Our Team

Steve Thomason | LMSW, LCDC

Chief Executive Officer

Steve Thomason is a Licensed Master Social Worker with more than twenty years of experience in the behavioral health field. Throughout his career, he recognized that individuals living with higher-acuity psychiatric conditions were often underserved in traditional treatment settings. This awareness became the driving force behind his professional mission: developing programs specifically designed to meet the complex needs of adults who have experienced repeated hospitalizations and ongoing mental health challenges.

Steve earned his Master of Social Work from The University of Texas at San Antonio and his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Texas State University. He also holds licensure as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, bringing a comprehensive understanding of co-occurring conditions and the intersection of mental health and substance use.

Steve believes that effective, long-term mental health recovery requires more than short-term stabilization. He is a strong advocate for structured, clinically sophisticated care models and a seamless continuum of support following residential treatment. With both clinical and executive leadership experience across numerous behavioral health programs, Steve is known for building strategic partnerships, advancing community awareness, and shaping systems of care that provide clarity, stability, and lasting outcomes for individuals with complex psychiatric needs.

Josh Barnett

Chief Operating Officer

Josh is passionate about helping individuals build stability, purpose, and long-term success in their mental health journey. With more than a decade of experience in behavioral health, he has developed a broad understanding of program operations and client-centered care through roles including direct support, business office administration, marketing, and operations leadership.

As Chief Operating Officer, Josh oversees the daily functioning of clinical and residential services, ensuring that programs operate with consistency, efficiency, and a strong focus on quality care. His leadership emphasizes creating structured environments that support growth, accountability, and meaningful progress for individuals navigating complex mental health challenges.

Josh is an avid enthusiast of geek culture and believes that embracing individuality and celebrating differences helps foster connection, belonging, and community. These values he integrates into both his professional work and personal life

Robert McCaslin

Chief Development Officer

Robert’s personal and professional journey has shaped a deep commitment to supporting individuals navigating complex mental health challenges. While he faced personal struggles earlier in life, it was during his career in sales that he experienced a pivotal shift in purpose. Despite professional achievement, he recognized a desire for more meaningful, mission-driven work centered on helping others build stability, clarity, and long-term recovery.

That realization led him into the behavioral health field, where he discovered a passion for creating structured, supportive environments that foster growth, accountability, and personal transformation.

As Chief Development Officer, Robert brings a unique blend of lived experience, operational insight, and strategic vision. He is dedicated to expanding programs, strengthening partnerships, and advancing care models that promote lasting mental wellness. His leadership is grounded in authenticity and a strong belief that meaningful change is possible when individuals are supported with the right structure, community, and clinical guidance.

Brian Samford, LMFT-S, PsyD

Chief Clinical Officer

Brian Samford, PhD, LMFT, LCDC, became licensed as a Chemical Dependency Counselor in 1997 and as a Marriage and Family Therapist in 2001. Over the course of his career, he has served in a variety of roles, including private practice therapist, Clinical Director, Executive Director, and owner. His professional experience spans numerous respected institutions, such as Vernon State Hospital, Lubbock State School, Southwest Institute for Addictive Diseases, John T. Montford Psychiatric Unit, DePaul Center, Starlite Recovery Center, Creekview Counseling, and The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare.

Dr. Samford has been instrumental in shaping clinical programs and leading teams in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Much of Dr. Samford’s professional focus has been dedicated to developing more effective treatment methods for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. He is committed to fostering supportive, ethical work environments that help employees feel they are part of something special.

Above all, Dr. Samford’s greatest passion is working with families—guiding them through the complex challenges associated with mental health and addiction, and empowering them to find hope and healing together.

Dr. Samford is an avid runner who finds solace and inspiration on gravel roads and wide-open landscapes. When not working, he cherishes his time at his family farm in North Texas, where he takes pride in maintaining the land, working on hands-on projects, and embracing the peaceful, restorative environment. His passion for connection to the land reflects his appreciation for both physical activity and the simple joys of rural life.

Dr. Shiva Lam | M.D.

