Wikipedia Biography / Profile Background
Introduction :
- With over 25 years of experience as a recognized addiction specialist, Candy Finnigan is a renowned and independent mental health care provider, consultant, interventionist, and speaker.
- She is widely known for her appearance as Heather Candace “Candy” Finnigan on the A&E show Intervention.
Personal Life, Parents and Family Details :
- Candy Finnigan was born in Kansas City, USA, on May 18, 1946.
- During an interview with Will Simons from The Harvard Independent on February 10, 2013, Candy provided guidance to the queer community at Harvard and other universities. She opened up about her personal journey, sharing that she was adopted and had a gay brother. Reflecting on her own experiences, Candy emphasized that one’s identity should never be defined by others unless willingly accepted. Candy drew inspiration from individuals like Ellen Degeneres, highlighting how they have paved the way for self-expression and authenticity. Candy also revealed an intriguing childhood connection to William Inge, her mother’s best friend, who was remarkably talented but queer. Despite spending quality time together as a family, Candy’s mom remained unaware of William’s sexuality. This shaped Candy’s upbringing in a household that accepted diversity but struggled to acknowledge it within their own child. Ultimately, Candy firmly believes that acceptance is fundamental to our existence, affirming that everyone has the right to pursue happiness and fulfill their ambitions.
- Candy was married to Mike Finnigan, a singer and former basketball player, for well over 45 years, from 1976 until his death on Aug 11, 2021. She and her deceased spouse Mike had two children: Bridget and Kelly.
- Candy’s brother-in-law is Sean Finnigan. He works as a screenwriter in Los Angeles.
Early Life and Education :
- Candy Finnigan completed her education at the University of Kansas, earning her degree.
- UCLA (University of California, LA) granted her a Certificate in Chemical Dependency, demonstrating her specialized knowledge in the field.
- Further, she has gained valuable experience through internships at Cedars-Sinai Hospital’s Addiction Services and C.P.C. Westwood Hospital.
- In 1991, she received comprehensive intervention training from Dr. Vernon Johnson, a pioneer in the field of intervention.
- Candy furthered her education at UCLA, graduating in 1993 with a Certificate of Alcohol-Drug Counseling Skills and a Certificate for Alcohol-Drug Abuse Studies.
- She holds a certificate in the Gorski technique, having undergone training by Terence Gorski in 1996. This specialized training encompasses intervention and relapse prevention.
- In 1997, Candy received qualification in Sex Addiction from Dr. Patrick Carnes. She also completed Post Induction training under Pia Mellody, R.N., at the Meadows.
- In 2001, she obtained training in Systemic Family Intervention, enhancing her ability to address addiction within the context of family dynamics.
- Candy holds the credentials of a Board Registered Interventionist II and a Certified Master Addiction Counselor III. She is an esteemed member of the Association of Intervention Specialists.
Work, Career, Salary and Net Worth :
- Candy Finnigan is a trained interventionist who has worked at renowned treatment facilities like the Betty Ford Center, Hazelden, and The Meadows. She trained under Dr. Vern Johnson, the inventor of the intervention procedure. She has also worked professionally with several treatment institutes abroad.
- Finnigan was motivated to pursue interventionist practice due to her belief that her own experiences as a recovering woman allowed her to connect with individuals in need. Her work revolves around addiction and recovery, and her personal story inspires and educates others.
- With a wealth of experience in placement, assessment, and aftercare, Candy has worked as a group facilitator for adolescents and adults. She also served as an alcohol and drug specialist/counselor at Beverly Hills High School for 11 years.
- Finnigan has been a prominent interventionist on the A&E series “Intervention” since its inception in 2004. She is recognized as “The Face of Recovery” in this Emmy-winning show, which merges reality TV and therapeutic efforts to raise awareness about addiction and mental health disorders. Candy appreciates participating in this series because it demonstrates a dedication to educating the general public about the scourge of drug addiction and other mental health disorders.
- The show “Intervention” received four Prism Awards from the Entertainment Industry Council for its commitment to raising awareness about alcoholism, drug addiction, and mental health disorders. Candy is recognized as the practical face of the show.
- Candy is still involved in the recovery community as a mentor and lecturer. In her perspective, the nature behind addictions and therapies is a daunting undertaking that every family encounters.
Interesting Facts, Height and Trivia :
- During her childhood, Candy Finnigan spent a significant amount of time on her grandfather’s farm. Her love for nature and down-to-earth demeanor made her truly at home there. Engaging in activities like horseback riding brought her immense joy, unlike the formalities of dressing up and social occasions. Learning to drive a tractor marked a memorable milestone for Candy. The serene beauty of a tranquil country road, especially after the completion of wheat planting, stirred her soul.
- As the Co-Founder of MAP (Musicians Assistance Program or Musicares), Candy continues to educate and support the recovery community through various endeavors.
- Candy’s best-selling book, “When Enough is Enough: A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Intervention,” (released in in April 2008 by Penguin/Avery), offers a detailed and sympathetic approach to addressing addiction and provides a guide to the intervention procedure.