Doug Martin is a Certified Peer Support Specialist and a person in recovery from gambling addiction who brings both professional experience and lived understanding to his work with individuals and families affected by gambling and other behavioral addictions.

Before joining Lilac Grove, Doug worked at Algamus Gambling Treatment Services, where he served as both a House Manager and Peer Support Specialist. In these roles, he worked closely with individuals navigating the challenges of gambling recovery—not only during structured programming, but also in the everyday moments when recovery skills must be put into practice.

Doug is known for his ability to develop genuine rapport with clients and create an environment where people feel comfortable being honest about their struggles, setbacks, and progress. His approach combines empathy and encouragement with accountability, helping individuals remain connected to their recovery goals while building a life beyond gambling.

Hi, I’m Doug.

Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Lived Experience. Genuine Connection. Ongoing Support.

Doug's Role at Lilac Grove

At Lilac Grove, Doug provides the peer recovery and ongoing support component of the LGIR Model™, complementing the psychoeducation, behavioral strategies, and individualized coaching provided through our programs.

Doug's role includes:

  • Facilitating peer support groups

  • Leading alumni recovery groups

  • Providing ongoing peer recovery support and accountability

  • Serving as a consistent point of contact for participants

  • Helping individuals apply recovery strategies to real-world situations

  • Supporting continued connection and engagement throughout the recovery process

Because Doug has experienced gambling addiction and recovery himself, he understands something that cannot be learned solely through education or professional training: what it is like to actually live through the recovery process.

That lived experience allows Doug to meet participants from a place of understanding while also showing them that meaningful, sustained recovery is possible.