Healthy North Texas

Ebonie Freeman was born and raised in Central Texas. She identifies as an “army brat” and person in long-term recovery from multiple mental health conditions. She adores all things purple and has been married for 13 years. She has a Certification in Culinary Arts from TSTC-Waco, a Bachelors of Applied Arts & Science Degree in Public Affairs and Community Service from the University of North Texas, and currently working towards a Master’s degree in Social Work at Baylor University. As a NAMI North Texas volunteer, she serves in various areas: “Ending the Silence” presenter, Community Health Fair presenter, Peer-to-Peer Instructor, and an “In Our Own Voice” presenter. In 2019, she was nominated as a NAMI NTX Volunteer of the Month. She is certified in Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid. Ebonie’s recovery journey continues through ongoing self-care, mental health advocacy, education, and further professional development.

Sherry Cusumano, RN, LCDC, MS, Administrative Director of Community Education and Clinical Development at Medical City Green Oaks. Sherry has served on local NAMI boards for 15 years and is currently serving as a volunteer for NAMI North Texas and NAMI Texas. She is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor and is a member of the Dallas Fort Worth Hospital Council’s Mental Health First Aid Subcommittee and is the Chair of the Community Healthcare Collaborative for the DFWHC Foundation.  She also currently serves on the board of the Coalition for Behavioral Healthcare in Collin County. She received an AA in Nursing from Johnson County Community College, a BA in Counseling from Ottawa University, a BSN from Jacksonville University, a MS in Healthcare Management from the University of Texas at Dallas, and is currently working toward a Doctorate in Nursing at Nova Southeastern University. She has worked with people living with mental and behavioral health disorders since 1977.

Craig Anderson is an experienced peer recovery coach and a recent instructor in the substance use and mental health field. He earned his Peer Recovery Support Specialist international credentialing in 2015 and has gone on to earn several other certifications that are specific to the State of Texas. Craig identifies himself as a person in long-term recovery from both mental health and substance use. One of Craig’s passions in life is supporting others in their respective paths toward fulfillment. Craig’s experience, colleagues, creativity and resourcefulness, aid him in this pursuit. In addition to his primary job duties, he has coordinated with several organizations to provide opioid overdose education and harm reduction in various communities. When time permits, he enjoys traveling, outdoor activities and photography with his wife and teenage children.