The staff consists of Psychologists, Therapists, and Drug and Alcohol Counselors who are pioneers in the field of substance use and behavioral health issues. Our staff bring decades of clinical expertise and personal experience dealing with co-occurring disorders. We all share the common philosophy that effective treatment can be complex. Targeting specific issues of low self esteem and self worth is the only way to help an individual establish long-term sobriety and change.
Lenny Segal LMSW, MBA
Executive Director/ Founder
Sean Kelly, CADC-II
Chief Operations Officer
Sean Kelly, CADC-II Chief Operations Officer
Sean joined PACE Recovery, LLC. in 2012, bringing extensive leadership and management experience with him.There is a relatively small segment of the business world; individuals who seem able to build relationships, trust, and rapport with almost anyone, and then are able to broker the relationships and make connections between people, creating partnerships and alliances and motivating forward momentum to get things done. Sean Kelly is one of those people, and “getting things done” and driving results through collaboration, partnerships and relationships is what he is all about. With an enthusiastic and friendly attitude, Sean radiates a sincere passion for delivering top tier service to the clients of PACE Recovery Center and their families.Sean began working in the treatment field as an interventionist in 1995. He is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Level II with a specialization in Mental/Co-Occurring Disorders. Over the last 17 years, he has helped hundreds of individuals seek treatment from drugs and alcohol. Sean is a proven expert in coaching individuals who are resistant to change seek long-term recovery.It is his hands on approach that is most valuable to the Clients at PACE Recovery Center. Sean’s gentle demeanor creates an environment for the Clients to connect with feelings and vulnerabilities that have prevented them from maintaining sobriety. Sean is also a former Marine who proudly served our country. It is this background that helps him teach the Men of PACE Recovery Center how to accomplish goals, create discipline, and develop accountability. Sean’s own personal struggle with addiction allows him to meet the Clients where they are at in their own recovery, and help guide them on their recovery journey. Sean is an active member in the recovery community. His philosophy is to treat people with love, dignity and respect. It’s this mentality that allows him to create an alliance, which allows for the therapeutic process to take place between him and his Client. This relationship empowers the Client to gain the skills necessary to recover from drugs and alcohol. Sean studied at Centaur University to become a certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
Shahan Suzmeyan
Chief Compliance Officer
Shahan Suzmeyan Chief Compliance Officer
Shahan has been in the recovery industry for nearly two decades and brings best in class leadership in management, licensing, certification, and quality improvement to his role with PACE. As Chief Compliance Officer, Shahan focuses on quality treatment, best practices, and providing the industry’s best standard of care to our clients. In addition to his work at PACE, Shahan is a four-term Governing Board Member of the East Hollywood Neighborhood council, the Hollywood District Animal Welfare Representative for LA SPCA, a member of the Intercoast College Business Development Board, a member of the Los Angeles Harm Reduction Task Force, and a Governing Board Member of East Hollywood Community Church.
Will Sanchez, LMFT
Clinical Director
Will Sanchez, LMFT Clinical Director
Will Sanchez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over ten years experience specializing working with young adults. He is the Associate Clinical Director of PACE. Will is currently pursuing his Doctorate degree. He earned his Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Concordia University, Irvine. He completed his practicum hours working at Silverlake Medical Hospital in Rosemead, gaining invaluable experience as a counselor for adults with various chronic mental illnesses and co-occurring disorders. Will has a long history working with the young adult population. He coached high school soccer at Newport Harbor High School for 5 years and worked for the City of Costa Mesa with the teen recreation programs for many years as well. Will has worked as primary therapist at the adolescent and adult treatment center level for the last several years. Specializing in addiction, adding an experiential approach to therapy both individually and the group setting, Will hopes to help recreate positive life experiences with PACE. Will believes in a Client centered approach to when he works with the Men at PACE Recovery Center. His groups are both informative and fun.
Joanna Savarese, Ph.D.
