Monument Recovery

Meet the Family: Tara McCracken, RN

Written by Monument Recovery | Jul 16, 2025 4:07:43 PM

This is our employee spotlight series where we pull back the curtain and shine a spotlight on the incredible people who make Monument Recovery a place of hope, healing, and big-hearted support. Each month, we’ll introduce you to one of our amazing team members - the movers, shakers, and difference-makers who bring their passion and personality to everything they do. Get ready to meet the faces behind the mission and hear their stories. Let’s dive in and get to know the folks who make Monument a true family!

What inspired you to work in the field of substance abuse treatment?


This stems from a deep desire to help others while staying true to my own sobriety journey. I wanted to combine my passion for the medical field with my personal experience. Working in recovery gives me the opportunity to support others not just clinically, but with a level of empathy and understanding that comes from having walked a similar road.

What do you find most rewarding about working at Monument?


Witnessing transformation. Seeing patients at their lowest point in life when they enter our doors and then, through our program, relationship building, and looking within, seeing them gradually begin to heal, grow, and believe in themselves again. Being part of that journey, even in a small way, is deeply fulfilling.

Monument Recovery is also an incredible place to be a part of. Every person on staff is here for the right reasons, with genuine compassion and a shared commitment to helping individuals heal and grow. The community here prioritizes each patient, meeting them with respect and unwavering support. I am extremely grateful to be a part of the team here at Monument, as they have become like family to me.

How do you motivate yourself and stay positive in challenging situations?


Staying positive in challenging situations is something I have learned to prioritize. I remind myself why I have chosen this path—because recovery changed my life, and I want to be that same light for someone else. I focus on small but meaningful victories—whether it is a client showing up to treatment after a tough night or taking a step forward they didn't think they could. I remind myself that every setback is part of a larger healing process and that showing up with consistency and empathy can make all the difference.

What is a personal value or belief that you bring to your work?


One of the most important values I bring to this work is empathy rooted in lived experience. Having walked my own path in recovery, I deeply believe in meeting people where they are- with compassion, not judgement. I know what it is like to feel lost and I also know that change is possible when someone believes in you and you start believing in yourself. I strive to create a safe space for others to be honest, feel heard, and start rebuilding their lives.

What’s one thing your coworkers might be surprised to learn about you?


One thing coworkers may be surprised to learn about me is that, although my main focus was on being a competitive soccer player in high school, I did, in fact, learn to play the drums during that time as well.

What’s the best advice you’ve received in your career, and how has it shaped you?


The best advice I have received in my career is that "you cannot pour from an empty cup." It is really easy for me to give everything I have to others, but that advice is a great reminder to take care of myself- physically, mentally and emotionally. It is a necessity. When I stay grounded in my own recovery and well being, I am able to show up more fully for the people at Monument Recovery. Self care and balance are essential for longevity and impact in my work.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone entering this field, what would it be?


One piece of advice I would give to someone entering this field is to stay compassionate but protect your peace. You'll meet people in some of the most vulnerable and painful moments of their lives, and your empathy will be one of your greatest tools. But, take care of yourself. Be patient, stay grounded, and never lose sight of the WHY you started in the field

In three words, how would you describe yourself?


Committed, Empathetic, Driven

Any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?


I am extremely competitive especially when it comes to sports. Any sport from pickleball to bowling, I'll never turn down a good competitive match! Hiking and being active every day in some capacity is my outlet. I have a 14 year old son who keeps me on my toes—being a mom is my greatest motivator!