
As a harm reductionist, a person with 16+ years in recovery, and a dedicated advocate, I am asking for your support in:
Reviewing and reforming licensure policies that disproportionately penalize individuals with old convictions.
Increasing transparency around application timelines and decision-making criteria.
Creating pathways for rehabilitation and redemption within the licensing process.
I believe Maryland can lead the way in building a more inclusive, effective behavioral health workforce—and I believe you are the right person to help make that happen.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to speak with you or your staff further about this issue. Please let me know if we can connect.
With respect and urgency,
Kristy Conklin
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Be Well,
Kristy
Kristy Conklin CAC-AD, RPS
Board Approved Clinical Supervisor
Program sponsor
kristyc@communityrhs.com
She/Her
Cecil Community Recovery Center (CCRC)
409 W. Pulaski Highway
Elkton, MD 21921
Phone: 443-258-9696 Ext. 807
Fax:(443) 288-4874
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Grasonville Health Services, inc
101 Drummer Drive
Grasonville, MD 21638
Phone: (410)413-7880 ext. 102
Fax: (410)879-9600
Recovery Health Services (RHS)
