At the Recovery Training Institute of Alberta (RTIA), we believe that recovery is a community effort, made stronger through collaboration, compassion, and shared best practices. As a public resource, RTIA works to strengthen Alberta’s recovery-oriented system of care (ROSC) by equipping individuals and organizations with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to effectively support recovery.
Currently, Alberta has no recognized professional standards or formal educational curricula to ensure that accredited professionals receive adequate training in recovery-oriented care. RTIA bridges this gap by providing accessible education, training, and professional development opportunities to build a more informed and unified recovery-oriented workforce.
Our mission is to build a strong, compassionate, and recovery- oriented workforce. Through expert-led training, knowledge sharing, and flexible learning opportunities, we work to establish a shared vision, common language, and best practices across Alberta’s recovery-oriented system of care.
Together, we are advancing recovery-oriented care—helping to create stronger, healthier communities.
Co-Executive 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-Executive 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.
Technology Business Partner
With a background in technology and digital solutions, Paloma plays a vital role in supporting RTIA’s mission by ensuring the seamless integration of technology into training and education. She brings extensive experience in digital advisory and solution design, helping organizations implement effective, scalable systems that enhance operational efficiency. Her work focuses on leveraging innovative tools to create a streamlined learning experience, ensuring that educators and participants can engage with training materials effectively. Passionate about bridging technology and education, Paloma is committed to building systems that support meaningful learning and recovery-focused initiatives.
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
Co-Executive Director, Recovery Training Institute of Alberta