Team
Our team consistently develops relationships with master-level therapists, addiction counselors, and recovery professionals from various backgrounds.
The team of recovery experts at Luna works together to evaluate complex and co-occurring health conditions. It’s our diverse range of experience that enables us to effectively address the many manifestations of addiction.
Meet the Team
Robert W. Park
Robert Park – Founder and Chief Executive Officer, LCDC, Luna Recovery Services
Native Houstonian, Robert Park founded Luna Recovery Services alongside his wife, Kathleen, in 2015 with a mission to create the best clinical program in Houston to support individuals and their families in navigating a path toward wholeness and leading a recovered life. As CEO of the premier addiction treatment center, Park leads all aspects of Luna Recovery Services, from its business and marketing efforts to developing and maintaining relationships with Luna’s talented staff and clients.
Robert discovered his passion for recovery and working with individuals and families struggling with addiction and substance use disorders after he got sober and found personal recovery in 2004. Since then, he has consistently shown his deep commitment to helping individuals and families in need of recovery and is forever grateful for the life he gets to live.
Robert has been in the recovery field for almost two decades. He is an accomplished executive and has worked in many different positions in the treatment industry where he gained first-hand experience on the various facets of how to effectively help others recover from addiction. Prior to founding Luna Recovery Services, Park served at some of the most well respected and trusted treatment centers in the world, including Executive Vice President at Origins Behavioral HealthCare, and has held leaderships roles at several other leading treatment centers.
Robert is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a certified Holotropic Breathwork facilitator. He believes in infusing service, mindfulness and spiritual teaching into his life, family and work. In his free time, Robert enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, as well as playing golf, traveling and is a self-proclaimed foodie.
Kathleen Park
Kathleen Park – Founder and Chief Experience Officer, Luna Recovery Services
Kathleen Park founded Luna Recovery Services with her husband, Robert Park with a mission to support individuals and their families in navigating a path toward wholeness and leading a recovered life. Kathleen is passionate about helping others, whether it be adolescents, adults, men or women.
In her role as Chief Clinical Officer, Kathleen oversees the clinical programming as it relates to the material presented to clients to ensure it aligns with state requirements and the latest research and best practices in the industry. Kathleen is passionate about infusing their client’s experience with the intangible qualities that she believes are essential to recovery: love, compassion, warmth and spirit. She feels deeply connected to each staff member and the work that they do, and believes that the staff’s positive energy is vital to the experience clients will have in their healing process at Luna Recovery Services.
Prior to opening Luna Recovery Services, Kathleen earned a Bachelor of Science in Food Management from Texas Christian University. She received her Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling in 2011 from the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Center City, Minnesota. She is a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist and is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for the treatment of trauma. Kathleen is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience working in the treatment of mental health and addiction and utilizes various methodologies in her approach to helping others.
In her spare time, Kathleen can be found playing outdoors with her two sons, Wilder and Rowan, running and spending quality time with friends and family. She also enjoys meditation, yoga, breathwork and other forms of self-inquiry, exploration and expansion. Kathleen attends AA meetings regularly and appreciates the fellowship and connection she experiences at these meetings. She loves reading, journaling and taking time to stretch herself in ways that help her grow as an individual, mother, wife, professional, friend and leader.
Dr. John J. O’Neill
John J. O’Neill – EdD, LCSW-S, LCDC, CAS
Dr. O’Neill has worked in the field of mental health and addiction for over 30 years. He started his career working in student affairs, providing substance use education to fraternities and sororities. He has held leadership positions for almost twenty years at both public and private institutions. He spent five years at MHMRA of Harris County, managing multiple departments in authority clinical services. For the past 15 years, he held multiple positions at The Menninger Clinic.
He has provided mental health training for local law enforcement for several years. He served as a program director for the professional’s program and spent seven years as The Director of Addiction Services. Along with his responsibilities at Menninger, he managed the mental health and drug program for The Houston Astros for 12 years. He currently manages the mental health and drug program for the Minor League Baseball Umpire Develop Program and for the past 19 years, he taught undergraduate and graduate courses at local colleges.
Dr. O’Neill has developed and presented more than 100 programs at local and national conferences in such subjects as anxiety and addiction, attachment theory and substance use, family dynamics, motivational enhancement theory, trauma and sexual addiction and has contributed to articles and stories in the Houston Chronicle, Denver Post, Washington Post, Houston Medical Journal, WebMD, and many other publications.
He has also appeared on ESPN, Good Day Houston, National Public Radio, Fox News, NPR, XM Radio, and KTRH Radio. Dr. O’Neill is a licensed clinical social worker, chemical dependency counselor and a certified addiction counselor (sex addiction).
