Our Clinical Team

Dr. Christian Small

Medical Director

MD
Sacramento

Dr. Christian Small

Medical Director

Christian Small, MD is board certified in addiction psychiatry, general psychiatry and family medicine. He is one of a handful of doctors in the US who have the experience and training to treat full spectrum medical and psychiatric illness. Dr. Small has become a leader in delivering evidence based addiction practices, medical and psychiatric care to addiction treatment programs. He is the founder of Headlands Addiction Treatment Services, an innovative company bringing the highest level of patient care to substance treatment and mental health programs. Dr. Small was previously employed by the Veterans Administration in La Jolla as an addiction psychiatrist and at the University of California San Diego. He is a graduate of the University of Hawaii John A Burns School of Medicine and completed a residency in Psychiatry and Family Medicine at UCSD.

Dr. Venice Sanchez

Medical Director

MD
Orange County

Dr. Venice Sanchez

Medical Director

Venice Sanchez, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist. At her practice in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Sanchez takes a holistic approach to care that emphasizes not only medication management and traditional medicine, but also the incorporation of therapy, spirituality, healthy eating and exercise, and social factors. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Sanchez received her bachelor's degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and her 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 acknowledgment for her dedicated efforts in education, the clinics, and her work with her patients. Dr. Sanchez has had extensive training at multiple facilities under the 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 the Long Beach VA, various addiction rehabilitation centers, and San Diego Detention facilities allowed her to gain expertise in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, substance abuse, and mood and thought disorders underlying substance use. Dr. Sanchez realizes the significant need in women's health, especially in treating pregnant and postpartum patients who are struggling with mental illness. She not only trained with a specialist at the Maternal and Fetal clinic at UCI Medical Center, but she was also at the 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. She also specializes in treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders.

Tony Guerena

Vice President - Akua South

MFT

Tony Guerena

Vice President - Akua South

Join us in welcoming Tony Guerena as our VP Akua South. Tony is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and accomplished clinical leader. He earned his MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine and also holds an MBA. We are fortunate to have Tony's expertise leading our teams in Akua South.

Piyush Saluja

Vice President – Akua OC & LA

MHA, LMFT

Danielle White

Program Director

LVN
Orange County, Detox

Danielle White

Program Director

Danielle White has always wanted to work in the medical field growing up. Helping and caring for others has always been something Danielle has been passionate about. Danielle became a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Stanbridge University in 2018. Since then, Danielle has had experience in working in treatment and mental health for over 3 years prior to AKUA. Danielle enjoys working in recovery. Her Ultimate goal is to further her education and become a nurse practitioner. Being able to help others and watch them through their individual recovery is what Danielle finds to be most fulfilling.

Alicia Robinson

Vice President - Akua North

CADC-II

Alicia Robinson

Vice President - Akua North

Alicia Robinson is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC-II) and has a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management from Grand Canyon University. Alicia has a wide array of experience working with many different modalities including individuals that struggle with addiction, behavioral health issues, mental health issues, and co-occurring disorders. Alicia has been working in the behavioral health addictions field for 13 years, her personal experience allows her to be an encouraging leader to her team of addiction specialists and assists in the ability to support clients struggling with addiction issues. Alicia is passionate about wanting to work with individuals who struggle with addiction and co-occurring disorders and believes that addiction is not a secular problem. Alicia’s motto is to treat the whole client with addiction issues as well as healing the client spiritually with a mix of scientific and holistic treatments.

Mila Kisina

Program Director

LMFT, LAADC
Mission Hills, San Diego

Mila Kisina

Program Director

For over a decade, Mila Kisina has dedicated herself to supporting individuals and families struggling with substance abuse. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC), her passion shines through in her compassionate care, tailored to each client's journey.
Mila excels in individual, group, and family therapy, fostering a collaborative environment where clients build their own path to success. She incorporates a blend of Solution Focused and Narrative techniques alongside ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mindfulness practices, promoting self-awareness and positive change.
Mila's expertise extends beyond direct client care. With a proven track record in leadership roles, she has successfully overseen teams of clinicians and residential staff for the past two years. Mila's collaborative spirit transcends therapy sessions. She believes in working side-by-side with both clients and staff, fostering a supportive environment. Her passion extends to program development and creating engaging curriculum, ensuring a smooth and successful recovery journey for everyone involved.

