Meet Our Team

Executive Director

Qemal holds a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Accounting from La Trobe University, Australia. He has more than 10 years experience in international and domestic accounting standards and business practice.

Program Director

Katherine Niemela has worked within the Mental Health field since 1986, in acute care, outpatient, residential, and academic settings. She received a Masters of Mental Health Nursing from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and is a PhD. candidate at the Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis. Additional postgraduate work includes training in Gestalt Therapy, Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Group Theory. Recently she has developed a clinical focus on the complex grief responses experienced by family-member caregivers.

Her work with Bridges to Recovery began in 2007, first as a Primary Therapist, then Associate Clinical Director and Program Director of the San Remo House. Katherine was offered an opportunity to design a specialized program for Borderline Personality Disorder, co-developing one of the first residential treatment homes for this diagnosis. The Clearview Women’s Center opened in 2009, and as Clinical Director she supervised and managed this program through its initial 2½ years of service. In private practice and here at BTR, her work is relationally-based, using a contemporary psychoanalytic framework. This type of therapy provides a space for reflection on past experiences while also actively engaging with present day emotions, needs and desires.

Medical Director and Psychiatrist

Dr. McNary is a board-certified psychiatrist. She is a staff psychiatrist at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute. Since 2011, McNary has been the psychiatrist at UCLA’s Simms-Mann Center for Integrative Oncology, a nationally recognized wellness center for patients undergoing cancer treatment and their families. Dr. McNary has a particular interest in the intersection of physical and mental health and the use of integrated strategies to treat complex emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Dr. McNary earned a bachelors degree in human biology and a masters degree in psychology from Stanford University. She earned her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She trained in adult psychiatry at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, followed by specialized fellowship training in Mood Disorders and Psycho-Oncology. She has also received speciality training in Women’s Mental Health and Psychotic Disorders. She is a diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has worked at Bridges to Recovery since 2010.

Expanding the Possibilities of Antipsychotics

Medical Director & Psychiatrist

Dr. Yanchar is trained in both Family Medicine and Psychiatry. Her interests include:
Women’s Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma and PTSD, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Transgender Issues, Functional Medicine, and the integration of Mind-Body Medicine.

Dr. Yanchar completed her undergraduate training at Kent State University in Ohio with a bachelors in Psychology with a Women’s Studies focus. She then worked for the American Red Cross in NYC doing emergency services through the AmeriCorps, with extensive time spent doing hurricane relief work for Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, and Ike. She made a career shift and decided to pursue medicine, doing her premedical work at Virginia Commonwealth University, and obtained a Master’s in Physiology and Complementary and Alternative Medicine at Georgetown University. She is an Osteopathic Physician, completing her medical school at A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona. She then pursued residency training at UC San Diego in the Combined Family Medicine and Psychiatry program, where her focus has been on care for the underserved, specifically the homeless population of San Diego. She is currently the Chief Resident for the UCSD Combined Family Medicine/Psychiatry Residency.

Clinical Director and Psychologist

Trevor Small, Psy.D., a graduate of Pepperdine University, is a clinical psychologist who specializes in providing psychodiagnostic and psycho-therapeutic interventions to adolescents and adults. He is an expert in the treatment of Bipolar disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyper-activity Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Mood Disorders. Dr. Small is the Clinical Director of Bridges to Recovery and oversees the clinical care at all the Bridges to Recovery facilities.

Dr. Small has lectured in the areas of: trauma, failure to thrive adults, ADHD treatment in adults, and effective treatment of young adults with complex psychological presentations. Dr. Small has been featured recently in both radio and television discussing the impact of 9/11 on the American psyche and has written for the media in the area of mental health disorders and their depiction.

