Morningside Addiction Recovery Staff
Thank you for visiting our web site. This page provides you with a complete list of our primary staff.
CANDACE BRUCE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Candace Bruce leads Morningside Recovery with extensive executive-level experience and leadership in healthcare. Candace came to Morningside with 20 years of treatment experience in addiction, eating disorder and other co-occurring disorders. She has held a range of positions in executive management including Director of Intake, Director of Marketing & Business Development, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director. She holds a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in healthcare and marketing. Candace’s treatment experience encompasses traditional medical & social model treatment, experiential holistic treatment, and general health and wellness. She has worked with Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. David Simon in program and business development and has worked with world-renowned programs with multi-levels of care within the treatment field.
“Morningside Recovery is an outstanding organization. Our staff has an authentic passion for the work they do, a genuine belief that there is hope for people struggling with addiction and that sustainable recovery is possible. I am honored and grateful to have the opportunity to lead this highly-respected team at a well-established company. Morningside is a leader in addiction/dual diagnosis treatment and we are committed to providing each client the best opportunity for recovery, growth and transition into a vested lifestyle of sustainable recovery.”
– Candace Bruce, CEO
“Candace’s enthusiasm, vision and ability are boundless. We are thrilled to have Candace on board to lead the team at Morningside.”
– Founders, Morningside Recovery
Clinical Treatment Team
KENNETH PERLMUTTER
EXECUTIVE CLINICAL DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR OF TRAINING & EDUCATION
Dr. Kenneth Perlmutter leads our clinical team, our family programs, and provides staff training and educational workshops to our clients, families, and to outside professionals and at community events. Kenneth oversees our clinical team leaders and the general course of the Morningside treatment milieu. Kenneth also serves on the Graduate Faculty at San Francisco State University , Counseling Dept. and is Associate Professor of Chemical Dependency Studies at CSU East Bay . He has overseen clinical staffing and programming while developing family programs and leading the clinical teams at Alta Mira Treatment Programs and The Boyer House Foundation. Kenneth has a deep understanding of addiction, the co-occurring disorders that accompany it and effective treatment methods to help those suffering find recovery. Kenneth has also served on the clinical team at Sierra Tucson and has maintained a private practice Novato and San Francisco . Dr. Kenneth Perlmutter is a fantastic speaker. In addition, to his community speaking engagements, he has hosted several lunch and learn events and has lead panels at the Health Etc. expo in Northern California premiering keynote speaker Dr. Mehmet Oz.
“I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of individuals and families experiencing addiction or mental health difficulties and the associated physical, economic, interpersonal, and spiritual disorders so often involved. Most families struggling with these conditions are wounded by legacies of loss, disconnection, illness, tragedy, and pain. Each member tries to cope as best they can whether by using substances, attempting to fix or control things, working to keep everyone happy, accepting blame, or escaping either physically or psychically. Physical or emotional illness develops in most members, often in subtle and secreted forms (distorted eating behavior, sleep disturbances, sexual obsessing, lying/covering up, loss of pleasure, over-working, and even substance abuse in those other than the originally identified alcoholic or addict). We must help each member in these wounded sytems find alternatives to the destructive coping mechanisms they adopt and the forces that encourage them. In so doing, we interrupt the transmission of addiction, compulsion, and shortened life span that will otherwise plague the next generation.”
DR. KEVIN McCAULEY
FAMILY PROGRAM ADDICTION SPECIALIST
Dr. Kevin McCauley is a graduate of the Medical College of Pennsylvania. After completion of medical school, he joined the Navy and became a Naval Flight Surgeon. He earned his wings at Pensacola , Florida and was assigned to a Marine helicopter squadron (The Red Lions). Later he was transferred to Marine F/A-18 Hornet squadron (Sharpshooters). While working as a flight surgeon Dr. McCauley treated pilots with alcohol and drug problems. As a physician, he advocates strongly for the rights of addicts as patients. Dr. Kevin McCauley is an established expert in addictions and the way and why addiction develops. He has lectured throughout the world to the general public, those suffering from addiction, their families, and the professionals who treat them.
THEODORE G. WILLIAMS, MD
PSYCHIATRIST
Dr. Williams has been in private psychiatric practice in Orange County, California for 20 years. He had a previous career as a U.S. Navy psychiatrist sub specializing in the treatment of alcohol and drug abuse. After his navy retirement, her served as Medical Director for several private psychiatric hospitals prior to joining the staff of St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, Ca where he currently serves as Medical Director of Addiction Treatment Services and Eating Disorders. He specializes in the treatment of patients with dual diagnoses of a psychiatric disorder coupled with a drug and/or alcohol dependency. He has served as Medical Director of Morningside Recovery for several years and is a strong supporter of all Twelve-Step programs.