Neuropsychologist/Clinical Psychologist
Joanna Savarese, Ph.D. Neuropsychologist/Clinical Psychologist
Joanna Savarese, Ph.D. is a formally trained neuropsychologist and clinical psychologist, and co-founder of San Diego BrainWorks in San Diego, CA. Dr. Savarese has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatric hospitals, schools, family clinics, rehabilitation facilities, private practice, and medical hospitals. Dr. Savarese has particular expertise in neuropsychological and personality assessment with individuals, children and adolescence experiencing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, memory problems, and symptoms of ADHD. Dr. Savarese provides individual and family therapy (depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family conflict, behavior problems, parenting) and helps parents work collaboratively and successfully with their child, teenager, or young adult. She has been a consulting member of the PACE team since 2012. She works collaboratively and effectively with PACE staff to understand the neuropsychological/personality testing results and to use that information to further tailor treatment to each individual. Dr. Savarese is authentic and genuine and forms a strong personal connection and relationship with her clients and their families. Her approach is a combination of straightforward and supportive and she is known for being very effective when working with difficult situations. Dr. Savarese synthesizes information from neuropsychological and/or personality testing to create an effective treatment plan that is useful and practical. She frequently lectures in the community on Understanding Neuropsychological Evaluations, Dementia, and Learning and the Brain. She has written articles for Parenting Magazine and most recently wrote several features for the textbook The Neuroscience of Learning: Principles and Applications for Educators (2014). Dr. Savarese is the co-chair of the Neuropsychology committee for the San Diego Psychological Association and is involved in the Autism Tree Project Foundation. She is passionate about getting her clients the right treatment they need and setting them up for a successful future.
Helen O'Mahony, Ph.D
Clinical Psychologist
Helen O'Mahony, Ph.D Clinical Psychologist
Dr. O’Mahony is a licensed clinical psychologist. She has worked in the mental health field for over 13 years. She has worked with all populations and specializes in dual diagnosis. Dr. O’Mahony runs experiential groups to help clients not just talk about their maladaptive patterns but to help them transform them. She received her BA and Masters from Boston University and moved to Los Angeles in 2001. While working as a program director at the Salvation Army located at the West LA VA campus she received a lot of experience working with veterans diagnosed with PTSD and substance abuse along with other diagnoses. She received her Ph.D. from California Graduate Institute at the Chicago School in 2008.
Sarah Sanchez, PsyD, LMFT
Primary Therapist
Sarah Sanchez, PsyD, LMFT Primary Therapist
Dr. Sarah Sanchez is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in addiction, trauma, cultural issues, and dual-diagnoses. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside, Master’s degree in Psychology at Chapman University emphasizing in Marriage and Family Therapy, and recently completed her doctoral degree in Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Through her internship, Dr. Sanchez had extensive experience working at community-based mental health clinics, counseling a diverse group of individuals, couples, families, and children. Dr. Sanchez also had the unique opportunity to work in residential and outpatient programs with both adolescents and adults since beginning her practice as an MFT intern. Dr. Sanchez believes that building a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation and one of the most important aspects of therapy. Her goal is to promote a safe and comfortable environment for clients to work through their underlying issues and for a place for them to express themselves freely. Being involved in music through her life, Dr. Sanchez has found that integrating creativity and exploring one’s talents/strengths can be extremely beneficial for one’s growth. Dr. Sanchez maintains a successful private practice in Newport Beach, treating individuals of all ages and their families to restore a healthy and balanced lifestyle. She also offers continuity of care for those who transition from inpatient and outpatient settings to maintain the therapeutic relationship and continue to work on client’s growth.