Psychiatrist

Dr. Gandin has many years of experience in treating various psychiatric disorders. His areas of expertise include the following:

-Mood, Anxiety and Psychotic Disorders
-Addiction – Substance, Sex/Love, and Others
-Geriatric Psychiatric Disorders, with the utilization of comprehensive memory evaluations
-Women’s Mental Health, including the use of psychotropic medications during pregnancy and breast feeding and the treatment of post-partum depression
-Transgender Issues

Dr. Gandin received his Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Philosophy from the University of California at Berkeley. He subsequently completed a Masters of Science in Physiological Psychology from California State University. After completing medical school at Sackler School of Medicine, Dr. Gandin performed his Internship and Residency in Psychiatry at the Semel Institute for Neuro-science and Human Behavior at UCLA. As a resident, he received Honors include having been awarded the 21st Century Psychiatry Prize by UCLA Faculty and having been named an American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry/Bristol-Myers Squibb Fellow and a U.S. Psychiatric & Mental Health Care Congress/Eli Lilly Fellow. He served as Chief Resident during his final year of Residency. He also completed both a Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry and Community Psychiatry at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA. Subsequently, he has received psychoanalytic training at the New Center for Psychoanalysis.

Clinical Psychologist

Deborah Sandy received her degree from Los Angeles Institute and Society for Psychoanalytic Studies. She has expertise in eating disorders and addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, personality disorders, sexual abuse, trauma, couples therapy.

Clinical Psychologist

Eric Strang has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, with an emphasis in both psychodynamic and existential/humanistic psychotherapy. He has provided mental health services since 1989. Areas of expertise include: emotional dysregulation, disrupted Attachment, mood instability, existential/spiritual conflicts/crises, trauma, shame, disorders of the self, impulse control, couples work, and executive dysfunction. Methodologies practiced include: Psychodynamic, Existential/Humanistic, Mentalization Based (MBT), Interpersonal (IPT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Mindfulness, Dream Analysis, motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention. His areas of interest include integrative models of psychotherapy, spirituality, philosophy, neuroscience, and metaphoric communication.

Clinical Psychologist

Jan Witkoski, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist, specializes in work with psychoses, trauma, mood and personality disorders, and addiction in adults. Her expertise also includes psychoanalytic psychotherapy with couples, families, adults and adolescents to address relationship issues and life transitions. Dr. Witkoski has a particular interest in group dynamics and leads both process and didactic groups at Bridges to Recovery. She has more than 20 years’ experience working in mental health.

She received a doctorate in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles. She supervises therapists in training, and also provides consultation to seasoned colleagues. For many years, she has supervised both groups and individuals at a non-profit community clinic. A former journalist, Dr. Witkoski enjoys helping people access their creative energy in treatment through writing and journaling, dreamwork, mindfulness, and artistic pursuits. She also believes in the benefits of exercise to enhance overall mental health!

Psychologist

Dr. Miholich is a licensed clinical psychologist working in private practice providing therapeutic and psychological assessment services. Dr. Miholich completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Business at the University of San Diego then went on to get her Masters and Doctorate of Psychology from Alliant, California School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco. Throughout her career she has worked in a variety of settings including private practice, community mental health centers, schools, providing in home services, and at a private psychiatric treatment facility.

Dr. Miholich has worked with various populations including adolescents struggling with emotional, social, developmental and academic issues and adults dealing with a wide variety of mental health problems in outpatient and inpatient settings. She have extensive experience providing services to adolescents and adults managing substance abuse in conjunction with mental health concerns. Additionally Dr. Miholich specializes in psychological assessment for children, adolescents, and adults seeking further clarification about presenting complaints and possible solutions. http://www.drmiholichpsychologist.com/

Psychotherapist / Psychoanalyst

Dr. Cynthia Brown is a seasoned, licensed marriage and family psychotherapist who guides individuals, couples and families through crises and life transitions that have been precipitated by changes in relationships, psychological health, family life cycle, and sexual and gender orientation.
Dr. Brown is an active clinical partner in the creative process needed to move through life transitions. She uses an exploratory and proactive approach to help you meet your psychological, emotional, relational, and situational challenges.

When you work with her you can expect to:
 Identify and utilize your existing resources;
 Know and use what motivates you to develop new resources and possibilities; Identify what interferes with your ability to achieve the next steps toward adjustments;
 Find new options for significant change.