Medical Director

Dr. Lam brings nearly 25 years of experience in psychiatry to Alta Loma. Dr. Lam has served as Chief of Staff at Shoal Creek Hospital, Outpatient Director at Charter Hospital, staff psychiatrist at St. David’s Hospital, and Executive Medical Director at Austin Lakes Hospital. His distinguished career serving patients and families across Central Texas is hallmarked not only by his widely respected professional expertise but also by his genuine, warm, and kind bedside manner. Dr. Lam has extensive experience treating severe mental illness as well as substance use disorders. He will build trust with our beloved residents through in-person visits as well as after-hours care as he engages them actively in their treatment.

Katie Nelson | LVN

Director of Nursing

Katie has been a nurse for over three years with experience in detox and residential recovery centers that included caring for a dual diagnosis population. She has started her LVN to RN bridge program through Galen College of Nursing. She is passionate about the mental health of others and finds it just as important as their physical health.

Katie is a caring mother to two wonderful boys. They enjoy going to the park, playing sports, and painting together.

Deborah Sant’Anna | MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Nurse Practitioner

Deborah de Sant’Anna is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 17 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. She has spent her career working with adults and adolescents in acute care, residential, private practice and corrections. Deb provides compassionate care to our residents and family members. Deb’s commitment to supporting our residents and their families demonstrates that she values holist care, recognizing the importance of involving family members in the treatment process. Her approach enhances the overall effectiveness of her care and fosters a supportive community for those in her care. Deb is a powerful force in the workplace . Deb is also an accomplished Brazilian volleyball player with international and national experience. In her free time, Deb likes to play volleyball, workout, and hang out with her friends.

John Lopez | PharmD

Consulting Pharmacist

Dr. John Lopez completed the Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum at the University of Texas College of Pharmacy in Austin in 2004. He has served the greater Austin area as a community pharmacist for over 18 years. In 2016, Dr. Lopez expanded his scope of practice to inpatient mental health and has a goal of obtaining his board certification in Psychiatric Pharmacy in the near future. Additionally, Dr. Lopez is a certified immunizer and has participated in numerous immunization clinics throughout the community, including at Alta Loma!

Lacey Evans | LCSW-S

Clinical Director

Lacey Evans is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-S). With over 20 years of dedicated experience in a variety of treatment settings, she has held roles ranging from direct-care staff to practicing therapist to clinical leadership, allowing her to develop a comprehensive understanding of client care, program development, and the importance of residential care.
Lacey believes in combining evidence-based modalities with a strengths-based, person-centered approach. She emphasizes collaboration, cultural humility, and building resiliency. Her clinical supervision focuses on fostering best practices, ethical decision-making, and ongoing professional development among supervisees.

Outside of her professional life, Lacey is an avid reader and enjoys exploring the outdoors. She also loves the challenge and camaraderie of escape rooms, where her problem-solving skills and teamwork come to life. With two decades of hands-on experience and a passion for continual learning, Lacey remains committed to advancing mental health care, supporting clients in their journeys, and developing professional and clinical leaders in the field.

Jessica Brodie | LCSW

Clinical Director

Jessica completed her master’s in social work at University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work (GCSW) focusing on Clinical and Behavioral Health. Jessica has over ten years of experience in working with mood and thought disorders such as Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective disorders and Schizophrenia, and other complex diagnosis such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Co-Occurring Disorders. Jessica also has extensive experience working with people who have been diagnosed with various personality disorders such and Anti-Social Personality Disorder (ASPD), Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) using a combination of evidenced based treatment (EBT) modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and other psychodynamic theories of therapy.

After over 10 years in the field working with adults with severe mental illness, Jessica decided to join the dedicated team at Alta Loma in Georgetown, TX. Her personal interests include visiting friends and colleagues in various parts of the world, Texas Ice Hockey, swimming, kayaking, gardening, camping, and biking with her teenage son.

Meghan Landry | M.ED., BCBA, LBA

Behavior Analyst

Meghan developed a passion for helping people overcome their challenges at a young age by doing volunteer work with individuals with disabilities. During this time she watched her younger brother struggle to learn and fit in the same way as others in society. In 2015, while finishing her last semester of her bachelor’s in Psychology, Meghan was introduced to the field of behavior analysis, which sparked an interest.

Behavior analysis uses science-backed data to help individuals overcome challenging behavior patterns and develop healthy life skills. From there she received her master’s degree from Texas Tech University in Applied Behavioral Analysis while also working as a behavior technician helping children and young adults gain important skills. 6 months later, in 2017, she became fully licensed and holds the designation of Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

While most of her work has been helping people on the Autism spectrum, Meghan knows she can be of service to a wider population. She believes most challenges people face can be tackled by learning more effective ways to communicate their wants and needs, which sometimes must be taught differently than traditional methods.

