ADMINISTRATION

Larry Davis, LCSW, Administrative and Clinical Director

With 30 years in the field of clinical social work and as former clinical director of The Friary, Larry recently returned to The Friary as its administrative and clinical director. Larry has worked throughout the Lakeview system and continues to teach, develop treatment and advocate recovery for those who are seeking balance in their lives. "Recovery is a complicated process. We have a truly dedicated, multidisciplinary team here at The Friary to help people begin believing in themselves once again. Recovery ends ‘just surviving’ and allows people to begin really living and sharing their lives."

 MEDICAL AND NURSING 

Terry Ptacek, MD, Medical Director, Certified Addictionologist

Dr. P’s blend of expertise and compassion bring our patients the best medical care available. In his role as Medical Director he works closely with the treatment team to assure that total patient care is achieved. "When people stop abusing drugs and alcohol it’s amazing to see how the body can heal."

Faith Smith, RN, BS, Director of Nursing

As Director of Nursing, Faith makes it a priority to see each patient every day. She monitors their nursing and emotional needs, assuring patient needs are met. The nurses in this department are all very experienced in working with addiction and consistently get perfect scores in our patient satisfaction survey. "We work hard to assess and give the patients what they need.”

 CLINICAL 

Melanie Cassulo, LMHC, Addictions Therapist

Melanie’s past experience at a community mental health center gives her a broad background in mental health and working with dually diagnosed patients. Her focus on Interpersonal process and Cognitive Behavioral therapy helps patients learn new ways to cope with life. "I see the whole person and not just the problem that brings them here. That’s just one part of it. To be successful in recovery, mind, body and spirit all must be addressed."

Rita Wood, MS, Addictions Therapist

Rita is our trauma specialist, using Experiential techniques to help patients address core issues. She also conducts the Family Aftercare program and maintains contact with many alumni and their families. "We are all a part of our past experiences. We need to come to peace with our past in order to be comfortable in the present."

Penni Tomlinson, LMHC, Addictions Therapist

Penni rejoined The Friary staff after a ten year absence. During this time she worked in Japan as a civilian contractor with the USAF mental health clinic. She then spent 5 years as a team leader at dual diagnosis programs in Memphis and New Orleans. Her position in a New Orleans area psychiatric hospital was lost, along with personal property in Hurricane Katrina. "I have seen addiction affect all aspects of a person’s life and feel we must first identify the impact within clients before we begin the healing process."

Stacy Aberle, LMHC, Addictions Therapist

Stacy brings to the position experience in individual and family addictions counseling as well as in crisis intervention and aftercare treatment planning. In addition, Aberle has provided victim’s assistance counseling.

Don Johnson, LMHC, Addictions Therapist

Don’s treatment at The Friary in 1986 was life changing. In sobriety he decided to change careers from a successful insurance salesperson and return to school for a Masters degree in Counseling. He initially returned to The Friary as Continuing Care Coordinator and then as a therapist. "This place saved my life. I hope to give some of that back."

Wadell Davis

Wadell is in charge of our Continuing Care program and works to strengthen our alumni network. He lives what we teach. "We’ll love you till you can love yourself."

 ADMISSIONS 

Rebecca Darmer, Admissions Supervisor

As Admissions Coordinator, Rebecca brings her experience from other regional treatment centers. Growing up surrounded by addiction, she has seen firsthand the power of addiction and the damage it can cause to individuals and families. "The spirituality and sense of peace at The Friary help to make this place special. People can begin the process of healing here and move ahead to brighter days."

Darlene Bancroft, Admissions Specialist

Darlene is the newest member of our admissions team. She comes to us with a degree in social work and experience in crisis intervention. "I love helping people help themselves and working with a committed team that helps people overcome life’s challenges."

Ben Allan and other visiting pets

Ben has achieved a Good Citizenship award and is working towards his certification as a Therapy Dog. He belongs to one of the therapists but occasionally spends time at The Friary greeting new patients. Other pets are available to offer unconditional love and acceptance to all.