Her areas of specialty are:

• Thought disorders – schizophrenia, bipolar
• Mood disorders – depression, anxiety
• Crisis and trauma
• Chronic experiences of low self worth, shame, grief and loss

Psychotherapist / Psychoanalyst

Dr. Mendenhall serves as a couples and family therapist at Bridges as well as providing individual psychotherapy to Bridges clients. She has 45 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in contemporary psychoanalysis from the Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis and is a Training and Supervising Psychoanalyst at that institute. In addition to couples and family therapy and parenting work, Dr. Mendenhall has extensive experience in working with issues of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, trauma and sexual abuse.

Psychotherapist / Psychoanalyst

Dr. Schreiber is a licensed marriage and family therapist, and he has been working in both private practice and residential treatment for the past ten years. He received his Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, and has completed his doctoral psychoanalytic training at the Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis in Los Angeles.

Dr. Schreiber specializes in family therapy, as well as treating adults with severe trauma histories. In addition to these specialities, Dr. Schreiber uses a psychoanalytic approach in treating adults with severe depression, anxiety and co-occurring disorders. Dr. Schreiber’s work at Bridges to Recovery includes leading groups during regular programming, as well as facilitating and leading both the Family Intensive and the Trauma Intensive programs – specialized, off-site weekend programs in which patients and their families experience immersive, focused treatment for two to three days

Clinical Program & Operations Manager

Nora is an experienced director with a demonstrated history of working in behavioral health. She is skilled in crisis intervention, mental health treatment, chemical dependency treatment, applied behavior analysis, child and adolescent treatment, family treatment, and residential treatment programs. She is a strong business development professional in the arena of residential treatment, care and compliance, overall program management, and training. Nora has a passion in helping individuals and families return to fulfilling and healthy lives by supporting their healing process. Nora strives to encourage growth and positive change while ensuring that both clients and staff feel safe within their environment.

Nora is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University and her Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her professional interests include: trauma informed care, mood disorders, mental illness, LGBTQ, ethics, psychological impact of social media, program development, training & development, and care & compliance.

Residential Therapist

A Bay Area Native, Kristina began her career in mental health in her undergraduate years, with several volunteer positions in outpatient settings with both adults and children. She completed her B.A. in Psychology at San Diego State University and her M.A. in Counseling Psychology at Argosy University San Diego. Kristina has vast experience practicing Applied Behavioral Analysis with children and families in home, school, and clinical settings and provided behavioral consultations to caregivers and teaching professionals. Kristina first joined Hanbleceya Recovery Network as a Practicum Student where she provided individual, group, and family therapy in a semi-independent milieu setting for adults with severe mental illness and co-occurring addiction. She continued on as the Residential Clinician in for Hanbleceya’s licensed residential homes and then joined the Helix Healing and Recovery Team in a dual role of Clinician and Administrator. Currently, Kristina serves at the Residential Therapist at Bridges to Recovery San Diego, integrating Somatic Experiencing and behavioral approaches in her work with clients. Kristina maintains a small private practice working with children and families using a family systems approach.

Somatic Experiencing and EMDR Therapist

Cheryl Grant is a Trauma Therapist and specializes in helping people feel better about themselves and eliminate suffering. She is also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and became interested in this field when she realized that sexual trauma is often at the root of sexual compulsivity and other addictive behaviors. Both of her parents survived the Holocaust and their productive lives were the inspiration for her interest in working with various types of trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Cheryl has worked with many people in recovery and believes that our society encourages addictive behaviors and is dedicated to promoting balance and well being through fitness and self care. She also has a special interest in animals and their welfare and has two cats and two dogs and hopes some day to have a pig and two goats.

Somatic Experiencing Therapist

Dr. Foster has a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Santa Barbara Graduate Institute with a specialization in somatics. She specializes in working with both relational and shock trauma and has been approved by the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute to offer private sessions and consults for Somatic Experiencing students in training. She also offers EMDR and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy as a part of her trauma specialization. Her expertise includes working with preverbal trauma and insecure attachment and their sequelae. Dr. Foster is a licensed marriage and family therapist.

