Professional Staff
Sierra Tucson employs many staff in various disciplines to provide excellent care for our patients. Please acquaint yourself with some of the staff shown below.
Administrative Staff |
|
Patricia L. Ryding, Psy.D.
Executive Director |
| Dr. Patricia Ryding began serving as Sierra Tucson’s Executive Director in January 2009. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Florida) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Florida) with extensive experience working with families, adolescents, severely and persistently mentally ill, dual disorders, chemical dependency, eating disorders, and trauma patients. Originally from Syracuse, New York, Dr. Ryding obtained a B.A. in American History from Boston University, attended Goddard College for her M.A. in Counseling Psychology, and later earned her doctorate in Psychology from the Carlos Albizu University in Miami. Dr. Ryding’s experience includes inpatient psychiatric, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient settings, and she has worked for nonprofit and for-profit facilities as a Program Director, Administrative Director, and Executive Director. |
# Top
|
|
Christi Cessna, M.S.
Director of Clinical Outreach & Marketing |
| Christi Cessna completed her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Central Arkansas and received her license as a Psychological Examiner. She worked as a therapist in various settings (outpatient and inpatient, college campus counseling center, and in-home counseling) before joining Sierra Tucson in 1997 as a Clinical Outreach Coordinator. Christi was named Marketing Director in 2006 and enjoys connecting with professionals throughout the country. |
# Top
|
|
Susan LeClair
Manager of Human Resources |
| In July 2009 Susan LeClair joined Sierra Tucson as Manager of Human Resources, bringing over 20 years of progressive human resources and business leadership. A consulting background with international management consulting firm, Mercer, provided a valuable foundation and experience in the areas of compensation and benefits. Subsequent roles included management of compensation, benefits, employee relations, recruiting, downsizing, compliance, and training for various employers in individual contributor, manager, and director roles. Susan’s background also includes broader experience overseeing administration, facilities and accounting offices, and directing and implementing integration efforts post-merger/acquisition. Although Susan was raised in Scottsdale, most of her professional career was spent in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, until 2005 when she returned to Arizona, specifically to Tucson. Susan has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the local SHRM-Greater Tucson chapter. |
# Top
|
|
Gayle Richter
Director of Operations & Intake |
| Since 1985, Gayle Richter has held many positions at Sierra Tucson, including Corporate Secretary, Intake Director, Director of Central Clinical Services, and Director of Risk Management. She was previously employed by Richter Broadcasting, Inc., a family-owned company, and she has owned and operated a retail business. In addition to overseeing Sierra Tucson’s operations, including remodeling, new construction, etc., she also works closely with the Intake team, engaging her passion for working with prospective patients and their families. |
# Top
|
Medical Staff |
|
Robert R. Johnson, D.O.
Medical Director |
| Robert R. Johnson, D.O., has served as Medical Director of Sierra Tucson since April 2008. Board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Johnson’s previous roles include Senior Medical Director of College Hospital (a 140-bed facility) for ten years, Vice President for Medical Affairs of College Health IPA, and Behavioral Health consultant for public and private mental health organizations. He is a Certified Executive Coach who has worked with leaders in companies such as Rockwell International, Sony, Disney, and the US Olympic Committee. He and his wife, who is a child/adolescent psychiatrist, have also been involved with the Special Olympics and Down Syndrome Association. Dr. Johnson has done research on psychopharmacology, depression, immune functioning in psychiatric patients, and physical illnesses that produce psychiatric symptoms. He lectures nationally and internationally. |
# Top
|
|
James Duffy, M.D., FANPA, FAAHPM, DABMA
Chief of Integrative Medicine |
| Dr. Duffy is a graduate of the University of Rhodesia and completed his residency in Psychiatry at Brown University. He then completed Fellowships in Neuropsychiatry at Brown and Harvard. Dr. Duffy has held full professorships at Cornell, University of Texas, and University of Connecticut. He is an elected Fellow of the American Neuropsychiatric Association and also the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Prior to joining Sierra Tucson in July 2010, Dr. Duffy was Professor of Psychiatry at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Texas, and President of the Institute for Spirituality and Health at the Texas Medical Center. Dr. Duffy is Board-certified in adult psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, integrative medicine, and medical acupuncture. He has been voted a “Best Doctor in America” since 2001 and has received commendations for his patient advocacy work. He has co-edited four medical textbooks and authored numerous scientific publications in neuropsychiatry, palliative medicine, psychosomatic medicine, and the medical humanities. Dr. Duffy has developed innovative contemplative approaches to health and healing and is invited to lecture nationally and internationally. Dr. Duffy was attracted to Sierra Tucson by the opportunity to be part of an organization that provides a truly unique model of care which incorporates leading-edge clinical neuroscience along with compassionate and effective integrative approaches to supporting health, healing, and flourishing. |
# Top
|
|
Harry Goldwasser, M.D.
