The Power of Sagebrush

The Sagebrush plant can be seen in various ways: as a symbol of healing and resilience in Native American culture, a sign of letting go of the old and welcoming the new in New Age spiritual practices, and as a crucial component of the western ecosystem. Its deep roots stabilize the soil, preventing erosion, while providing shelter and food for hundreds of species. It is truly nature's embodiment of community.

Individually, Sagebrush may not seem beautiful with its shaggy appearance and lanky limbs. However, when viewed as a vast landscape of grey, green, and blue hues forming a carpet-like expanse, it commands admiration and praise.

What better example of "recovery" is there? Just as Sagebrush may seem rugged on its own but reveals its true beauty when seen as a collective expanse, we too might appear rough around the edges as we face our daily challenges. Yet, when we come together, find our community, and support and uplift each other, we create something truly beautiful.

Carrie Elliott is the Founder and Executive Director of Sagebrush Recovery. She is in active, sustainable long-term recovery and brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her work in Colorado’s mountain communities.

Born in Vail and raised near Leadville, Carrie was deeply shaped by her upbringing—rooted in the values of social justice, creativity, and connection to the outdoors. Her personal journey through addiction, loss, and domestic abuse ultimately led her to recovery, where she rediscovered a life grounded in healing, purpose, and hope.

Carrie is a Certified Peer and Family Specialist, a Recovery Coach Professional through CCAR, and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Social Work at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Sagebrush Recovery represents the fulfillment of her vision: to make compassionate, integrated support available to others navigating recovery—especially in rural and underserved communities.

Carrie Elliott CPFS, RCP
Founder/Executive Director

Laura Allem, CPFS - Program Director

Laura is a proud and grateful individual in long-term recovery. As a peer recovery coach with over three years of experience, she finds immense fulfillment in supporting others on their unique recovery journeys, embracing their individuality and personal terms of healing. Born and raised in a small town in Illinois (Go Bears!), Laura also served her country in the U.S. Air Force. Determined to break the cycle of addiction in her family, Laura's recovery journey has been focused on personal growth, self-forgiveness, self-love, community connection, and empowering others to reclaim their strength in recovery. Her mission is to inspire hope and transformation by helping individuals rediscover their potential and thrive.  And her favorite quote is: "Don't believe everything you think!"

Meet the Coaches

  • Monica

    Garfield County, CO

  • Stephen

    Park County, CO

  • Kristy

    Chaffee County, CO