Meghan strives to help clients find the right motivation which ensures new ideas will “click” and become “ah-ha!” moments. Meghan has helped many people learn to communicate more effectively, reduce challenging behaviors, attain new life skills, and successfully interact with their environment no matter the situation.

Her end goal is to help clients to be successful and decrease challenging behaviors that interfere with their learning, communication, and everyday life.

Hannah Unruh | LCSW, LCDC

Director of Family Services

Hannah earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience from Texas A&M University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Houston. While attending graduate school, Hannah completed a clinical internship at The Menninger Clinic in Houston, Texas, where she provided group and family therapy.

Hannah is a firm believer in systems theory and assesses environmental factors that contribute to mental illness and substance use, as well as internal factors. She implements DBT and mindfulness skills into her practice and takes a strengths-based approach.

Hannah’s professional areas of interest are substance use, mental health, and family systems. She is passionate about decreasing the stigma surrounding mental illness and works to help her clients practice radical acceptance.

“I chose Social Work because the profession calls us to be an advocate for others and because I am passionate about social justice issues.”

Hannah enjoys being a dedicated mom to her calico cat, Chicken, and exploring new places with her family and friends.

Maxie Carvajal | LMSW

Therapist

Maxie Carvajal, LMSW, is a Primary Therapist at Alta Loma Transformational Services. She earned her Master of Science in Social Work degree at the University of Texas-Pan American in 2014 and is currently working toward obtaining her licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas.

Maxie brings with her over 15 years of experience in social services with 11 of those years focused on working with individuals living with severe mental illness and/or substance abuse disorders in the non-profit, acute inpatient psychiatric hospital, and inpatient substance abuse treatment settings.

Garrett Lathan | LPC

Therapist

Garrett completed his Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest in 2018 and became a fully Licensed Professional Counselor in 2021. He also has participated in ongoing trainings in psychoanalysis with the Clinical College of Colorado since 2020. He has significant experience helping people who experience psychosis, struggle with issues concerning substance dependence, and who are contemplating suicide find new grounding for authorizing a life for themselves that they desire. He has been an Austinite since 2000 when he moved here from Ft. Worth, TX to attend the University of Texas. He enjoys spending time with his family, throwing dinner parties (he used to be a chef years ago in St. Louis, MO) and reading and writing poetry.

Yesenia Young | LMSW, LCDC

Therapist

Yesenia (pronounced yeh-SEN-ee-uh) is a compassionate and dedicated therapist originally from Miami, Florida, calling the outskirts of the Austin area home for the past decade. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Texas State University in 2016, graduated with her Master of Social Work with Direct Practice in Mental Health & Substance Abuse from The University of Texas at Arlington in 2020.
With over six years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric hospital settings, Yesenia has honed her skills in working with diverse populations spanning from early childhood to geriatric stages of life. Her clinical experience encompasses a wide range of mental health disorders, including thought and mood disorders and crisis intervention.

Yesenia incorporates evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) into practice. She is actively pursuing her DBT certification and licensure to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas.
Among her interests include spending time with her corgis, videogames, gardening and research.

Stephanie Camardella | LMSW, LCDC

Therapist

Stephanie earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from SUNY New Paltz in 2010 and graduated Summa Cum Laude with an MSW from Adelphi University School of Social Work in 2017, obtaining an LMSW shortly after. In addition, she has been certified as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor since 2013. In pursuit of her passion and love for horses, she is also a certified Equine Assisted Therapist and a Certified Complex PTSD Therapist. Beginning her career in 2011 in addictions treatment, she is a seasoned clinician, having a diverse professional background that spans the life course, mental health population, and modality. Her experience includes working with ASD, adolescent mental health, dual diagnosis, severe mental illness, addictions, homelessness, PTSD, veterans, foster care, pregnant and parenting women, and adjudicated clients. Stephanie loves empowering her clients to find their own solutions and achieve longitudinal success through practical goal attainment and improved quality of life. In her spare time, Stephanie volunteers at the animal shelter, enjoys hiking, the Austin culinary scene, hitting the gym, and all things outdoors.