Psychiatrist |
| Dr. Harry Goldwasser, a Board-certified Psychiatrist, has served patients at Sierra Tucson since 2007. His training includes a tour of great southern public institutions: undergraduate degrees in English Literature and Genetics at the University of Georgia; medical school at the University of Alabama in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa and, finally, internship and residency in psychiatry at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Dr. Goldwasser has a compelling professional interest in helping others who suffer with psychiatric and addictive diseases. He holds a fundamental belief that, “We all can recover despite how hopeless we may feel. Certainly, improvement can take time and effort, but I have been amazed at how the integrative program at Sierra Tucson has helped so many.” As a physician who has gone through treatment, Dr. Goldwasser brings a real understanding of the struggle that getting clean takes but the reward and serenity that recovery brings. He states, “I am active in the recovery community and consider it a privilege and honor to work at such a world-class facility.” |
# Top
|
|
Emily Nardi, M.P.H., R.D.
Registered Dietitian |
| Emily Nardi has been a Registered Dietitian for nearly 20 years, serving at Sierra Tucson since May 2007. After graduating from Framingham State College in Massachusetts, she moved to Tucson and began her career as a clinical dietitian. In 1996 she earned her master’s in Public Health from the University of Arizona, specifically in health education and promotion. The majority of her career has been focused in nutrition research, disease prevention, and clinical counseling. Emily is certified in Adult Weight Management by the American Dietetic Association. Her professional goals are to help teach people about nutrition and encourage healthy eating behaviors. |
# Top
|
|
Derek Schumm, M.D.
Psychiatrist |
| Dr. Derek Schumm earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical School and completed his residency in general psychiatry at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident his senior year. During residency he received specialized training in mind-body medicine, cognitive behavioral therapy for groups, gestalt therapy, and psycho-oncology. Dr. Schumm’s professional interests include integrative psychiatry, trauma recovery, addiction medicine, and the connection between Eastern philosophy and Western psychotherapy. Dr. Schumm is a Board-eligible Psychiatrist and belongs to several professional organizations including The American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry and The Association for Transpersonal Psychology. |
# Top
|
Clinical Staff |
|
Nancy Jarrell, M.A., LPC, EAP
Clinical Director |
| With a master’s degree in Counseling/Psychology, Nancy Jarrell is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a trained Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist. After joining Sierra Tucson in 1996 and becoming a Family Therapist, she developed, implemented, and facilitated the family component for the Program for Sexual and Trauma Recovery. Nancy has facilitated a wide variety of therapy groups in the Program Department, created content and facilitated the Extended Family Program, and also facilitated Family Programs including the Children’s Program in both English and Spanish. She developed a couple’s equine therapy component, incorporating Imago theory into the equine process. Nancy presents at national conferences and has co-facilitated Quality of Life Workshops for Sierra Tucson and equine-assisted therapy workshops for the Association of Experiential Education. Sierra Tucson’s alumni have benefited from her couple’s therapy workshops and equine-assisted therapy workshops at Alumni Reunions. Nancy has provided equine-assisted therapy to patients since 2000. She has managed the Therapeutic & Recreational Activities Program and served as Program Manager. Nancy was promoted to Assistant Clinical Director in September 2006 and to Clinical Director in April 2009. She continues to supervise staff; contribute to program development; and provide facilitation, education, and training in the area of equine-assisted therapy. Nancy has written and published articles and continues to become known as a national expert on equine-assisted therapy. Her versatility has made her an integral part of Sierra Tucson’s Clinical Program management team. |
# Top
|
|
Guy Bender
Evening/Weekend Counselor |
| Guy Bender joined the Evening and Weekend team of counselors at Sierra Tucson in April 2008. Guy has a B.A. from the University of Missouri and is currently working on his master’s in Counseling at University of Phoenix. Before joining Sierra Tucson, Guy was the Education Director for the Phoenix Dream Center, a faith-based life recovery program. As an Evening/Weekend Counselor, Guy is responsible for the facilitation of lectures, educational groups, process groups, and individual sessions with clients for a wide range of diagnoses and behaviors. Guy also completed an in-house training for the Therapeutic and Recreational Activities Program (TRAP), which involves facilitation of action-oriented, metaphorical, adventure therapy activities including the Climbing Wall, the low elements and high elements of the Challenge Course, and experiential games and activities. |