Jay D. Kelley
Jay D. Kelley – Chief Operating Officer, LCDC-I
“I’ll never forget what it felt like to be truly powerless over my addiction. I grew up in an extremely loving home with wonderful parents and an amazing sister. I was given every opportunity in life to be successful and happy but I had been battling an addiction for several years. I could not stay sober and I was on a path riddled with confusion, embarrassment, and destruction. I knew help was only a phone call away but the idea of going to treatment again seemed pointless and sobriety seemed impossible. It was the summer of 2012 and I was sitting in the parking lot of a recovery club in Ingram, Texas. I was drunk, high, and in tears because I was too paralyzed with fear to walk in and ask for help. I had truly reached a point where I could not imagine life with or without drugs and alcohol. Through a series of events I met some people who were able to explain my problem and offer me a solution to recover. I got sober on July 25th 2012 and have never looked back. The life I live today is amazing and full of purpose and direction. I know that part of my purpose in life is to help others and their families recover from alcoholism and drug addiction.”
Jay attended Southern Methodist University for several years before graduating from the University of Houston in 2010 with a B.S. in Economics and Political Science. Before joining Luna Recovery Services, Jay served in several different roles at two different world renowned treatment centers. Drawing on his personal and professional experiences, Jay has developed a wide range of knowledge and skills in the areas of 12 Step Recovery, marketing, admissions, utilization review, business development, and addiction therapy.
Jay has made several appearances on nationally recognized media outlets to advocate for individuals wishing to seek treatment for substance abuse and mental health issues. Jay enjoys working with clients and their families to challenge current belief systems while helping them to identify and interpret irrational thought patterns and behaviors.
Jay has studied many different paths of spirituality and enjoys helping to guide those who are still suffering on their own personal path to healing. Jay loves being outdoors and enjoys hunting, hiking, golf, astronomy, and spending time in the Texas Hill Country.
Bo Allaire
Bo Allaire, M.D. – Medical Director
Dr. Allaire is passionate about providing the highest quality medical care possible to patients suffering from addiction and other mental health disorders. He began working in family medicine in 2012, joining a well established practice associated with Memorial Hermann.
He left that practice, joining Contemporary Medicine Associates, to train under the legendary Dr. Gene Degner (a Texas pioneer in treating patients with addictive disorders), ultimately becoming boarded in addiction medicine in 2016. Dr. Allaire received his Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of Houston, as Valedictorian of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and his Medical Doctorate from Baylor College of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident.
He is the medical monitor for the Physician Counseling Committee of the Harris County Medical Society and the Medical Director of Serenity House Detox. Dr. Allaire specializes in medically assisted detox cases, treating patients in recovery from addiction or other mental health disorders, the medical assessment and monitoring of patients with addictive disorders, medical care related to eating disorders and the medical treatment of patients with mental health conditions. Patients, staff and colleagues frequently acknowledge Dr. Allaire for his expertise and compassionate nature when working with patients actively in or recovering from addiction and mental health conditions.
Orlando Montalvo
Orlando Montalvo – Director of Residential Services
Orlando oversees Luna’s Residential Treatment Center. He was inspired to work with Alcoholics and Addicts after leaving treatment himself. He knew he wanted to go into either Nursing or Counseling, and his mentor at the time steered him into counseling. Orlando is passionate about working with clients and seeing the change from when they come into treatment to when they leave. Seeing his clients succeed in life is the most rewarding part of his work. Over the last 30 years Orlando has worked in several different clinical roles such as Primary Therapist, Regional Program Manager, Clinical Director, Compliance Officer, and Executive Director for some of the most well-respected treatment centers in the country. Orlando is currently licensed as an LCDC and Nationally Certified Addictions Professional. He attended Texas A&M University on a Football and Track Scholarship, then went on to complete his Counseling Hours at the University of Texas at Pan Am. Outside of work, Orlando enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, reading scripture, and spending time with Pops, his 100lb Italian Mastiff.
Alvaro Guevara
Alvaro Guevara – Adolescent Clinical Director, Luna Recovery Services
Clinical Specialties: Adolescent, Suicide and Self-harm, Maladaptive perfectionism, Adolescent Substance Use, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Alvaro has been working in the field of mental health for over 15 years. He spent 5 years at MHMRA of Harris County, managing community support services for those struggling with mental health and substance use. Before joining Luna, Alvaro served as the Director of Clinical Services at an Adolescent Residential and Intensive Outpatient Program here in Houston.
As Luna’s Adolescent Clinical Director, Alvaro provides therapy for adolescents and their families, facilitates group therapy sessions, identifies and implements treatment strategies for the Adolescent Program, and oversees the Adolescent Program staff.
