Trauma is an underlying factor in many cases of addiction and other forms of mental illness. Many people's employment puts them in harm's way and exposes them to see things that are challenging to unsee. When an individual experiences a traumatic event it is paramount that steps are taken...
Two weeks ago we discussed National Depression Education and Awareness Month at length. As we pointed out, data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that depression affects more than 300 million people worldwide. This week, we would like to discuss post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and co-occurring substance use...
Exposure to traumatic experiences can leave lasting marks on a person’s psyche. While mental scars may seem indelible to those affected, evidence-based treatments for trauma exist and recovery is possible. When people are unable to access professional help, they are at significant risk of self-medicating and self-harm. As a...
People living in California have seen the rapid rise of wildfires. Millions of acres have burned in the last decade and a half, and more than 150 Californians have lost their lives in such fires — including firefighters. In 2018 alone, 1,035,939 acres burned; in the “Camp” fire, 86 people...
First responders work on the front lines of tragedy. Police officers, paramedics, and firefighters routinely put the needs of others ahead of their own; and, such people work in environments that hardly allow them to talk about their own problems. The paradox is that the very same people who...
Most Americans will never know what it is like to see a good friend die in their arms; grasp the sensation of being shot at; and, we will never understand what is like to get into a military transport with the risk of driving over an improvised explosive device....
Do you work in a field that adds stress to your life? If so, do you drink alcohol or use drugs in order to cope with your feelings about your work or the feelings employment experiences elicit? You may not know this, but using mind-altering substances to deal with...
Last month, HVRC took time to acknowledge the 4 million plus heroes working in the nursing profession during National Nurse Week. We discussed how people working in jobs where trauma and stress are commonplace are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health problems, compared to those who work...
Program Manager
Benjamin Wahl, CADC-II, ASW, has been with our clinical team since 2010. His tenure here at Hemet Valley Recovery Center began as an Intern, to House Manager, to then Chemical Dependency Counselor/Case Manager, then to Lead Counselor for the Detoxification and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. After that he advanced our Family Program as Family Services Coordinator, moving on to becoming Manager of Counseling Services, and is now our Program Manager. He is both a CADC II and an ASW, who has earned his Master of Social Work, Bachelor of Arts degrees in Sociology & Social Service with certification in Gerontology, Associate’s degrees in Social Behavioral Studies and in Alcohol and Drug Studies, Certification for Counseling with Co-occurring Disorders. In this profession he has had the pleasure to work extensively with the chemically dependent from young adult through older adult populations. He has provided counsel for both those suffering from addiction and for their loved ones who have been impacted by this disease.
Counselor/Case Manager
Brandy has been working in the Substance Abuse Treatment field since 2017, working for all levels of care in multiple positions. Brandy obtained her Achievement in Alcohol and Drug Studies in 2020, from San Bernardino Valley College. With her achievements she obtained her certification as an Addiction Treatment Counselor. Brandy’s professional experience within the treatment field and in the helping profession is a calling for her. She began her own personal journey of recovery in 2016 and this is what gave her the passion to help others within their own recovery. Brandy joined Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat in January of 2023 bringing with her previous experience of conduction of group facilitation, interventions, individual sessions and case management. With enthusiasm, Brandy strives to meet the patients where they are at by showing compassion, sincerity and empathy. Two mantra’s Brandy, strives to live by are to “Be the light in someone’s darkness” and to “make good choices.”
Counselor/Case Manager
Dolly joined Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat in February 2020 as an RADT. Her experience with HVRC initially included Sober Living House Manager, Resident Tech, and Chemical Dependency Intern. In early 2022, Dolly received her CADCI certification, with a specialization as a Women’s Treatment Specialist. At that time, she assumed the position of Chemical Dependency Counselor/ Case Manager. She is currently pursuing a degree in Clinical Psychology with plans to continue helping the lives of people suffering from addictions, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. Dolly brings with her great compassion, empathy and her commitment to a life of service and recovery.
Counselor/Case Manager
Shaun joined the H.V.R.C. family in May of 2023. He has been working in the field of recovery since 2014, becoming a certified drug and alcohol counselor in 2018 and is now a CADC-II. Shaun has a great passion for working with people that struggle with substance abuse as well as their families. Shaun works daily with patients to rebuild their lives through individual sessions, case management, and insightful group facilitation. In September of 2023 he received his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Psychology with a concentration in addiction. In 2024 he will pursue his Master’s in Clinical Counseling on his way to ultimately become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Shaun’s goal is to help people realize their potential in recovery and heal no matter what they have been through.