# Top
|
|
Bill Coleman, LMSW, TEP
Psychodramatist |
| Bill Coleman, a Certified Psychodrama Trainer, has been a Trauma Therapist at Sierra Tucson since April 2007. He is a founding director of La Jornada Institute in Arizona and New Mexico. He is also on the faculty of the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Institute and The Action Institute of California. Bill was a staff psychodramatist at an acute care psychiatric hospital in Westchester, NY. He has presented at many national conferences and is the creator of Men-At-Fifty Workshops. He has recently instituted a new model of diagramming defensive strategies for trauma treatment to help trauma sufferers bring into focus what happened to them and how they have coped. He has also created many psychodramatic action structures for substance abuse treatment. Bill was an adjunct professor at Russell Sage College, where he wrote and taught courses in Theater Therapy. A graduate of Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work, Bill lived in New York City for 30 years before coming to Tucson. Bill also had earlier careers in business and served as a Captain in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He says to his patients, “I am no stranger to trauma, and you will not be alone as we go on the recovery journey together.” |
# Top
|
|
Josie Collins, M.S., CPCC
Progressions Counselor / Life Coach |
| Josie Collins began working at Sierra Tucson in November 2002 as an Evening/Weekend Counselor. One of her greatest passions is teaching spirituality groups, so she was honored to move into the position of Grief and Spirituality Counselor in 2004. Josie was part of the start-up team for the Progressions Program, where, as a counselor, group facilitator, and life coach, she continues to help people “to know who they truly are and to create the life they really want.” Originally from Wisconsin, Josie has a B.S. in Education from UW-Platteville and was a fourth grade teacher for 8 years. She graduated from UW-Madison with a M.S. in Counselor Education and has worked in the mental health and addictions field for the past 20 years. In 1999 she became interested in Life Coaching and now has her own private practice. Josie obtained training through the Coaches Training Institute, becoming officially recognized as a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach in 2007. |
# Top
|
|
Liz Dampsey, M.A., RSMT
Coordinator, Grief & Spirituality Department |
| Liz Dampsey joined Sierra Tucson in April 2001 and has served as Coordinator of the Grief and Spirituality Department since March 2005. Liz has also worked in the Therapeutic & Recreational Activities Program (TRAP), where she facilitated Equine-Assisted Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and provided fitness consultations. Liz received an M.A. in Psychology from Sonoma State University in 2000, and a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Dance from University of California Santa Cruz in 1993. She graduated from Tamalpa Institute in 1997, a movement-based expressive arts therapy institute, and is a Registered Somatic Movement Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist. Liz has been a personal trainer since 1999, was trained as an EAGALA therapist (Level I) in 2003, and was certified as an Interfaith Spiritual Director in 2008. Liz co-developed an Integrative Movement series and was also instrumental in building the Sierra Tucson labyrinth. She is interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the intersection between grief resolution, spirituality, and Somatic Therapy. |
# Top
|
|
Russ Farnsworth, M.S., LAC
Unit Therapist |
| Russ Farnsworth became an Evening/Weekend Counselor at Sierra Tucson in July 2007 and currently serves as a Unit Therapist. He obtained his B.A. degree in Psychology from Assumption College, Worcester, Massachusetts, in 2002, and his M.S. Counseling and Addictions degree from Fitchburg State College, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, in 2006. Known as Sierra Tucson’s “Star-Man,” Russ leads Stargazing activities for patients and facilitates work in meditation and relaxation, stress and anger management, spirituality, and wellness, utilizing the wellness recovery action program for patients dealing with severe mood disorders and addictions. His passion is bringing heart and soul to the patients' healing process at Sierra Tucson through therapeutic individual and group work. |
# Top
|
|
Victor P. Gilbert, M.S.W., LISAC
Program Manager |
| As Program Manager since February 2006, Victor Gilbert supervises unit therapists, assists with case conferences, and participates in the daily multidisciplinary admission staff meetings. He originally began working at Sierra Tucson in 1989 as a Unit Therapist. Victor received a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science and Sociology in 1972 from the University of South Florida and a Master of Social Work in 1988 from Arizona State University. He served in the U.S. Navy for 9 years. Victor's relaxed but competent and humorous style of leadership is appreciated by Sierra Tucson's staff. |
