Our staff community embodies the same beliefs and tenets we hold for clinical care: that individuals thrive and do their best growing when working alongside each other in a welcoming and committed environment. If you are looking for not only a job, but a place to belong, we’d love to hear from you.
Megan Harrison is the Chief Executive Officer and a managing partner of the Anew Treatment Center. Megan has a wealth of clinical and managerial experience through her roles as a therapist, in clinical directorships, senior managing positions, and as president of a private consulting firm. She joined the Hanbleceya Treatment Center in 2014, igniting her passion to bring an informed systems approach to helping individuals and their families heal from current and generational effects of mental illness. Megan is eager to expand the reach of a therapeutic community system that has helped to heal thousands of individuals for more than 40 years by bringing a renewed and fresh approach to the Scottsdale area.
Megan joined active-duty service for the United States Navy in August of 2001. While on active duty, she supported deployment needs in the Middle East including efforts to support Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). Following her honorable discharge in 2007, she supported government contract initiatives to develop employment opportunities for veterans transitioning from active-duty service into the civilian workplace.
For 25 years, Dr. Pleasants has helped create thriving therapeutic environments that have supported thousands of individuals and their families successfully build a life of self-management, health, and independence beyond the bounds of psychiatric diagnoses. She joined the Hanbleceya community in 1997 as a therapist, acquired the program in 2005 and co-founded the Hanbleceya Treatment Center, and has since dedicated herself to cultivating programs with a culture of belonging, hope, and sustainable change. She sees recovery and growth as a collective endeavor that relies on reciprocal support, promoting the belief that we thrive by receiving as well as giving back. Dr. Pleasants is considered one of the nation’s authorities on working with severe mental illness at the individual, sibling, and whole-family levels. And now, she is excited to bring her vast experiences and clinical skills to the Anew Treatment Center team.
Sherri Hicks, LCSW, is a seasoned mental health professional with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through the complexities of trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse and mental health recovery. Holding a Master of Social Work degree from Arizona State University, Sherri began her career at The Meadows Ranch, where she spent two years honing her skills in the treatment of eating disorders. With over 11 years of experience as an EMDR practitioner, she has developed a specialized approach that combines trauma-informed care with effective therapeutic interventions. Sherri is also the author of Emily’s Guide to Eating Disorders, a valuable resource that offers guidance and education for those affected by disordered eating.
In her work, Sherri focuses on helping clients address the root causes of their challenges, creating a safe and compassionate space for healing and growth. Her expertise in mental healthcare, including trauma, eating disorders, and substance abuse recovery allows her to offer tailored therapeutic strategies that support lasting change. Through her career, Sherri has empowered countless individuals to overcome their struggles, achieve emotional regulation, and rebuild their lives. As an advocate for mental health, Sherri continues to inspire others with her dedication to fostering recovery, resilience, and well-being in every aspect of her practice.
James McCreary is a highly experienced Mental Health Director and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. James also teaches part-time at NAU in their Applied Behavior program. With over 13 years of experience in the mental health field, James has dedicated his career to supporting individuals through compassionate care, evidence-based practices, and comprehensive mental health services. He is currently in his last two years of doctoral studies in Clinical Psychology and wants to complete psychological evaluations.
In his role as Mental Health Director, James has overseen the development and implementation of mental health programs, ensuring that services are aligned with the highest standards of clinical practice. He is skilled in leading multidisciplinary teams, providing clinical supervision, and fostering a supportive environment for both staff and clients. James’ expertise spans a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma therapy utilizing EMDR and CPT, substance abuse, and crisis intervention.
James is passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness for all individuals and has focused on veterans and adolescents. He is committed to continuous learning and professional development, regularly participating in workshops, training sessions, and conferences to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field. James is dedicated to promoting mental well-being and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. In his free time, he volunteers at the local VFW. James enjoys hiking and golfing with friends and family in his free time. While James served 10 years in the military as a paratrooper and learned how to fly. James still skydives and flies when time allows.
For over 20 years, Kayla has passionately served with warmth as a clinician and leader, supporting integrative innovation to care for the whole person (mind-body-spirit), the whole family, and the whole community. Kayla has held program director, clinical director, and executive director roles at various treatment programs, including 10 years of service and leadership in the Hanbleceya Community, where she supported the growth and expansion of the model and program. Kayla’s philosophy is to compassionately embrace the beauty of our lived stories and how they are held in our bodies, families, and communities. Kayla takes an integrative systems approach, promoting well-being by noticing and leaning mindfully into the subtle moments where we shift and grow, trusting the interconnectedness of all growth as spiritual empowerment, where we change ourselves and future generations through attunement, love, and forgiveness.