Aven Armstrong-Sutton

Clinical Director

PhD(c), LCSW, BCD
Fair Oaks & Sacramento Region

Aven Armstrong-Sutton

Clinical Director

Aven has an impressive background in social service leadership since the start of their career. During college, Aven was actively involved in the student advisory committee and served as the President of the Social Work Students' Association. Aven also played a significant role in the Board of the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers, where they chaired their Social Justice Committee and served on the Standards of Practice Subcommittee. Aven also served as a Board Member for the Rainbow Action Project. Professionally, Aven gained valuable leadership experience through their role as a Clinical Leader of Adult Mental Health Outpatient Services at the Nova Scotia Health Authority. They also supervised the Intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program at Kinark Child and Family Services. Aven believes in servant-based leadership, clinical excellence, and community development.

Laura Bishop

Program Director

Orange County

Jacquelene Hernandez

Therapist

MS, AMFT
Lani, Orange County

Jacquelene Hernandez

Therapist

Jacquelene is an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist who received her M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University. Jacquelene has been working with Akua since early 2021, beginning as an MFT Trainee, and has since moved into the role of Primary Therapist at Lani Women’s Residential Program. Jacquelene is also trained in Brainspotting, which she utilizes with clients struggling with various responses to traumatic events. Jacquelene works from a client-centered approach, with a focus on psychodynamic and attachment. She also utilizes CBT and solution focused techniques. When Jacquelene is not at work, you can find her relaxing with her white husky named Draco (yes, from Harry Potter).

Grant Zoppi

Therapist

AMFT
Akua Strong, San Diego

Grant Zoppi

Therapist

Grant is currently serving Akua Strong San Diego as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. Grant completed his Master's in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University in the Bay Area and has gained experience working in outpatient mental health with children, adolescents, adults and families. Prior to his clinical work, Grant worked as an advocate for homeless adults in San Jose and provided case management and rehabilitation services for those transitioning into affordable housing. During and after his traineeship, Grant worked briefly in an outpatient program supporting adults struggling with mental health and substance use difficulties with involvement in Federal Pre-Trial and Probation Services. Grant most recently worked with adolescents and children in PHP/IOP/OP levels of care, advancing his skills in facilitating individual, group, and family therapy. Grant sees therapy and recovery as a holistic venture, rich with opportunities to develop meaning and craft a sense of purpose and belonging. His undergraduate study in Theology & Religious Studies paired with his graduate education supports him with understanding deeper spiritual and existential forces at work throughout the human struggle. He has a profound appreciation for embodied emotion as a guide to the human experience and above all values the power of connection, intimacy, and vulnerability for healing affliction. Beyond the clinical realm, Grant is an avid surfer, baseball player, Padres fan, musician and concert-goer.

Elena Harris

Therapist

Mission Hills

Lauryn Hobbs

Therapist

LANI MH
Orange County, CA

Lauryn Hobbs

Therapist

Lauryn is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who received her M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Prior, she received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. During her studies, Lauryn gained experience volunteering with the Family Service Agency of the Central Coast on their crisis hotline. Lauryn began working with Akua in January 2023 as an MFT Trainee at Lani's Women's Residential Program. She works from an integrative approach incorporating elements of psychodynamic and attachment-focused therapy, somatic therapy, CBT, and post-modern approaches. Lauryn is also trained in Brain spotting which she utilizes to create powerful and permanent healing from trauma. Lauryn is collaborative in her therapeutic approach and values creating a space where she can work together with clients to process past experiences, heal, and learn to live according to their truest values. Outside of the office, you can find her at the movies or any local ice cream shop!

Erin Bower

Therapist

Mission Hills, San Diego

Melanie Gibson

Therapist

Akua Strong, Newport Beach

Maggie Fortin

Therapist

Akua Strong, Newport Beach

Mattie Hogan-Betchik

Therapist

ASW
Akua Strong, Sacramento

Mattie Hogan-Betchik

Therapist

Mattie is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families experiencing various mental health conditions that are striving to navigate life's stressors. She has extensive experience with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance dependence. Mattie uses various techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindful self-compassion, in her treatments, and she takes a strengths-based approach with her clients. Mattie strives to meet her clients where they are in their journey and seeks to be a compassionate, respectful, and supportive part of her client’s journey.

Mark Melten

Therapist

APCC
Fair Oaks, Sacramento

Mark Melten

Therapist

Mark's unique perspective, rooted in a strong holistic and integrative medicine background, is a valuable asset to Akua. In his role as an associate professional clinical counselor, he brings a whole-person approach. His studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Pacific Institute of Science and Health, and his master’s degree in counseling psychology from Bastyr University, a highly respected leader of Naturopathic medicine in the United States, further enrich his profile.
In addition to mainstream, evidenced-based treatments, Mark also offers interested clients clinical support through a lens of faith-based work and psychology. He challenges our current models of pathology to guide clients into a greater understanding of their True Self, that inviolable diamond of unblemished brightness that transcends the suffering of the physical body and serves as the source of our inner wisdom.
Mark's work at Akua has had a profound impact on our clients. Through compassion, gentle inquiry, deep empathy, mindfulness, and intuitive discernment, he collaborates with clients to uncover self-limiting, subconscious beliefs. His approach helps clients trust in greater safety and guidance within the heart and reclaim fragments of bound awareness fractured by trauma and childhood programming.