Helping people find their paths, create visions for themselves, restore family connections, and assist parents to improve their relationships with their children are what motivate Alvaro to work in this field.
Alvaro received his Masters of Arts in Psychology from Houston Baptist University and his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston. Outside of work, Alvaro enjoys gaming, anime and manga, watching UFC, and taking his family to new places to eat.
Rhonda Sanchez
Rhonda Sanchez – Director of Nursing. RN, BSN.
As Director of Nursing at Luna Recovery Services, Rhonda Sanchez oversees all daily nursing responsibilities, including medication administration and in-depth patient education. Rhonda prides herself on providing her patients with detailed education on all things, such as smoking cessation, HIV and STD education, fetal alcohol awareness, appropriate provider communication and much more.
Before entering the recovery industry, Rhonda spent four years working in neurology and neurosurgery, serving as a graduate nurse at Baylor CHI St. Luke’s in the Texas Medical Center, as well as a travel nurse in Reno, Nevada. During that time, she became intrigued with addiction because, similar to neurology, it involves the brain and mental health and is one of the few places in healthcare where the whole person is treated. With a desire to learn more about addiction and provide those with trauma and substance use disorders with more mental health resources, Rhonda became an addiction and recovery nurse.
She appreciates that Luna Recovery utilizes a holistic approach to treat addiction, focusing on medications as well as treating the mind, body and spirit. She enjoys working in a role where she can educate others and help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.
Rhonda earned a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences from Baylor University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Texas Woman’s University. In her free time, she enjoys singing and playing the piano, exploring nature, watching cooking shows, reading and spending time with her husband and two children.
Leah Huggs
Leah Huggs – Charge Nurse, Luna Recovery Services
Leah’s main role is to provide each client with individualized care pertaining to their current state of health related to addiction as well as other existing health and psychiatric problems. Leah chose to go into this field to give people in recovery a way to safely and comfortably detox and get through the early steps of recovery feeling supported and understood. Leah became motivated to work in the field after working rotations in the ER and witnessing people come in searching to get medical help in order to get clean. She watched them not receive the proper care and compassion they deserved, which is what led her to this field. She takes pride in being able to show clients that there are people out there that want to help and give them the care and support they are searching for. Leah’s favorite part about Luna is that it gives people in recovery the chance to be understood with no judgement and to be assisted throughout their journey both medically and clinically. Leah believes being able to get to know each client on a deeper level and work with them throughout their stay and seeing the change in them from their admission to discharge is truly inspiring and amazing. Leah received her RN license in 2018 and her CAN certification in 2016. She is currently studying to obtain her CARN certification and plans to continue working in the field of recovery. She has been working in the field for two years now and strives to continuously grow in her career. Outside of work and studying, Leah enjoys spending time with friends and family and loves to travel.
Evelyn Bruno-Compean
Rhonda Sanchez – Director of Nursing. RN, BSN.
As Director of Nursing at Luna Recovery Services, Rhonda Sanchez oversees all daily nursing responsibilities, including medication administration and in-depth patient education. Rhonda prides herself on providing her patients with detailed education on all things, such as smoking cessation, HIV and STD education, fetal alcohol awareness, appropriate provider communication and much more.
Before entering the recovery industry, Rhonda spent four years working in neurology and neurosurgery, serving as a graduate nurse at Baylor CHI St. Luke’s in the Texas Medical Center, as well as a travel nurse in Reno, Nevada. During that time, she became intrigued with addiction because, similar to neurology, it involves the brain and mental health and is one of the few places in healthcare where the whole person is treated. With a desire to learn more about addiction and provide those with trauma and substance use disorders with more mental health resources, Rhonda became an addiction and recovery nurse.
She appreciates that Luna Recovery utilizes a holistic approach to treat addiction, focusing on medications as well as treating the mind, body and spirit. She enjoys working in a role where she can educate others and help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.
Rhonda earned a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences from Baylor University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Texas Woman’s University. In her free time, she enjoys singing and playing the piano, exploring nature, watching cooking shows, reading and spending time with her husband and two children.
Astrid Cooper
Astrid Cooper – Licensed Vocational Nurse LVN, Luna Recovery Services
Astrid’s main role as a nurse is to ensure the medical needs of clients are met while at Luna. Astrid works directly with Luna’s medical providers to carry out individual client treatment plans.
Prior to becoming a nurse, Astrid was an Associate Marriage Family Therapist and worked in residential treatment facilities where she developed a passion for behavioral health.
Astrid’s favorite part about her job is playing a role in breaking down the barriers of stigma and access to care that circle mental health and addiction in our society.
Prior to working at Luna, Astrid has worked for several different behavioral health organizations as a Clinical and Nurse Education, Acting Nurse Manager, and Staff Nurse.