Somatic Experiencing Therapist

Ellen received her training at USC School of Social Work and has been in the field for over 25 years. She specializes in working with survivors of trauma, and this interest led her to being trained in EMDR in 1994. She has also been practicing Somatic Experiencing since 2003. Additionally, Ellen specializes in working with couples and relationship issues.

Consulting Neuropsychologist

Dr. Judy Ho is a board licensed clinical psychologist and specializes in neuropsychological and psychodiagnostic assessments/evaluations. She spent three years post-doctorate conducting psychiatric research at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, and worked with community mental health providers to improve the delivery of evidence-based care to high-need populations in Los Angeles and New Orleans.

Dr. Ho’s clinical specialties include child and family interventions, culturally responsive treatments for ethnic minority individuals, and treatments for depression and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.

Shedding Light on the Value of Psychological Assessment

Art Group Therapist

A native San Diegan, Kayla moved to the Los Angeles area where she completed a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s in Theology, and a master’s in Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy. She began working in the mental health field in 2001 and has experience in residential, hospital, family clinic, school, and private practice settings. Kayla specializes in the treatment of eating disorders and accompanying mood, thought, trauma and substance abuse disorders. She primarily draws upon psychoanalysis, family systems, and attachment theory for case conceptualization, and she is skilled at using a variety of therapeutic techniques, particularly the modality of art therapy. Kayla seeks to foster an environment of warmth and safety where clients build on their strengths, heal from past wounds, and transform maladaptive patterns into healthy functioning. She enjoys, music, art, and outdoor adventures. Kayla is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC48030) and Registered Art Therapist (11-018).

Therapist

Naomi Tucker is a registered Art Therapist (ATR) and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Adjunct Professor at Loyola Marymount University’s Department of Marital and Family Therapy. Naomi facilitates art therapy groups for teen moms at LMU’s Helen B. Landgarten Art Therapy Clinic and also supervises students and interns. In her private practice in West Los Angeles, she utilizes mindfulness and art therapy to provide expansion-focused therapy for individuals, couples and groups.

Group Therapist

Mary is a somatic therapist who specializes in trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders and grief and loss. She received her M.A. from John F. Kennedy University in Pleasant Hill, CA. Mary has extensive experience working in acute mental health settings. She is trained in Somatic Experiencing and Trauma First Aide.

Group Therapist

Katie, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who served as the Program Director and a Primary Therapist for Promises, Malibu Vista, a program for women diagnosed with mood and personality disorders, as well as PTSD, in an all-women’s residential setting. She also served as a Primary Therapist at the Sexual Recovery Institute. She received her MA in Psychology from Antioch University.

Earlier in her career, Katie served as an Account Manager for Chiat Day and Davie Brown Entertainment.

Group Therapist

Martin Ponciano is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, specializing in individual, couples and family therapy having concerns or difficulties in relational/relationship-related counseling in San Diego, CA.

Martin has received training in in Cognitive-Behavioral, Narrative, and Coherence Therapy, he is currently serving as in this capacity, working with a broad spectrum of clients in relationship-related issues, life situational adjustment, and concerns.

In addition to being a dedicated relationship therapist, Martin is a Licensed Nurse and have taught Nursing at various Health Sciences courses at the post-secondary level, and have worked in various nursing specialties including Oncology, Geriatrics, Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry/Mental Health, and Administration.

Martin is an interactive, post-modern therapist. His therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges and increase MEANING to their experiences. He integrates complementary/contemporary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, he works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.

Group Therapist

Heather has her MA in Counseling Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has vast experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of treatment settings including residential treatment facilities, the public school system, nonprofit agencies, and private practice. She has extensive knowledge in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, and relational issues with couples and families. Heather utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. She is passionate about helping others develop the tools necessary to make positive changes in their lives as well as joining them on their journey towards healing and peace. Her goal is to create a safe space filled with warmth, authenticity, and empathy for each person who enters treatment.

