Meet The Team

Chelsea Smart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Brandman University, and her Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University.

Chelsea is a US Navy Veteran with an understanding of veterans’ programs and benefits and experience advocating for veteran clients in need of mental health and substance use treatment.

Following her naval career, Chelsea focused her attention on adult behavioral health, gaining experience in the residential treatment of co-occurring disorders, domestic violence advocacy, youth corrections, and transitional programs to reduce recidivism rates.

Chelsea believes in meeting the client where they are at and providing compassionate care that is free from judgment or stigma. Chelsea has a history of working with and advocating for clients from a variety of backgrounds, with varying challenges and barriers. She utilizes the strengths perspective to build upon clients’ resilience and assist them in overcoming barriers to recovery.

Justin Szela is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse. Justin has worked within the residential level of care with both adults and teenagers, worked in correctional facilities, and worked with the homeless in Los Angeles. Justin’s work experience has led him to encounter most mental health diagnoses, most substances that can be misused, and a professional understanding that “everyone needs to be treated differently.”

Justin believes in the power of second chances and that “everyone is a human at their core. Justin emphasizes the importance of clinical rapport with all clients and meeting clients where they are in order to accomplish client goals. Justin believes in advocating for his client's needs, empowering their self-belief and inner self-worth, and taking the time in treatment to “be selfish” and make changes to help them achieve their goals and dreams. Justin uses a somatic approach in his therapy to help clients understand powerlessness in addiction based on nervous system dysregulation.

Justin obtained his Bachelor of Social Work from Eastern Connecticut State University and continued his education by obtaining his Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California with a concentration in Adult Mental Health and Wellness and Substance Use. Since entering the field, Justin holds trainings in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Processing therapy, Thought-field Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Out of the office, Justin spends his free time on the golf course, hanging out with his dogs Kevin and Dylan, spending time with his wife and son, or playing video games with his friends.

Mary Sewright is a Licensed Professional Counselor with six years of experience in the field of mental health and co-occurring disorders. Mary obtained her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Portland in 2016, and her Master’s in Forensic Psychology with a specialization in Terrorism, Trauma, and Resilience in 2018.

Mary has worked as a counselor in the realm of substance use and addiction for four years at inpatient, residential, PHP, and IOP levels of care. She believes in a person-centered approach, as well as integrating CBT, DBT, MI, and solution-focused interventions. Mary personally finds it important to include humor and positivity in her work. Additionally, she prioritizes personalizing treatments to the needs of each individual client.

Mary has unique experience which includes co-hosting a radio show on mental health, working in an adolescent-male correctional facility, and advocating internationally for social work relations with military lawyers in response to terrorism.

During her free time, Mary enjoys creative endeavors such as pottery and textile arts.

Kristian Cerna is a Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor (LIAC) and integrative mental health professional with a passion for helping individuals reconnect with their purpose and restore emotional balance. She is a devoted mother while in her free time she enjoys traveling, baking, fitness, nature and learning.
With over a decade of sobriety and 6 years of experience in clinical settings, Kristian blends evidence-based practices with holistic healing techniques to support whole-person wellness.

Kristian specializes in Trauma-informed modalities such as Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She also incorporates mindfulness practices including meditation, Reiki, yoga, and holotrophic breathwork, into her work to help clients heal on emotional, physical, and spiritual levels.

Currently, Kristian serves as the primary therapist at Outpatient level and holds additional roles in healthcare settings. She works with a diverse range of clients, including those struggling with addiction, severe mental illness, trauma, and life transitions.

Kristian holds a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Arizona State University. She is pursuing her Ph.D. in General Philosophy of Psychology at Grand Canyon University, where her research focuses on trauma, resiliency, and preventive interventions in underserved communities.
Kristian is deeply committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and empowering space where clients can explore their inner world and move toward healing and hope.

Kayla Bakin is a dedicated Primary Therapist at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, where she brings a unique blend of personal insight and professional expertise. Kayla has recently earned a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from San Jose State University, obtained in 2018. She is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and is peer support certified, adding depth to her understanding and approach to therapy.