Dharla Torres

Therapist

AMFT
Terra Lomma, Sacramento

Tyler Yeagley

Therapist Trainee

SUDCC
Fair Oaks, Sacramento

Tyler Yeagley

Therapist Trainee

Tyler Yeagley is honored to serve as a Therapist Trainee at Akua, specializing in substance use disorder counseling. With experience in diverse settings, including inpatient and prison environments, he approaches his role with humility and a deep commitment to learning.
Fluent in Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems Theory, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Tyler also values ongoing education and training, continuously seeking to expand his skills and knowledge. He holds credentials as a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor and is pursuing a master's in social work to better support those in need.
Tyler's treatment philosophy is grounded in compassion and empathy. He recognizes each individual's inherent dignity and resilience. He believes in fostering a collaborative and empowering environment where clients feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey to recovery.
Tyler finds solace in simple pleasures like recreational camping, exploring nature, and immersing himself in tabletop role-playing games outside of work. These activities provide balance and perspective, reminding him of the importance of connection and joy in life.

Pao Moua

Program Manager

Malama, Sacramento

Javier Cota

Program Manager

CADC-II
Mission Hills

Jacob Moore

Program Manager

Fair Oaks, Sacramento

Vanessa Diaz

Program Manager

RADT
Akua Strong, Long Beach

Vanessa Diaz

Program Manager

Vanessa Diaz (she/her) is a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician, who obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services, with a focus in Mental Health, from the California State University of Fullerton. Vanessa has worked in a clinical treatment setting since 2020, which allowed her to gain experience working with those who have substance use, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. Vanessa is passionate about case management and uses a trauma-focused strength-based approach to uplift clients and assist them in meeting their recovery goals. In her free time, you can catch her attempting to walk her cat and overwatering her plants.

Molly Davenport

Program Manager

BA, RADT
Akua Strong, Newport Beach

Molly Davenport

Program Manager

Molly, still a Midwestern girl at heart, has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. She is in the final stages of attaining her CADCIII from CCAPP. Molly has extensive knowledge, experience and involvement in drug and alcohol counseling as well as 12-Step Recovery. She is committed to guiding clients to let go of their old ways of life and open themselves up to newfound happiness. Molly has a unique level of patience and understanding working in substance abuse and mental health alike. She has an innate ability and desire to serve, support and heal. Molly loves to laugh, especially with her vivacious one-year-old daughter.

Danyette Johnson

Program Manager

Akua Strong, Sacramento

Heather Washburn

Program Manager

Orange Ave, Sacramento

Heather Washburn

Program Manager

Heather Washburn is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC-II) and has her Associate Degree in Chemical Dependence and Human Services. Heather has a passion for the environment, social justice, equality, and mental wellness. Heather has been working in the behavioral health addictions field for 14 years, her personal experience allows her to be an encouraging co-worker to the team of addiction specialists and assists in the ability to support clients struggling with addiction issues. Heather has a wide array of experience working with many different modalities including individuals that struggle with addiction, behavioral health issues, mental health issues, and co-occurring disorders. Heather helps clients make sense of their past experiences to shift their present lives to lead to a more fulfilled future. Heather is committed to empowering individuals to awaken to their divine purpose and healing of the mind, body, and spirit.

Michelle Molnar

Case Manager

MS, AMFT
Koa, Orange County

Michelle Molnar

Case Manager

Michelle has her Masters in Psychology and has worked in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment since 2013 as both a Therapist and Case Manager. Michelle is passionate about helping others and enjoys being a part of client's journey while they are in treatment. She enjoys helping clients reach their full potential by supporting them and helping them navigate their life while in treatment and for when they transition back home. In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with her dog, going to the beach, and reading.

Carolina Correa

Case Manager

CATC III
Akua Strong, Long Beach

Carolina Correa

Case Manager

My name is Carolina Correa CATC III case manager at Akua Strong Long Beach. I am a mother of beatufil twins and also a cat lover. I was born and raised in Los Angeles CA. I enjoy camping, hiking and having fun with my family. I have over 13 years working as case manager working with youth, adults and families in various settings. My passions is to educate, guide and assist individuals gain the knowledge and confidence to get their lives back, succeed and be the best version of themselves. The populations I have served have faced homelessness, gang involvement, drug and alcohol abuse, and trauma. My education began at Mt. San Antonio College where I received my Associates In Science and Drug/Alcohol Counseling Certificate. I then pursued my education, enrolled into Phoenix Univeristy and obtain my Bachelors of Science in Human Services with an emphasize in addiction in Families and Children.

