In Alberta, there are currently no accepted professional standards, formalized career pathways or support systems to train the next generation of accredited recovery-oriented professionals.
The Recovery Training Institute of Alberta (RTIA) aims to change this by equipping recovery professionals with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to support people in establishing meaningful professional careers and enhancing their recovery journeys.
Designed and delivered by leading subject matter experts, the Recovery Training Institute of Alberta will establish a universal standard of care for Alberta’s recovery-oriented system of care.
Our aim is to ensure individuals struggling with addiction know they will receive the highest standard of care and achieve best possible outcomes.
Co-director
Dr. Sobey is a full-time addiction medicine physician. He completed fellowship training in Addiction Medicine at University Hospitals of Cleveland and Case Western Reserve University in 1999. His expertise lies in comprehensive family practice (CFPC Certified).
He is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, a Clinical Instructor with the UBC Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Practice and a former President of the Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine.
In 2019, he was awarded the Certificate of Added Competence in Addiction Medicine from the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Dr. Sobey was certified in 2010 by the Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. His professional expertise extends across community engagement, institutional leadership, administration, education, hospital settings, and medical-legal matters. His focus over the past decade has revolved around the evaluation and care of employees dealing with intricate substance-related concerns, particularly in the workplace context. A cornerstone of his methodology is his own enduring journey through recovery influencing his perspective on recovery medicine.
In December 2022, Dr. Paul Sobey, Dr. Carson McPherson and Dr. Paul Farnan founded ROSC Solutions Group and after a successful bidding process were awarded several healthcare contracts from the Government of Alberta. These contracts are focused around reinforcing Alberta’s Recovery Oriented Systems of Care framework, with a primary emphasis on addressing addiction and mental health challenges.
Co-director
With over 20 years of experience in addiction recovery, Lyndsey Hague will co-direct RTIA with a deep commitment to training and education. Having operated therapeutic networks across the United Kingdom, Lyndsey brings a wealth of international experience and a holistic approach to recovery. Her leadership is characterized by a dedication to creating a safe, supportive, and transformative environment for all participants.
Success is more than achieving goals, it is also about inspiring those around us. As an educator, I have always had a passion for teaching and mentorship. Lighting the way for others and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration continues to motivate me to remain in this field. I see a bright future for RTIA; now is the time to build connections, learn, and lead with confidence. I encourage those who come to RTIA to learn and advance their careers to trust in your abilities and be open to new ideas. You’re here because you have something valuable to contribute.
Dr. Paul Sobey
Executive Director, Recovery Training Institute of Alberta