# Top
|
|
Michelle Madsen, M.Ed., LISAC, CADAC
Family Program Therapist |
| Michelle Madsen has served Sierra Tucson as a Family Therapist since June of 1990. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Physical Education/Coaching, a Master of Education degree in Counseling, and certifications of Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADAC). Previously, Michelle has taught junior high and high school students and coached a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, track, gymnastics, and cheerleading. At Sierra Tucson, Michelle applies her teaching background in designing educational lectures and training new family therapists, as well as family members. In April through October of 2004, Michelle added the role of Family Program Manager to her repertoire and continued her primary focus of facilitating weekly family groups. Michelle grew up in Fargo, North Dakota, and has two wonderful daughters. |
# Top
|
|
Phillip S. Mitchell, M.A., MFT, MAC
Unit Therapist, Lecturer |
| Phillip Mitchell earned his master’s degree in Humanistic and Transpersonal Clinical Psychology in 1980 from Johnston College, University of Redlands, in Redlands, California. He became licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in California in 1981 and certified as Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) through the National Association of Forensic Counselors in 1998. He has served in the fields of mental health and recovery since 1971 in the areas of clinical services, program development, administration, and private practice. Since 1990, Phillip has filled many positions at Sierra Tucson, including Family Therapist for Eating Disorder and Chemical Dependency patients, Spiritual Counselor, Float Therapist, Primary Therapist, and Workshop Presenter (at Alumni Reunions, Quality of Life Workshops, etc.). He has written several articles on recovery and related matters for professional magazines and for Sierra Tucson publications. Currently, Phillip is Unit Therapist for Chemical Dependency/Mental Health, providing therapy, education, and support for patients and their family members. He also provides training for therapists and leads Sierra Tucson’s Green Team. His CD, The Technology of Forgiveness™, is available in our Bookstore. |
# Top
|
|
Maureen C. O'Connor-Strout, M.C., NCC, LPC, EMDRIA Consultant-in-Training
Sierra Tucson EMDR Coordinator |
| Maureen O’Connor-Strout serves as EMDR Coordinator at Sierra Tucson. She began at Sierra Tucson in July 2000 as a grief therapist after a 7-year background in adult and pediatric Hospice and support group facilitator at a Cancer Care Center. “Working at Sierra Tucson, I quickly identified that the patients who were making the greatest progress were also doing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR),” says Maureen. “I began training in EMDR in January 2001 and am still passionate about the process of EMDR and the healing that patients are able to achieve in EMDR sessions.” Maureen serves as clinical supervisor for a staff of 11 EMDR clinicians at Sierra Tucson. |
# Top
|
|
Susan O’Day, M.S., ICADC, CMHP, EAP
Unit Therapist |
| In 2005, Susan O’Day joined Sierra Tucson as our Equine Therapist and later agreed to join the Program for Sexual and Trauma Recovery. Since 1989 she developed her focus on the treatment of trauma in the context of addiction recovery. Before joining the Sierra Tucson team, her positions at two other facilities included recreation therapist, primary counselor, trauma workshop facilitator, and equine therapist. Susan holds a B.F.A. from Montana State University Bozeman, and a M.S. in psychology with an addiction specialization from Capella University. She is an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse Counselor, an EAGALA-trained equine therapist, and is trained in the treatment of sexual addiction through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals. Susan is actively involved in postgraduate education in the areas of counseling and sexual addiction. Her paintings have won multiple awards in juried exhibitions. A former professional horse trainer, livery manager, and riding instructor, she worked for the Equine Science departments of Montana State University and Scottsdale Community College. |
# Top
|
|
Kathy Piaskowski, M.C., LISAC, LAC
Continuing Care / Case Manager |
| Kathy Piaskowski received her master’s degree in Counseling in 1996 at the University of Phoenix in Tucson. She has 20 years of experience working with the developmentally disabled and maintains a Licensed Adult Development Home. Her previous experience includes working at a nonprofit women’s and children’s facility. Kathy began her career with Sierra Tucson in 2001 as an Intake Coordinator and then transferred to a Continuing Care position. She enjoys helping many patients with their transition to the next level of care. |
# Top
|
|
Jeannette Rojas, LASAC, EAP II
Unit Therapist / Coordinator, Eating Disorders Program |
