Behind the Desk with Buffy Stephens

Working with Parents to Strengthen and Rebuild Their Families

Meet Buffy Stephens! Buffy is a Family Educator at our Family Learning Center at Cove Behavioral Health. In her role, she helps parents who are recovering from a substance use disorder at Cove Behavioral Health re-establish strong, healthy, and truly lasting relationships with their children. 

Today, Buffy gives us a glimpse of who she is behind the desk!

Hi, I’m Buffy! I enjoy going on adventures and spending time with my 2 teenage daughters, finding old historical places, movie locations where our favorite shows were filmed, ziplining in the mountains, hiking, and going to the gym. I love all things Tampa Bay Lightning and enjoy going to games and events supporting our local team.

In 2010 I was diagnosed with Arnold Chiari Malformation and had brain surgery where an implant was put in place to allow room between my cerebellum and spinal cord. I had to relearn control of my motor skills and make major changes in my life. I then decided to pursue a college degree in Early Childhood Education. After teaching VPK for many years and working with the Teen Parent Program for Hillsborough County, I was introduced to Champions for Children at The Family Learning Center and fell in love with their mission. In 2018 I began working for the Family Learning Center part-time. In 2020, I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree and became the full-time Family Educator for the program. I have since obtained my certification as a Certified Infant Massage Instructor and currently working towards my Infant Mental Health Endorsement.

Building a trusting bond with our families is one thing I take extreme pride in. Being a part of their recovery and providing educational support groups that allow them to begin to rebuild a relationship and bond with their children in a healthy manner is priceless. One thing I would want the community to know about The Family Learning Center at Cove is that we are always here for you and your children, ready to offer support in any way we can so that you continue to have a healthy relationship with your children and your children thrive in a safe and healthy environment. The mission of Champions for Children is something I hold dear to my heart. My love for children goes beyond words. Being a part of a team that provides strength for families so that their children may grow, develop, and be successful in life is one of my many favorite things about working at Champions.

As a single mother of two, working and going to school full time, I faced many challenges. It was with the help of family and a few close friends along with complete dedication that I was able to overcome those challenges and now live by the saying, “If you do what you love, you never work a day in your life.” I am blessed to be able to say working for Champions for Children I am doing what I love.

At Champions for Children, our greatest asset is the quality and competency of our staff. We believe effective service depends on qualified and competent staff who feel integrated into our organization. We are thankful for staff members like Buffy who believe in our mission and give their all to the families we serve.

If you are currently struggling with a substance use disorder and looking for help, contact Cove Behavioral Health directly.