OUR TEAM
COMMITTED TO WELLNESSNarine Babikian, MHA
Narine is a dedicated professional with almost two decades of experience across Healthcare, Business Development, Sales, and Marketing. A firm believer that mental health is the pinnacle of our overall well-being, she is driven by a passion to contribute meaningfully to this critical aspect of human life. As a leading member of The Meadowglade’s team, Narine is committed to being part of a company where she can give back to the community and witness the transformative impact that valuable changes in mental health services can bring.
Narine’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, providing her with a robust foundation for making impactful changes in healthcare systems. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Narine is a well-rounded individual with a variety of interests. Her hobbies include reading, where she finds solace and inspiration, hiking to connect with nature and stay active, and cooking as a creative outlet. Family holds a special place in her heart, and she values spending quality time with loved ones.
Dr. Jenice Kim, MD #A140581
Dr. Kim is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience in treating severe mental illness and women’s mental health. She graduated from Chicago Medical School and trained at University of Southern California, where she served as a chief resident for inpatient psychiatry. She believes in collaborating with therapists, families, and other physicians to deliver the most effective care.
Dr. Haroon Burhanullah, MD #A166326
Dr. M. Haroon Burhanullah is a board-certified psychiatrist with experience in consultation psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric neuropsychiatry. He graduated from Dow Medical College in Pakistan before completing postdoctoral work in neuroimaging at Johns Hopkins University.
He has published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the highly respected American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Burhanullah is deeply committed to treating each patient with utmost care and respect. He is passionate about working with the most vulnerable patients, including those with moderate to severe behavioral problems whose families often suffer from caregiver burnout.
- Relationship Issues
- Anxiety and Mood Disorders
- LGBTQI
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Christina Hesselbrock, LCSW #24680
Christina is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Furman University. With over 25 years of experience, Christina specializes in providing therapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Her areas of expertise include adolescent and children’s behavioral concerns, relationship issues, anxiety and mood disorders, family conflict, special needs children and adolescents, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQI, couples therapy, and depression.
Christina’s extensive work experience showcases her dedication and passion for helping others. She has worked with diverse and high-risk populations, providing services to individuals and families in residential treatment and supporting children with severe behavioral issues and autism. Christina has a strong foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy and behavior modification, utilizing applied behavioral analysis techniques to reduce maladaptive behaviors in children and adolescents.
Employing a strengths-based approach and solution-focused therapy, Christina designs personalized treatment plans to address the unique needs of her clients. She is well-versed in interventions such as increasing self-awareness, improving coping skills, stress management techniques, mindfulness training, and guided imagery. With her wealth of knowledge and compassionate demeanor, Christina strives to support individuals in reaching their goals and improving their well-being through evidence-based and client-centered therapeutic approaches.
- ACSW
- Masters of Social Work, CSU
Alyssa Bedford, ACSW #101950
As a family therapist, Alyssa understands the importance of significant relationships to support and sustain recovery and to provide meaningful connections and a sense of purpose for every individual. She utilizes a family systems approach and is certified as a Strengthening Families Program instructor.
Alyssa has honed her skills as a therapist providing individual and group therapy in agencies providing intensive, residential, and outpatient services. She brings a trauma-informed lens and a strengths-based perspective into each clinical setting to help clients realize their personal resiliency and inspire hope. In her clinical practice, Alyssa communicates genuine care in creating a partnership for recovery. She believes individuals and families are looking for genuine solutions and a way forward toward healthy, happy, and meaningful lives and thus partners with clients to help them heal from painful pasts, reduce anxiety, and develop necessary skills to reach their goals and find fulfillment. In addition to a family systems approach, Alyssa utilizes CBT, Narrative Therapy, DBT, and psychodynamic perspective to help clients in recovery.
Alyssa has been married for more than 30 years and enjoys relationships with her husband, three children, and two grandchildren.
- AMFT
- Masters of Psychology, Pepperdine
Matthew Harper, AMFT #129622
Matthew found his passion for mental health while working as a residential counselor with adolescents struggling with mental health issues. His work continued with foster youth deeply affected by abuse and trauma and adults in the LGBTQ+ community seeking help with a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, guilt/shame, and more. Working from a foundation of mindfulness, CBT, and existential and postmodern philosophies, Matthew seeks to align with people struggling with mental health issues, helping them find their way to improved mental health and well-being.
Jasmine Perkovic, LCSW #119969
Jasmine has experience working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, OCD, trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, psychosis, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Additionally, Jasmine has experience assisting those that have been in active crisis and helped guide them toward safety. Jasmine has experience as a therapist working in settings such as family and community-based programs, with adolescents and children, and with adults in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
With the knowledge that each client is on their own unique journey toward mental well-being, Jasmine individualizes her approach to fit the specific needs of each client she works with. Jasmine views therapy as a collaborative process in which clients can safely explore their struggles, enhance their strengths, challenge themselves, and grow as individuals. Jasmine is continually inspired by the clients she has the great opportunity to work with, and is honored to be a part of their journeys.
Jonathan Borowiec, LMFT #137545
Jonathan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) who earned his Master of Clinical Psychology at Notre Dame de Namur University. He has worked with adolescents, adults, and couples in managing stress, depression, anxiety, conflict resolution, gaining insight, reducing trauma responses, and behavioral modification. His traditional approach is an eclectic merge of psychodynamic therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic therapy to help clients achieve their individual and mental health goals.
