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Your Compassionate Support Team

We are a multidisciplinary treatment team comprising professional clinicians, medical experts, psychiatric specialists, and behavioral health practitioners. Our collaborative approach is essential in addressing teens’ comprehensive needs—physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. Our clinical staff is well-versed in the latest interventions and modalities, and they’re equipped with up-to-date knowledge on treating specific populations and effectively managing co-occurring issues. Regardless of the nature of your teen’s behavioral health concerns, we are committed to providing support throughout the recovery process.

Meet our team

Boca Raton Adolescent Center

Melissa Harrycharan

Director of Nursing

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Melissa Harrycharan

Director of Nursing

Melissa was born in New York and raised in Florida. She has been a nurse for over 10 years. Melissa has been working for Guardian for the past 3 years and has been working in recovery for over 5 years.

Kelly Mcintyre

Clinical Director

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Kelly Mcintyre

Clinical Director

Kelly McIntyre has always been drawn to understanding the complexities of human behavior and the impact of experiences on mental health. This passion guided her through her academic journey, where she pursued a degree in Mental Health Counseling, specializing in Trauma and Addiction. Her experience spans working with individuals from as young as three years old to adults nearing seventy-two. Kelly's career in mental health counseling began with a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with substance use disorders. She immersed herself in research and clinical training to understand the factors influencing addiction. Guided by evidence-based practices, she tailored treatment plans that addressed substance use while supporting clients in navigating trauma and behavioral patterns. Working with children, Kelly developed specialized techniques to create a safe environment for young clients to express their emotions. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) became a cornerstone of her practice, allowing children to process trauma and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Transitioning to adults, she employed cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed approaches, prioritizing trust and empathy in her therapeutic alliances. Over the years, Kelly has witnessed remarkable transformations—children overcoming adversities, adults reclaiming their lives from addiction, and families rebuilding stronger bonds. These successes reaffirm her belief in the resilience of the human spirit and the power of therapeutic intervention. Kelly's career growth is marked by continuous education and professional development. She has pursued advanced training in trauma-focused therapies, addiction counseling methodologies, and behavioral interventions, staying current with the latest research and best practices. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Kelly is committed to empowering individuals to heal, grow, and thrive. Her approach combines compassionate care, evidence-based interventions, and a dedication to continuous learning, fostering lasting behavioral change and resilience. Looking ahead, Kelly is eager to expand her expertise, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and advocate for mental health and substance use treatment policies. Her counseling journey is driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact—one client, one family, and one community at a time."

Jacqueline Litoff, MA

Primary Therapist

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Jacqueline Litoff, MA

Primary Therapist

Jacqueline is a registered mental health counselor intern who obtained her Masters in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling. She has a passion for navigating patients through self-exploration and treating the whole person from a trauma-informed approach. She believes in the power of perspective that each individual holds, in view of the self and their surrounding environment; instilling empowerment to build resilience, confidence, and recovery. Jacqueline has gained vast clinical experience working for an intensive outpatient facility treating adults with co-occurring disorders specializing with anxiety, depression and PTSD. She also worked at one of New York’s top Children’s Hospitals on the pediatric oncology and ICU unit, while also assisting at-risk teens. Jacqueline found the effectiveness of incorporating evidence based modalities, like CBT and DBT skills, alongside experiential methods, such as art, sand tray, and ego-state therapies, as a way to meet her client’s where they are in their personal journey. These experiences have guided Jacqueline to find ways to best facilitate her client’s to feel safe, find their voice and build towards a bright future ahead.

Lauren LaTorre, LCSW

Primary Therapist

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Lauren LaTorre, LCSW

Primary Therapist

Lauren has a lifelong dedication to assisting others and that has driven her educational and professional journey. She earned her bachelor's degree in social work from Florida State University and subsequently pursued a master's degree in social work at Florida Atlantic University. She embarked on her professional career, specializing in supporting children and their families. Lauren’s initial role involved delivering therapy to children and adolescents within the foster care system, with a primary focus on helping them process trauma, adoption-related issues, and behavioral challenges. She has a strong commitment to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life’s challenges. Creating a safe and non-judgmental environment is at the core of Lauren's therapeutic philosophy. Through her empathetic and client-centered approach, Lauren empowers her clients to freely explore their emotions and experiences, fostering meaningful growth and healing