| Sierra Tucson welcomed Jeannette Rojas as a Unit Therapist in December 2004. After studying at ANAHUAC University in Mexico City, Jeannette became a Clinical Psychologist and received a diploma (post-graduate degree) in Substance Abuse and Alcoholism. She is trained as a Level II Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist (EAP II) through EAGALA and is also a Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) in the State of Arizona. After working in psychiatric hospitals in Mexico City, she coordinated clinical services for an Employee Assistance Program in Mexico. Jeannette then helped develop the first treatment center in Mexico for eating disorders, trauma, and addictions, serving as Director and Vice President. At Sierra Tucson, Jeannette facilitates a process group as Unit Therapist and coordinates the Eating Disorders Program, which includes work in body imagery, DBT, the Family Program, restaurant outings with patients and dietitian, Continuing Care Planning, and maintaining communication with the referring professional. Jeannette also provides training, coordinates Eating Disorder staff team building, and speaks at conferences. |
# Top
|
|
Stephanie Grace Sikes, M.A., M.C., MFCT
Family Program Therapist |
| Stephanie Grace Sikes has been a Family Therapist at Sierra Tucson since April 2008. She is a creative and intuitive Marriage and Family Therapist with background in treating mental, emotional, sexual, and/or co-occurring disorders. Prior to joining Sierra Tucson, Stephanie was an Individual, Couple’s, and Family Therapist at La Frontera Center and a Behavioral Health Specialist at the Arizona’s Children Association. In these organizations, she provided individual, children’s, couple’s, family, and group therapy, including chemical dependency treatment programs, such as ADMIRE+ Out-Patient treatment services. She co-founded a Women’s Sobriety & Empowerment Process Group and facilitated several other behavioral modification groups, such as 12-Step Education Group and Substance Abuse Education Group. Stephanie was the lead therapist with children of deployed service members at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.
She has strong communication skills by virtue of 20 years as a communication instructor at the college level and as a private and corporate coach. Stephanie earned a Master of Counseling degree in Marriage, Family & Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix in February 2008. Prior to that, she received a Master of Arts degree in Communication/Theatre in 1990 and a Bachelor of Science degree in Musical Theatre Arts in 1988, both from Kansas State University. Her continuing professional education includes: Imago Relationship Therapy training with Harville Hendrix, Psychodrama Trainer Workshops with Dena Baumgartner, Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Politics of Changing a Sexual Relationship, Integrative Model for Difficult Couples, Healthy Marital/Couple Relationships, and many others. Her professional associations include American Counseling Association, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, and Theta Alpha Phi National Theatre Honorary. |
# Top
|
|
Patrick (Pat) S. Williamson, M.S., LPC, LISAC
Unit Therapist |
| Since July 2006, Pat Williamson has contributed his effective therapeutic skills at Sierra Tucson as a unit therapist, with a primary focus on addictions and trauma. He was voted Therapist of the Year by former patients and their family members in 2007. Pat came to Sierra Tucson from a 15-year successful private practice, which focused almost exclusively on addictions and various forms of childhood and adult trauma. He has worked in the field for over 30 years and lived in personal recovery for over 31 years. Pat is proficient in working with individuals, couples, and families, dealing with all addictive processes. He specializes in trauma, is EMDR Level-II trained, and has experience as a consultant in inpatient treatment evaluations. Born in Los Angeles, California, Pat was raised in Montana and moved to Tucson in 2006. He earned his master’s degree in Rehabilitative Counseling in 1981 through the University of Montana-Billings. Pat has been married for 20 years and has two adult children. |
# Top
|
|
Meira Yaer, R.N., M.A., MFT, CBIS
Family Program Coordinator |
| Meira Yaer joined the staff at Sierra Tucson in 2005 as the Family Therapist for the Program for Sexual & Trauma Recovery. She was promoted in October 2009 to Family Program Coordinator. Her focus in this work is to facilitate self-empowerment, self-advocacy, self-accountability, and healing in the recovery process for patients and their family members. Meira is also a Nurse and Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in the field of brain injury advocacy, trauma recovery, and rehabilitation. She began her work in brain injury over 15 years ago in Eugene, Oregon. She is the author of The Process of Empowerment© - A Therapeutic Model After Brain Injury and has presented at national and international conferences. Her work focuses on the healing of body, mind, and spirit through self-awareness, animal-assisted psychotherapy, and other intuitive therapies. She is the founder of Opening The Way, a brain injury program, and facilitator of The Tucson Brain Injury Advocacy Panel, which provides panel presentations and in-services to community members and healthcare professionals in the field of traumatic and acquired brain injury. Meira enjoys drawing, depicting desert images with vibrant colors and shapes and has shown in galleries and at the Tucson Botanical Gardens in Tucson, Arizona. |