Counselor/Case Manager
Facilitator: The Keepers of the Wisdom group
Jack joined the clinical team at Hemet Valley Recovery Center in 2018 with 22 years of experience in the field of Chemical Dependency, in Men’s and Woman’s Residential Recovery Programs, Outpatient Clinics, and Drunk Driver Programs. 23 years ago Jack dedicated his life to helping others learn a new way of living free of active addiction. Jack is committed to spirituality, family, humor, and helping the community overcome addiction.
Jack considers facilitating The Keepers of the Wisdom group a privilege and an awesome responsibility to assist the 55 year old population discover that aging can be joyful, peaceful, and comfortable; with balance in living and learning. “We are not our age. In aging gracefully, we rediscover our purpose and share it with others.” My greatest hope is that we learn to deposit happiness in our bank of memories, live in tranquility, and honor; and grow in the direction of personal peace. We use The Keepers of The Wisdom Reflections from Lives Well Lived a daily meditation book by Karen Kasey.
Transportation & Environmental Manager
Ryan began his career at Hemet Valley Medical Center in 2007 as a Public Safety Officer, helping to ensure hospital safety and security for 6 years. In 2013 Ryan transferred to the Surgery Department, initially assisting with patient transport, and then advancing to the role of Sterilization Tech. In 2018 Ryan obtained his commercial driver’s license and joined the HVRC Transportation Department where he currently serves as the department coordinator Having experience in so many different parts of patient care, Ryan brings with him unceasing patience and empathy for our patients and families.
Human Resources Coordinator
Kristal Marsala joined the Hemet Valley Recovery team in 2021. With a management background, Kristal brings with her many skills including an advanced understanding of computer technology, administrative organization, multi-tasking and excellent customer service. With a passion for recovery, Kristal received her RADT in December of 2021. Her educational plans include obtaining her CADC certification, as well a greater understanding of the licensure and regulatory requirements as related to chemical dependency treatment. As a support to all, Kristal is committed to giving her undivided attention to all who seek her assistance.
Holistic Clinical Specialist
As the Director of Clinical Services for Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat since 2008, Sherry Burditt, RN, HN-BC is a Registered Nurse whose career spans 35+ years of clinical practice in Behavioral Health, Chemical Dependency and Hospital Administration. After receiving her nurse’s training in New York, she concentrated her practice specifically in Behavioral Health and Addiction Medicine, working with adult and adolescent populations challenged with depression, schizophrenia, eating disorders, addictions, and various affective disorders. Later, as a hospital administrator, she held the responsibility as Director of Nursing, Chief Nursing Officer, Director of Clinical Services, Director of Education, Associate Administrator, and Chief Operating Officer in mental health / addictive medicine settings. In 1999 she received Board Certification in Holistic Nursing through the American Holistic Nurses’ Association. In private practice she has also provided consultation services and holistic workshops to over 30 acute care hospitals, facilitated holistic therapy groups, supervised and evaluated healthcare instructors, and worked individually with private clients. In 2018, Sherry authored the book “The Gift of Addiction” which has become a recovery resource for hundreds of patients and families. As a Kriyaban yogi, she has practiced Raja Yoga meditation since 1974.
Intake Admin. Assistant
Teresa joined HVRC in April of 2021 initially as a Recovery residence house manager with 3 yrs experience at the detox level of care. Her passion to help others led her to pursue CADC certification, where she will complete all requirements within the next year. Teresa became a part of the intake team in March of 2022 where she continues to share her compassionate, caring attitude with those seeking to change their lives through entering into treatment.
Manager of Admissions and Assessment
Jace joined Hemet Valley Recovery in 2006 after she graduated from 4-D College in Colton, CA. She began her journey in the addiction field working as a detox medication nurse shortly after graduation. She spent 10 years on the nursing floor working with a team of doctors and nurses to get patients safely through the detox process, where they then could continue to pursue sobriety. She started to further her knowledge in the Utilization Review Department in 2013. In 2017 she became the Director of Utilization Review Services where she is the liaison between the patient and the insurance company to ensure the best level of care is authorized. In 2019 Jace moved to the Intake Department to assume the Lead LVN role. In addition to telephone screening, clinical assessments and facilitating the admission process, Jace provides support and supervision to Intake Counseling and Nursing staff to ensure effective communication and thorough assessments resulting in a safe and smooth admission process.