Paola “Lola” Rivas | LPC-a, LCDC

Therapist

Lola completed a Bachelors of Science in Rehabilitation Services with a concentration in Addiction Studies and a Minor in Psychology from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Lola then completed a Masters Degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling shortly after. Lola was awarded the 2017 Lotus Award from UTRGV for her advocacy work and bringing awareness of mental health issues to her community. She has a wide array of experience from offering peer support to university students to intensive residential treatment for co-occurring disorders and outpatient services for people in the criminal justice system struggling with substance-use. Lola specializes in treating Co-Occurring Disorders, Substance-use Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Codependency in Relationships (familial and romantic). Lola has been working in the mental health field for 7 years initially as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and now obtaining licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. Lola prioritizes emotional safety which creates a trusting therapeutic relationship making a client more comfortable in opening up and sharing their emotions and past experiences. Her goal when working with clients is to help them reach their optimal potential and be their most authentic self.

Lola is new to the Austin Area and spends her time trying local restaurants and sight-seeing. She partakes in self-care by watching comfort TV shows and movies and spending time with her sassy dog, Lolis.

Elise Torres | LMFT-A

Therapist

Elise Torres holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University. During her graduate studies, she completed internships serving both the college community and the Abilene area, including placements at the Medical and Counseling Center (MACC) and the Marriage and Family Institute. Elise has experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups, and has also worked with children through play therapy. She completed her EMDR training during graduate school and is currently working toward her EMDR certification. Elise is in the process of obtaining full licensure as an LMFT, currently holding the designation of LMFT-A.

Her therapeutic approach is rooted in a systemic lens, drawing from modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. Elise uses IFS to help clients heal the different parts of themselves, DBT to build skills for emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, and EMDR to facilitate trauma healing. She believes that behaviors significantly impact who we are today, especially in how we form our values and beliefs, and that both internal and external life experiences shape us in ways that are constantly evolving. Elise enjoys supporting individuals on their journey of self-development, focusing on providing a collaborative, positive, and motivating experience.

Recently, Elise relocated to Austin. In her personal life, she is passionate about running and enjoys the occasional opportunity to relax and binge-watch shows.

Devika “Vik” Sharma | LMSW

Therapist

Vik completed her Bachelor of Social Work from The Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin with a minor in Sociology, going on to earn her Master of Science in Social Work from The Steve Hicks School shortly after. She is licensed as a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) in Texas and is pursuing her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license, anticipating full licensure status in 2026.

Prior to joining the Alta Loma team, Vik worked as an Inpatient Therapist at Austin Oaks Hospital supporting individuals in the midst of mental health crises. Her experience has allowed her to effectively assess, diagnose and treat clients with a variety of presenting concerns, including mood and thought disorders, substance use, and trauma. Therapeutic modalities that frequent Vik’s practice include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). While completing her education, she gained additional clinical experience at the Ascension Seton Shoal Creek Partial Hospitalization Program and the Travis County Correctional Complex.

Vik believes in meeting her clients where they are and incorporating a person-centered approach in her practice. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking her dog Sammy, lifting weights, and listening to audiobooks.

Crystal Ibarra | LMFT-A

Therapist

Crystal Ibarra was born and raised in South Texas. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio. Licensed by the State of Texas as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, Crystal has extensive experience working with individuals facing thought disorders, mood disorders, and addiction in various community settings.

Taking a systemic theoretical stance, Crystal specializes in Postmodern approaches while effectively implementing interventions from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. From the beginning of her journey, she has tailored her approach to fit her clients’ unique needs. Her experiences in crisis settings ignited a passion for supporting clients and their families as they navigate their mental health journeys, ensuring they receive the support they deserve.

Jessie Schroeder, LMSW

Therapist

Originally from Portland, OR, Jessie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA, and a Master of Science in Clinical Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin. During her graduate studies, Jessie contributed to research and mental health initiatives with the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health and Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin. Prior to joining Alta Loma, she worked as a therapist and clinical social worker at Austin State Hospital.

Jessie brings experience from working with individuals and families across the lifespan. Believing that the client is the expert of their experience, she views therapy as a collaborative and authentic space for introspection and growth. She draws from various therapeutic modalities and theories, including systems theory, attachment theory, Polyvagal theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), ecotherapy, and mindfulness practices. Jessie is also passionate about considering cultural, racial, and ethnic factors in her work to ensure that all clients receive care that honors their unique backgrounds and experiences. She believes a holistic and person-centered approach to mental health is essential for long-term recovery.