Kayla’s journey into mental health care was motivated by her own experiences with substance abuse, trauma, and co-occurring disorders, which profoundly shape her empathetic approach to treatment. Her therapeutic style integrates Humanistic, Solution-Focused, and Attachment Theory perspectives with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing techniques, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored approach to each client’s needs.

Before becoming a Primary Therapist, Kayla worked as an assessment coordinator and case manager at Pinnacle Peak Recovery for 2.5 years, gaining valuable experience in various supportive roles that focus on helping people recover and rebuild their lives.

Personally, Kayla is driven by a desire for deep connection, empathy, compassion, and a clear sense of purpose in her work. She is supported by her husband, Jared, and maintains a close relationship with her parents, who have been instrumental in her personal and professional growth.

In her free time, Kayla enjoys the company of her two kitties, Benny and Jett, and indulges in her passion for reading, particularly fantasy novels. She also has an active social life, enjoys traveling, exploring the outdoors, and has a love for true-crime documentaries.

Sydney Henderson is a Primary Therapist at Pinnacle Peak Recovery with five years of experience in the behavioral health field. Her career began as a youth mentor in an adolescent residential treatment center, where she quickly advanced into a leadership role. Since then, she has worked across a range of settings—from community mental health and substance use IOP, where she developed her own DBT group curriculum, to private practice environments specializing in trauma.

Sydney holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Utah, with additional studies in Sociology and Criminology. She went on to earn her Master of Social Work from Arizona State University with a concentration in Advanced Direct Practice. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist through the Arizona Trauma Institute.

Known for her authentic, non-judgmental approach, Sydney draws from modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing. She tailors each treatment plan to the individual, believing that sustainable recovery is rooted in building on personal strengths. Her practice is trauma-informed and client-centered, with an emphasis on addressing not just the physical aspects of addiction, but the cognitive and emotional layers that often go unspoken.

Sydney’s passion for mental health work is deeply personal. Having navigated her own challenges, she brings empathy, understanding, and a grounded presence to her work. She believes recovery is possible for everyone—and that it begins with feeling truly seen and supported.

Outside of the therapy room, Sydney enjoys making pottery, exploring new restaurants, collecting postcards from her travels, and attending live concerts.

Michael Calito is a Primary Therapist at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, where he blends a strong foundation in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with a deeply personal commitment to helping others grow. With a background working with individuals with serious mental illness and college students navigating stress and life transitions, Michael brings both structure and empathy to the therapeutic space.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Iowa State University and completed his Master’s in Rehabilitation and Addiction Counseling from Saint Cloud State University, with a focus on clinical practice. Michael is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of Arizona.

Michael’s approach to therapy is rooted in behavioral work—equipping clients with tangible, skills-based tools to move toward a more fulfilling life—while also allowing space for meaningful processing and insight. He believes change is possible for anyone willing to do the work, and he’s passionate about walking alongside clients as they identify and overcome the barriers holding them back.

His decision to enter the mental health field was driven by his own early struggles with anxiety and depression. That personal experience fuels his deep empathy for others and his desire to support people in reconnecting with themselves and building lives they’re proud of.

Outside of work, Michael enjoys golfing, spending time outdoors, staying connected to his church community, and relaxing by the pool. He credits much of who he is today to the unwavering support of his stepfather Steve, his mother Noemi, and his brother-in-law Matt.

Michelle Krzeszowski is a dedicated therapist at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, with six years of experience counseling individuals through various mental health diagnoses, particularly specializing in co-occurring disorders. She holds two Master’s Degrees in Forensic Psychology and Addictions Counseling from Grand Canyon University, both completed with honors. Michelle is a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist with an emphasis in Addictions (CCTS-A) and is currently preparing for the IC&RC credentialing examination.

Michelle’s approach to treatment is centered on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Known for her empathetic nature, Michelle guides her clients to explore deeply within themselves, helping them to uncover their inner strength and navigate their journey to sobriety.