Group Therapist

Jason is a Bay Area Native, starting his career in mental health at University of California, Davis as an undergraduate student majoring in Psychology and Spanish in 2006. In 2008, Jason began working in residential treatment with children labeled “emotionally disturbed.” He completed his B.A. at Davis in 2010 and his M.A. in International Counseling Psychology at Alliant International University, Mexico City Campus, in 2013. Jason speaks Spanish almost natively and has experience practicing family therapy with children, adolescents, couples, adults, and families in homes, schools, and clinical settings. Upon moving to San Diego to complete his PsyD in 2017, Jason began working at Paradise Valley Hospital as an Associate MFT where he provided family therapy to clients with moderate to severe mental health issues. Jason earned his LMFT license in January and serves as a group residential therapist at Bridges to Recovery San Diego. Jason integrates Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in his work. Jason is also completing his PsyD and maintains a private practice in Scripps Ranch.

Clinical Pscyhologist / DBT Therapist

Dr. Siegel earned a Master in Art in Clinical Psychology and a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology (CSPP). Post-doctorally, completed a two-year certificate program in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at Wright Institute; followed by an intensive training from Behavioral Tech DBT training. Expertise in Dual Diagnosis/Eating Disorders/Substance Abuse/Mood Disorders and Anxiety. Dr. Calò is a member of the Psychology & Child Development Advisory Board at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA; and the National Anger Management Association.

Mind & Body Group Therapist

Soleil Hepner, C-IAYT, worked in the fast-paced world of high-tech for 20 years. Being one of the few women in management brought high stress manifesting in chronic back pain, depression and a bout with cancer. Burned-out, Soleil left high-tech for high-touch in 2001 finding life-changing results for herself and her clients using the Phoenix Rising Method of Yoga Therapy. Soleil is best known on the West Coast as a speaker to therapists advocating for the need to bring the body into treatment. She has been training therapists since 2005, currently teaches all three Levels of the Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy Training and Bring the Body to Therapy workshops, and is the Level 3 Course Director for the School’s IAYT Accredited Program. Soleil has a private practice in San Diego where she specializes in recovery, trauma, eating disorders, and pain.

www.SoleilHepner.com

Group Facilitator

Russell “Buddy” Helm is a classically trained musician since the age of eight. He has recorded and toured with many greats including Frank Zappa, Tim Buckley, Baba Olatunji, Allman Brothers, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Big Joe Turner and many others. He has written two books on drum healing: “Drumming the Spirit to Life” and “Way of the Drum”. He recorded, “No 2nd Chance”, a martial arts drumming CD for Master Martial Arts teacher Guro Dan Inosanto(Bruce Lee’s partner). He was also a Star Wars comic strip writer for George Lucas, has extensive music and film production experience and was post production supervisor at Lorimar. With extensive research into therapies, he developed HelmTone Healing Drum Protocols, a drumming based meditation for relieving stress, balancing metabolism, increasing life energy and self esteem. His drumming protocols are used by counselors, therapists and healing centers across the nation, in Japan, Australia and Europe. He has been teaching weekly drumming meditation workshops in Santa Monica, California and around the country for over twenty five years.

Chemical Dependency Case Manager

Lori has been working in the chemical dependency recovery field for approximately 10 years and has worked with a wide array of clients. “I really enjoy working in a team environment. Bridges has that interface between clinical staff that fosters comprehensive Bio-Psycho-Social –Spiritual recovery and growth for all clients”. Lori is a Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor II (CADC-II) and a Certified Life Coach. Lori utilizes her skill set to assist clients in getting clean and sober, staying clean and sober and eventually living clean and sober. “There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone break the chains of addiction and become their authentic selves”.

Neurofeedback Technician

John Dupler Ph.D received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 1994 from the University for Humanistic Studies, San Diego, CA. He is BCIA board certified in Neurofeedback and was one of the first to practice this technology in 1993. Since then he has worked independently specializing in EEG Neurofeedback and has significant experience with complicated psychiatric conditions. He presently manages two Neurofeedback Clinics, one in San Diego and the other in Tokyo, Japan.