Jessie is also currently pursuing LCSW licensure in the state of Texas. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, game nights, and traveling.

Gabrielle Pendleton, LMFT-A, LCDC-I

Therapist

Gabbi holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFT-A) in Texas, anticipating full licensure status in October 2026.

Gabbi has experience working with diverse populations across a variety of clinical settings, including community mental health and residential treatment. She has supported clients experiencing mood disorders, trauma, substance use, and relational difficulties. She is EMDR trained and incorporates approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients in understanding themselves more deeply, building emotional awareness, and working through difficult experiences in a meaningful way.

Gabbi approaches therapy as a collaborative and relational process, recognizing that each person’s story is shaped by their lived experiences, relationships, and the broader systems they exist within. She is especially mindful of how culture, race, ethnicity, and identity impact the therapeutic experience, and she strives to create a space that is respectful, inclusive, and attuned to each client’s unique background.

Gabbi values authenticity, curiosity, and connection in the therapy room. She believes healing often begins with feeling seen and understood, and she aims to create an environment where clients can explore who they are, make sense of their experiences, and move toward living healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Holly McDermott, LMSW

Therapist

Holly McDermott was born and raised in Southern California but has lived in Austin for over thirteen years. She graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies. Holly earned her Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and has experience in supporting clients with a range of emotional and behavioral concerns in both medical and residential settings. Holly takes a warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based and trauma-informed practices. She strives to create a space where clients can show up as they are, feel genuinely heard, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Holly enjoys live music and values spending quality time with her friends, family, and her dog and cat.

Matthew Maurer, LCDC

Counselor

Matthew Maurer, LCDC, brings over a decade of personal recovery experience and has worked professionally in substance use and mental health treatment since 2018. His passion for supporting individuals affected by mental illness drives his commitment to making sobriety both achievable and sustainable for his clients.

Matthew began his career in mental health services providing direct care, building a strong foundation in client-centered support. After earning his associate’s degree in Applied Sciences in Human Services from Austin Community College he transitioned into clinical services, where he now focuses on guiding individuals through recovery from substance use disorders.

In his work, Matthew helps clients explore resistance to abstinence, develop meaningful connections within their communities and recovery networks, and strengthen protective factors that support long-term sobriety and reduce the risk of relapse.
Outside of his professional life, Matthew enjoys going all in on a CrossFit workout, spending quality time with his wife and dogs, and making his way through IMDb’s Top 100 movie list

Charlotte Davis | LCDC, NCAC1

Compliance Coordinator

Charlotte brings to Alta Loma 13 years of experience in the counseling field and 21 years being in recovery. Charlotte received an Associate degree in 2006 from Odessa College specializing in alcohol and drug addiction and is a Licensed Chemical Drug Counselor as well as being Nationally Certified as an Addiction counselor.

Charlotte has worked in the recovery field and held many positions including, Direct Care Counselor, Program Coordinator, and Clinical Director. She is honored with the opportunity to participate in the healing process of many individuals and families impacted by addiction and mental health issues.

Stephanie Castro | CTRS, TRS/TXC

Health and Wellness Director

Stephanie is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in the State of Texas. She was born and raised in Austin. Post high school graduation she obtained a scholarship to play volleyball at Huston-Tillotson University and had the opportunity to also play for the USA international Volleyball League in Scotland. She graduated with her Bachelors in Kinesiology at Huston-Tillotson University and continued her education at Texas State University to obtain her master’s in science and Leisure Services to become a Recreation Therapist. She has been a certified Recreation Therapist for 10 plus years working with all ages in mental health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and community settings. She is also certified in instructing Chair Yoga, Chair Chi, Drumtastic (drumming while performing rhythmic movements), and is currently studying to be a certified brain injury specialist. As a recreation therapist, she uses activity-based interventions such as music, art, sports, and other leisure activities to help enhance the clients’ physical abilities, independence and their overall well-being. Additionally, she also coaches a juniors volleyball club in the springtime. Her interests are being in the outdoors, rock climbing, volleyball, exercise, and engaging in other activities with her son.