# Top
|
|
Maya Youngblood, LPCC, LMT
Somatic Therapist |
| Maya Youngblood became a therapist at Sierra Tucson in December of 2003. As a trauma survivor, she knows first-hand that some trauma can only be resolved by body-centered therapy. With a master’s degree in Counseling, Maya has studied various types of psychotherapy and several forms of body work, as well. In the early 1990s, Maya became aware of the work of Dr. Peter Levine, the originator of a body centered therapy called Somatic Experiencing®. After discovering her own positive response to the work, she became convinced that this type of therapy is integral to transform and heal a trauma survivor’s nervous system. Maya completed the three year Somatic Experiencing® training program and became a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner. She is also a Licensed Psychotherapist (NM & IL), a certified EMDR Level-II Practitioner, and a Licensed Massage Therapist (NM). Maya came to Tucson from Santa Fe, New Mexico, in late 2003. |
# Top
|
Clinical / Integrative Staff |
|
Patricia Herman, N.M.D., Ph.D.
Integrative Medicine Consultant |
| Since August 2007, Dr. Patricia Herman has provided Integrative Medicine services to Sierra Tucson’s patients. After earning her N.M.D. (Naturopathic Medicine) in 2003 from Bastyr University, Kenmore, Washington, she also obtained a Ph.D. in Psychology in 2009 from the University of Arizona. Dr. Herman also attended University of California, Davis, for her master’s in Agricultural Economics; Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, for a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business, and Grandview college, Des Moines, Iowa, for an associate’s degree in Fine Arts. She strives to support patients’ overall health so they can better focus on their recovery work at Sierra Tucson. Dr. Herman uses nutraceuticals, botanical medicine, homeopathy, and recommended Integrative Therapies to support mood, sleep, digestion, and general health. |
# Top
|
|
Karin Hilsdale Rodes, Ph.D., L.Ac.
Acupuncturist |
| Karin Hilsdale Rodes has provided full-body acupuncture and supervised and trained staff in ear acupuncture for addictions at Sierra Tucson since August 2004, both full-time and part-time. She brings over 40 years’ experience in facilitating awareness and healing of body/mind/spirit, with original doctoral research in the mid-1980’s linking acupuncture theory to the diagnosis of depression in women. She has provided training and leadership nationwide in acupuncture dealing with addictions, mental health, and HIV/AIDS; holds national Diplomate status in pain management; and taught in a M.A. program in clinical psychology for 25 years. Apprenticeship-trained with a Korean acupuncture master beginning in 1980, Karin’s specialization in recent years has been in meridian-style acupuncture developed by blind practitioners in Japan. |
# Top
|
Outreach - Alumni Coordinators |
|
Tim McLeod
Senior Alumni Coordinator |
Tim McLeod joined the Sierra Tucson team as Alumni Coordinator in February 2001 and was named Senior Alumni Coordinator in August 2007. After struggling with addictions for 27 years, he came to Sierra Tucson for treatment in the fall of 1999. “I can honestly say that the ‘Promises’ of the program have continued to unfold,” he says. Tim also attended the Sierra Tucson Family Program when a family member entered treatment. His experience and empathy give him a deep passion for supporting Sierra Tucson alumni. Tim lives in Kansas and directs Sierra Tucson's alumni services. He offers encouragement to others in recovery through follow-up phone calls to the family members, facilitating workshops, assistance with local alumni support groups, the “Afterwords” Newsletter, and the Alumni eNews, “Beyond the Miracle.” Toll-Free Telephone: 866-638-1650
E-mail: AlumniCoordinator@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Patty Reyna
Alumni Coordinator |
Patty Reyna, a former Sierra Tucson patient, feels blessed to have returned in August 2007 as an Alumni Coordinator. “To be an advocate for others on this path of recovery—to give back to Sierra Tucson, the program and the people who saved and continue to save my life daily—is an amazing fulfillment of a dream for me,” she says. As a recovering alcoholic, Patty was working a strong program with daily meetings, prayer, meditation, and journaling, plus seeking outside help for counseling and medication. Even so, her depression, which began shortly after 9/11, was deepening and led her to treatment in January 2002. “I learned a lot about my addictions—I come fully loaded with titles!” says Patty. “More importantly, I was taught tools that help me cope with all of life’s issues one day at a time without ‘using.’” Patty enjoys living in central New York and likes to read, garden, and spend time with her daughter and granddaughter. Patty serves alumni through follow-up phone calls to our former clients, assisting with alumni support groups, and communications such as the “Afterwords” Newsletter and the Alumni eNews, “Beyond the Miracle.”