Monica Miskie

Office Manager

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Monica Miskie

Office Manager

Originally from Pennsylvania, Monica moved to Florida in 2010 and has been in long-term recovery from substance abuse for over 13 years. She is a 500-hour Certified Yoga Teacher and is completing her Associate’s degree at Palm Beach State College. With over 12 years of experience working in the legal field, Monica decided to switch careers and dedicate her professional life to working for an organization dedicated in helping teens develop the coping skills they need to overcome addiction and other mental health obstacles providing hope for their future. Through sharing her own story of recovery, Monica hopes to inspire and support others who are facing the challenges that she faced as a young woman.

Kimberly Cherry BA, CAP

Case Manager

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Kimberly Cherry BA, CAP

Case Manager

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Kimberly has a passion for helping others battling addiction and mental health issues. After her own journey in recovery, she wants to dedicate her career to this cause. Kimberly recently achieved her goal of attaining certification as an Addiction Professional (CAP) and aspires to eventually earn a Master of Social Work degree. Her lived experience and work as a patient advocate and group facilitator in substance abuse and mental health treatment facilities have shown her the impact she can make to improve the lives of those struggling with addiction and mental illness. She aims to translate her psychology degree, professional training, and personal journey into a lifelong career of serving and supporting those in need of mental health and addiction services.

Christian Bischoff

Teacher

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Christian Bischoff

Teacher

Chris was born in Barranquilla, Colombia and grew up in Queens New York. He graduated from City College of New York with a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science. He worked with computers and became a Service Manager for Wang Laboratories. He moved to South Florida in 1990. Chris owned a Pak n Ship store for ten years and then became a Math teacher at Okeeheelee Middle School for 21 years. His strongest passion has been teaching because he loves to help others understand and lose their fear of mathematics. He believes everyone needs a good education, and here at Guardian, he is here to assist our clients on a daily basis to reach their full potential.

Jennifer Hinkle, NCPRSS

AA Tech Supervisor

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Jennifer Hinkle, NCPRSS

AA Tech Supervisor

Jennifer “Jen” is a native Floridian who grew up in South Florida. After finding her freedom in recovery and wanting to share that with others Jen went back to school and received her degree in Human and Social Services from St. Petersburg College. Jen started working in the field of recovery in 2018 and joined the Guardian family in 2020 as a Behavioral Health Technician. She works closely with the support staff to provide quality care to all Guardian clients and has traveled to other locations to assist whenever she is needed. As a mom of three and former youth group sponsor Jen has a heart for our youth. After working with our adult population for three years transitioning to our youth program was a natural move for her. Jen is excited and enthusiastic about sharing the joy and freedom that comes with recovery.

Montville Adolescent Center

Melissa Thalia Zea

LAC, M.A

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Melissa Thalia Zea

LAC, M.A

Melissa Thalia Zea, a Licensed Associate Counselor, earned her Master's degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson University, following a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work from Montclair State University. During her master's studies, she worked as a registered behavior technician, offering evidence-based behavioral therapy and support to families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Zea is a proficient bilingual therapist, delivering services in both English and Spanish, and employs a multicultural lens in her practice. Her role as a research assistant in the Culture and Resilience lab at William Paterson University allowed her to merge her academic and clinical interests, notably through leading a group for Spanish-speaking, recently arrived immigrant youth at John F. Kennedy High School in Paterson, NJ. Zea's clinical experience further expanded in the Child and Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Program at Jersey City Medical Center, where she served as a primary therapist. Here, she addressed a spectrum of diagnoses including ADHD, ODD, PTSD, MDD, GAD, BPD, and BP1 in children and adolescents. Zea's extensive work with children and adolescents has equipped her with the skills to engage with diverse communities, applying cultural humility, open-mindedness, and empathy. Her comprehensive background and commitment to multicultural competence highlight her dedication to fostering well-being and resilience among the populations she serves.