John received his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from CAACREP-accredited Cleveland State University, in Ohio in 2019 prior to relocating to Arizona. John has over 6 years of experience supporting clients with anxiety, addiction and dual diagnosis, as well as specialized training working with couples. John strives to create a nonjudgmental atmosphere and incorporate mindfulness and creative expression into his work with clients.
In his free time, John enjoys playing various musical instruments—guitar, bass, piano—and mountain biking. John has lived in California, Ohio and Arizona and finds Arizona’s natural beauty compelling. John believes in the healing power of creativity and self-expression, and the experience of being seen and heard. He strives to help his clients explore and discover their own unique voices, values, perspectives.
Jessie is an associate-level therapist who received her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver. Jessie’s approach to therapy is eclectic and based on the client’s needs, utilizing educational research and evidence-based learning practices. In addition, her approach is founded on warmth, empathy, and a genuine desire to fully understand her clients’ perspectives. She is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a deep passion for helping individuals in their mental health journey. Prior to joining the Anew Team, her clinical experiences focused on providing therapy services in an outpatient community-based setting. Jessie has worked with individuals of all ages, from adolescents to older adults. She has received extensive training in dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and collaborative assessment and management of suicidality. Jessie is an Arizona native and earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona. Currently, she is pursuing her licensing credentials with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Hannah is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences from Purdue University. Originally from Indiana, she relocated to Arizona in April to advance her education and career.
Hannah brings three years of experience conducting intake assessments in an acute substance use and mental health facility, working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This experience has deepened her understanding of mental health and substance use challenges and equipped her to provide supportive care during the intake process. She is passionate about helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and ensuring they are connected to the care they need.
Outside of work, Ms. Andrews enjoys staying active through activities like pickleball, paddleboarding, hiking, and working out at the gym. She also enjoys spending time with her dog, who is a wonderful companion during her downtime. Ms. Andrews is deeply committed to mental health advocacy and is excited to continue growing professionally while making a meaningful impact in the field.
Dr. Mona Amini combines a profound dedication to psychiatry with a unique blend of compassionate care and strategic healthcare management. Her credentials as a board-certified psychiatrist, enriched with an MBA, demonstrate her commitment to a holistic approach to mental health—one that harmonizes the individualized needs of her patients with the efficacy of modern healthcare systems.
With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the diverse needs of those she serves, Dr. Amini has steadfastly pursued the enhancement of patient outcomes. She is at the forefront of innovating mental healthcare delivery through her development of a concierge mental wellness practice, which offers a blend of treatments including medication management and personalized therapy.
In her role as CEO of Bumblebee Health, Dr. Amini is not just at the helm of a telehealth organization; she is also a pioneer advancing the scope of healthcare, emphasizing the importance of mental wellness in every facet of life. Her commitment to education and public advocacy ensures that the significance of mental health remains in the forefront of societal discourse.
Her investment in the growth and development of her colleagues, particularly in mentoring women in healthcare, fosters an environment of inclusion, support, and empowerment. Dr. Amini’s eloquent voice and thought leadership are not just guiding the conversation on mental wellness; they are defining it, paving the way for a future where mental health is understood, valued, and nurtured.
Alyssa Rothermel is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who received her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Arizona State University in 2022. Alyssa strives to increase awareness of mental health diagnoses and help empower individuals and families through a systemic lens. Prior to her time working at Anew Treatment Center, Alyssa’s clinical experience consisted of providing therapy services in an outpatient setting, facilitating individual, group, and family therapy. Alyssa specializes in trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and behavior modification. Alyssa is passionate and committed to helping individuals and families receive quality care within a therapeutic community environment. She believes support, connectedness, and honesty are aspects of growth and healing. Alyssa encourages individuals and families to share their stories in a safe cohesive environment, to learn from past experiences, and create mindful change.
Liliana is a self-taught inspiring chef that brings a cultural twist to our kitchen. Liliana is born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and has lived in the United States for over twenty years. Liliana enjoys cooking for people she loves and cares about, it brings her an overwhelming joy of happiness and fulfillment. Her favorite dish to cook is enchiladas verdes! During Liliana’s free time, she enjoys being around her family, going on hikes and sightseeing new places around the world.
