Your Morningside Team Leaders:
Your Treatment, Your Recovery
Morningside Recovery's treatment leaders range from Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Medical Doctors (General Practice; Specialists), Certified Chemical Dependency Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Registered Dietitians, Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, Licensed Acupuncturists, Certified Tai Chi and Yoga Instructors...all bolstered by our consistently client-nurturing support staff.
KENNETH PERLMUTTER, Ph.D
FAMILY PSYCHOLOGIST (PSY 25112)
Dr. Perlmutter is a licensed clinical psychologist who brings 20-plus years of experience working with individuals and families struggling with complex psychological and behavioral healthcare difficulties including addiction. In addition to providing Morningside’s Family Programming Kenneth is Clinical Director for Mind Therapy Clinic in San Francisco and offers customized workshops for families held around the country through his agency Perlmutter Workshops. He lectures about family disorders and treatment throughout the United States and trains other treatment professionals to deepen their understanding and skills.
Kenneth has served on the Graduate Faculty at San Francisco State's Counseling Dept. and as Associate Professor of Chemical Dependency Studies at CSU East Bay. He has worked as founding Clinical and Family Program Director at Alta Mira Treatment Programs, served on the Sierra Tucson clinical team, and seen individuals and families in his role as Clinical and Admissions Director for The Boyer House Foundation.
"I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of individuals and families experiencing addiction or mental health difficulties and the economic, interpersonal, and spiritual losses people suffer."
MEDICAL DOCTORS*
Morningside Recovery works with highly qualified, recovery focused physicians to oversee the medical needs of our clients. These doctors have longstanding experience with all detoxification protocols and are licensed Suboxone and Subutex providers, as well as a members of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and California Society of Addiction Medicine.
GERALD R. GROSSO, Psy.D., MFT
CLINICAL DIRECTOR,
FAMILY THERAPIST (MFT 34495)
Dr. Grosso is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience assisting individuals and families struggling with issues such as addiction, depression, trauma, and all levels of psychiatric care. He brings his extensive experience over the past 15 years supervising over 25 mental health professionals including Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Marriage & Family Therapists, and Clinical Social Workers to Morningside Recovery.
As Clinical Director, he supervises our clinical staff, and performs clinical reviews and case consultations of treatment services along with chart audits for medical necessity and compliance with insurance billing standards. He is especially adept at shepherding high-risk cases through the treatment process, providing coordinated treatment planning, interventions, and discharge planning with treatment providers.
Dr. Grosso holds a credential as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with the State of California. He received his Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) credential from the American Behavior Studies Institute, with an additional Certificate of Specialty in Treatment of Chemical Dependency. He received his M.A. in Psychology specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. He holds a professional membership in the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
ELIZABETH WATERMAN, Psy.D.
PSYCHOLOGIST (PSY 25081)
Dr. Waterman began her work in the recovery field in 2008 and has held positions as a clinician in residential treatment centers, mental health clinics, and private practice. She has extensive experience in conducting psychological evaluations and disability determination evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. Her areas of professional specialties include addiction, personality disorders, and mood and anxiety disorders. She enjoys working with clients from a variety of evidenced-based treatment approaches and is currently in the process of completing an intensive training program in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Elizabeth is dedicated to providing superior therapeutic services to clients and their families, as well as educating the public about mental illness and chemical dependency.
Elizabeth graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Orange County, in 2010. In 2012, Elizabeth became a licensed Psychologist in the state of California.
KAREN ALONSO, MA, LMFT
THERAPIST
Karen takes a creative approach when developing a treatment approach for her clients. She has worked in the field of recovery and co-occurring disorders since 1997. Prior to joining Morningside, Karen worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Karen enjoys working with a diverse group of clients who present with a wide range of ages and needs. Karen’s specialties include working with obsessive compulsive disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, self-harm, personality disorders, and anxiety disorders. She is trained in Exposure Response Prevention and implements this treatment along with Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapeutic approaches. Karen is a talented artist and enjoys sharing her expertise while leading therapeutic art sessions. Karen obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. Karen also holds a Certificate from The Behavior Therapy Training Institute in St. Louis Missouri for treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. She maintains memberships in the American Counseling Association, the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, The International OCD Foundation (IOCDF), and the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals Foundation (IAEDP).
