ELEVATE RECOVERY - Key Persons
Casey has seen both sides of addiction from his experience working in the field of substance use disorders and mental health treatment as well as from his own personal battle with addiction. In recovery himself, Casey has taken an active role in the community and is a strong advocate for those still suffering from substance use disorders. As Director of Operations, Casey oversees the daily operations of the Elevate Recovery Center Day Treatment and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs and ensures that each individual's needs are taken care of in a respectful and timely manner. He is always willing to meet individuals and families where they are at in their recovery process, all while making sure they have the resources needed for their aftercare plans to achieve long-term sobriety. Casey's perspective comes from the point of view of someone who has been through the addiction and recovery processes, which allows him to relate to individuals in treatment on a personal level. Casey uses this as the building block for him to establish a foundation of relatability, connection, experience, and trust with all who enter treatment.
Cindy began her journey into recovery over 22 years ago and quickly developed a passion for helping others who struggle with the disease of addiction. Cindy went back to school to study the science of addiction as well as the many modalities of counseling. For the past 22 years Cindy has had the privilege of working with those who struggle with addiction in the criminal justice system, sober housing and outpatient treatment. Cindy utilizes motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy to help people move through the stages of change. Cindy is still as enthusiastic and passionate about her work as she was the day she started.
Jessica has her Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University. She had a career switch from education after witnessing the true impact mental health and addiction have on teens and young adults. Jess's therapeutic approach utilizes person-centered and Adlerian Therapy. This allows individuals the space to express themselves while unraveling the root of different behaviors, thoughts and feelings through recalling past events. With her compassionate and non-judgemental approach, Jess creates a safe healing space while meeting individuals in whatever mental and emotional state they are in and empowers individuals by helping to help guide them toward achieving their goals.
Jodi Tarantino, LICSW has worked in many facets of the substance abuse and mental health field over the past 18 years. Jodi's experiences include child protection in New Hampshire, outpatient treatment in Lawrence and Worcester, family residential treatment in Leominster, residential treatment for Department of Youth Services-involved youth in Methuen, residential treatment for adult men and women in Westborough and as a licensing inspector for the Department of Public Health's Substance Addiction Bureau in Central and Western Massachusetts. Jodi was also the host of the radio show and podcast Airing Addiction. She is passionate about ensuring all individuals are treated with compassion and given the opportunity to become the best versions of themselves. Jodi attended the University of New Hampshire with the intention of going into sports broadcasting, but during her sophomore year she got a job with Upward Bound that changed her life and propelled her in a different direction. Working with first-generation college-bound youth, Jodi recognized the strong impact substance abuse and un/under-treated mental health issues in the youth and their family members had on the students' educational outcomes and dedicated herself to helping individuals and families overcome the barriers to leading their best lives. She went on to earn her bachelor's degree in psychology and master's degree in social work from UNH. Jodi brings her experiences, positive energy and hope to Elevate Recovery Center. Through diverse programming and individualized treatment, Jodi sees significant personal growth and recovery for individuals and family members receiving treatment through Elevate Recovery Center.
Juan has dedicated much of his time serving the needs of others in their battle against substance addiction and mental health struggles. His story is truly an astounding one, with experiences that have enabled Juan to triumph after tragedy. Following his lengthy battle with substance addiction, he has now devoted his life to giving back the gift that was so freely given to him. Ever since the day he found recovery, Juan has worked ceaselessly to put a dent into the ever-growing epidemic of substance addiction by working in treatment facilities, speaking at community events and through one-on-one sponsorship with fellow drug addicts and alcoholics. Juan's engaging, positive attitude, and outgoing personality make rapport-building easy as Juan works to assist others on their recovery journey.
Pierce Aliberti has been immersed in the substance use disorder industry for over four and half years. Once a patient himself, Pierce is a recovery advocate who participates in multiple community task forces to combat the current opioid epidemic. Pierce's extensive knowledge and experience have afforded him the ability to analyze situations and take necessary actions to provide crisis intervention and develop treatment plans to meet the needs and goals of each client. Pierce's passion for helping others allows him to truly relate to each patient while delivering the highest level of care so you and/or your loved one can also be on their way to recovery.
Job Titles:
- Co - Director of Admissions and External Affairs
Valerie has been working in the human services field for the past twelve years in a variety of roles and treatment settings, including Clinician, Clinical Supervisor and Program Director. Valerie received her master's degree in Education Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in addiction and trauma from Cambridge College. Valerie brings a safe, positive outlook and therapeutic approach to the recovery process. Valerie maintains a philosophy of positive reinforcement, personal accountability, and a sense of humor. Valerie has extensive experience in motivational interviewing, treating co-occurring disorders and correcting distorted thinking. Valerie is fluent with developing individualized treatment plans, facilitating group therapy and individual counseling, trauma informed care and person-centered treatment therapy. Valerie utilizes evidence-based solutions to enhance each individual's recovery potential.