Kelsey Michalewicz | RD, LD

Dietitian

Kelsey Michalewicz is a registered and licensed dietitian. She is the owner of Texas Total Health, Inc., a contracting nutrition services company. Kelsey and her dietitian teamwork with many mental health and behavioral health facilities in the Austin to Temple, Texas areas.

Her company participates in wellness fairs and mental health charities. Before starting her business, Kelsey worked as an eating disorder dietitian in San Antonio. Kelsey has a true passion for the mental health field of nutrition. She has worked in the mental health, and behavioral health field for 14 years.

Kelsey knows the role nutrition plays in mental health and substance abuse recovery. She enjoys sharing nutrition education with her patients, co-workers, family, and friends. In her spare time, she loves cooking at home with her family and introducing new foods to her children. Kelsey also loves hiking, biking, running, yoga, and playing with her kids and dogs.

Jordan Thomason

Case Management Supervisor

Alta Loma continued to grow and expand its services, Jordan stepped into a supervisor role, where she now supports both clients and staff with dedication and care. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their recovery journeys and is dedicated to supporting both the mental and physical well-being of the individuals she serves. Jordan believes in meeting people with compassion, structure, and encouragement as they work toward lasting stability and wellness.

Jordan is currently pursuing her degree in social work and is committed to using her education to further advocate for and support individuals facing mental health challenges. Her professional approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for growth and healing.

Outside of work, Jordan enjoys spending quality time with her family, being outdoors, reading, and unwinding through creative outlets like art. She values balance and self-care, which she believes are essential components of both personal well-being and effective work in the mental health field.

Joshua Lipp

Case Manager

Josh is a United States Army Veteran who obtained his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Texas A&M University-Central Texas. Shortly after graduating he was employed with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services for two years. Josh worked there as a Case Manager, and assisted families who needed mental health as well as substance abuse services. He then transitioned to direct care staff here at Alta Loma
where he fell in love with assisting in the transformation of the patients here. Josh brings a very jovial attitude in his engagement with those around him. From there, he was promoted to the role of Case Manager and incorporates his optimistic attitude in his engagements with clients as well as their families.

Outside of work he is a loving father of four children who spends every second that he possibly can with. For self-care, he enjoys playing video games, taking family trips, and enjoying all the little things that life has to offer.

LJ Glaros

Case Manager

L J has worked in the mental health field for over five years. He feels a strong personal connection to this work, having overcome his own challenges with mental health and addiction. He started working at Alta Loma in 2023 as direct care staff where he came to realize his passion for supporting residents on their recovery journey. LJ later transitioned into the role of Case Manager and continued to fully use his dedication to helping others.

Outside of work, L J is a proud cat dad who enjoys weightlifting, movie nights, and can generally be found listening to Taylor Swift.

Wes Hortert

Case Manager

Beatrice Douglas

Case Manager

Originally from Southern California, Beatrice moved to Texas to further her education and to help break the stigma surrounding mental health. Her advocacy is deeply personal, shaped by the loss of her sister to a mental health struggle. This experience fuels Beatrice’s passion for supporting individuals and meeting others where they are. Beatrice previously worked as a registered alcohol and drug technician and case manager with California’s inmate population, where she provided compassionate support to men, pregnant women, and adolescents navigating detox and recovery programs. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University-Irving.

Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Beatrice cherishes time spent with her daughter, reading, journaling, gardening, and enjoying quiet moments cuddling with the family puppy.

Carter Dyson

Controller

Having grown up with a brother who is on the spectrum and struggled with mental health issues, Carter has firsthand experience of having a loved one with unique challenges. After his own struggles with substance use disorder in early adulthood, Carter began his journey of recovery from substance use disorder.

With his own unique experiences, this has given Carter a passion to help both families and individuals that struggle with mental health and substance use disorder.

Carter holds Bachelor’s in Global Healthcare Policy & Management from Concordia University. Outside of his professional endeavors, Carter is a fan of the NBA and the Dallas Mavericks.

George Stark

Admissions Specialist

George Stark has had a passion for helping others from an early age. Initially having a career in IT, he was not fulfilled in that role and entered the behavioral health field. After working in direct client care, George made the shift to case management. After years as our Case Manager, George shifted into our Admission Specialist position where he is helping individuals navigate their path to recovery.

