The San Diego Staff

Senior Clinical Staff::

• Dr. Karlyn Pleasants, Psy.D., Licensed Psychologist, Co-Clinical Director
  Dr. Pleasants has a long-standing history with the Hanbleceya community dating back to 1997 when she first began as a psychological assistant. Over the years she has held many different posts before signing on in 2005 as Hanbleceya's newest director. She maintains a rich clinical background of experience with complex and challenging cases, including thought and mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders and traumatic stress. Dr. Pleasants believes in the ability to heal through the empowerment of personal strengths, encouraging the confidence to take risks and by teaching oneself to both give and receive support. She looks forward to advancing the Hanbleceya vision and continuing to provide a safe space for people to learn, grow and heal.
• Hank Griffin, Licensed M.F.T., Co-Clinical Director
  2010 marks Hank Griffin's 30th year working with clients with severe mental illness. After a decade as a carpenter and housepainter, his earliest professional experiences were with non-traditional approaches to inpatient and day-hospital milieu treatment. Abidingly curious, Hank trained in family, group and body-mind psychotherapies. More recently he has blended relational and Ericksonian approaches to healing. In addition to his good fortune in learning from a host of exceptionally talented, innovative, and dedicated people (many of them clients), Hank remains grateful for the opportunity to call upon a smorgasbord of interventions as people design higher quality lives. Although nowhere evident within this bio, Hank believes in the power of humor.
• Dr. David Tansey, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, Director Emeritus
  Dr. Tansey earned his Ph.D. at mid-life after careers in engineering and management. He has provided clinical supervision for several San Diego organizations. From 1985 - 1991, he was clinical director at Hanbleceya and returned to that position in January 2001. His clinical work has focused on identifying and maximizing human talent and potential, improving communication, clarifying values and managing stress. Hanbleceya's clients typically suffer severe problems in these areas. The structured program of individual and group therapy, interaction and therapeutic confrontation with staff and peers, and productive contact with the wider community, give them the opportunity to function at their best.

On-Site Psychiatry::

• Dr. Mark Melden, D.O., DABPN – Independent Psychiatrist
  In 1995, Dr. Melden received his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at UC San Diego graduating with Cum Laude honors. In his first post-college job, Mark worked as a Research Scientist for Merck Pharmaceutical where he was part of a group of scientists that received a patent for a novel medication they collectively developed. In 1999, he obtained his Medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine then completed 2 years in family Medicine at USC/Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, California followed by a psychiatry residency at U.C. Irvine. He was also a fellow in geriatric psychiatry at U.C. San Diego. While at UC Irvine, Dr. Melden was instrumental in starting an ADD/ADHD diagnostic clinic. His extensive experience with severely mentally ill patients makes him a valuable asset to the Hanbleceya team. He is on the medical staff at Sharp Coronado, Sharp Mesa Vista, Cresta Loma, Alpine Special Treatment, Paradise Valley Hospital and Bayview Hospital. He is chair of the Behavioral Health committee at Coronado Sharp Hospital, on the Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Committee at Sharp Grossmont Hospital and Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Melden joined Hanbleceya in September, 2006.

On-Site Nutritionist::

• Ursula Ridens, R.D. - Program Dietician
  Born and raised in San Diego, Ursula graduated from San Diego State University in 1999 and became a registered dietitian in 2000. Her work experience, including clinical dietitian for Sharp Healthcare, Nutrition Director for a residential eating disorder treatment program, and private practice dietitian, gives her an appreciation of working collaboratively with the Hanbleceya team. Ursula’s passion for connecting with clients and understanding their health goals is fundamental in leading to positive outcomes. Her non-diet approach provides a unique look at lifestyle choices and movement towards balance between food and activity. Ursula’s specialty areas are working with those who struggle with eating disorders and weight issues. Knowing that changing eating and exercise patterns can be overwhelming and daunting, her authentic and compassionate ways help clients to take realistic steps towards mindful eating, challenge unrealistic expectations and irrational food beliefs, as well as build body confidence.