Lisa Lipton, LMFT
Therapist
Lisa Lipton, LMFT Therapist
Lisa Lipton is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over twelve years of counseling experience helping teenagers, young adults and their families. Her undergraduate degree was obtained at California State University Northridge, receiving a B.A. in Psychology. Lisa attended Phillips Graduate Institute in Encino, California, where she graduated with an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy. Working for an outpatient non-profit organization for 6 years provided Lisa with the opportunity to work with a dual diagnosis population, addressing both substance abuse issues and mental health disorders.Lisa's experience working at a Therapeutic Boarding School for children and youth ages 10-16 for three years, as a Treatment Coordinator and Therapist, has given her residential placement and milieu knowledge. Co-facilitating Parent Seminars and Family Workshops, to help families have a better understanding of the challenges their children face, were an integral part of the healing and recovery process.In addition to writing numerous articles, Lisa is presently a part-time adjunct professor at Woodbury University, teaching a course on Marriage & Intimacy. Being married and the proud mom of a five year old son brings a personal perspective to her work. One of Lisa's favorite past-times is to hike the beautiful trails of California with her two little Pomeranian dogs Hercules and Samson.
Brett Furst, MFTi
Primary Therapist
Brett Furst, MFTi Primary Therapist
Brett holds a BA in Child and Adolescent Development from The University of California, Davis, and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. He is also pursuing his Doctorate in Psychology from Alliant International University. Brett began his career working with children and adolescents with educational difficulties, but quickly expanded his focus to adults, families, couples, and those struggling with behavioral heath and addiction issues. He has worked at both the Frances Smith Center and Living Success Center providing free or low cost therapy to those in the Orange County area. Brett has also developed one of the first experiential poetry groups, and finds group work to be some of the most rewarding he has done. Brett enjoys spending time with his family and dog, and exploring new parts of Orange County.
Chris Chaffin, MFTi
Primary Therapist
Chris Chaffin, MFTi Primary Therapist
Chris holds his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization in Marital and Family Therapy, from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles, CA, and is currently completing his Doctor of Psychology in Marital and Family Therapy at the same institution. Chris began his career working with a diverse population at a low-income community counseling center that serves the Greater Los Angeles area. I this capacity, he worked with patients young and old experiencing identity issues, existential crises, significant life transitions, depression and anxiety, and more. He has worked therapeutically with individuals and couples, and has administered batteries of psychological assessments for individuals seeking testing for ADD, learning disorders, and mood/personality disorders. Chris is, as time permits, a voracious reader, and a lifelong lover of geeky things.
David St Clare, MS, CADC-II
Case Manager
David St Clare, MS, CADC-II Case Manager
David has MS in Addiction Counseling and is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Level II. David also has over 28 years of personal recovery experience. David specializes in integrating evidence based interventions with 12-step facilitation in order to provide unique and effective treatment to each individual. David has a passion for working with clients who are beginning their journey of recovery and helping them to develop the skills necessary to live happy and healthy lives and establish long term sobriety.
Sarah Schauer, CDC, RADT-II
Program Administrator
Sarah Schauer, CDC, RADT-II Program Administrator
Sarah began working in the addiction treatment field 4 years ago after completing her substance dependency counselor education. She is a Chemical Dependency Counselor and a Addiction Specialist. Sarah specializes in working with individuals who struggle with chemical dependency and mental health issues. Prior to returning to school Sarah earned a BA in History from Concordia University. However she has always had a love for the field of psychology and counseling. Sarah came to PACE Recovery Center after working with an Intensive Out Patient program as a Senior Counselor. Her responsibilities at PACE include working with clients on a day to day basis, managing client schedules and coordinating with community resources; overseeing staff, handling insurance inquiries and billing correspondence, financial correspondence, family support, and much more. In her spare time Sarah enjoys scuba diving, spending time with friends, and being a positive asset to her community.
Brian Greenwald, CDC, RADT, CRC
Outpatient Case Manager
Brian Greenwald, CDC, RADT, CRC Outpatient Case Manager
Brian is originally from Denver, Colorado where he developed a strong passion for outdoor action sports. Brian is a Chemical Dependency Counselor and a Certified Recovery Coach. Having had his own struggles with addiction, Brian has been able to combine his love for outdoor recreational activities and a Twelve Step program of recovery. Brian is the PACE Outpatient Counselor. Brian will assist each client in highlighting their own after treatment goals, such as school and work. He facilitates educational sessions on scholastic and vocational skillsets necessary to be competitive. Brian will continue to case manage clients who transition into PACE’s Outpatient Program. He continues to meet with them individually and facilitate sober fun activities. In his spare time, Brian spends time with his Girlfriend enjoying all the beautiful California outdoor activities that are available.