Laura Lauritano

Director of Nursing

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Laura Lauritano

Director of Nursing

Laura began her nursing career in 2008 as an emergency room nurse with adults and pediatrics for nine years. Later shifting her focus to psychiatric nursing with an emphasis on substance abuse. In 2015 she took on the role of nursing director at a detox and rehabilitation facility where she discovered her passion for patients during detox and withdrawal. Laura has held many leadership roles throughout her nursing career including the precepting of new nurses, implementing medication assisted treatment programs, integrative care work, development of new models of care, and emergency care management. Laura is known for promoting evidence-based practice while still considering the individual needs of her patients. She’s always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that her patients receive the best possible care.

Alexis Giglio

Family Therapist, MA, LAMFT

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Alexis Giglio

Family Therapist, MA, LAMFT

Alexis Giglio, LAMFT, serves as the Family Therapist at Montville Adolescent Center, bringing a wealth of experience from a diverse array of mental health settings, including non-profit organizations, mental health agencies, and clinics. Her professional journey is distinguished by a concentrated focus on Family Systems and anxiety management, emphasizing the significant impact these areas have on clients' recovery processes. Her approach is centered on facilitating the development of healthy coping mechanisms and stress reduction strategies, underpinning her commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families navigating the complexities of mental health challenges.

Audrey Costa

Program Coordinator, CPRS

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Audrey Costa

Program Coordinator, CPRS

Audrey Costa possesses a comprehensive background in health, wellness, and education, with a B.Sc. in Physical Education and Health and over 14 years in public education. Transitioning from teaching to a Regional Wellness Manager in corporate health, she holds certifications across a spectrum of disciplines, including Personal Training, Yoga, and Mindfulness Coaching, and is working towards a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Passionate about leveraging the mind-body connection and experiential learning, Audrey helps individuals unlock their potential through movement, nature, and creative pursuits. An enthusiast of adventure, her free time is spent exploring the outdoors, strength training, and participating in motorcycling and Strongman competitions, reflecting her belief in the transformative power of physical challenges.

Adam Schaffer

Continuing Care Coordinator, BA

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Adam Schaffer

Continuing Care Coordinator, BA

Adam Schaffer, a graduate of Temple University with a bachelor's degree in psychology, began his career at the Defender Association of Philadelphia, where he significantly contributed to the Child Advocacy Unit (CAU). As the overseer of the CAU’s mobile outreach program, he facilitated essential connections between child clients and their legal and social work representatives, ensuring these young individuals received comprehensive advocacy and support. Following his tenure in child advocacy, Adam transitioned into a role of service and leadership in the United States Army. In his capacity as a noncommissioned officer and human resources specialist, Adam not only served his fellow soldiers with dedication but also extended his support to their families, showcasing his commitment to community and wellbeing beyond the scope of his official duties. Currently, Adam serves as a Continuing Care Counselor with Guardian Recovery, where his responsibilities include conducting regular meetings with clients and engaging in dialogue with families, schools, referrants, and clinical counterparts. His role is pivotal in crafting and implementing strategic continuum of care plans for individuals transitioning from the Montville Adolescent Center, reflecting his enduring dedication to supporting others in their journeys toward recovery and well-being.

Fred Crotchfelt

Executive Chef

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Fred Crotchfelt

Executive Chef

Classically trained in New York City, Chef Fred Crotchfelt brings over 30 years of culinary experience to the table. Moving around the tri-state area, he has worked in various areas from fine dining to corporate dining, from high end catering to healthcare. Chef Fred’s fine dining experience includes American and Italian cuisines at various restaurants throughout NY, NJ and PA. He’s worked in Corporate Dining for companies including GMAC and Siemen’s Diagnostics. He has several years of healthcare dining experience working at Senior Living facilities. Fred faced the challenges of the Covid years providing daily meals as well as keeping room bound residents engaged and well nourished. As a father of two children one with special needs Chef Fred brings his heart to the table by mixing his passion and creativity in the kitchen to deliver meals that make our residents feel right at home. He is sensitive to the different needs of adolescents and their ever changing worlds and experiences. Chef Fred understands different dietary, allergy and sensory needs. His professional experience as well as the time he spends cooking with and for his family make him well rounded enough to deliver meals that satisfy any palate. A typical Saturday night at home is spent in the kitchen surrounded by his family making meals together. He loves to teach his children and get them involved in choosing, shopping for and preparing meals. Fred never gets tired of cooking. When asked who does the cooking at home, he always replies with a smile “Me!”