Core Clinical Staff::

• Melissa Stevenson, M.A., Licensed M.F.T. - Associate Director
  Melissa grew up in Northern California and moved to San Diego in 1998 to attend college and complete her undergraduate degree in counseling psychology. In 2005, she received her Master of Arts Degree from Southern California Seminary in Clinical Psychology. Melissa has worked with various populations, including those suffering from schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and mood disorders. She also takes great pride in assisting those suffering from chronic burdens such as homelessness and substance abuse. One of Melissa's strengths is helping others understand how shame contributes to self-defeating behaviors, as well as how to gain awareness, become happier and better adjusted through insight. She is currently working toward her MFT license. For fun, she enjoys outdoor activities including riding her 4-wheeler in the desert. Melissa joined the Hanbleceya community in February, 2008.
• Ashley Caravella, M.A., Licensed M.F.T. - Staff Clinician

  Ashley was born and raised in New England. She moved to Syracuse, NY to attend Le Moyne College and complete her undergraduate degree in psychology. Ashley soon became tired of hearing the saying “a different shade of gray everyday” so she decided to relocate to San Diego in 2005 to enjoy the sun and obtain her Master of Arts Degree in psychology from Alliant International University. Ashley has worked at various settings including a psychiatric hospital, a crisis house, and a group home for severely emotionally disturbed adolescents, foster care, and several outpatient settings. She believes a fundamental need of all humans is the need to attach to others on some level. Ashley assists individuals with social and emotional growth which is achieved through creating secure bonds with others thus allowing an individual to safely express oneself and explore one’s environment. Ashley is a licensed marriage and family therapist. In her spare time, Ashley enjoys spending time with her 2 dogs, traveling, and playing softball. Ashley joined the Hanbleceya community in February 2010.

• Dr. Danielle Dellner, Ph.D. - Staff Clinician
  As native of Northern California, and long-time resident of Los Angeles, Danielle came to Hanbleceya in August 2009 after working in a range of therapeutic environments including community mental health agencies and private residential settings. After graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Education from UCLA, Danielle worked as a director of a tutoring center in Los Angeles. Finding her work with the children and their families far more rewarding than managing the business aspects of the center, Danielle returned to graduate school to get her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. Currently, Danielle's clinical interests include body-mind approaches to psychotherapy as well as using transgenerational family therapy models to facilitate change and growth within the family and the individual. In her spare time, Danielle enjoys skiing and camping and listening to live music with her friends.
• Dr. Julia Egan, Psy.D. - Therapist
  Julia grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan where she attended the University of Michigan and received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and mathematics. She later moved to San Francisco to attend graduate school at Alliant International University where she received her doctorate degree in Psychology. While in San Francisco, Julia obtained a wide variety of clinical experiences in different settings, and with various disorders and populations. In 2010 Julia completed her internship at Kaiser Permanente’s psychiatry department in Los Angeles. Julia’s dissertation focused on implementing the use of technology in clinical practice, as she created a self-help website for individuals suffering from social anxiety disorder. In her free time, Julia enjoys playing recreational soccer, and continues to be an adamant Michigan Wolverine Football fan. Julia joined the Hanbleceya team in October of 2010.
• Kayla Karesh, M.A.T., M.A. - Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist/Art Therapist
  A native San Diegan, Kayla moved to the Los Angeles area where she completed a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s in Theology, and a master’s in Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy. She began working in the mental health field in 2001 and has experience in residential, hospital, family clinic, school, and private practice settings. Kayla specializes in the treatment of eating disorders and accompanying mood, thought, trauma and substance abuse disorders. She primarily draws upon psychoanalysis, family systems, and attachment theory for case conceptualization, and she is skilled at using a variety of therapeutic techniques, particularly the modality of art therapy. Kayla seeks to foster an environment of warmth and safety where clients build on their strengths, heal from past wounds, and transform maladaptive patterns into healthy functioning. She enjoys, music, art, and outdoor adventures. Kayla joined the Hanbleceya team in December 2010.
