our team
Dr. Jason Roop
Founder and CEO
Dr. Jason Roop is a transformative force in the field of addiction recovery, serving as the visionary founder and owner of the Center for Trait-Based Transformation. With a multifaceted role, he also holds the position of Vice President of Research and Development at Hometown Health System, while concurrently serving as an Assistant Professor of Business and Theology at Campbellsville University and as the Pastor of Asbury UMC in Campbellsville, KY.
Dr. Roop’s journey is one of remarkable resilience, having overcome 17 years of active addiction and homelessness before finding his path to recovery in 2013. His dedication to personal growth led him to earn a Ph.D. in Business Management and Leadership in 2022, marking a pivotal milestone in his transformative journey.
An esteemed author and speaker, Dr. Roop has contributed significantly to the understanding of leadership traits among individuals with substance use disorder through his publications and national conference presentations. He is a driving force behind the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, advocating for progressive approaches to addiction treatment and recovery.
Dr. Roop’s research interests focus on uncovering the positive qualities and traits inherent in individuals with substance use disorder, challenging conventional perceptions of addiction. His groundbreaking work has culminated in the development of the Trait-Based Model of Recovery—an evidence-based, person-centered approach that has been implemented nationwide across various settings, including residential treatment centers, outpatient services, jails, schools, and court systems.
Continuing his commitment to advancing addiction recovery, Dr. Roop remains deeply engaged in ongoing research initiatives while championing the importance of treatment accessibility, holistic aftercare support, and person-centered care. His tireless advocacy and innovative contributions are shaping a brighter future for individuals and communities affected by addiction.
Dr. Jennifer Richards
Research and Development
Dr. Jennifer Richards is a passionate advocate for prevention in the field of public health. Her experience in medical rehabilitation as a physical therapist, witnessing the devastating effects of chronic disease and addiction, made an indelible mark on her personal and professional development. This was the driving force that led her to become the strong voice for prevention in public health practice that she is today.
Dr. Richards holds the Doctor of Public Health degree with a focus on epidemiology, biostatistics, and research from Florida A&M University. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Marshall University, a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from the University of North Florida, and a Master of Public Health degree from the University of North Florida.
She is a published author of epidemiological research articles in both infectious and chronic disease. She is highly accomplished at presenting information to a wide variety of audiences at the state, national, and global levels. She has extensive experience in public health policy work, program planning and evaluation, and research. She is deeply committed to building community through education, engagement, outreach, and service.
Nick Rhodus, APSS
Facilitation and Implementation
Since getting sober in August of 2020 Nick has experienced a meteoric rise in the recovery field. After obtaining his Peer Support Specialist license he went on to serve as a Peer Support trainer in the state of Kentucky helping hundreds of individuals to become certified peer support specialists.
He was then promoted to program administrator role before being named Executive Director at one of Kentucky’s largest non profit SUD treatment organizations where he has helped guide thousands of men and women on their recovery journey.
Nick brings an approach to teaching and leadership that is eclectic, engaging, and effective – blending philosophical inquiry, martial arts concepts, spiritual principles, and personal experience