Astrid earned her Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University in Los Angeles, and her Bachelors Degree in Social Ecology at UC Irvine. Astrid earned her diploma in vocational nursing at WCUI.
Outside of work, Astrid enjoys exploring her new home state of Texas and spending time with her family.
Jennifer Burdette
Jennifer Burdette – Director of Professional and Community Relations, Luna Recovery Services
Jennifer Burdette serves as the Director of Professional and Community Relations. She comes from the medical community with experience specializing in Gastrointerology & Hepatology(GIH) as well as Ear, Nose & Throat(ENT). She also is a PGA Golf Professional with vast experience teaching kids and adults in the Houston area since 2000.
With 20 years of sobriety, Jennifer has a passion for recovery and connecting individuals with addiction and substance use disorders with the resources to help them be successful.
Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Performance and Health Promotion at the University of New Orleans. Jennifer serves as a Archway Academy Board Member. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys spending time her daughter & son, family & friends, playing & teaching golf, fishing, running, exploring nature, art & traveling.
Joey Warnken
Joseph Warnken – Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor – Intern (LCDC-I), Luna Recovery Services
Joseph Warnken serves as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor – Intern at Luna Recovery Services. After beginning treatment for his own battle with addiction in 2016, Joseph learned how fatal addiction could be and how difficult it would be to maintain a sober way of life. Recovery gave him hope and newfound freedom on life. Warnken’s personal path to recovery sparked a new passion within himself and ultimately, inspired him to pursue a career in the industry that saved his life.
Joseph earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Marketing and Marketing Management from Texas State University. In his free time, he enjoys CrossFit, nutrition, spirituality, 12 step recovery work and watching his daughters participate in all of their activities.
Sean Everett
Sean Everett – Director of Quality & Compliance, Luna Recovery Services
Sean has been in the substance abuse treatment field for almost ten years with experience in various positions such as Recovery Advocate, Licensed Chemical Dependency Intern, and Sober Living manager. He currently is in the Quality and Compliance role with Luna Recovery Services.Sean graduated from the Art Institute of Houston in 2009 with a focus in Fine Arts and worked in fine dining restaurants in the Houston area. At Luna, Sean’s focus is to constantly improve quality of care, oversee the creation and implementation of new policies and procedures, compliance-related factors such as training, quality documentation, client outcomes and client progress surveying. Sean is currently studying for his HCC, a healthcare compliance certification.In his spare time, Sean enjoys running ultramarathons and rock climbing.
Eric Pavord
Eric Pavord – Director of Human Resources, Luna Recovery Services
As Director of Human Resources, Eric’s main role is to support Luna’s most important resource, its people. Eric oversees all Human Resources functions, Policies and Procedures, and Employee benefits. Eric was inspired to work in the field of recovery after going to treatment and pursuing his own recovery in 2018. He fell into Human Resources at the last Treatment Center he worked for and quickly became passionate about supporting the people that helped make his own recovery possible. His favorite part about the field of recovery is seeing the positive change for clients and their families. Before joining Luna, Eric worked in Human Resources at the Heights Treatment and Transcend Recovery Community in Houston, Texas. He was also the Program Coordinator for Transcend Mentoring, the largest peer support program in the country, and a Technician for their Men’s Sober Living. Eric is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and holds the SHRM Department of One Accreditation. He received his Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Houston. Outside of work Eric can be found going to the gym, attending local AA meetings, and playing outside with his daughter Emma.
Jeffrey Rice
Jeffrey P. Rice – Recovery Therapist, Luna Recovery Services
Clinical Specialties: Family Therapy, Sexual Health (specifically Sex and Love Addiction), Trauma-Focused CBT, ADHD, Individuals with Learning Disabilities and Individuals with Developmental Delays
As a Recovery Therapist at Luna Recovery Services, Jeffrey Rice facilitates individual and group therapy sessions and plays a role in the treatment planning process, encouraging clients throughout each step on their path toward recovery. He is also a clinical team member and a sex addiction consultant.
Jeffrey is inspired by his own healing. He enjoys getting to work with people whose stories remind him of his own. He loves how small and close-knit the recovery community feels, even in a large city like Houston.
Prior to joining the team at Luna Recovery, Jeffrey previously served as a recovery therapist at The Council on Recovery and as a primary therapist at Heights Treatment Center. He earned his M.A. in Psychology at the University of Houston in 2003. Jeffrey is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S). He received his certifications from International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP), Houston Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (HAMFT), and Diversity Special Interest Group (D-SIG).
In his free time, Jeffrey enjoys spending time outdoors. His hobbies include motorcycle riding, kickboxing, golf, and training for a sprint-triathlon.