• Ray Killips, M.A. - Therapist & Chemical Dependency Director
  Born and raised in Michigan, Ray is one of six children. He came to San Diego in 1983 while serving in the United States Navy. After discharging, Ray worked in construction until 1997 when he decided to make a major career shift by following his passion to help people. Ray later earned a Bachelor's degree in Human Development from Christian Heritage College then a Master's degree from the University of Phoenix in Marriage and Family Therapy. Since 2005 Ray worked for the Phoenix House, a 40-bed adolescent drug treatment facility, where he counseled youth and families suffering from various addictions. For his final 3 years he served as their Deputy Director. Ray is currently working towards licensure as a Marriage and Family therapist. A father of three daughters, Ray has a great passion for helping others. Sometimes he can be found at one of the many lakes fishing with his youngest daughter, riding his Samurai through the local deserts or relaxing with guitar in hand by his pool with family and friends.
• Dr. Kristina Miholich, Psy.D. - Therapist
  Originally from Long Island, New York, Kristina moved to California to attend the University of San Diego where she received her undergraduate degree in psychology and business administration. Kristina went on to attended graduate school at Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology, in San Francisco where she received her doctorate in clinical psychology. She returned to New York in 2010 for her internship in Brooklyn at Interfaith Medical Center. During internship and in previous training Kristina has gained experience working with underserved populations, individuals in inpatient and outpatient treatment with a large variety of diagnoses, substance abuse treatment, and individuals with developmental delays. In her therapeutic approach, Kristina often uses psychodynamic and systems theories to conceptualize cases while implementing a variety of therapeutic interventions based on the client's needs. In her free time Kristina enjoys running, doing Bikram yoga, cooking, and spending time with friends. Kristina joined the Hanbleceya community in August 2011.
• Dr. Laura Pucci, Psy.D., Licensed Psychologist - Therapist
  Originally from the east coast, Laura attended The College of NJ where she received bachelor degrees in psychology and education. Her experience as Program Director for Kauai Team Challenge Mentoring Program for Children of Prisoners provided a foundation for working cross culturally with Native Hawaiian families suffering from substance abuse and trauma related stress. Her doctoral research in substance abuse prevention and early intervention studied community healing completed alongside Native youth of the San Francisco Bay Area participating in the Gathering of Native Americans (GONA). While providing individual therapy, group therapy and assessment services in residential settings, inpatient psychiatric settings and Partial Hospitalization Programs, she has developed safety and stabilization groups for survivors of trauma that combine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to teach coping skills, like mindfulness, relaxation, and assertion training, to help alleviate feelings of anxiety, increase feelings of personal safety, and help clients re-establish a healthy sense of control of themselves and their interpersonal relationships. In her free time she enjoys the ocean and listening to live world music with friends. Laura joined the Hanbleceya community in October 2011.
• Stephanie Coyle, M.A. - Therapist
  Born and raised in Edwardsville, Illinois, just outside St. Louis, Missouri, Stephanie left home to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder where she received her Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology and English. After several years of working in marketing and sales, Stephanie moved to San Diego in 2008 and worked as the director of a national communication and assertion program for families, based on Carl Rogers’ humanistic approach. It was at this point she decided to pursue a career in therapy where she could work more closely with families. Stephanie then returned to school to receive her Master’s in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy. Stephanie joined the Hanbleceya community in August 2010. A competitive rower, she also enjoys skiing, cooking, and playing the piano in her free time.