She equips them with a comprehensive set of coping skills tailored to handle various situations effectively. Her practice is a "judgment-free zone," reflecting her unbiased and nonjudgmental ethos, underscored by a warm, caring, compassionate, and outgoing personality.

Her motivation to become a therapist stems from her previous experiences in law enforcement and the court system, where she observed the neglect and stigmatization of individuals suffering from addiction. Additionally, being a mother of a recovering addict who was diagnosed with substance-use induced schizophrenia has deeply influenced her commitment to advocate for those battling addiction, ensuring they feel heard and valued.

Family is a cornerstone of Michelle’s life. Married for over 20 years and a mother of three, she cherishes every moment with her family, including her two fur babies—a Great Dane and a French Bulldog. Her son’s resilience and commitment to recovery inspire her daily, motivating her to empower her clients to recognize their worth and potential.

In her spare time, Michelle enjoys walking her dogs, participating in a Volkswagen car club with her husband, cruising in their VW notchback, and gardening. These hobbies provide her with a balanced and fulfilling life, reflecting her belief in the importance of nurturing both personal passions and professional commitments.

Haylie Lafica is a primary therapist who has experience predominantly in addiction treatment but also encompassing work with mental health primary clients. Haylie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University San Marcos, obtained in 2019, and recently completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Arizona University in 2024. She is a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of Arizona.

Her therapeutic approach is person-centered, focusing on self-compassion, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Haylie values incorporating humor into her sessions and strives to create a judgment-free, validating, and empathetic atmosphere for her clients.

Haylie's personal journey through addiction and subsequent recovery, which has spanned nearly a decade, has deeply motivated her to pursue a career in the mental health field, specifically in exploring diverse forms of addiction treatment. She is passionate about helping individuals rediscover themselves and find new meaning in sobriety.

Family plays a pivotal role in Haylie's life and career. The unwavering support of her spouse has been crucial in her recovery and professional journey. Together, they have two sons who provide daily motivation and joy.

In her leisure time, Haylie enjoys going to the movies, exercising, reading fantasy books, coloring, and spending quality time with her boys. Her hobbies not only offer relaxation but also time to reconnect with her family and nurture her own well-being.

Erin Jaeger is the EMDR therapist at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to holistic treatment. Starting her career as a tech in 2007, Erin quickly ascended through various roles, becoming Clinical Director in 2019. She has worked with diverse populations across all levels of care, finding her niche in providing EMDR therapy for trauma and co-occurring symptoms, particularly within the corrections population.

Erin holds a BA in Psychology and an MA in Counseling. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Traum
a Professional, and recently became a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional.

Her treatment approach emphasizes the importance of addressing the whole person. Erin recognizes that substance abuse is often just the visible part of deeper underlying issues, such as unprocessed trauma. She integrates physical wellness practices—including nutrition, quality sleep, and consistent exercise—into her therapy. For those with a spiritual inclination, she supports incorporating spiritual wellness to enrich their recovery journey.

Personally, Erin’s motivation stems from her own recovery and the challenges faced by friends and family with addiction and mental illness. Having been closely connected with individuals who have been incarcerated, she passionately believes in the potential for healing and growth beyond their past actions. This perspective drives her to see her clients as more than their past, inspiring her daily with their capacity for transformation.

Family support plays a crucial role in recovery, a value deeply ingrained in Erin’s approach, whether it involves blood relatives or a chosen family network.

Outside of work, Erin enjoys staying active at the gym, reading, volunteering at a local nursing home, and traveling extensively to enrich her personal and professional life.

Marsi Salmi is a seasoned professional at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, where she leads psychodrama groups with a passion and expertise cultivated over decades. With 12 years of dedicated training in psychodrama, Marsi brings a deep understanding of dynamic therapeutic techniques to her role.

Her career began in 1992, and she has since provided counseling for adults and adolescents with severe mental health and dual diagnosis issues. Her extensive background also includes significant roles in HR recruitment and organizational development, enriching her approach to group dynamics and interpersonal relationships.