Jessie Norris
Jessie Norris – Therapist, MS, LPC, NCC, Luna Recovery Services
As a Therapist at Luna Recovery Services, Jessie Norris works with clients and their families to support them on their journey to healing and recovery.
Jessie comes from a family with addiction on both sides. Fortunately, her parents were avid supporters of therapy when she was growing up. Jessie learned from a young age that asking for and receiving help was not a weakness, but rather a strength. Her personal therapeutic experiences inspired her to become a therapist and help others.
Jessie is a National Board-Certified Counselor. She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from the University of North Texas at Dallas. Prior to moving to Houston, she lived in Dallas and worked with young adults and families struggling with substance abuse.
Brandt Taylor
Brandt Taylor – Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC-I, Luna Recovery Services
Brandt Taylor is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor – Intern (LCDC-I). His primary role at Luna Recovery Services is to facilitate group, individual and family therapy sessions. He serves as one of the primary therapists for Luna Recovery Services’ new residential program. Prior to taking the residential therapist position, Brandt provided therapy for Luna Recovery’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP).
Brandt received a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Addiction Disorders and Recovery Studies from Texas Tech University. In 2015, Brandt moved to Houston from Lubbock and began his career as a Marriage and Family Therapist while initially working at an adolescent residential treatment center focusing on dual-diagnosis treatment of substance use disorders as well as mental health diagnoses. In 2018, Brandt began working in adult dual-diagnosis Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) levels of care, with an emphasis on the treatment of substance use disorders. Some of his primary practiced styles of therapy include systemic experiential therapies, Solution-Focused, as well as Structural and Brief Strategic Family Therapy.
Brandt initially pursued a career in the recovery field because of the overwhelmingly positive impact and radical transformation he witnessed with people in long-term recovery and their families. At the age of 19, he was first introduced to the world of Recovery through his educational experience and quickly became intrigued by what he was witnessing. He is an active member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), the Texas Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (TAMFT) and the Houston Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (HAMFT).
In his free time, Taylor can be found cooking barbecue, playing disc golf or watching Major League Baseball. He also enjoys traveling, listening to music and watching movies, spending time with his two dogs and woodworking.
Haley Qualman
Haley Qualman – Therapist, LCSW, Luna Recovery Services
Clinical Specialties: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Radically Open DBT, Adolescents & Adults
Haley facilitates PHP and IOP groups and works with both adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. After undergrad, Haley worked at a grocery store where she formed close friendships with people from all kinds of different backgrounds who helped her realize that her passion is in human connection. Haley has always enjoyed helping others and found social work to be the perfect intersection of her past studies and life experiences. Helping people discover their life is worth living, and assisting families and individuals heal generational wounds are Haley’s favorite aspects of working in addiction and mental health treatment.
Prior to Luna, Haley was a Therapist at the Council on Recovery where she served as a co-facilitator for the substance use IOP for adults. Haley also worked a hybrid role at the Council that included seeing adolescent clients and leading process and educational groups. Haley completed her clinical internship at the Baylor College of Medicine, where she facilitated experiential learning groups to adolescents on probation in the juvenile justice system. Haley completed her Masters in Social Work at the University of Houston, and undergraduate degree at the University of Texas in Austin where she double majored in International Relations and Economics. Haley is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In her free time, Haley enjoys cultivating her creative side through interior design, thrifting, and dabbling in different crafts. On the weekends, she enjoys supporting local LGBTQ+ businesses, cuddling her pets, and taking care of her various plants.
Vanessa Blandford
Vanessa Blandford – Therapist, LPC-A, Luna Recovery Services
Clinical Specialties: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Existential/ Humanistic Theories
Vanessa Blandford is a Primary Therapist at Luna Recovery. She believes treatment should be guided by clients’ strengths and interests, and contain a balance of interventions such as meditation, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. Vanessa received her Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Houston and went on to teach elementary school for seven years. After the birth of her son, she wanted to make a career change where she could utilize her skills as a teacher and knowledge in human growth and development to help individuals and their families who struggle with mental health. She went back to University of Houston and obtained her M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Vanessa completed an internship with The Women’s Home where she gained valuable experience counseling women with substance use and other mental health disorders. Vanessa is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. She is currently supervised by Kathleen Park, LPC, LCDC as she works towards full licensure as required by the state of Texas. A lifelong Houstonian, you can find Vanessa rooting on the Houston Astros, Houston Rockets, and Houston Texans with her husband and son. She also enjoys being outdoors, exploring Houston’s diverse food scene, and is a frequent visitor of Hermann Park, Memorial Park, the Houston Zoo and Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Zachary Collard
Zachary Collard – Therapist, BCN, LCDC, LMSW, LUNA RECOVERY SERVICES
Clinical Specialties: Neurofeedback, Neurostimulation, LGBTQ+, Professional & Executive
Zachary Collard is a NeuroTherapist and Therapist at Luna Recovery Services, working primarily with our clients that could benefit from additional support through QEEG aka Brain Maps, and Neurofeedback. Zachary is Board Certified in Neurofeedback (BCN). He works primarily with the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), as well as consulting with the residential case managers to ensure clients are receiving the best care possible. Zachary strives to support the mental health of all people, especially those affected by substance use disorders.
