SLO - Key Persons
Ashley Matsumoto, CADC-R, QMHA-R, PSS Telehealth Counselor Ashley is a dedicated professional with a passion for helping others on their journey to recovery. With over 6 1/2 years of personal experience in recovery, Ashley has a deep understanding and empathy for individuals struggling with addiction. After completing the addiction program at Portland Community College in 2022, Ashley pursued certifications as a CADC-R (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor - Registered), QMHA-R (Qualified Mental Health Associate - Registered), and a peer support specialist. These credentials reflect her commitment to continuous learning and growth in the field of addiction counseling and mental health support.
Athena Wildenborg, CADC-R As a certified addiction and drug counselor (CADC-R), I bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the complexities of addiction both personally and professionally. My strengths include; Motivational Interviewing (MI), Relapse Prevention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This allows me to tailor my approach to each individual's needs, fostering an environment of growth, self-discovery, and sustainable recovery. My journey into the depths of addiction for 18 years and the subsequent climb to 18 years of sobriety has endowed me with an unparalleled empathy and insight into the struggles faced by those I serve. This profound personal experience is the bedrock of my practices, enabling me to connect with patients on a deeply authentic level. In addition to my professional qualifications, I offer added peer support to those with similar life experiences and personal struggles with addiction. This unique aspect of what I practice not only enhances the therapeutic relationship but also reinforces the message that recovery is possible, and a new, amazing life awaits on the other side of addiction.My mission is to guide individuals through their journey to recovery and healing, empowering them to unlock their potential and embrace the beauty of a life reclaimed from addiction. With each patient's success, I am reminded of the transformative power of empathy, expertise, and enduring support.
Caitlin has a Master of Social Work with a certificate in Mental Health Practice from Simmons University, as well as her Eating Disorder Certificate from Lewis and Clark College. Caitlin's approach is influenced by concepts in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and most recently Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT). Caitlin runs several mental health groups at SLO, including the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Group and the Body Image/Self Image Group, and created the curriculum for SLO's PTSD Group. Caitlin enjoys hiking and reading and believes in the healing power of humor.
Job Titles:
- Accountant
- Certified Accountant
Cherie has been a certified accountant for 25 years. She brings experience and a passion for recovery to the SLO Recovery team. Her positivity and enthusiasm for a better life are contagious throughout the center.
Deb Harding-Elliott, CADC-I, QMHP Counselor Deb is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Qualified Mental Health Professional. She has a Master's Degree in addiction counseling and a post-graduate certificate in developmental trauma from Grand Canyon University. Deb is also a SLO Recovery Center Alumni and has a passion for helping those who suffer from addiction and are looking for overall wellness, with a person-centered approach. Deb has vast life experiences working with people and her mission in life is to always be teachable, grow as an individual, and to help others to achieve their goals. Deb enjoys painting, traveling, and spending time with family.
Dr Mike Schwartz is a licensed MD, initially was board certified in ObGyn practice for 20 years. He subsequently sub-specialized in Addiction Medicine and Mental Health, and earned board certification by both the American Board of Addiction Medicine and the American Board of Preventive Medicine in Addiction Medicine. He has years of experience leading multiple residential and outpatient treatment programs as medical director. He has also served as an independent consultant of healthcare professionals for multiple state boards and hospitals. He is dedicated to helping those who struggle with substance and mental health issues.
Ginger is new to the recovery profession and comes to us with a business background. She joined SLO in June of 2023. Ginger got her AGS, AAOT and her CADC Certificate from CCC. She is a CADC-R, QMHA-R and CRM. Ginger is living her best life in recovery and excited to share her experience with others. Ginger has a daughter in high school and a son in college that she adores. When Ginger is not working she enjoys anything outdoors, cooking and travel.
Job Titles:
- Billing Specialist & Support Staff
Heather came to Sober Living Oregon in 2024 with a background in billing, auditing and administration in primary care. She has been in recovery since 2005 and believes that the recovery process is meant to bring the soul back from isolation and into a state of connectedness to all things. She loves plants, yoga, summer, and her cat Valis.
Job Titles:
- Director of Admissions & Clinical Outreach
Jaclyn moved from Montana to Portland in 2017 to start her life in recovery. She began her career at Sober Living Oregon in 2019 as a Certified Recovery Mentor, worked her way up to be the Billing Manager and has recently been promoted to Director of Admissions and Clinical Outreach. Jaclyn is passionate about helping others to establish and sustain continued recovery from substance abuse and untreated mental health. Jaclyn loves sports, fitness and traveling. She brings recovery experience and a contagious laugh to the patients and staff at SLO Recovery Center.
Joshua came to Sober Living Oregon Recovery Center as a Certified recovery mentor and CADC-R. Joshua is empathetic and compassionate with a passion for helping others grow. Josh hopes to have a long career in the field of addiction. Joshua's motto is, "Begin every day as if it were on purpose." Joshua enjoys spending quality time with his family, and friends.
Lisa Vesley, CADC-I Lead Mentor & Counselor Lisa is a Certified Recovery Mentor and CADC-I who has graduated from PCC with an Associate of Applied Science in Addiction Studies. She has been in recovery since 2017 and comes to SLO with a passion for sobriety and the spiritual connection that is made possible with a clear mind and heart. Lisa is driven to emphasize the importance of compassion in daily life, encouraging others to find their strengths and their own unique voice. Lisa is a published poet and enjoys sharing poetry with all who will listen.