Marsi holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Counseling from Arizona State University, as well as advanced degrees in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University. She integrates her education with her clinical expertise to offer holistic treatment plans that emphasize cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal sociometrics.

Driven by her own profound experiences and motivated by the challenges faced by family members, Marsi is deeply committed to her work. She believes in fostering healing and growth by helping clients reconnect with themselves and build fulfilling relationships.

Outside of her professional life, Marsi is actively involved in community service through the Optimist’s Club and enjoys creative pursuits like crafting for her Blythe doll collection, emphasizing the therapeutic value of play and creativity in everyday life.

For over three decades, Frank Thompson has committed himself to the transformative power of music and wellness. With a rich background as a Teaching Artist, he's deeply engaged in the healing arts. As a Health Rhythms Facilitator for 20 years, Frank has touched the lives of numerous individuals, from at-risk youth and those in recovery to active seniors and dementia patients.

From 2010 to 2020, was a Faculty Associate at Arizona State University. During that same period, he played a Leadership role with Ear Candy Charity. Frank is a Pre-Approved Continuing Education Provider for the Certified Board of Music Therapists and co-creator of "Drumming From the Heart" with Dr. David Engstrom. Frank is a Board Member of the Cancer Support Center of Arizona.

Frank's therapeutic approach is to use the musical arts to evoke the joy of living and interacting with others. Frank's dedicated journey is a heartfelt belief in the power of positive community interactions. He sees these interactions as a remedy for loneliness and believes that, through the arts, everyone can find their "band" or community.

Away from his professional commitments, Frank is anchored by his family and indulges in West African drumming, writing, and podcasting.

Lori Binder is an insured, and Licensed Acupuncturist in the state of Arizona, as well as the owner of Infinity Acupuncture & Wellness PLLC, she earned her Master of Science degree in Acupuncture from the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture in 2013. Prior to earning her degree in acupuncture, she obtained diplomas in Clinical Nutrition, Massage Therapy, and General Studies. Lori was also employed as a Chiropractic Assistant for 9 years and has been a Massage Therapist for over 22 years.

Lori has been working with substance use disorder and mental health clinics for over 5 years. She has experience working at both inpatient and outpatient facilities. She strives to meet her client's specific needs and her intention is to create a healing relationship with each individual.

She focuses on treating the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. Lori believes healing is a partnership and there are many modalities and recommendations that she can provide in order to support each client's individual goals and needs.

With over 30 years of experience in Human Services, Renee Caccamese is an asset to Pinnacle Peak Recovery. In her diverse roles as a meditation teacher and trainer, sound healer, and Life Coach, Renee integrates a holistic approach into her work, promoting both recovery and overall well-being.

Educated at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, Southwest School of Behavioral Healthy Studies Assessment and Treatment, and Rio Salado College, Renee has honed her skills and knowledge, most notably achieving an Advanced Foundation for Chemical Dependency.

Central to Renee’s approach is her deep-rooted passion for serving as a catalyst for personal growth. She values the opportunity to guide individuals toward a richer connection with their own minds, bodies, and spirits. Her offerings are varied and meaningful, encompassing meditation, authentic communication skills, art, and nurturing a deep-seated love for oneself. In leading her groups, which range from experiential learning to art therapy, Renee focuses on mindfulness practices, sound healing, and meditation.

On a personal level, Renee's drive for this work is heartfelt and deeply connected to her own life experiences. Committed to holding space with others, she gently guides her clients toward self-love and healing, a dedication inspired by the experiences of friends and family who have struggled with addiction. For Renee, her work is more than a profession; it is a way to contribute positively and empathetically to the lives of others, helping to inspire real and lasting change.

Renee views family as a foundational aspect of life, going beyond genetic ties to a broader, more inclusive understanding. For her, love is a central component of social and emotional development, emphasizing that we are all interconnected and deserving of love and understanding.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Renee enjoys a fulfilling personal life, which includes a love for art, meditation, sound healing, and travel. She finds peace in water, whether swimming or simply being near it, and she holds a deep love for animals. Gardening, another of her passions, allows Renee to nurture life in a different form, adding to the tranquility she cultivates in her life and work.