Zachary discovered his passion for recovery and helping others after he found personal recovery from drugs and alcohol. Growing up, he struggled with his identity and self-confidence and was confused why he was different. His struggles continued later in life as he began to measure and compare to others and felt too proud to ask for help. Now, as a therapist, Zachary’s practice areas focus on Neurofeedback, Pharmaco and Quantitative EEG, LGBTQ+ and professionals and executives suffering from addiction. He works every day to ensure his patients have a support system to lean on whenever they are experiencing difficult times. Zachary is grateful to work in an industry that helped him so much and enjoys witnessing the life-changing transition patients experience in treatment.
Zachary received his Master’s in Computer Information Systems from The University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Computer Information System from The University of Houston. He is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). Zachary received his Chemical Dependency education at HCC Coleman College. He is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). Zachary completed his Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Tulane University. Prior to joining the Luna Recovery Services team, he received training at Memorial Hermann Prevention and Recovery Center in Houston.
Zachary has a passion for bringing new treatment modalities to clients and is instrumental in Luna’s successful rollout of our new NeuroTherapy programs. Clients who suffer from addiction have options. If you or someone you know is suffering please ask for help.
In his free time, Zachary enjoys traveling and trying new activities. He appreciates the simple things in life and seeks to continually enrich his mind.
Justin Thomas
Justin Thomas – Therapist, LCDC, Luna Recovery Services
Clinical Specialties: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Existential and Humanistic modalities
Justin Thomas is a Therapist and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. His primary role at Luna Recovery Services is to conduct individual and group therapy, as well as help his clients reach their specific long-term and short-term goals in recovery.
Throughout his life, Justin witnessed the struggles of addiction and substance abuse within his family. He discovered his passion for the recovery industry after finding personal recovery from substance abuse. Through recovery, Justin found hope and realized that his pain does not have to last forever. Now, in his role at Luna Recovery, Justin strives to spread the message of hope and offer an empathetic ear to those suffering from addiction. He enjoys helping others and seeing clients witness the promises that come with recovery.
Prior to joining the Luna Recovery team, Justin received training at Memorial Hermann Prevention and Recovery Center. Before entering the recovery industry, Justin worked as an accountant for various companies in the oil and gas and energy fields. He earned his Bachelor’s in Accounting from the University of Houston and his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Southwestern Assemblies of God University.
In his free time, Justin enjoys spending quality time with his wife and three children. His hobbies include exercising, meditation, chess and basketball.
Emma Hightower
Emma Hightower, LMSW – Therapist, Luna Recovery Services
Clinical Specialties: Emerging adults, Launching young adults, CBT, Systems Approach
As a Therapist at Luna, Emma works with clients in Luna’s PHP and IOP programs. She facilitates group therapy sessions and also works with clients individually.
Emma is passionate about people, and loves watching them learn and grow to become the best versions of themselves. Whether it is their first attempt or a tune up, Emma appreciates the opportunity to walk with people through their recovery journey. She believes that with the right structures in place, peace and wellness are attainable for all people.
Before Luna, Emma worked in collegiate recovery at Texas Tech University, where she completed both her Bachelors and Masters of Social Work. Emma helped develop a mental health support program for students on campus. Prior to that, Emma worked in the field of public health, focusing on adolescent substance use prevention.
Outside of work, Emma loves spending time with her family and friends. Nothing brings her more joy than playing with her three dogs. She loves all things Houston has to offer, especially trying new foods and going to Astros games.
Lyndee Potetz
Lyndee Potetz, LCDC – Adolescent Therapist, Luna Recovery Services
As an Adolescent Therapist at Luna, Lyndee facilitates group therapy sessions and also works with clients individually. Guiding adolescents to connect with their sense of self so that they are able to continue on the journey of life with peace of mind and ambition inspires Lyndee to work in the field of mental health and recovery. Her favorite part about working in mental health is seeing clients renew themselves through the therapeutic work.
Prior to joining Luna, Lyndee was a Program Counselor at Positive Recovery Center’s Residential Treatment Center where she provided therapeutic interventions for those living with substance use disorder and helped support them and their families. Lyndee was also a Program Coordinator at the Palmer Drug Abuse Program where she engaged adolescents in after school peer support programs and helped them find support from their peers in embracing recovery from addiction. She also did extensive work with families of these adolescents where she educated them on the importance of their role in their children’s recovery.