Chris Rando, CADC-I
Case Manager
Chris Rando, CADC-I Case Manager
Chris is originally from Scottsdale Arizona and moved to southern California to deal with his own substance abuse issues. He is a PACE alumni and has found his way in sobriety through the twelve steps. Chris is a graduate from Centaur University and is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a specialization in Mental/Co-Occurring Disorders. Throughout his own sobriety, Chris has found his passion in helping others to recover from their own substance abuse issues. In his free time Chris enjoys working out, playing sports as well as playing the guitar.
James Duggan, CDC, RADT
Case Manager
James Duggan, CDC, RADT Case Manager
James is originally from Los Gatos in Northern California. James found his passion to help those struggling with chemical dependency and behavioral issues after battling his own addictions. James is a PACE Alumni. After completing the program, he attended Centaur University to become a Drug and Alcohol Counselor with a specialization in Mental/Co-Occurring Disorders. James is a Certified Drug Counselor and Registered Alcohol Drug Technician. James has a strong foundation in the 12 step community and has created a lot bonds and friendships in the fellowship of AA.James enjoys life outside of 12 step recovery by going to the gym, the beach, hanging out with friends and visiting family.
Jackson Ema, CDC, RADT
Case Manager
Jackson Ema, CDC, RADT Case Manager
Jackson is originally from Denver Colorado. As a proud PACE alumnus, Jackson believes healthy relationships and accountability along with a positive attitude, are all vital keys in living a rewarding life of structure and sobriety. By sharing his experience, strength and hope, he can relate with others who may struggle with addiction and the hardships that come with it. Jackson is a Chemical Dependency Counselor and Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician. In his spare time, Jackson enjoys swimming, exploring new music, participating in his twelve step recovery and catching up with family and friends.
Joshua Hochman, CDC, RADT
Case Manager
Joshua Hochman, CDC, RADT Case Manager
Joshua is originally from NY where he pursued his passion for adrenaline sports and enjoying the outdoors. Joshua is a PACE Outpatient Case Manger. Joshua is a Chemical Dependency Counselor and Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician. Having struggled with addiction in his own life, Joshua has been able to continuously pursue his passion for adrenaline sports, and the outdoors in conjunction with a Twelve Step program of recovery. Joshua will assist each client in focusing on their own goals after their Inpatient experience, such as school, work, and extracurricular activities. He assists clients with pursuing their educational path as well as securing employment. He continues to meet with them individually and helps them identify activities they are passionate about. When Joshua isn’t working at PACE, he enjoys going on hikes with his dog, snowboarding, and exploring California.
Bryan Johnson
Operations Manager
Bryan Johnson Operations Manager
Bryan found a new passion of helping young men achieve a successful life when he joined the Pace team in 2015. He is originally from Worcester, Massachusetts and moved to Southern California to address his own addiction issues. He loves being active and is enjoying the sunny California weather. Today, Bryan credits PACE Recovery Center, LLC. and Alcoholics Anonymous for guiding him in the correct direction to achieve the tremendous life he lives today. Bryan graduated college in 2013, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Endicott College, located in Beverly, Massachusetts. He grew up in a business oriented family and therefore chose a business management concentration in college. Along with his bachelor degree Bryan is a Registered Drug and Alcohol Technician. Combining his education and family background allows Bryan to bring knowledge to the operational side of PACE. His unique personal journey through addiction gives Bryan the ability to relate to clients and guide them on the path to recovery. He prides himself on being a role model and his collegiate athletic career helped shape him into a natural leader. Bryan lives an active lifestyle based on the principles learned in recovery and enjoys seeing Pace clients succeed along the same path.