JILL SHELTON, FNP
NURSE PRACTITIONER
Jill Shelton is an independent contractor as the Nurse Practitioner for Morningside Recovery. She graduated with High Honors from Long Beach State University with her Masters of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner. She is licensed to see patients of all ages, and has extensive experience working with low-income and minority children and their families. Jill has worked in the field of Chemical Dependency for 6 years. In her spare time, Jill enjoys spending time with her husband and infant son.
REANNA ROBLES, MA
LEAD THERAPIST
With a lifelong goal of becoming a therapist, Reanna provides the highest quality of care and commitment to her clients at Morningside Recovery. She has served as a primary clinician within our treatment program from 2007 to present. After completing her undergraduate degree in Psychology at California State University Northridge, she continued her education and training at California State University Fullerton where she received her Masters degree in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. Her professional experience includes training in Pet Therapy with her dog Rocky in the Pet’s with Purpose Program, as well as training and facilitating child abuse treatment through the International Child Abuse Network. She continued her professional experience working at College Hospital in the dual diagnosis therapy program focusing on treatment for Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Prior to coming to Morningside, Reanna worked at Gerry House with dual diagnosis and substance abuse clients specializing in treatment for intravenous and survivors of HIV drug users. Reanna primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic as her approach to treatment and is the primary facilitator of our Family Program. Reanna works both with group and individual therapy and provides education and training on addiction and dual diagnosis treatment here at Morningside. She is a professional member of the Committee of Marriage and Family Therapist, and Psi Chi Honors Society.
MANDY NEEBLE, PSY.D.
THERAPIST
Dr. Mandy Neeble came to Morningside from GLASS Family Preservation (Gay Lesbian Adolescent Social Services) in partnership with the Department of Children and Family Services. Previously she worked at Twin Towers County Jail in Los Angeles , where she worked with the severely mentally ill, violent offenders, chemically dependent, and the dual diagnosis clients. Dr. Neeble worked with the most difficult clients and helped prepared them for re-admission back into society, by providing them with individualized therapy, and group therapy. Dr. Neeble also worked closely with the Los Angeles and Orange county court systems, providingdiagnostic testing for the defendants. She specializes in substance abuse dual diagnosis clients; specifically those who suffer from Bi-Polar Disorder, Major Depression, Schizophrenia, and/or Anxiety Disorders who also qualify for a diagnosis of Alcohol Dependence and/or, a specific drug of choice or Polysubstance Abuse. She received a degree in Psychology at Chapman University and completed her graduate work, a doctorate of clinical psychology (Psy.D.) with a concentration in forensics at Argosy University , an institution accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).
FOUZIEH NIKZAD, MAFouzieh has been working in the field of chemical dependency and dual diagnosis since 2004. Prior to joining Morningside, Fouzieh worked with adolescents in a residential center focusing on the treatment of drugs and alcohol and co-occurring disorders. She also worked with a diverse range of age groups in Southern California providing individual therapy, group therapy, crisis counseling, and developmental testing. Fouzieh has worked closely with the Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego County probation and Social Service departments in providing the most effective treatment for their clients.
Fouzieh serves as a primary therapist working with patients diagnosed with substance abuse and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. She facilitates group therapy weekly for patients including Relapse Prevention, Process and Educational Groups on mental health. Fouzieh attained her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Social Behaviors from the University of California Irvine. She continued her education and training at the University of San Diego where she attained her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
ALISA FALBO, MAAlisa came to Morningside Recovery experienced in working with individuals with various addictions, and has worked in different residential treatment settings including Miramar Recovery in Corona Del Mar and The Victorian of Newport Beach. She provides individual and family therapy in which she has an integrative approach blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, and Psychodynamic therapy. Alisa offers empathy and compassion to her clients and places their needs as a priority while working on building a trusting therapeutic. After completing her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Arizona State University , she continued her education and completed her Master’s degree at Pepperdine University where she received her Master’s in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is currently a member of the Christian Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, and is also a member of the Psi Chi Honors Society.
BOB GRANGER
ADVENTURE THERAPIST
Certifications: WFR, CFR, SRT
Serving as the Adventure Therapist at Morningside Recovery, Bob Granger keeps his days rewardingly full.
Before coming to Morningside, Bob implemented and directed an adventure program at another treatment center in Arizona while also carrying the titles of Admissions Director and Client Advocate. In the past, he also owned and managed successful businesses.
Being in years of recovery himself, Bob enjoys watching people heal and assisting them along the way. He finds it interesting how many different roads exist to healing and how each individual must find the one that’s right for them.
While not diligently working, you can find Bob rock climbing, hiking, reading or cooking.