Joseph Rapazo

Case Manager

CADC II
Orange Ave, Sacramento

Joseph Rapazo

Case Manager

Joseph is a case manager at Akua Mind and Body. He has been working in the recovery field since 2014 and has a passion for helping others. He has been a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor since 2016 and is currently in school at American River College to obtain a degree in psychology. Joseph has given his life to the health care industry and believes he is here to help save lives and plant seeds. Joseph is also in recovery himself and loves the life recovery has given him.

Donna Ammon

Case Manager

RADT-1, MHSIII
Mission Hills

Donna Ammon

Case Manager

Donna served 20 yrs in the US ARMY as a Nurse. She has 11yrs clean and sober and is perusing her CADAC II as a Drug and Alcohol counselor she also holds a MHS III certification in the Mental Health Field.

Rebecca Brown

Case Manager

MA
Akua Strong, Newport Beach

Rebecca Brown

Case Manager

Becca earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at CSULB and her Master's in Teaching from Concordia University in Portland. Her career began in teaching lasting for over 20 years. This is where she realized that her passion was working with children with mental illness. Her background in working with mental health started in schools but has brought her to treatment centers which deal with the homeless, court ordered programs as well as clients looking for help to get their lives back on track. When she landed here at Akua she found she was thrilled by the alignment and interconnection of substance use and mental health treatment which was why she applied and still loves being here. Outside of work you can find her with friends or family, walking down the beach or working on jigsaw puzzles.

Brandon Dopplick

Case Manager

Koa, Orange County

Brandon Dopplick

Case Manager

Brandon is a case manager at the Akua Mind and Body’s Men’s Residential Program. He is set to receive his certificate for Alcohol & Drug Counseling from the CCAPP Academy and has been working in the field of Substance Abuse since 2016. Brandon has a working knowledge of the 12 Step program but open to exploring alternative options to recovery and helping clients find an individual all encompassing aftercare plan that utilizes key factors to achieve a healthy life. He has 3 years experience working with primary mental health and co-occurring disorders. Brandon’s style embodies meeting clients where they are at and increasing motivation through positive reinforcement and encouragement.

Kathy Yutkins

Case Manager

CADC
Akua Strong, Long Beach

Kathy Yutkins

Case Manager

I have been in the field of addiction for 6 1/2 years. I am also in recovery for the past 19 years. My passion is helping people for find their passion for life and helping them to reach for their goals.

Adam Crain

Case Manager

CADC-ll
Koa, Orange County

Adam Crain

Case Manager

Adam's passion for recovery began with his own journey in 2017. Moving from Cincinnati, Ohio to Orange County for treatment, he found himself wanting to give back to the community that helped him to find his passion for life again. He began working in treatment in 2018 and has never looked back. Working as a Clinical Technician while taking Counseling classes, he graduated CCAAP Academy in 2020 with a CADC-II Certification. Since then, Adam continues to strive to give clients the attention and care they deserve and assist them down the path of their own recovery.

Ryan Shimokubo

Case Manager

CADC-II ICADC
Akua Strong, Long Beach

Ryan Shimokubo

Case Manager

Ryan Shimokubo is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II and Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who completed his education for Alcohol and Drug Studies with CCAPP Academy in 2017. Ryan has also completed training to earn the CCAPP LGBTQIA2+ Certificate for substance abuse treatment in 2020. Ryan has worked in treatment since 2017 and with Akua Mind and Body since 2023 as a case manager at the Long Beach location. Ryan has a passion for working with client's and assisting them in building a healthy and balanced life for themselves that helps lay the foundation for long-term recovery through caring support, comprehensive case management and accountability. Ryan is a proud member of the Rainbow Community and in his free time you can find him at his local coffee roasters with his dog Aspen.

Carlos San Miguel

Case Manager

Akua Strong, San Diego

Carlos San Miguel

Case Manager

Carl has been working as the Lead Clinical Tech at Akua Mission Hills for two years, and recently transferred to Akua Strong as a Case Manager. Carl is currently registered in school to complete his AODS (Alcohol and Other Drug Studies) program. Unlike many others, Carl doesn't have a traditional educational background because of his personal mission to own his own business. Carl is in recovery and has been sober for three years, he can confidently say that he's doing an amazing job at Akua Strong. It's not just a job for him, but a gift and his passion.