Matthew Boese, MA, RADT
Academic Advisor
Matthew Boese, MA, RADT Academic Advisor
Matthew originally hails from Orange County, CA. He received his bachelor's degree from Brandeis University and completed his Master's degree at the University of Chicago. He has been working in education for over ten years and has a long history of mentoring young adults from varying backgrounds. Matthew runs the PACE school program, working closely with clients to make the transition from the structured environment of treatment to success in higher education. He also runs weekly scholastic and vocational group sessions to provide clients with a strong foundation of life skills. Encouraging accountability and realistic goal-setting, Matthew believes that educational success after treatment helps build self-esteem and more importantly provides positive, tangible results for the hard-work clients have made in their journey of sobriety. In his free time he enjoys cooking, reading, practicing yoga and is also an avid cyclist- earning him the affectionate sobriquet “Lance Armstrong” from the PACE treatment team.
Victor Calzada, RADT
Lead Resident Manager
Victor Calzada, RADT Lead Resident Manager
Victor joined the United States Marine Corps right out of high school in 1995. He proudly served as a heavy weapons operator. While in the service, Victor was recognized for his, honor, courage and commitment. While serving in the United States military, he learned the important characteristics of working as a team. After his tour in the military, Victor worked for the Correctional Systems for 6 years as a Correctional Officer. Victory was known for his keen ability to listen and help them problem solve any issues they might have been experiencing. An area that Victor is passionate about is working with people who have substance abuse issues. Victor has had his own personal struggles with chemical dependency issues. He believe that the combination of opening our hearts and minds, with the right guidance, we can overcome our issues. He believes 12-step program is an excellent template to follow for a long-term recovery. Victor is a Registered Alcohol Drug Technician. In his spare time Victor enjoys spending time with my family. He is a proud father of 3 wonderful children. His hobbies are repairing electronics and restoring antiques.
Ellis Freedman, RADT
Lead Resident Manager
Ellis Freedman, RADT Lead Resident Manager
Ellis Freedman is originally from Portland, Oregon and attended school at Colorado College in Colorado Springs. Behavioral health issues and substance abuse lead him to seek treatment in Arizona. After learning how good the recovery community was in Orange County he sought continued treatment at PACE Recovery Center and quickly became an active member in Alcoholics Anonymous. Ellis is a Registered Drug and Alcohol Technicians. Ellis enjoys inspiring those that are struggling in early sobriety by continually sharing his experience, strength and hope whenever possible. In his free time Ellis enjoys participating in anything athletic – his favorite sports are lacrosse and downhill mountain biking.
John Meissbach, RADT
Lead Resident Manager
John Meissbach, RADT Lead Resident Manager
John Meissbach is originally from Lawrence, Kansas. At an early age, John's addiction and behavioral issues took control of his life leading him to seek treatment in Montana. After completion, he sought continued treatment at PACE Recovery Center. John is now a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician. Immersed in the 12 steps and the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous, John enjoys relating with those struggling, in hopes to ignite the willingness he found within himself. In his free time he enjoys everything his new life has to offer in Southern California.
Charles Thomas, RADT
Lead Resident Manager
Charles Thomas, RADT Lead Resident Manager
Charles was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. He moved to the United States to further his education, graduating from Lafayette College with a B.A. in Business & Economics. Following college, Charles found his struggle with substance abuse had left him with no clear direction in life, and a lack of basic life skills. Charles sought treatment in Orange Country’s vibrant recovery community through PACE Recovery Center. With the guidance he received, Charles was able to rekindle his love for life. Charles is a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician, and strives to provide those who also struggle with addiction the best opportunity to not only recover, but to reach their full potential. In his free time Charles takes advantage of California’s unique location, including hiking in the summer, snowboarding in the winter, and surfing all year round.
