Michael Ament, Co-CEO

Michael Ament, the CEO/Manager of Recover Together Bend, is a compassionate advocate for mental health and addiction treatment, driven by personal experiences. His journey began by supporting his brother through addiction challenges, witnessing the transformative power of recovery. Fueled by a desire to help others in addiction, Michael co-founded Recover Together Bend, a family-driven initiative addressing the pressing need for comprehensive addiction treatment in Bend, Oregon.

In his early 30s, Michael fell in love with Bend, recognizing its unique vulnerability to the addiction crisis. At least 24-29 people in Deschutes County succumbed to addiction in 2021—a 70% increase from 2019. Central Oregon witnessed a three-year surge in drug overdose deaths, primarily driven by the highly lethal drug fentanyl. Regional law enforcement and paramedics have identified this crisis, underscoring the urgent need for accessible and effective addiction treatment options.

Michael’s commitment to social justice is evident in his educational background, having graduated from Middlebury College with a Bachelor of Arts and from New York University of Law with a Juris Doctor. Prior to opening Recover Together Bend, Michael worked for the New York County Supreme Court as a Law Clerk, helping to resolve complex legal matters in all areas of law. He particularly likes to resolve issues through negotiation and mediation.

As a lawyer, Michael brings legal acumen to his passion for social justice, addressing systemic issues and creating positive change. Michael’s multifaceted approach is evident in his dedication to mental health and addiction treatment, emphasizing personalized care, compassion, and understanding. Michael particularly enjoys engaging with clients who have criminal justice issues and working with law enforcement to find positive outcomes for people struggling with addiction and to advocate for RTB clients.

In his own words, Michael expresses, “My passion for recovery and treatment comes from seeing addiction in my family. I have seen how destructive addiction can be, but more importantly, I have seen the power of recovery. Therapy, medically assisted treatment, 12-step programs, and finding community change lives for the better. Addiction is a lifelong disease, but it can be treated. I am committed to serving our clients and ensuring that their time at Recover Together Bend begins their journey towards recovery.”

Recover Together Bend is not just a business venture for Michael; it is a family-driven initiative co-founded with his brother, who has achieved remarkable success in his own recovery from addiction. Together, they have created a supportive and transformative environment where individuals can embark on their path to recovery with comprehensive care and a commitment client-centered and evidence-based treatment in Bend, Oregon.