Karen Alonso is also the author of the book Distinguish Yourself, a guide to deeper understanding of self, available here.
JULIANNE PIASCIK, MA, LMFT
THERAPIST
Julianne brings diversity, passion, and dedication to her clients. As she puts it, "I love seeing people get healthy, healed, and living a life without addiction." Her extensive background in dual-diagnosis treatment began at Charlee Family Care in Riverside, CA where she counseled children and families on how to break the cycle of dysfunction that is associated with abuse. Julianne continued at Providence Community Service in Orange County specializing in ADHD, behavioral modification, and family communication and support. She is training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and is bilingual in Spanish. Julianne graduated from Hope International University with a bachelors’ degree in Psychology and later received her Masters from Hope International University.
CINDY LARSEN, MA, LMFT
DISCHARGE PLANNER (LMFT 39103)
Cindy is a licensed therapist who brings over 15 years of experience as Morningside’s discharge planner. With a strong connection and passion for helping individuals, Cindy understands the importance of creating a continuum path of recovery. “Whether transition from one program to another or simply going back home, it is important that we map out a guide for continued success,” said Cindy. Cindy received her undergraduate and masters from Cal State Fullerton.
CARLOS ALCANTARA, MA, LCSW
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
Carlos Alcantara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual, family, and group therapy for the past 12 years. Carlos has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults within the juvenile justice system who struggle with mental illness and co-occurring drug addictions. Carlos has experience providing trauma-focused behavioral strategies to improve daily functioning, stabilize mood, and work on sobriety. Carlos has also worked with at-risk youth and their families providing therapy in multi-family group settings and on an individual basis out in the community.
Carlos provides solution-focused, strength-based mental health services through experiential and interactive therapeutic techniques. Carlos has experience providing drug/alcohol group therapy, dance therapy, like skills counseling, and addressing issues such as trauma, grief and loss, abuse, severe mental illness, and dysfunctional family dynamics.
Carlos received his Bachelor's degree from University of California, San Diego and completed his Masters in Social Work degree from the University of Southern California.
JOEL EDWARDS, BS, CADCA, CATC, WFR, CFR
DIRECTOR OF EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
If you don’t see Joel in his office you will most likely find him outside doing experiential work with Morningside clients. As the Director of Experiential Education, Joel facilitates or oversees all components of Morningside’s Experiential Programming including but not limited to: equine therapy, yoga, tai-chi, therapeutic arts, acupuncture, healthy living walks, sweat lodge, drum circle, and Morningside Adventure Program (MAP). In addition Joel takes advantage of the Southern California weather and leads clients on sensory awareness hikes and ocean excursions drawing upon his local knowledge and prodigious energy.
Joel also holds several national certifications which assure his clients safety while on remote adventures. He is a Wilderness First Responder (WFR), qualified to assess and handle medical emergencies and evacuations in the field. He is also a Clinical First Responder (CFR). At times, some clients may experience overwhelming emotional or psychological issues while on adventures. Joel’s CFR training enables him to “talk them off the ledge” until they can get to a safer place.
Aside from his work a Morningside Joel is active in the faith-based recovery community working with men and women in all stages of recovery. His own triumph over addiction led him into the treatment field and allows him the opportunity to provide support, empathy, and compassion to the clients he works with. Another facet of his work with Morningside clients are the groups that he facilitates and the one-on-one counseling that he provides focusing on substance abuse, motivational interviewing, and family dynamics. With a healthy love and respect for nature he can be found on the water, trail, ski slope, or with his dogs when not working with Morningside clients.