Savanna Vaughan

Case Manager

Akua Strong - Newport Beach
Orange County, CA

Savanna Vaughan

Case Manager

My journey to where I am today can be unorthodox to some, but I know I'm not alone in pursuing my career this route. Last year, I obtained my RADT (Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician) certification, and now I'm working towards getting my CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) certification. It's been quite the journey to get to this point in my life, filled with highs and lows, but each step has led me to where I am now.
In high school, I played for a nationally ranked soccer team and even landed a full-ride scholarship offer to Loyola Marymount College at just 16. That was a focal point for everyone in my life. It seemed like every adult I leaned on for support hammered the idea into my head that if I did well in my sport, I would do well in life. Unfortunately, my home life was extremely rocky, and I struggled with untreated mental health issues that began when I was just 11 years old. Despite the pressure to perform and the challenges at home, I continued to pour myself into soccer, making it my coping mechanism.
As the pressure to perform at a high level increased and injuries piled up, combined with my unstable home life, I began to look for other ways to cope. I turned to substances as a way to numb myself and mask the problems I was facing; at the time, it seemed like the only way to deal with everything happening. Between 2011 and 2017, I lost three scholarship offers, which included my full-ride to LMU, went through a dual diagnosis treatment program, and found myself working minimum-wage jobs to get by.
On July 4th, 2017, I decided to stop drinking for good. July 5th, 2017, became my sobriety date and marked a turning point in my life. Since then, it's been an uphill battle, but through self-care, therapy, a working knowledge of the 12 steps, and the support of others, I've made incredible progress and found stability in my life.
My journey with mental health and sobriety is what led me to this line of work. I've always wanted to help people, and I'm doing just that. As a case manager at Akua, I have the privilege of walking alongside others on their journey to recovery.
I'm grateful for every twist and turn that brought me here, and I'm excited to see where this path takes me next.

Rose Timothy

Case Manager

Fair Oaks, Sacramento

Evelyn Soltero

Detox Manager

LVN
Mission Hills, San Diego

Evelyn Soltero

Detox Manager

My Name is Evelyn Soltero, I am the Detox Manager at Akua Mission Hills. I have a strong background in healthcare, with over eight years of experience as a Medical Assistant. I have honed my skills in patient care and administrative tasks, developing a deep understanding of medical procedures and protocols. Building upon this foundation, I transitioned into a role as a Mental Health Nurse, where I have spent two years providing specialized care to individuals undergoing detoxification while managing their mental health needs as well as working in an acute psychiatric environment.
I have a passion for helping individuals on their journey to recovery, while demonstrating empathy, compassion, and resilience in the face of challenging situations. I am dedicated to staying abreast of the latest advancements in substance abuse treatment and mental health care, continuously seeking opportunities for professional development and learning to help our clients in their journey. I enjoy I enjoy the sunshine, relaxing in the beach and walks in nature. I am happy to be part of the AKUA team!

Delaney Swanson

Director of Nursing

LVN
Orange Ave, Sacramento

Delaney Swanson

Director of Nursing

My Name is Delaney Swanson. I have been an LVN for almost two years but have worked in the medical field for just over 9 years. I am very passionate about nursing and improving the lives of patients and clients I come across. I enjoy sunshine, relaxing in my hammock and playing with my daughter. I am happy to join the AKUA team!

Chloe Hicks

LVN

Detox, Orange County

Chloe Hicks

LVN

I `have been an LVN for 3 years with experience in Hospitals, Private institutions and clinics. My Core Competencies include the ability to play a vital role in medical teams, communicate effectively orally and in writing and administer compassionate care to patients of all ages. I have experience as a resource for both patients and care staff.

Brandon Reza

LVN

Orange County, Sacramento

Taylor Stahr

LVN

Akua Strong

Andrea Montenegro

LVN

Mission Hills, San Diego

Joshua Saucedo

Director of Culinary Services

Orange County

Joshua Saucedo

Director of Culinary Services

Joshua Saucedo received his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Biology and Sociology while attending The University of California, Merced as the undergraduate inaugural class of 2005. Joshua started cooking at a very young age and apprenticed as a pastry chef/cake decorator in 2012. By 2014, Joshua opened a kitchen in Fullerton, CA and was executive pastry chef at a French Bakery in Garden Grove, CA. In September of 2015, Joshua was hired by Akua and founded Akua’s culinary program. His hobbies include playing recreational softball, going on hikes, traveling the world, but most importantly, cooking for friends and family. He chose to work for Akua because “it is a culinary job like no other.” What brings him the most satisfaction in working for Akua is that he gets to design, order, and create a healthy nutritious meal for someone during a pivotal moment in their life.