Clinical Nurse Manager
As the Clinical Nurse Manager for Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, Crystal’s nursing career began as an LVN graduating from Concorde Career College in 2010. Crystal went on to earn her Registered Nursing degree from Mt. San Jacinto College. Having a limited understanding of Substance Use Disorders, Crystal gained valuable experience caring for those seeking treatment for the abuse of alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, amphetamines, and combinations of these and many more as an LVN, and then as an RN. Crystal also has a background in Medical Surgical Nursing with a specialty in orthopedic surgery from Riverside University Health System, a level 1 trauma hospital. She now has over 12 years of experience in Chemical Dependency nursing, and is currently in the process of obtaining her degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Family Services Coordinator
Lisa joins our clinical team as our Family Services Coordinator. She brings with her over 25 years of experience and knowledge surrounding substance abuse, the disease of addiction, and the impact of this illness on patients, families and the community. She is a Licensed Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, and has a Master’s Degree in Counseling/ Psychology. Lisa is dedicated to helping individuals and families heal from the pain of addiction. She has extensive experience in working with patients at all levels of care and has additional training in family dynamics, codependency, relapse prevention, and stress management. Lisa brings her understanding and compassion to our team and believes that with the right help, individuals and their loved ones can heal and grow in recovery and develop the necessary tools to thrive in life.
Chemical Dependency Counselor
Case Manager
Sophia joined Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat in November 2017, with two years of experience in the field of addiction, helping others learn a new way of life through the recovery process. Sophia successfully completed her training with the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) in 2017, and brings with her a wealth of experience that continues to make an impact on the lives of patients and families. Active within the recovery community, Sophia serves as a valuable resource to patients in the program as they leave treatment to continue their journey to a successful recovery. She also serves as the Alumni and Volunteer Liaison, guiding those in recovery to continue embracing their strength, hope and wisdom as they reintegrate into society.
Acupuncturist
Rebecca Komer-Bright, L.Ac. is a Licensed and Board Certified Acupuncturist that specializes in Physical Medicine and Pain Management. Rebecca has a passion for helping people reach their health goals through the most natural means possible. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Yo San University in 2008 and began her private practice in 2009. She integrates both Eastern and Western treatment modalities to insure her patients receive the highest standard of care. In her 12 years of clinical experience, her focus has been on treating chronic pain, failed surgeries, and rheumatoid conditions. She takes this knowledge and experience and uses it to best help her patients, often achieving results that her patients never thought possible. It sparks her great joy to be able to help people live their lives to the fullest without being hampered by debilitating, chronic pain.
Chemical Dependency
Case Manager
Kari began working as a professional in the chemical dependency field in 2015, in the roles of Behavioral Technician, House Lead, and then a Substance Abuse Counselor. Kari has been affiliated with Hemet Valley Recovery Center since 2020, and currently serves as a Chemical Dependency Counselor and Case Manager for the Acute Detoxification and Partial Hospitalization programs. She is currently working on her degree in Psychology to better serve the growing number of co-occurring needs of those suffering from the disease of addiction, as well as experiencing mental health issues. Kari is passionate in her work with patients and referents to establish care plans and discharges that provide for the best success in recovery.
Clinical Nurse Manager
As the Clinical Nurse Manager for Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat since 2013, Melinda’s nursing career began when she graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2003. Relocating to Hemet in 2006, Melinda took a position on the Telemetry Unit at Hemet Valley Medical Center, as well as a Per Diem position at Hemet Valley Recovery Center. Having a limited understanding of Substance Use Disorder, Melinda gained valuable experience caring for those seeking treatment for the abuse of alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, amphetamines, and the combinations of these and many more. She also developed an understanding of various detox protocols, and the ability to identify the withdrawal symptoms unique to each substance. Understanding the value of individualized treatment approaches, Melinda and her team ensure that they form the basis of each patient’s Treatment Plan, as the disease of addiction and the consequences of use are frequently accompanied by severe medical comorbidities, chronic pain, psychological stressors, underlying trauma, grief, and depression. She also supports a holistic philosophy through her understanding that recovery requires care for the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of each patient. Assuming leadership responsibility in 2013 as the Clinical Nurse Manager, addiction treatment has become Melinda’s passion.
Manager of HR, Compliance and Intake
Stephanie Banks joined Hemet Valley Recovery Center in early 2008.