BETSY BRADLEY, BS, CADC-II
PSYCHODRAMA SPECIALIST
Betsy facilitates Morningside's Psychodrama Therapy group after receiving extensive training and supervision under the instruction of Jean Campbell of the Action Institute of California. Betsy is currently establishing certification as an Experiential Therapist in Psychodrama through the American Society of Experiential Therapists (ASET). Betsy completed her undergraduate work with California State Fullerton in Human Services; the concentration being mental health. She also completed a minor in Psychology. Betsy hopes to continue towards her masters in the fall of 2013 as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
Betsy has worked in the field of addiction and mental health recovery for over 15 years at various local 'recovery' facilities in the Newport Beach area. She received her Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II) credential in 2000 through Saddleback College. Her own personal experience is relatable to others embarking on their own journey into recovery. Her style and delivery often reach the most ambivalent and obstinate cases to overcome their barriers and embrace recovery while at the same time discovering their own spirituality. "I get to work in recovery and watch people's perception of life change as they transition from being trapped into an experience of having the freedom to choose life and live more responsibly."
Betsy describes psychodrama as, "A treatment modality that allows for more creativity and spontaneity allowing others to transform their reactions to life by letting out their own personal bogeymen." She says, "Facilitating groups through using psychodrama techniques has become my favorite way to engage with clients. Its like jumping onto a magic carpet ride; you never quite know where the experience will take you but the ride is fascinating. One huge benefit is that a cathartic healing often occurs in a short amount of time. No one leaves the group without some type of personal prize."
MICHAEL O'MAHONY, BA, MPS
DIRECTOR OF ACADEMIC SERVICES
As the administrator for Morningside Academic Institute, Michael recognizes that academic progress is frequently a casualty of drug and alcohol abuse. He is committed to helping students in recovery reconnect with educational goals that not only foster a sense of academic achievement but also ultimately empower the students and provide them with a greater sense of self-confidence as well. At Morningside Academic Institute, we connect our clients to local colleges and universities such as University of California at Irvine and Irvine Valley College, as well as a host of varied vocational schools and GED testing centers. The discovery of an active, positive passion for continued education is Morningside Academic Institute’s primary mission. Michael provides the stewardship and oversight that allows students to reconnect with interests that will ultimately be life-sustaining.
Possessing a B.A. in Management from Gettysburg College and a Masters Degree from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, Michael provides the students with the proper support and guidance they need to successfully navigate their reintroduction into the world of academics. He also brings qualities of understanding and empathy that are not only important to academic success, but even more vital as each student embarks on their journey in recovery.
SHANNON SCHOLZ, RRW
Care Advocate
Shannon brings to her position as a Client Care Advocate enormous energy and spirit. She is certified in Alcohol and Drug Studies and has an Associate’s Degree in Human Services. She continues her education and is currently fulfilling her service hours to complete her CAADE (California Association of Alcohol and Drug Educators) certification. Shannon has a dedication to helping people in recovery and as a Client Care Advocate she is a facilitator for client questions/issues/needs. Her passion is education and making that “client connection” that could ultimately save a life.
“I get tremendous fulfillment when I can see someone who was struggling with their road to recovery finally realize that they are “ready” to begin their journey. This is when amazing things start to happen and I get to be a part of the amazing transformation!”
MAGGIE BAUMANN, MA, LMFT
ADULT ADOPTION PROCESS THERAPIST
Maggie is a licensed therapist who leads Morningside’s weekly adoption process groups. Any resident from the birth adoption triad; meaning a resident who is a birth parent who's given up a child for adoption, a resident who is an adoptee, or a resident who is an adoptive parent, can participate in this group to work through any adoption related issues that may be impacting their treatment and recovery.
Maggie has a special interest in the treatment of adoption issues as she was adopted herself. It's easy for her to identify with the clients’ issues and to provide therapeutic care that addresses their specific needs. At Morningside Recovery, we provide personalized treatment to address the adoption process and how it impacts the lives of birth parents, adoptees and adoptive parents.
JODY MARGOLIS, MS, RD
DIETITIAN
Jody Margolis has been dedicated to educating people on nutrition for over 14 years. She is a graduate of University of California, San Diego and hold’s a Masters Degree from Boston University in Human Nutrition and Metabolism. She is a Registered Dietitian and is certified by the American Dietetic Association in Child & Adolescent Weight Management. She has been on the Expert Panel for Parenting O.C. Magazine and speaks for national organizations on nutrition and wellness. In addition, Jody is a member of the California Dietetic Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. As a valued team member of Morningside’s Healthy Living Program, Jody takes clients on educational shopping trips, teaches seminars, assists in meal planning and provides general nutrition advice. She also helps clients discover ways to find the long-term resources they need to accomplish their recovery goals.