Meditation Facilitator

Khana Lacewell has an MA in Clinical Psychology, and is an authorized facilitator of Mindfulness-Based Stress-Reduction. She received her teacher training in M.B.S.R. at Insight L.A. Khana has both personally and professionally explored many practices for better mental and emotional health, including mindfulness, meditation, DBT, and various stress-reduction and coping skills. Her approach to educating and healing is down-to-earth, accessible, compassionate, knowledgeable, and often humorous. She is our resident Meditation Facilitator in Los Angeles.

Massage Therapist

Mary is a remedial (deep tissue) massage therapist, living and working in Los Angeles since 2009. She completed her 504 hours of training in Britain where she focused on manipulations, mobilizations and some neuromuscular work, regarding muscular-skeletal injuries. The intuitive therapeutic connection she has with a client is the most important aspect of her work. Mary has continued her training with Susan Ross at the Ross Clinic in Scotland and completed training in Hot Stone therapy in California.

Acupuncturist

Masters in Traditional Oriental Medicine from Emperor’s College in Santa Monica. Licensed to practice acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal medicine by the State of California. Acupuncture treats the body, mind, and spirit to create balance in your life and restore your body’s own healing abilities. Elena specializes in the treatment of anxiety, stress, depression, pain, and other emotional conditions. She is also a trained Reiki practitioner.

Personal Trainer

Mike is a Certified Fitness Instructor specializing in fitness lifestyle management. He enjoys teaching clients how to maintain regular and consistent exercise as a way to increase fitness level, self esteem, and overall wellness.

Personal Trainer

Michael has been an ISSA certified personal fitness instructor for over fourteen years. His passion for personal training started while working with physical therapy clients at Beverly Hills Physical Medicine. He since then has become proficient in Circuit training and Boxing instruction. He is very happy and grateful to have been part of the Bridges to Recovery staff for over seven years.

Fitness Instructor

A native of San Diego, John has committed himself to a life of health and fitness.  He believes the only way to true physical health is through a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity.  John received his Personal Training Certification in 2009 and shortly thereafter became the MMA Director at a local San Diego athletic club.  In his fitness career, John has taught over 4000 fitness classes and has been training and teaching the martial arts since 1990 (Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Wrestling, Judo, Self-Defense).  He gets tremendous joy from teaching women’s self defense classes. In his spare time, John enjoys reading a good book, spending time with his beautiful fiancé and paling around with his canine compadres.

Dietitian

Born and raised in San Diego, Ursula graduated from San Diego State University in 1999 and became a registered dietitian in 2000. Her work experience, including clinical dietitian for Sharp Healthcare, Nutrition Director for a residential eating disorder treatment program, and private practice dietitian, gives her an appreciation of working collaboratively with the Hanbleceya team. Ursula’s passion for connecting with clients and understanding their health goals is fundamental in leading to positive outcomes. Her non-diet approach provides a unique look at lifestyle choices and movement towards balance between food and activity. Ursula’s specialty areas are working with those who struggle with eating disorders and weight issues. Knowing that changing eating and exercise patterns can be overwhelming and daunting, her authentic and compassionate ways help clients to take realistic steps towards mindful eating, challenge unrealistic expectations and irrational food beliefs, as well as build body confidence. Ursula is a Registered Dietitian (CDR877959).

Adventure Therapy

Kathy holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and an undergraduate degree in Marketing and Organizational Psychology. She is an active member of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association and holds certifications in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine-Assisted Personal Development. Kathy has worked in a number of settings including private practice, colleges, churches, and other non-profits and is known for her success with clients who have failed to thrive in the traditional “office therapy” environment. She has a long history of providing support within the community including more than 25 years of counseling and outreach services to youth and young adult survivors of trauma, those suffering from mental health disorders, the blind and disabled, as well as those just wanting to overcome life’s challenges.