Senior Support Staff::

• Yvonne Walsh, L.P.T. - Director of Clinical Support Services and "Keeper of the Culture"
  Yvonne began working in Hanbleceya's Residential Program in October 1989, one month after being licensed as a Psychiatric Technician. As a key member of the Hanbleceya Line Staff support team, Yvonne provides an important source of support for clients who struggle to stay in balance on a daily basis. Her efforts toward making special activities and outings a success are invaluable. Yvonne's talents are many and varied. Her current role in the company is to provide semi-independent living services to our clients in addition to acting as a sort of liaison between the client and their Psychiatrist. Her empathic and compassionate way of connecting creates a sense of safety and consistency for all those she interacts with. She is frequently successful in reaching people others cannot. Yvonne's worldview and spirituality make her the natural person to be our community's "Keeper of the Traditions." It is her knowledge of Native American philosophy and symbolism, as well as her understanding of the principles upon which the Hanbleceya community was formed, that enable us to remember and celebrate our roots. Our celebrations and ceremonies all reinforce the concept of community - many people helping each other.
• Kevin Bullard, A.S. – Milieu Director
  Kevin has dedicated his life to giving back to the community and helping others. Earning an A.S. degree in criminal justice, Kevin graduated salutatorian of his class. Today he continues his education in pursuit of a B.A. in psychology. Kevin has extensive knowledge of the 12 step-recovery model and volunteers his time as a member of San Diego's public information committee for young people in which he visits schools and speaks to students on the seriousness of drug addiction and alcoholism. A member of the Hanbleceya team since April 2008, Kevin's life experiences and past challenges are a source of inspiration to both himself and those he supports around him.
• Breanne Berkley, B.A. – Admissions Coordinator
  Born and raised in Southern California, Breanne graduated from San Diego State University in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. During her education at San Diego State University she studied abroad in Florence, Italy where she realized her passion for culture and diversity. It was through Breanne’s education and experience that sparked her interest in working with the mentally ill population. And from these experiences at Hanbleceya a general desire to help others has been achieved. She plans to further her education in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy and hopes to one day run her own private practice. Breanne joined the Hanbleceya team in September of 2007.
• Meagan Benner, B.A. - Linestaff Supervisor
  Born and raised in a small town in Maine, Meagan moved to San Diego in 2008 after receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Holistic & Integrative Studies from the University of Maine. She has worked as a supervisor at Hanbleceya's VisionQuest Adult Residential Facility in addition to her duties as a linestaff employee. In November of 2011, Meagan was promoted to the position of Linestaff Manager. Dedicated to continuing her work with helping the mentally ill population, she plans on returning to school in the fall of 2011 to earn her degree in Naturopathic Medicine. Meagan's career goal is to open a practice that utilizes conventional medicine, natural healing modalities and behavioral therapy. Meagan joined the Hanbleceya team in May of 2009.
• Caitlin Dolan, B.A. - Support Staff Supervisor, VisionQuest Adult Residential Facility
  A resident of San Diego since 2004, Caitlin attended San Diego State University and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 2008. During her time at SDSU, Caitlin also studied pre-nursing with the intention of incorporating both psychological therapies with the implementation of nursing care plans. A member of Hanbleceya team since 2008, Caitlin plans to continue her education in mental health nursing and currently interns at Sharp Mary Birch NICU.
• Joanna Hamilton, B.A. - Support Staff Supervisor, VisionQuest Adult Residential Facility
  Joanna (Jo) grew up in San Jose, California then moved to San Diego to attend college where she graduated from San Diego State University in 2010 with her bachelor's degree in psychology. Jo currently attends Alliant International University working towards her Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has worked with foster children, at risk youth, and adults with mental illness in various settings. As a result of these experiences Jo decided to focus her career on helping others. She expects to complete her graduate studies by 2013 then continue working with the mentally ill population thereafter. In her free time, Jo enjoys the beach, friends, and family. Joanna joined the Hanbleceya family September 2010.
• Carrie Hultman - Work Development Coordinator
  Born and raised in Southern California, Carrie is no stranger to Hanbleceya. While working as a Senior Case Manager for a Local Law firm specializing in social security law, Carrie has helped many Hanbleceya clients obtain their Social Security Benefits. Carrie has a background in Homeless Outreach Services including Legal Aide Volunteer for St. Vincent De Paul Shelter, Parolee Outreach, Veterans Services and Outreach Coordinator for the mentally ill. Carrie has been a part of the homeless and mentally Ill meetings/societies for the last 4 years. Carrie enjoys her "Brady-Bunch" on the weekends and looks forward to the many smiling faces at Hanbleceya daily.
• Kryssy Taylor, B.A. - Medication Support Coordinator
  Originally from Detroit, Kryssy moved to New York to attend college. She graduated from John Jay College in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology. Her first year after college she worked managing a group home. Working with the troubled young men living in this home redirected her focus towards helping young people at risk to change their lives. In 2010, she moved to sunny San Diego and spent a year working for an after school program in one of San Diego’s less fortunate neighborhoods before joining the Hanbleceya community in June 2011. Kryssy intends to further her education in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. In her free time, Kryssy enjoys hiking and reading a good book.

Core Support Staff::

• Jessica Trousdale - House Manager
  A passion for helping others Jessica graduated from the United Education Institute in September of 2009 as a Certified Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist. Though she aspires to someday become a Registered Nurse, Jessica has devoted her life and career to helping the chemically dependent and mentally ill. Also a Certified Mental Health Worker, she began her mental health career at Alpine Special Treatment in Alpine, California then joined the Hanbleceya family in October of 2009. Jessica enjoys traveling and spends most of her free time with family.
• Danielle Lacey, B.A. - House Manager
  Danielle, a native of San Diego, graduated from San Diego State University in 2002 with a degree in Social Science. After spending time in real estate and sales, Danielle realized her passion in life was to help others and joined the Hanbleceya team in January, 2011. She plans on continuing her education in mental health to support those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. During her spare time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family.
• Sierra Guptill - House Manager
  Sierra Guptill was born and raised in San Diego. After spending almost 9 years in accounting, Sierra realized she had a passion for helping people and a strong desire to work with the chemically dependent as well as the mentally ill. Sierra went back to school and completed the alcohol and drug studies program at San Diego City College in 2011 and plans on returning to school in the Fall of 2012 for a bachelor's degree in psychology and eventually her masters degree in Marriage and Family therapy. Since joining the Hanbleceya team in July of 2011, Sierra has been promoted to a Case Manager and then most recently to House Manager. Her excitement and ambition to work in the mental health field is evident everyday. In her spare time, Sierra enjoys spending time with her husband and two young daughters.
• Cassie Quadrelli, B.A. - House Manager
  Cassie was born and raised in the small town of Ukiah in Northern California. She moved to San Diego in 2008 to attend San Diego State University. In December of 2010, Cassie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. Cassie joined the Hanbleceya team in September of 2011 as a Linestaff and was promoted to House Manager shortly thereafter. She has a passion to help and support individuals who are suffering mentally, emotionally, and relationally in gaining the tools and skills they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life. In her spare time, Cassie enjoys hiking, skateboarding snowboarding, and kick boxing.