Resourceful and well organized, Stephanie serves as the Manager of the Human Resources and Intake Departments, and is also responsible for Performance Improvement and Regulatory Compliance. She has been a CARF surveyor since mid-2019. With a background in the Human Resources field since 2004, Stephanie obtained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration in 2019 from National University with an emphasis on Human Resources Management. She is a graduate from the University of California, San Diego with a Bachelor’s Degree in Management Science.
Administrative Assistant
Insurance Verifier
Emily joined HVRC in 2014 as the Insurance Verifier. Emily brings with her over 3 years of experience in the addiction field having previously worked for a local substance abuse treatment program. She also shares her 12 years of administrative & customer service experience as a member of the intake/admissions department.
Chemical Dependency Counselor
Case Manager
Ed has been working in the field of addiction since April of 1987, and became a certified CADC II in 1994. Having been actively involved in many different modalities in the Chemical Dependency field, Ed has worked as an admissions coordinator, peer advocate, sober living house manager for Cedar House Rehabilitation Center, and 2nd and 3rd offender DDP facilitator for Cedar House. His positions within the County of Riverside have included Methadone Maintenance Counselor, PC1000 Counselor, HIV pre and post-test antibody counselor educator, Satellite Program Manager/Counselor, dual diagnosis counselor, star team intervention, and case management placement for the chronic dually diagnosed. In addition, Ed sat on the advisory board for the Medical Examiners Board for impaired Veterinarians, served as the detox Program Manager for Riverside Center for Behavioral Medicine, as well as co-developed and managed the Wedgewood OP Program for the Riverside Psychiatric Medical Group. In September of 2015 he had the good fortune of joining Hemet Valley Recovery Center as a CD Counselor / Case Manager. “It has been my privilege to be a part of the great team at HVRC, as well as a part of many patient’s and families’ lives. I believe in the Miracle of Recovery, and encourage you to join us.”
Counseling Coordinator
Case Manager
Bill joined the HVRC family in February 2015; he started his Career in the profession of Chemical Dependency Treatment in 2006 and has been a California State Certified Counselor with a CADCII credential since 2008. Bill has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, special populations and their families, and has worked in various therapeutic settings including Detox, Outpatient and Residential Treatment. Bill has also provided addiction education to communities, schools, families and student counselors as an instructor for CCAPP Academy since 2008. Bill continues to work with individuals and groups to help them better understand the disease of addiction. With his non-judgmental, patient, and empathetic approach, Bill continuously serves to encourage patients to reach their full potential. As Counseling Coordinator Bill manages the milieu of all levels of care, as well as assumes responsibility for facilitating all sober living transfers, the supervision of House Managers and other related PHP activities.
Licensed Clinical Therapist
Christina has been practicing in the field of addiction and mental health since 2003. She is currently a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Her credentials include Certified Domestic Violence Counselor, Certified Anger Resolution Therapist, Certified Co-occurring Disorder Specialist and currently practices as a trained EMDR therapist. Christina has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families, with an emphasis on addiction and trauma experiences or exposure. She is also a military veteran and has grown up in a military family. As a result, she lends her understanding, experience, and expertise as our Trauma Informed Therapist, with a specific focus on the emotional and psychological health of military veterans and first responders in their recovery journey. Christina received a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from Argosy University in 2012, as well as a Master’s degree in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix in 2016. She is currently working towards attaining her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with the goal of conducting psychological testing for continued treatment enhancements and increased treatment efficacy.
Yoga Instructor
Colleen Ackerman has been on staff as a yoga instructor at HVRC/Sage Retreat since 2009. She has extensive education and experience teaching in the field of Health and Fitness, with her emphasis always being on holistic wellness. In 1982, Colleen received her MS degree in Physical Education from the University of Arizona, with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology and spent 28 years teaching Health, Nutrition and a variety of physical education classes, including yoga, at Mount San Jacinto College in Menifee, CA. Her yoga training and certification has been through Yoga-Fit, and is ongoing. In 2019 she became a certified Y12SR (Yoga of 12 Step Recovery) leader. In her desire to become more informed and more effective as a staff member and instructor, Colleen received her RADT certification, enrolled in the CCAPP Academy Alcohol and Drug Treatment Studies program, and is working on fulfilling her internship hours to complete all requirements for CADC certification. Colleen’s belief that the practice of yoga is an effective holistic method for continued sobriety and relapse prevention is based on science, personal experience, and patient feedback. All individuals are encouraged to participate to the best of their abilitity. This enthusiastic, inclusive and joyful approach fuels hope and positive change in individuals of all ages and abilities.