Executive

Joshua Scott

Chief Executive Officer

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Joshua Scott

Chief Executive Officer

Joshua Scott is an experienced healthcare executive, who has a proven record of designing and implementing intervention and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from alcohol and drug dependence, as well as eating disorders. Joshua is the founder of Guardian Recovery, and is an active member of the Delray Beach Drug Task Force. Joshua has assembled a dynamic team of therapists, clinicians, and medical professionals to help those struggling with substance use disorders progress through all phases of the recovery process. Residing in South Florida with his wife and three children, he travels and works throughout the United States.

Marco Merida, MBA

President & Board Member

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Marco Merida, MBA

President & Board Member

Marco Merida has an extensive career working with startups and Fortune 100s alike to build efficient operations that support expedient growth. Leveraging his strategic consulting experience in Manhattan, he has developed, executed, and sustained strategic corporate initiatives focused on building a stable infrastructure, nurturing innovation, and delivering against differentiated value propositions to rapidly scale firms without compromising customer satisfaction or core values. His expertise spans across strategy, marketing, operations, business development, systems design, and implementation. He is recognized as a cross-functional team leader with a relaxed management style and a proven ability to drive innovation. He cultivates high performing teams that can drive excellence into all aspects of the business. Marco holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) from Georgetown University in Washington DC. Marco has a wife and two children at home in Florida. As a family, they enjoy traveling abroad and always take full advantage of their Florida lifestyle.

Ross Donahue, LCSW, MHA, MCAP, CRRA

Chief Administrative Officer

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Ross Donahue, LCSW, MHA, MCAP, CRRA

Chief Administrative Officer

Ross Donahue joined the Guardian Recovery team in 2020 with more than 13 years of experience in the substance misuse and mental health fields, spanning all levels of care, all departments, and a wide range of client demographics.

The majority of Ross’ career has been focused on developing staff, departments, and organizations to be more efficient and to improve inter-departmental collaboration. Ross is passionate about the administrative functions within addiction treatment and the ways in which these initiatives have a positive impact on the client experience, staff, and organization.

Ross holds an Associate’s in Addiction Counseling, a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master’s in Social Work, and a Master’s in Health Administration.

He is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master’s Level Certified Addictions Professional, Qualified Supervisor, and Certified Recovery Residence Administrator.

Justin Williams

Chief Financial Officer

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Justin Williams

Chief Financial Officer

Justin Williams is responsible for the design and implementation of business strategies, plans, and procedures to meet objectives for company growth. Justin earned degrees in Accounting and Finance from the University of Maryland RH Smith School of Business. He adds 10 years of business operations expertise to the executive team, with experience in the public accounting, IT, legal, and healthcare industries. Justin is the Chief Financial Officer for all Guardian Recovery locations.

Ryan Soave, LMHC

Chief Clinical Officer

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Ryan Soave, LMHC

Chief Clinical Officer

Ryan Soave brings deep experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, certified trauma therapist, program developer, and research consultant for Huberman Lab at Stanford University Department of Neurobiology. Following graduation from Wake Forest University, Ryan quickly discovered his acumen for the business world. After almost a decade of successful entrepreneurship and world traveling, he encountered a wave of personal and spiritual challenges; he felt a calling for something more. Ryan returned to school and completed his Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. When he started working with those suffering from addiction and PTSD, he found his passion. He has never looked back.

Ryan has trained extensively in many experiential and therapeutic modalities including yoga, yoga nidra, meditation, somatic experiencing, EMDR, and breath-work. He has worked with thousands of clients with complex PTSD, designed and facilitated workshops for thousands of participants, and been asked to speak at national conferences as an expert in the treatment of trauma and addiction. He has been invited several times to lead meditations for members and staffers of the United States Congress. Ryan brings passion, commitment, and joy to his work. He believes the addiction and trauma treatment process is an uncovering, during which the individual remembers his or her true self.

Charrisse Clark-Smith, RN

Chief Nursing Officer

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Charrisse Clark-Smith, RN

Chief Nursing Officer

Charrisse Clark-Smith is a cherished member of the medical team at Guardian Recovery. With more than 20 years of experience as a nurse, Charrisse leads by example with passion and conviction. Charrisse is a member of ASAM, SAMSHA, ANA, and FNA, and she continues her education and training through CEUs, workshops, trainings, ANCC, seminars, and college, focusing on mental health and substance misuse.