Senior Director of Admissions

Kim O’Donnell has been helping people recover from addiction and mental health issues for the past 17 years. Kim’s personal struggle with addiction and her tenacious zest for recovery has made her passionate to serve the community and assist families in finding the right program to meet their individual needs. Working in all models of treatment—ranging from the medical, psychiatric, social, and therapeutic community—makes her a valuable member of the Constellation Behavioral Health family. Kim worked as Admissions Director at Mission Hospital in Laguna Beach and most recently at PCH in Los Angeles. Kim has also worked in many other aspects of the treatment process and possesses a wealth of experience and resources, which makes her uniquely qualified to lead our admissions team while assisting individuals and families in their personal journey of recovery.

Admissions Director

Born and raised in Southern California, Tonda Williams completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She worked as an administrator in the Los Angeles educational system before transitioning to UCLA’s outpatient chemical dependency program as the Admissions Director. Her love for mental health and respect for those in suffering lead her to join Bridges to Recovery in 2007.

As the Director of Admissions, Tonda works closely with the client, their families and outside treatment team to help determine the best program to fit the client’s personal needs and goals.  She takes great pride in representing Bridges to Recovery and strives to provide a seamless, compassionate and world class experience.

Admissions Coordinator

Nicole attended California State University, Channel Islands, and graduated early with a BA in Psychology. Her interest in behavioral health has been lifelong and was explored in her study about heavy alcohol consumption and risky behaviors as her capstone project. Nicole has been drawn to work in mental health treatment and is grateful to be a part of Bridges to Recovery. She gained admissions experience with Elements Behavioral Health in both mental health and substance abuse treatment programs. Her passion is playing a part in the transformation of recovery, starting with the first phone call. She finds purpose in working with the caller to ensure you are not alone and there is someone ready to help you.

Director of Clinical Development

Brie Ciraulo Rosenfield has been a practicing clinician since 2007, licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in the state of California and holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. Over the course of her career, her individual specialties have come to include addiction, post-treatment integration, women’s issues and parenting. With fifteen years of experience in covering all sides of the mental health community, Brie Ciraulo Rosenfield brings a unique combination of skills and knowledge to a diverse spectrum of clients. From working with patients and their families to sharing insights with treatment centers, therapeutic facilities and non-profit programs, Brie brings a comprehensive understanding of the mental health and treatment industry.

Clinical Outreach Representative, Midwest

As a licensed clinical social worker for over 30 years, Carla has had the opportunity to use her extensive clinical skills in a variety of settings: emergency medicine, law enforcement, psychiatry, and, since 1977, the addiction treatment field as well as behavioral health.

After several years with Hazelden Chicago managing intake and admissions, she joined Sierra Tucson as the Midwest Clinical Outreach Coordinator where she was an integral part of the Marketing Team for nearly 10 years. Most recently, she served as Clinical Relations Coordinator for Rosecrance Health Network, which provides adults and adolescents with addiction treatment. This professional path has allowed Carla to assist many in finding the best treatment match for their behavioral health needs. She was drawn to Alta Mira’s clinical depth and ability to operationalize its vision in such a conscious, meaningful way.

Clinical Outreach Representative, Northeast

Amanda earned her Masters Degree in Social Work from Case Western Reserve University and her Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Mercyhurst University. As a social worker with over 17 years of experience, Amanda has had the opportunity to use her clinical skills in a variety of settings: designing disaster mental health preparedness and response curriculum, training mental health professionals, providing in-home and in-school family therapy, counseling adolescents in residential facilities and working for the Region II Head Start program as the Mental Health Content Specialist. In her most recent experience, she was the Regional Outreach Specialist for CRC Health Group, which provides adults and adolescents with addiction and mental health treatment. In a world often overwhelmed by addiction and mental illness, Amanda strongly believes that we as a community need to advocate for the addicted and mentally ill. Her passion and commitment are always driven by making sure her clients and families receive the best treatment possible. She was drawn to Alta Mira and Muir Wood because of their shared dedication to every step of their clients’ recovery.