Lyndee was a Practicum Student at the Menninger Clinic where she co-facilitated group therapy sessions for adolescents and young adults. She is a member of TAAP (Texas Association for Addiction Professionals) and currently working towards her LMFT at Houston Baptist University. Lyndee received her LCDC from Houston Community College and is also a SMART facilitator.
Outside of work Lyndee enjoys modeling, working out at dance studios, and interior design.
Trevor St. Denis
Trevor St. Denis – Clinical Intern, Luna Recovery Services
As a Recovery Advocate, Trevor St. Denis provides leadership and support to each client through every step of their recovery journey. He is a certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) and takes pride in connecting with clients through sharing his personal recovery experience.
Following his personal recovery, Trevor discovered his passion for helping others find solutions in their own lives to unlock their full potential and lead happy and meaningful lives. He is grateful to be part of a diverse community focused on facilitating care to those on the road to recovery.
Prior to joining the Luna Recovery team, Trevor worked at a recovery center as a resident advisor where he led group sessions and made sure clients were attending and following the rules. From there, he began his first role at Luna Recovery Services as the resident advisor for the Luna Sober Living Home where he assisted in monitoring daily tasks of the residents and helped clients navigate through the transition period once they finished active treatment.
Trevor earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Corporate Communication from Baylor University. In his free time, he enjoys cooking BBQ, exercising, watching movies, sport shooting and trivia games.
Evans Gawu
Evans Gawu – Accountant, Luna Recovery Services
As an accountant at Luna Recovery Services, Evans Gawu is responsible for financial reports, statements and budgets, and reviewing and coordinating business plans. He also identifies and resolves any revenues cycle issues and helps manage billing accounts. Gawu has always enjoyed solving complex problems and analyzing data and believes there is no better place to learn and apply his skill than in the ever-evolving world of healthcare. Gawu loves being part of a team that is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of its clients and employees.
Prior to joining the Luna Recovery Services team, he worked as an Accounting Manager at both Gulf Coast Health Center Inc. and Land Manor Inc. In this role, he managed financial functions including generating and presenting financial statements to assist CEOs and the Board of Directors in making critical decisions.
Evans earned both a Bachelor and a Master’s of Business Administration from Lamar University. He is currently in the process of obtaining a CPA license from the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy as well as a Professional Accountancy Certificate from Lonestar College.
Evans has been a member of Lions Club since 2015, and he served as an Assistant Coach for Lamar University Women’s Basketball Club from 2013 to 2016. Additionally, he served as the President and Treasurer of the LDS Student Association from 2013 to 2017.
As an avid lover of sports and the outdoors, Evans enjoys basketball, sightseeing and exploring as well as tasting new food.
Andrew Klimacek
Andrew Klimacek – Admissions Coordinator, Luna Recovery Services
As Admissions Coordinator at Luna Recovery Services, Andrew Klimacek is the point person for clients and their families as they navigate the admissions process. Klimacek has a passion for recovery and enjoys helping clients through their unique paths to recovery and ensuring that each client receives the appropriate level of care.
Prior to his current role, Andrew served as a Recovery Advocate at Luna Recovery’s sober living home in the Heights where he helped residents get plugged into a 12-step program, assisted residents with their work when needed and functioned as an accountability partner for residents.
In his free time, Andrew enjoys playing golf, softball, working out and music.
Gabby Butynes
Gabby Butynes – Office Manager, Luna Recovery Services
Gabby is the Office Manager at Luna’s Outpatient Treatment Center. She was inspired to work in the field of recovery by her own personal experience in recovery. Her favorite part about the work that she does is seeing people become the best versions of themselves. Before joining the Outpatient team, Gabby was a Recovery Advocate at the Residential Treatment Center. Gabby went to the University of Houston where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Media Production. Outside of work, Gabby loves trying new restaurants, finding local farmer’s markets and reading.
Samantha Steuwe
Samantha Steuwe – Operations Manager, Luna Recovery Services
As a Recovery Advocate, Samantha provides care and structure for patients, monitors and evaluates progress, and embodies a guiding force for each individual as they begin their recovery journey. She was inspired to work in recovery after witnessing loved one’s struggle in their own battles with addiction. Her favorite part about working at Luna is having the privilege to watch patients as they slowly heal and transform into their most authentic self. She believes it is an honor to witness such strength and growth, and to be trusted with one of the most vulnerable times in a person’s life.
Before joining Luna, Samantha worked as the Assistant Program Director for a Sober Living in Houston. As Assistant Program Director, Samantha assisted in managing all client schedules and transportation, supervised technicians, managed medication distribution and documentation, and worked closely with client’s treatment teams to ensure the success of each individual’s treatment plan.