Dr. Tamer Wassef, MD

Chief Medical Officer

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Dr. Tamer Wassef, MD

Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Wassef is a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in adult psychiatry. Dr. Wassef completed his fellowship training at the University of Pennsylvania. He has more than 15 years of experience in Treating mental illness and addiction . He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) for addiction and general psychiatry. , He is also board certified in addiction medicine. He also has the distinction of being a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was serving as Chief of Psychiatry and chairman for psychiatry department at RWJ Barnabas Somerville Hospital. Dr. Wassef has lectured nationally on resistant depression, substance abuse treatment and pain management in chemically dependent patients, and has published several journal articles on severe anxiety, bipolar treatment and treatment of chronic resistant depression

Maks Danilin

Chief Revenue Officer

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Maks Danilin

Chief Revenue Officer

Maks Danilin is the Chief Revenue Officer at Guardian Recovery, where he offers extensive experience in the healthcare sector and expertise in innovative addiction treatment programs. His career in healthcare was inspired by his personal recovery journey, leading him to pivotal roles in the industry, including his work with Aware Recovery Care, where he transformed in-home addiction treatment into a widely recognized, insurance-reimbursable service. At Guardian Recovery, Maks focuses on strengthening relationships with payers, reducing administrative burdens, and expanding access to care through new service lines and virtual offerings. His visionary approach to value-based care and partnerships with health plans aligns perfectly with Guardian Recovery's mission to provide exceptional behavioral health services across the nation.

Suzanne Simmons

Senior Vice President of Growth

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Suzanne Simmons

Senior Vice President of Growth

Suzanne Simmons is the Senior Vice President of Growth at Guardian Recovery. With 20 years of experience in healthcare management and a strong background in both large healthcare systems and private equity-backed companies, Suzanne has a proven track record of driving organizational growth and improving patient care. Her career began in the nonprofit sector in Oregon, but in 2019 she transitioned to a for-profit, private-equity-backed environment where she honed her skills in fast-paced, decision-making roles. At Guardian Recovery, Suzanne focuses on expanding mental health services across new and existing markets, including the development of virtual platforms to increase accessibility for underserved populations. Suzanne is committed to making mental healthcare more accessible and innovative, aligning with Guardian Recovery's mission to provide comprehensive and compassionate care nationwide.

DJ Prince, MBA

Vice President of Marketing

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DJ Prince, MBA

Vice President of Marketing

DJ Prince serves as the Vice President of Marketing at Guardian Recovery, bringing a wealth of experience from his tenure at various addiction treatment centers where he spearheaded marketing initiatives. Over recent years, he has carved out a niche for himself as a recognized authority in addiction treatment marketing, mastering platforms like Google Ads, SEO, and social media. DJ holds an MBA from the Warrington College of Business, University of Florida, further solidifying his expertise in the field.

Ryan Newman

Vice President of Admissions

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Ryan Newman

Vice President of Admissions

Ryan Newman is originally from Massachusetts and has been living and working in the behavioral healthcare industry since 2016. He successfully completed two combat deployments as a member of the United States Marine Corps. Ryan’s personal experience both in and out of sobriety have allowed him the ability to become an effective asset within the Guardian Recovery amily. As a member of the admissions team, Ryan is on the front lines of addiction. He is responsible for properly admitting new clients into adequate centers that best suit their needs.

Jessica Moretti

Vice Preisdent of Human Resources

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Jessica Moretti

Vice Preisdent of Human Resources

Jessica Moretti joined the Guardian Recovery team in 2015 and assumed the role of HR Manager in 2016. Jessica is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, where she received a BA in Psychology and a minor in Business.

Kenny Silver

Vice President of Treatment Services

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Kenny Silver

Vice President of Treatment Services

After embarking on his recovery journey in 2010, Kenny Silver quickly developed a passion for helping others. Kenny began working in the addiction treatment industry in 2011 and has experience in program development, addiction within the family system, and community outreach. While working on daily operations with the clinical, medical, 12-Step, and associated care team departments, Kenny enjoys witnessing the return to health for clients in the treatment continuum. Kenny provides a valuable degree of personal and professional experience to the Guardian Recovery community.

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