Brandy Anderson-Willis
Brandy Anderson‑Willis is a respected mental health advocate and the founder of Integrated Recovery Support Services, established in 2022. With more than ten years of experience as a certified peer support professional, she has become a nationwide leader in trauma‑informed, peer‑led recovery services.
Brandy has advanced from volunteer peer to supervising more than 50 coaches, shaping the next generation of recovery professionals. She is a seasoned trainer and facilitator, delivering programs such as Alternatives to Suicide Peer Support, crisis peer training, peer supervisor training, and certified peer training for diverse audiences—including corrections and court systems. Her work within the Indiana Department of Correction reflects her commitment to expanding access to compassionate, peer‑centered support in high‑need environments.
Under her leadership, Integrated Recovery Support Services became the first peer‑run organization in Indiana to facilitate Alternatives to Suicide peer‑led groups, marking a historic milestone for the state’s peer movement.
Brandy has also contributed her expertise to the Bullying & Suicide Prevention and Online Safety Task Force, demonstrating her dedication to community safety, youth advocacy, and prevention efforts.
In Indiana, she holds multiple credentials, including Certified Peer Support Professional, Crisis Peer Supervisor, Certified Addictions Peer Recovery Coach Professional, and Recovery Coach Professional Facilitator. She is also an Adverse Childhood Experiences Facilitator, SASSI Trainer, Medication‑Assisted Recovery Specialist, and Tobacco Treatment Specialist.
Brandy currently serves as Project Manager and Recovery Specialist for Essential Virtual Solutions and is completing her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Bethel University South Bend, with plans to pursue a doctorate’s degree. Her work is grounded in the belief that recovery is possible for all—and she continues to build systems, trainings, and opportunities that elevate peer voices across the state.
• CAPRC certification
• CPSP, CPSC, TTS, RCP, RCPF
• Indiana University South Bend - BA
• Bethel University BS
• Board VP for WAIR Recovery
• Mental Healt Advocate Volunteer
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith. It guides my decisions, strengthens my resilience, and keeps me grounded in both my personal and professional life. My faith has carried me through challenges, shaped my leadership, and continues to anchor the work I do in service to others
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I would give is to take care of yourself first. Personal well‑being is the foundation for sustained professional success, effective leadership, and meaningful impact
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to lean into collaboration. When we build genuine connections and support one another, we create opportunities, strengthen our skills, and expand what’s possible.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A major challenge in this field is supporting a workforce made up of people who are often still healing while also serving others. Many peers are advancing their careers while in recovery, completing degrees, or rebuilding their lives. This creates both vulnerability and strength. The challenge is ensuring that systems truly support peers — not just use their lived experience — by providing training, mentorship, and environments that prioritize well‑being
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity, compassion, and faith. I believe in showing up authentically, treating people with dignity, and leading with empathy. My faith keeps me grounded, and my commitment to integrity ensures that the way I serve others aligns with my purpose and principles
Locations
Essential Virtual Solutions, LLC
South Bend, IN 46614