Toll-Free Telephone: 888-535-8214
E-mail: PReyna@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
Outreach - Clinical Outreach Coordinators |
|
Parastoo Barnajian, Ph.D.
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
California - San Diego & Southern Area, HI, California - Los Angeles/Orange County A |
Parastoo Barnajian received her B.S. in Psychobiology from UCLA and her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. She has practiced as a clinical psychologist in residential and community mental health centers, providing direct clinical services to clients of all ages. Dr. Barnajian’s dissertation focused on the psychosocial factors related to substance use among adolescents with Type I diabetes, and she has learned the profound and harmful effects of untreated substance use. Dr. Barnajian is dedicated and passionate about helping patients receive effective, compassionate care in their recovery process.
Toll-Free Telephone: 800-408-9410
E-mail: PBarnajian@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Colleen Carr
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
IA, KS, KY, MO, NE, NC, SC, TN |
With 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field, Colleen Carr rejoined the Sierra Tucson team in April 2010. After receiving her B.A. in psychology and sociology from Wake Forest University, she gained extensive experience in operations, administration, intake, and marketing/business development in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She previously worked in Sierra Tucson’s Intake Department from 1998-2004 and then went on to be part of a start-up team for a new treatment center on the east coast. Originally from North Carolina and now based in Charlotte, Colleen is excited to serve as Clinical Outreach Coordinator for Sierra Tucson.
Toll-Free Telephone: 877-708-9992E-mail: CCarr@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Carla Chludzinski, LCSW
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
IL, IN, MI, MN, WI, Canada - Manitoba, Canada - Ontario |
Carla Chludzinski is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the behavioral healthcare field for over 20 years. Her experience in addiction, psychiatric, medical, and law enforcement settings strengthens her ability to assist clients.
Toll-Free Telephone: 866-609-0799E-mail: CChludzinski@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Eileen J. Cohen, LMFT
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
AL, FL, GA, MS |
Eileen Cohen is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an AAMFT clinical member and approved supervisor. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at American University in Washington, D.C., and Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida. Eileen brings comprehensive professional knowledge and personal experience of the impact of addiction, substance abuse, and mental health disorders on individuals and their families, as well as the process of recovery.
Toll-Free Telephone: 888-818-7990E-mail: ECohen@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Max Cohen, BA (hons), MBACP
UK Clinical Liaison |
Max became Sierra Tucson's UK Liaison in 2008. He works with referring professionals and is available to meet with prospective patients or family members in the UK. Max assists patients in transitioning back home after treatment and facilitates a monthly Alumni Support Group in London. Max is an accredited therapist with over 25 years of experience in working with individuals, couples, and groups in various settings. He integrates psychodynamic, person-centered, cognitive behavioural, EMDR, EFT, and bio-psycho-social-spiritual modalities into his practice. Max specialises in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and confidence issues, addictions, behavioural dependencies, and co-occurring disorders. In addition to running a busy central London private practice and supervising and training other professionals, he currently lectures on a MSc in Addiction Psychology and Counselling course at a London University.