MELISSA HOLMES, BA, CADC
MAI COUNSELOR
Melissa is the administrator for Morningside Academic Institute. She handles all aspects of assessment prior to school enrollment, including placement of new and continuing students, as well as regular structured study sessions with a tutor. Melissa recognizes that academic progress is frequently a casualty of drug and alcohol abuse. Utilizing colleges in the area- University of California at Irvine, Orange Coast College, Saddleback College, as well as a host of varied vocational schools, Melissa helps those in recovery move towards areas of study, academic achievement, and graduation. The discovery of an active positive passion is Morningside Academic Institute’s mission. Melissa provides the stewardship and oversight that allows students to reconnect with interests that will ultimately be life-sustaining.
Melissa has been an invaluable fixture at Morningside since 2007. Possessing a B.A. in Psychology from Limestone College and California Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certification, she brings qualities of understanding and empathy that are vital to clients entering the journey of recovery. Her warm approach and practical sense help her to mediate dialogue between clients and family in a constructive way that pays regard to both.
Community Staff
KYLE MARCOTTE
COMMUNITY DIRECTOR
After having worked in the entertainment industry & an IT contractor for the State Department information systems in Washington DC , Kyle began his education in recovery and treatment 7 years ago and has attended workshops in Gestalt therapy, relapse prevention, improving self esteem, and family counseling. He has previously worked at A Sober Way Home in Prescott Arizona , where he began his career helping people who suffer from alcohol and drug addiction. He has co-facilitated family groups and interventions. Kyle has held positions as house manger, counselor, community liaison and Director of Operations. From the moment Kyle arrived at Morningside his efforts have been a positive force on a smoothing running experience for our clients and community support. His commitment to patient care, quality of living and daily operations of Morningside is unprecedented. He understands first hand the devastation this disease causes and has committed his life to helping others. Whether he’s speaking with a patient’s family, a member of his team or a patient, his kindness and compassion graces the whole community.
TISA BROESDER
DETOX PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Tisa has a fantastic background in working with people struggling with addiction, eating disorders and other co-occurring disorders. She was formerly the program director for two state licensed treatment facilities in California and the Community House Director for Rebecca’s house. Tisa has also worked as a drug and alcohol counselor for inpatient and outpatient centers. Tisa ’s passion and dedication to client care and client recovery brings strength, encouragement and motivation to our clients for their own recovery. Tisa has dedicated her life to helping women and men in all aspects of their recovery.
Administrative Staff
DAVID GATES
DIRECTOR OF INTAKE
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Prior to joining Morningside Recovery David Gates was the manager of the men’s program at Yellowstone Recovery. David was also appointed to the Board of Director’s and a Committee Board Member of Yellowstone’s Recovery Program located in Costa Mesa, California. David has held various supervisory positions within Morningside Recovery’s organization. One of his primary focuses is helping clients come in to treatment. Often times, families, employers, or the client themselves are scared and unsure where to go or what to do. David’s compassion, understanding and ability to help those involved to walk through the fear and find the help they need is truly a gift to those who call; he has been there and understands what it takes. If you or someone you care for needs help please call
or email David at david@morningsiderecovery.com.
JEREMY BRODERICK
ADMISSIONS AND INTAKE COORDINATOR
As Admissions Coordinator Mr. Broderick has assisted hundreds of families in getting the proper help they need in this difficult time. He continues to be active in his own personal recovery and holds several volunteer positions in the local twelve step community. Jeremy, alumni of Morningside Recovery himself has a unique perspective on the program having been both a client and staff he is able to relate to young adults on a personal level. Jeremy has been an integral part of Morningside Recovery since 2002 holding many positions including Director of Community Relations, Court Liaison, and Community Director. He has his Associate of Arts degree and is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
RYAN NEWPORT
NATIONAL OUTREACH COORDINATOR
Ryan began his work in the Behavioral Health field over 6 years ago with a strong compassion to help people find a new path free from chemical dependency and underlying mental health and other core issues. Ryan has represented other top-rated treatment programs nationwide, and has held other positions such as Operations Manager, Treatment Coordinator, Wilderness Peer Advisor, Director of Admissions, Program Director, and Business Development Director. Ryan has spent the last several years coordinating with professional referents and working with families in crisis to help a loved one find their way to the help the need. In addition to these efforts at Morningside, Ryan has an active role in helping the clients who return home from Morningside find therapists & doctors in their area to continue their recovery. He also, coordinates various alumni & community events and services.
In Ryan’s spare time, you will find him actively involved in the abundant recovering community that Southern California has to offer, and also spending quality time being a committed father and spouse for his beautiful family.
Ryan states, “Professionally and non-professionally, it is important for me to spread the message of healing and lasting wellness, because that’s the message that was told to me. I am honored to be a part of the team at Morningside that does the same.”
JAIME HOLLAND
OFFICE MANAGER
Jaime was a drug and alcohol studies major at Saddleback College before coming to Morningside. She has worked as a mentor and regularly speaks in Orange County on women’s issues in recovery. She is active in the local recovery community. In addition to her current position at Morningside, she is the house manager of a local women’s sober living home.