For as long as she can remember, Gabi has always had a passion for helping others and driving change. She knew early on that her passion to be there for others would take her far, fulfilling the dream she had set in place, and that is exactly what she is doing. After completing her 200hr yoga teaching training, Gabi knew she wanted to bring more awareness to the mental health community by teaching yoga. Since then, her continuing education in Psychology at ASU and previous work experience in an outpatient office have given her the ability to shape the perspective of others and help them find their purpose in life. Through education and personal experience, Gabi hopes to help eliminate any judgment or stigma surrounding mental health and to be an advocate for those who suffer from mental illness. In Gabi’s free time, you can find her teaching yoga, reading, hanging out with friends, or traveling.
Ursula Ridens is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 20 years of experience treating various medical conditions (digestive disorders, cardiovascular disease, etc.) and a wide range of mental health conditions including eating disorders. She graduated from San Diego State University cum laude in 1999 and holds additional credentials as a Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Her career path has evolved over various settings including an acute care medical hospital Clinical Dietitian, hospital-based Outpatient Dietitian, residential eating disorder treatment program Nutrition Director, residential community-based mental health treatment center Lead Dietitian, and private practice consultant.
Ursula’s passion for connecting with clients and understanding their health goals is paramount in leading to positive outcomes. Her non-diet approach provides a unique look at lifestyle choices and self-care while supporting clients on a path toward peace with food and body. Changing eating and physical activity patterns can be overwhelming and daunting at times but through Ursula’s authentic, compassionate, and non-judgmental care clients take realistic steps towards improving their health and well-being.
Barbara has been in the fitness and wellness industry for almost 20 years, teaching and coaching fitness classes and guiding students through stretches, meditations, and yoga classes on three continents. Barbara recently completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training and is looking forward to sharing the benefits of yoga and meditation with her class participants and students.
Michaela began her journey in therapeutic community treatment in 2014 and has helped hundreds of individuals develop the skills necessary for long-standing recovery and independence. She has managed various roles in her experience, including specialized activities of daily living training, academic and vocational plan development, and managing clinical and residential milieus. She thrives in creating community-bonding opportunities and has successfully developed and managed multiple events and programs designed to support clients and their families in building cohesion and connection. Michaela is thrilled to bring her extensive marketing and support of the treatment-entry experience to her new role as Marketing and Admissions Director at the Anew Treatment Center.
Entrepreneurial at heart, Aaron Johnson has been deeply involved with start-ups since he was a child. As a Project Manager, Techie, and Marketing Strategist, Aaron helps entrepreneurs and small businesses discover and unleash potential in themselves and their businesses through relationships, intuitive systems, and soulful technology. Seeing how crucial Community and Communication are, Aaron integrated everything he had learned about connection and leadership from mentors, personal adventures, and stories into his approach to systems, teams, and building businesses. When he’s not masterminding or managing, Aaron spends his time meditating on and writing about big ideas, important lessons, and the power of Story. Aaron’s passion lies with creating educational opportunities like he had while he was in school that value and cultivate the innate superpowers of the individual and put youth in charge of their learning journey.
For more than six years, Alyssa has served individuals and businesses on their journeys to positively impact the world around them. As a modern Poet and Novelist, current Designer, and full-time Creator, Alyssa uses the power of words, stories, and visuals to romance souls into falling in love with their precious existence. She reminds us of our wild potential, of our hungry spirits, and of the entire world awaiting our unique gifts. She coaches and designs to inspire and mobilize individuals and communities to take action toward becoming the answers our world, our cultures, and our souls need to create a future where every individual is able to experience a vibrant and authentic life.
Nathalia first joined the Hanbleceya Treatment Center system in 2014 as part of the accounting and finance team. She has a long history in both the Hanbleceya and BrightQuest San Diego programs, and established her own accounting business in 2018. Her familiarity with our system and her history of providing consistent and reliable support is a gift for the Anew Treatment Center system.
Kerry, along with his wife, Dr. Karlyn Pleasants, co-founded the Hanbleceya Treatment Center in San Diego in 2005. A leader in the mental health industry, Kerry has founded and helped develop various residential mental health programs in San Diego, Seattle, Nashville, and now Scottsdale, Arizona. After the sale of Hanbleceya and Helix Healing and Recovery in 2017 to Constellation Behavioral Health, he stayed closely involved in the treatment-provision field and ultimately partnered with several others from the industry to help form the Anew Treatment Center, a unique, modernized version of a therapeutic community program model that has thrived for more than 4 decades.
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