Outside of work, George is a dedicated father to his son. Hockey is one of his hobbies, where he finds both a challenge and camaraderie on the ice. When time allows, he also enjoys hitting the golf course, soaking in the tranquility and strategy of the game.

Austin Crowe

Admissions Specialist

Austin has accumulated six years of diverse experience in the mental health field, during which he has held various positions that have enriched his understanding and skills. In his current role as an Admissions Specialist, he leverages this extensive background to provide exceptional support and guidance to patients and their families. Austin’s compassionate and informed approach ensures that each individual feels heard and valued, fostering a supportive environment from the very beginning of their journey toward recovery. His deep commitment to improving mental wellness is evident in his professional demeanor and dedication. By meticulously addressing the unique needs and concerns of each patient, Austin plays a pivotal role in facilitating the admissions process with empathy and professionalism.

Outside of his professional life, Austin maintains a balanced and active lifestyle. He enjoys going to the gym, which helps him stay physically fit and mentally resilient. Additionally, he engages in various outdoor activities and sports, reflecting his love for nature and physical activity. This well-rounded approach to life enables Austin to bring a positive and energetic presence to his work, further enhancing the support he provides to those in need.

Bethany Barrett

Admissions Specialist

Bethany has dedicated herself to the mental healthcare field since 2019, building extensive experience supporting diverse populations. After a start in sales, her own journey with mental health sparked a call to a deeper purpose, leading her to transition into behavioral health. She finds true fulfillment in witnessing the healing and growth of her clients, operating on the foundational belief that the first step to recovery is feeling truly heard.

Outside of her professional life, Bethany is an enthusiast of weightlifting and martial arts. She also enjoys rescuing strays, spending time by the water, collecting antiques, and baking the occasional “sweet treat.” Bethany plans to complete her degree in psychology, with hopes to pursue an LCSW and fulfill her dream of becoming a trauma therapist.

Missy Distel

VP of Outreach

Missy Distel brings over a decade of experience in behavioral healthcare to her role as Vice President of Outreach at Alta Loma Transformational Services. Since 2013, she has dedicated her career to connecting individuals and families with the support they need, driven by a deep passion for helping others and reducing the stigma around mental health and addiction.

Known for her relational approach and collaborative spirit, Missy has built strong professional networks throughout the behavioral health community. She has served on multiple boards, supported numerous charitable initiatives, and founded several networking groups focused on connection.

A proud graduate of Texas A&M University, Missy studied journalism and marketing—skills that have helped her amplify voices and stories that matter. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her cherished family and friends, cooking, practicing yoga, and exploring new places.

Gregoria “Greg” Garcia

Finance and HR

Greg Garcia graduated from Texas State University with a degree in Accounting. She began her career in the substance abuse field, where she found it rewarding to support people through recovery. Before transitioning into software and reverse logistics, Greg also worked in the restaurant industry, gaining valuable experience in customer service and team leadership. In 2023, she joined Alta Loma, bringing a diverse background and a passion for helping the team.

Outside of work, Greg is a proud mom of four who loves attending her children’s sports events. She enjoys lifting weights, cooking new recipes, and listening to Taylor Swift.

Carter Kileen

Business Office Coordinator

Carter brings both professional dedication and personal understanding to his role at Alta Loma. Originally from Colorado, he was drawn to behavioral health work in part because of his own family’s experience with addiction, which grounds his commitment to ensuring every client’s path to treatment and beyond is as seamless as possible. From his starting position as Mentor, to Team Lead, to entering the business office coordinator position, Carter’s passion and knowledge for this industry continues to grow alongside his career. He approaches the operational side of treatment with the kind of proactive urgency and compassion that only comes from someone who’s seen firsthand what’s at stake when a family is waiting on the other side of a phone call.

Outside the office, Carter is an avid mountain biker and weightlifter who thrives on discipline and forward momentum. He’s passionate about building stronger, more connected communities. Carter is proud to be part of a facility that meets people at the intersection of mental health and substance abuse and helps them find a way forward.

Joe

Therapeutic Staff

Joe is a local rescue that provides our residents with all the snuggles and playtime they can handle. When they aren’t engaged in these activities, they can be found napping or gnawing on a chew toy of their choosing.

We encourage our residents to experience the soothing demeanor Joe displays.