Class Mantra: NO Judgment; NO Expectations; NO Competition
Namaste!
Executive Director / Co-Founder
Steven Collier RN is one of the co founders of the Hemet Valley Recovery Center and owner of Addiction Medicine Services Inc. He has been working in the behavioral health field since serving as a command Drug Exemption Officer in the U.S. Navy in 1978. A graduate of California State University Los Angeles, Mr. Collier holds a BA in Health and Safety Studies as well as a certificate as a specialist in Drug and Alcohol Problems also from Cal State. Obtaining a degree in Registered Nursing from Saddleback College, Mr. Collier has held a Registered Nursing License since the early1980’s. From 1984 to 1986, Mr. Collier worked as a Clinical Instructor for the Care Units at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and then served as the Nurse Manager of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center also at Cedars Sinai from 1986 to 1988. From 1988 to 1991, Mr. Collier was the Nursing Supervisor at the Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center ( ADTC), Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center. From 1991 to 1997, Mr. Collier was the Program Manager of the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center Recovery Services Unit. While establishing the Recovery Services unit at Loma Linda, Mr. Collier was part of the clinical team that established treatment protocols for the treatment of pain patients who had become addicted to narcotic analgesics. Mr. Collier also established treatment centers at San Antonio Community Hospital and the Knollwood Center between 1994 and 1999. Focusing on Behavioral Medicine, he became the Director of Assessment and Admissions at Canyon Ridge Hospital in 1999. After successfully opening the Hemet Valley Recovery Center in 2001, Valley Health System contracted with Mr. Collier to assume the role of Director of Behavioral Health Services to oversee the opening of the 28 bed Center for Behavioral Medicine at Moreno Valley Community Hospital and to pursue the growth and development of the Behavioral Health unit at Hemet Valley Medical Center. Throughout his career, Mr. Collier has committed himself to providing hospital based acute care treatment for those suffering from addictions and related illness.
Director of Business Development
Esther has been with Hemet Valley Recovery Center since 2008, having over 16 years of experience in the field of Chemical Dependency. She has a diverse background both clinically and administratively. Esther received a Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies at San Diego City College and has been a certified CADCII since 2002. Her counseling experience prepared her to work as the lead case manager for Mental Health Systems Parolee Partnership Program, a Program Manager for McAlister Institutes North Coastal Regional Recovery Center and Kiva Women and Children’s residential program in San Diego California. Esther’s extensive knowledge in Crisis Intervention has helped her motivate many individuals suffering from substance abuse issues take the first steps towards healing.
Director of Business Services
Patricia Bellard has been with Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat for 10 years as the Director of Business Services. She has also been instrumental in the development of Intake and Admission Services, Accounts Receivables, and contracting negotiations. Involved in the healthcare industry for over 45 years, Patricia previously worked for Tenet Corporation as a Business Office Manager for their seven local hospitals, and prior to that she was a Business Office Manager for Summit Corporation. Patricia began her career at Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier.
Chief Financial & Legal Officer
Elizabeth Schneider joined Addiction Medicine Services in 2010.
As Chief Financial and Legal Officer, Mrs. Clark is responsible for all financial planning, reporting and treasury functions. She brings 10 years of legal experience to AMS, beginning her career with Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney, LLP, where she practiced corporate law. Prior to joining AMS, Elizabeth provided financial and legal consulting to a number of companies and taught Business Taxation at Dominican University. Since 2008, Elizabeth has been a consultant advising clients on financial management, legal compliance, corporate structuring and taxation.
Elizabeth received her law degree from the UCLA School of Law. Most recently she completed post-graduate work for her Public Accounting Certification. She is admitted to practice law in California, New York and numerous federal courts. Elizabeth prides herself on helping those in need and traveling the globe, one country at a time.
Diplomate of American Board of Internal Medicine,
Medical Directo
Dr. Raja is a board-certified internal medicine physician, certified by both the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. He is committed to providing the highest-quality medical care to his patients. He is conscientious and compassionate with regards to all those who have been entrusted in his care. Dr. Raja values the patient-physician relationship and makes every effort to build trust and confidence as he goes to great lengths to make sure the experience is as pleasant as possible for his patients. His attention to detail ensures the valued healthcare delivered in his practice.