Nick Ottaviano, CDC, RADT
Lead Resident Manager
Nick Ottaviano, CDC, RADT Lead Resident Manager
Nick is originally from the Philadelphia, PA area. During the course of his own treatment of addiction, chronic pain and PTSD, Nick realized he has positive message to spread to others coping with similar problems. After treatment at PACE, he attended Centaur University to further is education in addiction studies. Nick is a Certified Drug Counselor and Registered Alcohol Drug Technician specializing in co-occuring disorders. In his spare time, Nick enjoys playing sports, hanging out with friends and visiting with family.
Mike Robertson
National Outreach Consultant
Mike Robertson National Outreach Consultant
Mike Robertson is a Southern California native who began working in the chemical dependency and mental health field over four years ago. Mike has an extensive knowledge base regarding local and national treatment centers, eating disorder programs, wilderness and therapeutic schools. He is a valuable resource to many of his colleagues and is a trusted authority in treatment field. At PACE Recovery Center, Mike is actively involved in assisting clients and their families find appropriate resources to ensure long-term recovery. His level of passion and commitment is evident by the amount of time he spends educating the community on the abundant resources that are available. In his spare time, Mike enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and children. He is also an avid athlete and photographer.
Jordan Spektor
National Outreach Manager
Jordan Spektor National Outreach Manager
Jordan is a native of Seattle, Washington. He graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Marshall School of Business. After getting his degree, Jordan worked business development and sales in industries such as software and international product sourcing. While in college, Jordan began an 8-year battle with alcoholism and addiction that affected every aspect of his life. After getting sober in 2011, Jordan discovered a passion for helping people struggling with alcoholism and addiction find recovery. He has 4 years of experience in the drug and alcohol industry, rising from an intern, up to Chief Development Officer at an internationally known extended aftercare program. He helped expand this program to multiple locations and is directly linked to their substantial growth in the marketplace. After experiencing the benefits of long term recovery first hand, he believes that if an addict learns to love his life in recovery anything is possible.
Jordan Emerson, JD
Marketing/Outreach Director
Jordan Emerson, JD Marketing/Outreach Director
Jordan received a BS in Public Relations as well as a BS in Journalism from Northern Arizona University in 2003. He is recently graduated from law school and received his Juris Doctorate degree from The University of Arizona. Previous to attending law school, Jordan worked for five years at Cottonwood treatment center in Tucson, AZ in marketing and business development. While at Cottonwood, Jordan traveled the country more than 26 weeks a year, learning about the Nation’s top treatment facilities and practitioners, and brings that knowledge and experience with him to PACE Recovery Center. With his vast network of practitioners around the country, Jordan is able to connect patients with doctors and therapists in most parts of the country when they return home. While traveling for Cottonwood Jordan was able to witness firsthand hundreds of treatment facilities across the country. Based on these experiences, Jordan has been able to pinpoint exactly what is needed in a treatment center to ensure patient success. In his spare time, Jordan enjoys spending time with his family and two dogs. He enjoys cooking, reading and practicing yoga. He is also an avid sports fan and you will always catch him watching U of A games and following the Buffalo Bills.Medical Consultants
Hisham Korraa, M.D.
Psychiatrist
Hisham Korraa, M.D. Psychiatrist
Dr. Hisham Korraa, M.D. is a UCLA trained psychiatrist specializing in psychotherapy and medication management for adults and adolescents. With a heavy emphasis on addressing the individual, Dr. Korraa’s treatment focuses on variables that would impact the individual’s development and coping patterns over the course of the years. Dr. Korraa developed a special interest in helping individuals overcoming their chemical dependency issues and addressing underlying core struggles to focus on growth and health. Dr. Korraa works well with several different chemical dependency programs in Orange County including PACE Recovery Center and he maintains a strong relationship with his patients well after their acute recovery period. Dr. Korraa did his undergraduate training at University of Houston. He later graduated from Texas Tech School of Medicine. He then specialized in Psychiatry at the reputable UCLA/Sepulveda Training Psychiatry Program. Being exposed to several different facilities in the Los Angeles area (with much exposure to veterans in the greater LA VA and Sepulveda VA program), Dr. Korraa became well versed in PTSD and chemical dependency. In addition to psychopharmacology and individual therapy, Dr. Korraa is one of the very few physicians who also specializes in both the transcranial magnetic treatment of depression and deep brain nerve stimulation of obsessive compulsive disorder. Dr. Korraa has been awarded multiple awards over the course of the years. He has been recognized by his patients with several “Patient’s Choice Award” and “Compassionate Doctor Recognition”. He has also been recognized as among the best rated doctors in the area.