Outside of work, Samantha loves painting, drawing, dancing, crafting, taxidermy, and entomotaxy.
Nina Christian
Nina Christian – Recovery Advocate, Luna Recovery Services
As a Recovery Advocate at Luna Recovery Services, Nina Christian supports clients throughout each phase on their recovery journey. She seeks to provide a caring, guiding and professional approach through active listening, motivational interviewing and recovery planning.
Nina has been in long-term recovery since 2012 and has personally experienced both the challenges and rewards of reaching her full potential. She appreciates being part of a community that recognizes various cultures, ideas and personalities, and is dedicated to exploring individualized recovery plans. As a mental health technician, peer recovery coach and driver, Nina understands the importance of proper documentation, effective communication, healthy boundaries, ethics and empathy. She is grateful to work at Luna Recovery Services where she can serve others daily and guide them to whole life recovery.
Nina is involved in a number of organizations, including the Mental Health Association, Santa Maria Peer Advisory Council and Alumni, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and Houston Chapter TAAP. She earned her Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences for Mental Health and LCDC from San Jacinto College. Nina is preparing to become an LCDC-I which will be followed by her Certificate of Technology as a Certified Prevention Specialist in Spring 2022.
In her spare time, Nina enjoys football, fishing, music and spending time with her children, grandchildren and dogs.
Matthew Johnston
Matthew Johnston – Recovery Advocate, Luna Recovery Services
Matthew considers his first and foremost duty as sharing his experience, strength, and hope with Luna’s clients. A part of that is to help clients and clinicians have the space to do the best work that they can. Under this umbrella, Matthew enjoys facilitating onsite recovery groups and taking clients offsite to meetings and appointments in order to help contribute to their individual and unique recovery. As someone in recovery themselves, Matthew believed that working in the field in an official role would allow him to explore who he is in his own recovery. The best part about his job is that he can spend quality time with the clients and see their growth and change each day. Matthew believes it is truly inspiring to create the bond and get to know each client during their stay at Luna, and it is a privilege to play even a small part in their recovery. It is a great joy to Matthew to watch clients realize how big the recovery community is, and that it is possible to not only live with addiction, but that recovery allows to to live life to the fullest. Matthew also works as a manager of a men’s sober living on the weekends. He has been in this role for almost a year, and it has provided him with amazing insight into what recovery can mean to him. Before that, Matthew bounced around the country working odd jobs, finding work at construction sites, flooring companies, and even selling sunglasses on the Venice Boardwalk in Los Angeles. Outside of work Matthew enjoys reading and writing, music of all flavors, and playing video games with friends.
Michael Sacra
Michael Sacra – Recovery Advocate, Luna Recovery Services
As a Recovery Advocate, Michael ensures that clients have a safe and welcoming environment to grow and learn about themselves. Michael enjoys leading recovery meetings and helping guide clients as they begin their recovery journey. His favorite part about working at Luna is getting to know clients and seeing their recovery “light” turn on.
Outside of Luna, Michael is a volunteer coordinator at the University of Houston’s Cougars in Recovery program, as well as a volunteer at the Menninger Clinic.
Michael earned his Bachelors of Science in Chemistry at the University of Houston and is currently working towards both his Mental Health Peer Specialist and Recovery Support Peer Specialist certifications.
Outside of Luna, Michael enjoys spending time with friends and loved ones, going for walks, writing poetry, reading, running, and lifting weights. He also enjoys reading, meditation, and self-introspection.
Jean-Philippe Gaston
Jean-Philippe Gaston – Executive Chef, Luna Recovery Services
Chef Gaston writes and executes new menus everyday while providing a healthy, nutritious, and delicious variety of meals for Luna’s guests and staff. Chef Gaston is constantly inspired to work in the field and loves to be able to provide a great experience with some home cooked food to Luna’s guests. Chef Gaston’s favorite part about the field is seeing the kindness and genuine care that everyone brings to their work. Before joining Luna, Chef Gaston was Co-Executive Chef at Kata Robata and Izakaya Midtown alongside Manabu Horiuchi. Chef Gaston has also held roles as Executive Chef at Cove Cold Bar, and Chef de Cuisine at Haven Seasonal Kitchen. Chef Gaston received his Bachelor of Science in Hotel & Restaurant Management at the University of Houston, Conrad Hilton School of Hotel Restaurant Management. Chef Gaston also completed a Bachelor of Arts in Communications at the University of Texas, Austin and was recently accepted into the Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University. Outside of work Chef Gaston loves to travel, travel, travel, and learn as much as he can about all cultures in life.