Jody is committed to helping her clients by providing them with food and nutrition information they can trust. As a Registered Dietitian (R.D.) Jody helps you improve your eating habits to support a healthy life and teaches you how to break the cycle of disordered eating and addiction. She believes in making small changes to your diet that can help promote a lifetime of wellness. During counseling sessions she will empower you with nutrition knowledge, give you an individualized plan that is practical, and support you with words of encouragement to help you improve your body image. Jody believes that you truly are what you eat and will find which foods and lifestyle choices are right for you at any age.
A.S. "SANDY" GILTINAN, LAc
ACUPUNCTURIST
A graduate of the Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine program at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine, Sandy has worked as a licensed acupuncturist in private practice and in the recovery community for 10 years. He holds national board certification and state board certification in California, Oregon and Idaho. A former professional ski and kayak guide, Sandy brings his deep connection with the natural world into his approach, helping clients find wellness and energetic balance on their path to a whole, healthy and peaceful life.
JEFF LAVINSKY
CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR
Jeff is a dynamic and inspiring Kundalini Yoga Instructor with Morningside Recovery. He is dedicated to uplifting and serving his students in overcoming challenges including pain management and addition recovery.
Jeff is a Level 1 certified Kundalini Yoga Instructor, a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, and Level 1 Mahbound Lotus Instructor. He is also interning at Aquarian Teachers Academy while completing his Doctorate in Ayurveda.
JOYCE PATRICK
TAI CHI INSTRUCTOR
Joyce is a long time practitioner as well as a student of Tai Chi Chuan. As the owner of a local martial art school, the practice of Tai Chi keeps her focused and relaxed while providing avenues for her to give back to the community. Joyce brings both patience and discipline as an instructor to clients at Morningside Recovery. Her martial arts and communications training coupled with her natural talent for making people feel at ease serve her well in this area. Joyce shares with her clients her love for Tai Chi and its many health benefits, while demonstrating her value of others making classes relaxed and enjoyable for all of her students.
KRISTI HUGHES, BA
THERAPEUTIC ARTS COUNSELOR
Kristi brings a creative outlet for self-expression to clients at Morningside Recovery. Combining her artistic background with counseling education and 12-Step theory, Kristi facilitates workshops that promote client self-discovery and confidence building through art making and process critique. With personal experience in overcoming addiction, Kristi understands the dilemma faced by many in early recovery of suddenly feeling emotions that sometimes cannot even be identified, let alone expressed in simple words. Clients work in a variety of media including paint, ink, clay, and sculpture that are well suited to provide alternative avenues of self-expression that stretch beyond the limits of verbal communication. Communicating intuitively with color, brush stroke, and line quality give clients a new language to express their emotions.
Kristi holds a Bachelor of Fine Art degree in Studio Art and a Bachelor of Art degree in Art History from Chapman University. She has also completed the Drug and Alcohol Counseling Studies certificate program at InterCoast Colleges and holds a certificate in Therapeutic Arts Facilitation from Chapman University’s extended education program.
LISA MODIRI, CMT
DRUM CIRCLE FACILITATOR
Lisa is a firm believer in the Mind Body Spirit connection. Her healing work started off when she became a Certified Massage Therapist in the state of California. She continued her studies with Energy Healing and Reiki, which led to exploring more modalities in alternative healing. This ultimately brought her to learning a form of self exploration called “journeying” (a type of meditation that is driven by the sound of a continuous drum beat). Her desire to learn more prompted her to study with a number of teachers from The Esalen Institute, The Foundation of Shamanic Studies and independent Master Teachers. After using this modality to continue a path of self healing, she was inspired to share this type of healing with others. Lisa currently facilitates The Drum Circle at Morningside Recovery.
* Clients are free to make use of the services of any psychiatrist, physician, or prescriber, as well as receive second opinions, while in treatment.
Testimonials