Clinical Outreach Representative, Southern Region

With over 16 years as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a degree in Psychology and Mental Health Vickye Key has proven her passion for campaigning for better mental health and addiction services in our communities.  She has developed skills performing in all aspects of behavioral health, interventions, inpatient and outpatient treatment & recovery, and life cycle management. Vickye is currently the president of the Fort Worth Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP) – since 2008 and sits on the advisory board of other community agencies that assist with accessing community resources. Before joining the team at Constellation Behavioral Health Vickye was the Business Development Manager, Interventionist/Treatment Specialist with Enterhealth Ranch Addiction Treatment, Dallas, TX.  Vickye holds certifications in ADC – Advanced Drug Counselor, DWI – Intervention Educator, and SAP – Substance Abuse Professional.

Clinical Outreach Representative, Northern CA & Pacific NW

Shelby is the Clinical Outreach Representative for Alta Mira in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest. In this role, she is responsible for establishing and maintaining professional relationships with therapists, psychiatrists, physicians, substance dependence providers and other professionals in the community. Shelby holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Mary’s College of California. She has over 20 years of experience working in the mental health and addictions field with adolescents, young adults, adults, and their families. Shelby has provided individual, group, and family therapy as well as facilitated psycho-educational workshops. Prior to joining the Constellation team, Shelby worked as an outreach specialist for CRC Health Group, Inc., was an Educational Consultant, worked as the Program Director for an international adoption agency, was a social worker with foster youth and foster families, and co-developed a therapeutic residential facility for foster youth.

Clinical Outreach Representative, Northern California

Stephanie Klindt, a Bay Area native, has been working in the mental health field in a variety of roles since 2007. She holds a Masters Degree from Loma Linda University and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California.

She began her career working as a clinician for the County of San Bernardino. While there she worked with a wide range of clients experiencing mental health and substance abuse issues in county clinics, on the county’s crisis response team, and in a school-based non-profit setting. She was awarded the MHSA stipend from the State of California while working in the County and was certified in the Trauma Resilience Model (TRM) in 2010.

In 2014, she moved back to the Bay Area where she served as an clinician for Los Gatos Teen Therapy, while also starting a community education group focused on providing psycho-education and coaching to families in the South Bay. Most recently Stephanie served as the Director of Business Development at an 80-bed inpatient psychiatric hospital in San Jose.

Stephanie has also spent time traveling to several countries where she has led youth camps and community development projects. Currently, she serves as a coalition member for the Keeping Youth Safe Coalition focused on substance abuse prevention and is a board member for the Eating Disorder Resource Center. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, surfing, traveling, and spending time with family.

Clinical Outreach Representative, Los Angeles Region

Jude holds a Master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology with an emphasis in Consciousness, Health and Healing. She is a Certified Professional Life Coach who has helped countless clients with life skills, life transitions, as well as recovery from eating disorders and addiction. She has been instrumental in community outreach and advocacy for eating disorders, as well as ending the stigma of mental illness.

In her most recent experience, she was a Clinical Outreach Manager and Recovery Advocate for a Southern California treatment program that specialized in treating adults & adolescents with mental health, substance use and eating disorders.

A native New Yorker, Jude now calls California her home.

Event Specialist

With a diverse background, business acumen and a creative eye for marketing and event management, Jeanette has over 15 years of experience successfully managing marketing projects and executing hundreds of events nationwide. Prior to coming to Constellation Behavioral Health, her recent roles included 6 years in behavioral health as a Marketing and Events Manager building effective teams who support the efforts of National Outreach and Business Development staff.

She is respected for her ability to organize and manage the logistics for multiple events and marketing projects. Jeanette is committed to ensuring a positive experience for all clients and licensed professionals who attend our events.

Lead House Keeper

Sonia has worked at Bridges to Recovery for over seven years and is now the lead housekeeper. She takes pride in making the house feel like home for all of the guests. She enjoys taking care of the house and assisting the guests with anything they need. Sonia is always willing to lend a helping hand.

House Keeper

Elizabeth has been working as a housekeeper for Bridges to Recovery for over four years. She enjoys her position and always greets the staff and guests with a warm smile. Elizabeth treats everyone as if they were part of her family and she is always willing to help out where ever she is needed.