Sidney Michel is a Case Manager at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, bringing a deep understanding of recovery processes to support individuals dealing with addiction, trauma, and mental health issues. His initial professional experience in advertising provided him with a solid foundation in client relations, which he now applies to his role in behavioral health, driven by his own personal recovery journey.

Sidney holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and is currently pursuing a Peer Support Certification, enhancing his ability to connect and support those in recovery. His firsthand experience with recovery gives him a unique perspective that enhances his interactions with clients.

Outside of work, Sidney's life is enriched by the steadfast support of his family and children, who have been instrumental in his personal and professional journey.

He enjoys activities that reflect his Miami heritage, like beach outings and water sports. Additionally, Sidney is a car enthusiast, a collector of 90s memorabilia and custom jewelry, and a dedicated San Francisco 49ers fan.

Erin Antry is a dedicated Case Manager at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, whose academic background in criminal justice and family studies initially aimed to support children affected by abuse and neglect. However, her own experiences with treatment and recovery reshaped her career path, igniting a passion to help others navigate their own paths to recovery.

Erin finds profound fulfillment in her role, particularly in witnessing the dramatic transformation clients undergo from their arrival to their departure. Observing individuals regain their hope and vitality under her care is both rewarding and motivating.

Sobriety clarified Erin's purpose: to give back and support others. This realization led her to become a caregiver, a role in which she found immense fulfillment helping elderly clients for over a year. Now, Erin is eager to extend her impact further in the behavioral health field and is working towards obtaining her peer support certificate.

Erin's dedication to helping others is also fueled by her own experiences with domestic abuse. Overcoming multiple abusive relationships, she is passionately committed to helping clients with similar backgrounds discover hope and strength. The unwavering support from her sister and mother throughout her journey has been crucial, and her desire to make them proud fuels her dedication.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Erin enjoys a variety of personal interests. She loves cooking, playing pickleball, painting, reading thriller novels, and relaxing with her kitten Millie while watching her favorite TV shows, "Friends" and "The Office."

Jared Bakin is the Case Manager at Pinnacle Peak’s Inpatient Center. Jared has a background in case management and has experience in assisting people in crisis. He enjoys helping people when they need it most. He believes that having an advocate and someone to help with lives outside stressors is extremely important during the early stages of recovery.

Due to his own experiences with addiction, he knows first-hand what our clients are going through, and how overwhelming things can be. Jared believes that accepting help and trusting in the recovery process are the keys to success.

Jared is also a musician and performer, and having that passion has been a big part of his success in recovery. He also has 2 cats named Benny & Jett. He would like to live in NYC one day, but his next big goal in life is to spend a month traveling in Europe.

Marisa Velez is a Case Manager at Pinnacle Peak Recovery with a rich background in hospitality, having dedicated over ten years to supporting the elderly and disabled. Her experiences in life, coupled with close family interactions in mental health and substance abuse, have deeply informed her perspective and approach to behavioral health.

Currently working towards an Associate degree in Counseling with Applied Psychology, expected in May 2025, Marisa already holds a peer support certificate. Her professional and educational pursuits underscore her commitment to the field and her desire to deepen her understanding and skills.

Marisa’s approach to treatment is highly personalized. She understands that each client's journey is unique and requires flexible, adaptive strategies. She places a strong emphasis on empowering clients to advocate for themselves, helping them build confidence in their ability to manage their recovery.

Her motivation in this field is deeply personal. Having navigated her own challenges with addiction and endurance through abusive relationships, Marisa has discovered her voice and strengths due to these adversities. Inspired by her journey, she is driven to help others find their true selves.

On a personal note, Marisa's life is expanding beautifully as she and her longtime partner are expecting their first child, following a year of sobriety and stability. In her free time, Marisa enjoys video games, collecting Pokémon cards, exploring thrift shops, and playing bingo. She also loves taking her two cats for nightly walks as well as exploring new places, always keen to experience more of the world.