Megan is a native Oregonian with an extensive background in accounting and human resources. She brought her skills and enthusiasm to the SLO family to help grow and develop the team. Megan leads an active lifestyle and is passionate about faith, family, and recovery. She is a unique and integral addition to the center, and her work serves both patients and staff alike.
Prior to working in the field of addiction medicine, Dr. Williamson specialized in anesthesiology for 25 years. His expertise and experience as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente gives him a unique and important perspective in healing patients who are addicted to prescription drugs. Dr. Williamson was awarded his medical degree from Oregon Health Sciences University. He is a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and Oregon Society of Addiction Medicine. He is a Diplomat at the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Williamson has a broad background in addiction medicine working in a staff physician capacity at Hazelden Treatment Center, and others.
Micah Duvall, DNP, FNP Medical Provider Micah is a highly skilled and dedicated nurse practitioner with extensive experience in various healthcare settings, including primary care, emergency room, neurological disorders, cervical and lumbar spine conditions, and addiction treatment. Her passion for patient care and commitment to improving health outcomes have made her an asset in the medical field. Micah discovered her passion for medicine at a young age and pursued her education diligently. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Nursing Science, and a Doctorate Nurse Practitioner, where she excelled academically and gained hands-on experience through clinical rotations in different specialties. With a specialization in family medicine, which equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions.
Job Titles:
- Clinical Social Work Associate
Pam is a Clinical Social Work Associate and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Pam became SLO's Mental Health Clinical Director in December of 2020. Pam has a Master of Social Work from Portland State University and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Pam is committed to treating each patient with unconditional positive regard, and meeting patients where they are at. Pam's approach is trauma-informed, and she works with a wide variety of patients who wish to heal from their difficult pasts. Before coming to SLO as a therapist, Pam developed a passion for working with patients suffering from substance use disorders and trained as a Certified Recovery Mentor to support patients with similar life experiences as her own. Pam enjoys cooking, exercising, and walking her sheltie, Beatrice.
Rae Reiser, CSWA Mental Health Therapist Rae has a Master of Social Work from Ohio State University (the other OSU). Rae's approach is centered in mindfulness and self-compassion. She believes healing involves uncovering and reconnecting to the wisdom our bodies and minds already have. Rae is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and values the opportunity to hold space for trauma healing. When Rae is not at SLO, she enjoys watching movies, connecting to the earth, and getting lost down bottomless Wikipedia rabbit holes.
Rebecca holds a Master's Degree in Psychology, A Masters in Addiction Counseling (MAC), CADC III and a QMHPC. Rebecca Evans is a dedicated advocate, and leader committed to fostering positive change in the realm of Mental Health empowerment. Rebecca has devoted her career to equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Rebecca believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to receive quality treatment regardless of their circumstances. Through Telehealth work. Rebecca strives to break down barriers and create pathways for everyone to access Substance Abuse and Mental Health treatment. Rebecca has worked In the field of Substance Abuse and Mental Health since 2007 and Telehealth since 2019 to help people sustain sobriety and mental health stabilization. Rebecca is passionate about empowering others to reach their full potential.
Sarah was born and raised in Oregon. She started her recovery journey in 2018. Sarah is dedicated to making others smile and consistently providing a safe and welcoming space for the patients. Her kindness is infectious, and her willingness to help makes her a valuable addition to the SLO family.
Sean Nelson, CADC-II, QMHA Director of operations Sean started his counseling career teaching Recovery Yoga. He is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC II) in the State of Oregon. Throughout his career he has emphasized a holistic approach to recovery, combining body and mind. Currently Sean is the SLO Recovery Yoga Instructor, carefully teaching and encouraging those who seek a deeper understanding of themselves.
Serenna has a double master's degree in Psychology and Addiction and has been working in the addiction and mental health field for over 15 years. Serenna has worked with every aspect of treatment from administration to clinical services and brings that experience to our staff and patients. Her clinical expertise is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Relapse Prevention. Recently, Serenna took over the role as Chief Executive Officer in November of 2022 and continues to apply best practice standards to the work she does at SLO Recovery Center. Serenna has a deep passion for treating the whole person with individualized care and providing hope for the still suffering.
Stephanie Hanna, CADC-II Clinical Supervisor Stephanie has been in the recovery field since 2016 and has a passion for overall wellness. She is committed to helping others recognize their worth and unconditional value. As Stephanie puts it, "My goal is to show people how worthy they are of love and that they are accepted just as they are." Stephanie enjoys time outdoors with her family and 2 kids and lives a very active lifestyle.
Tanis was raised with alcoholism within the family and learned about the nature of the disease from an early age. Tanis has always been passionate about helping other people and her own personal journey of recovery solidified her decision to work in the treatment field helping others to find and discover long-lasting recovery for themselves. Tanis completed her undergraduate degree through George Fox and obtained her Bachelor of Science in behavioral studies. Tanis continued her education and received a master's degree in human services through Warner Pacific University. Tanis is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADCIII) and a Qualified Mental Health Professional through MHACBO with the state of Oregon. Native to Oregon, Tanis has a deep love for the Pacific Northwest and enjoys hiking and skiing. Tanis is also happily married and the mother of two wonderful children.