Telephone within the UK: 07973 167245
E-mail: MCohen@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
John Crepsac, LCSW, CASAC
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
NY, New York City, New Jersey - Northern Area |
John Crepsac is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) in the state of New York. He received his bachelor of science degree in Human Services from the State University of New York (SUNY), and master of social work degree from New York University. With over 20 years in the field and experience in the government and private sectors, John brings a depth of professional knowledge of the impact of addictive disorders. John is in private practice as a consultant for the NFL and is an adjunct professor of social work at NYU.
Toll-Free Telephone: 800-409-3025
E-mail: JCrepsac@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Rhonda Daley, M.B.A., CLC, CWC
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
AK, California - Northern Area, ID, MT, ND, OR, SD, WA, WY, Canada - Alberta, Canada - British Columbia, Canada - Saskatchewan |
With over 15 years of experience working in community outreach and addiction healthcare, Rhonda Daley joined Sierra Tucson in February 2009. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and obtained a master’s degree in Business Administration from Claremont Graduate University at the Peter Drucker School of Management. Rhonda is a certified professional life and wellness coach and a member of the International Coach Federation.
Toll-Free Telephone: 877-906-4930
E-mail: RDaley@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Carrie Hunnicutt, M.A.
Clinical Outreach Manager
CT, ME, MA, NH, OH, RI, VT, Europe (including United Kingdom), Canada - Newfoundland, Canada - Nova Scotia, Canada - Quebec, Middle East, South Africa, Bermuda |
Carrie has a Bachelor of Science degree from the Ansell School of Business at WCSU and an M.A. degree from the University of Arizona. Carrie began her career at Sierra Tucson as the Alumni Coordinator and Discharge Planner and has worked in an outreach capacity since 2002. She has experience in direct clinical practice, intake, admissions, discharge planning, and other administrative duties.Toll-Free Telephone: 888-452-8458
E-mail: CHunnicutt@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Ellen Plaze, LCDC, BRI-II
Clinical Outreach Manager
LA, NM, TX |
Ellen Plaze is a Licensed Addictions Counselor and a Clinical Interventionist with over 25 years of experience in addictions and mental health treatment. She began working with Sierra Tucson in July 1997 as a Clinical Outreach Coordinator.
Toll-Free Telephone: 888-492-2348E-mail: EPlaze@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Deborah Schweiger-Whalen, M.S.W., LCSW
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
DE, DC, MD, PA, VA, WV, Asia (including Japan), New Jersey - Southern Area |
Deborah Schweiger-Whalen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Sierra Tucson's Clinical Outreach Coordinator in the Mid-Atlantic Region. She has a master's degree in Social Work from Hunter College of The City University of New York. Her professional experience includes serving as a member of the clinical staff and as clinical outreach coordinator at an eating disorders treatment facility in New York. Deborah has presented to the clinical staff of major universities and hospitals, to private practice professionals, and at various conferences. Deborah's work has been featured in Behavioral Health Care Journal, and she has appeared as a guest on National Public Radio Station WHYY. Deborah maintains a clinical practice in Philadelphia specializing in eating disorders, addiction, trauma, LGBTQ issues, and work with couples and families.
Toll-Free Telephone: 888-839-6066E-mail: DWhalen@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Lisa Jane Vargas
Senior Clinical Outreach Coordinator
AZ, CO, NV, UT |
With a bachelor's degree in Business/Marketing, Lisa Jane Vargas joined Sierra Tucson in June 2002. She has previously worked in financial services and an eating disorders treatment program, and she has over 15 years of experience in the Health and Fitness industry. Lisa Jane's passion for the recovery field brings her joy in helping people as a Clinical Outreach Coordinator for Sierra Tucson.
Toll-Free Telephone: 888-935-4488E-mail: LVargas@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Rosemary Sheehan Werner
Clinical Outreach Coordinator
AR, OK |
Rosemary Sheehan Werner joined Sierra Tucson's staff in June 2010 as Clinical Outreach Coordinator for northern Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Rosemary has extensive experience as a director of marketing and business development, with a special concentration in the behavioral health and chemical dependency arenas. She has worked at other psychiatric hospitals, treatment centers, and a national EAP.
Toll-Free Telephone: 877-602-7323
E-mail: RWerner@SierraTucson.com |
# Top
|
|
Sierra Tucson hosts many events for our alumni and behavioral health professionals.