Administration::

• Connie Verdeyen - Office Manager
  Connie joined our community in September, 1999 and immediately recognized that this job was unlike any other she had held previously. She admits to feeling intimidated by working in the mental healthcare field at first, but then came to have a clear understanding of what Hanbleceya offers our clients. "I have seen so many changes in some of our people...I can see them becoming productive and happy, and the peer support clients receive is awesome." She continues to learn on a daily basis as she masterfully orchestrates the activities of a very busy administrative office. Her responsibilities are many, and she shoulders them while making it look easy. Connie jokingly describes herself as "mean and ornery," but we know her as a "fuzz-ball of compassion" who keeps the residents and staff in line. We are glad to have Connie on our team as she continues to keep the front office working smoothly thereby enabling the rest of the staff to provide the high level of care for which Hanbleceya has become known.
• Susan Daly, B.A. - Administrative Marketing Coordinator
  A native of Northern California, Susan graduated from San Diego State University in May of 2009 with a bachelor's degree in Sociology. Fueled by her passion to learn about people, their experiences and various cultures, Susan intends to further her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her experience at Hanbleceya has provided an amazing opportunity to share her compassion for people while expanding her knowledge in the field of mental health. Susan joined the Hanbleceya family in May of 2009.
• Tanya Lutz, C.A.T.C.I. - Administrative Coordinator
  Tanya has been a dedicated employee of Hanbleceya since September 2006. Her educational background includes a Psychology major at Mesa College, a Certificate in Phlebotomy, and extensive personal knowledge of 12-step recovery programs. Working as a professional, she has supervision experience at a residential dual diagnosis treatment facility, and has acted on the fund raising board for Turning Point Recovery Home for Women. Most notably, Tanya enjoys helping clients learn semi-independent living skills so they can live a well balanced, fulfilling, and productive life. By focusing on the safety and well being of each client and their individual needs, Tanya has created great value for herself in the Hanbleceya community.
• Kerry Paulson, B.S. - Managing Partner
  A native of San Diego, Kerry graduated from San Diego State University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science. After 6 years working in corporate America, Kerry co-founded Fitness For Her, a small chain of women's health clubs in the San Diego area. For one decade his health clubs provided a safe and upscale environment for women to stay fit and enjoy exercise. Kerry's extensive business background along with his own 12-step recovery experience has played a significant role in helping him guide the growth of Hanbleceya. Kerry has a daughter, two black Labrador sons, and a psychologist wife. In his spare time he enjoys working out & eating, playing golf and spending quality time with his four-legged (and two-legged) family members.

Line Staff Personnel::

In addition to the above core staff positions, Hanbleceya employs several full-time Line Staff personnel whose duties are assigned and directed by our clinical staff. The line staff personnel have significant interaction with clients and often act as the "eyes and ears" of our clinical staff. Line Staff personnel travel to each house multiple times daily: In the morning to ensure that all members of the household are out of bed with hygiene completed, and are off to begin their daily structures; randomly throughout the day to confirm that household chores have been performed and the house is in acceptable condition; and in the evening to make sure nutritious meals have been prepared and any conflicts have been resolved. Weekly house meetings facilitated by the Hanbleceya House Manager are conducted at the facility. In these meetings, the weekly meal plan and chore rotations are scheduled, and housemates are supported in practicing assertive and healthy interpersonal skills while learning the important tasks of efficient household management. From fixing a broken fixture to assisting in the intervention on a client in a crisis, from confirming medications to leading camp outs or even attending a movie, Line Staff personnel provide a vital role in the everyday function of Hanbleceya's community as a whole.