Dr. Ryan Wright, M.D.
Psychiatrist
Dr. Ryan Wright, M.D. Psychiatrist
Dr. Wright is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He completed college, medical school, and residency at the University of California, Irvine.While in college, Dr. Wright graduated Magna cum laude from the school of Biological Sciences at UCI, was invited to join the national honors society Phi Beta Kappa, and graduated from the Campuswide Honors Program at UCI. During medical school and residency at UCI, he received extensive training on treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders utilizing both medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Wright worked extensively at the Long Beach VA treating veterans for post traumatic stress disorder. He successfully mastered the skill of using cognitive behavioral therapy to improve the quality of life of veterans after returning home from overseas. During his final year of his residency, Dr. Wright elected to spend a significant portion of his year working at a substance abuse treatment facility in Orange County in order to gain specialized training in the field of chemical dependency. This experience allowed him to treat psychiatric patients who have a comorbid substance abuse diagnosis.
Dr. Venice Sanchez, M.D.
Psychiatrist
Dr. Venice Sanchez, M.D. Psychiatrist
Dr. Sanchez received her Bachelor's degree from University of California, Los Angeles and Medical Degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. She continued her training at the University of California, Irvine Psychiatry Residency Program where she was recognized by faculty with the Outstanding Resident of the Year Award as an acknowledgement for her dedicated efforts in education, the clinics and her work with her patients. Dr. Sanchez has had extensive training at multiple facilities under supervision of experts in her field, which allowed her to gain comprehensive knowledge and experience in treating a wide array of psychiatric disorders. Her work at Long Beach VA, Patmoore Rehabilitation Center, San Diego Detention facilities allowed her to gain expertise in Post Traumatic Stress disorder, Substance Abuse and mood and thought disorders underlying the substance use. Dr. Sanchez realizes the significant need in women's health, especially in treating pregnant and post-partum patients who are struggling with mental illness. She not only trained with a specialist at the Maternal and Fetal clinic at UCI Medical Center, she was also a forefront in opening up the first Women's Mental Health Medication Management Clinic at Long Beach VA Veteran's Hospital. Her passion for her field allowed her to diligently pursue the much needed training and experience in treating patients who have a comorbid psychiatric diagnosis.
Dr. Lesley Gould, PsyD
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Lesley Gould, PsyD Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Tate-Gould is a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of trauma, issues related to chemical dependency and family systems. She completed her Doctorate of Psychology and Master’s Degree at Alliant International University of Irvine, California where she was recognized as most outstanding doctoral student of the year in 2011. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from San Diego State University. Dr. Tate-Gould has had the unique opportunity to work in residential and outpatient programs throughout her career. She completed her post-doctoral residency with Kaiser Permanente where she completed program development research on the treatment efficacy of movement-based therapy modalities. She has extensive knowledge of psychological assessment and utilizes a Humanistic Cognitive-Behavioral therapeutic approach with clients, specializing in adolescent and young adult populations. Dr. Tate-Gould also utilizes language development and restructuring in her treatment approach, which addresses the underlying negative belief cycles and statements often associated with mental health diagnoses.Dr. Tate-Gould has had the privilege of co-authoring an article on self-injurious behavior and the relation to process addictions. She has presented at the National Conference of Addiction Disorders and her research interests explore the efficacy of residential treatment for co-occurring disorders and the somatic manifestation of trauma. Dr. Tate-Gould maintains a successful private practice in Orange County where she treats adolescents, young adults and their families to restore a healthy and balanced lifestyle.