Jonathan’s focus is establishing a space centered around trust, processing thoughts and feelings without judgment, and building a healthy sense of self. During therapy sessions, you can expect to learn strategies to reduce emotional distress, develop awareness around maladaptive thoughts, and increase insight into unhelpful patterns of behaviors or relationships that keep you stuck.
Valerie Castillo, APCC #13151
Valerie Castillo has worked with people struggling with mental health challenges for over 3 years. She views mental health as a complex, integrated issue that need ongoing support from not only a treatment team, but also from family, friends, and loved ones.
Valerie graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from California State University Northridge in Social Sciences and received her Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Alliant International University.
She is a big believer in working with the client to help alter the cognitive mind, allowing the client to apply it to their behavior, actions, and daily life. This theoretical evidence-based practice is known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Borrowing from Aaron Beck, the founder of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, “There is more on the surface than what our eyes can see.” Each individual is unique in their own way, but there is so much more within the individual that we do not always see. In her free time, Valerie spends time with her family and friends and enjoys exercising, hiking, and spending quiet time at home.
Shadi Bateni
Born in Iran and educated in America, Shadi brings a diverse cultural perspective to her role as Program Director at The Meadowglade. Fluent in three languages, Shadi possesses a unique ability to connect with individuals from various backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment for healing and growth.
With a deep-seated passion for helping those struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and eating disorders, Shadi has dedicated her career to making a positive impact in the lives of others. Holding degrees in Social and Behavioral Sciences as well as Addictive Disorder Studies, Shadi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work.
Throughout her career, Shadi has served in various capacities as a case manager, substance use counselor, group facilitator, sober companion, and interventionist. Known for her compassion, capability, and innate ability to connect with clients, Shadi excels in leading individuals towards participation in their recovery journey.
Outside of work, Shadi finds immense joy in spending time with her beloved 10-year-old daughter, cherishing each moment together. Committed to making a difference in the lives of others, Shadi continues to strive for excellence in her mission to promote healing, resilience, and hope in the community.
Audrey Webb
Audrey earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from California State University, Channel Islands in 2018. She has three years of experience working with a diverse population of adolescents and adults in a high-acuity inpatient hospital. Audrey has an extensive background of supporting clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, Tourette’s Syndrome, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis, and PTSD.
Audrey’s mission is to motivate her clients to reach their personal goals of wellness and growth. She is dedicated to supporting clients better understand the discharge planning process so they can graduate from treatment with greater confidence in their aftercare plans and knowledge of helpful resources. Witnessing her clients’ improvement in emotional and behavioral stability is most rewarding. Audrey is passionate about self-care practices, organization, journaling, and anything sports related.
Melissa Aguilar
As a dedicated Facilities Manager, Melissa Aguilar brings over a decade of expertise in the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) field, complemented by a solid five-year track record in management. Renowned for her strong leadership skills, Melissa is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork and accountability among all employees, ensuring a harmonious, nurturing, and productive workplace.
Melissa’s approach to working in the Mental Health field is deeply rooted in her academic background in psychology, which she pursued at California State University, Northridge. This comprehensive foundation has equipped her with a nuanced understanding of human behavior, an invaluable asset that she leverages to enhance employee satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Melissa is an avid explorer of the world with a passion for traveling and reading. Her curiosity extends to learning about different cultures, a personal interest that enriches her perspective both personally and professionally
Yessica Armenta-Bustillos
With a diverse professional background that spans from the dynamic environment of community theater to the structured world of commercial insurance, Yessica Armenta brings a unique blend of creativity and analytical skills to her role as Assistant Facilities Manager at The Meadowglade. Her journey through various industries has honed her ability to manage complex projects and foster collaborative success.
Yessica’s eye for detail and her passion for solving problems are at the core of her work ethic. She excels in creating efficient, welcoming spaces that enhance productivity and well-being. Her commitment to excellence and her innate desire to help others make her an invaluable asset to any team.
As she continues to grow in her career, Yessica is dedicated to leveraging her experience to improve facility operations and contribute to a positive community impact. Her goal is to not only ensure smooth day-to-day operations but also to inspire those around her with her proactive approach and unwavering dedication.
Jocelyn Prado
Jocelyn has been dedicated to the mental health field since 2015. Her career began with working alongside patients suffering from Dementia and Alzheimer’s, which only fueled her passion for helping others. Her experience with patients in hospice care, coupled with her empathic nature, significantly deepened her compassion and desire to continue providing support.
In 2022, Jocelyn joined The Meadowglade as a psychiatric technician in the cottage. Engaging with clients reaffirmed her belief that she was exactly where she was meant to be. Six months into her role, she was promoted to Assistant Facility Manager. While she appreciated learning the operational aspects of facility management, she realized her heart remained in direct client work.
Just three months later, Jocelyn advanced to the position of Guest Services Specialist Supervisor. She pours her heart into her duties and is committed to making a difference. Her focus is on providing clients with a safe and nurturing environment. Jocelyn’s commitment to her clients shines through every interaction, ensuring that The Meadowglade remains a beacon of hope and healing.
Tonda Williams
As a Director of Admissions, Tonda brings over twenty years of experience in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse industry. Her passion has always been to be a guiding light for those on their path of healing. Tonda’s experience provides compassion and reassurance for the client and their loved ones during this difficult time. Tonda has unique and extensive skills for developing and managing admissions teams by bringing a valued perspective to always reflect best in class. Over the years, Tonda has established herself as a trusted and respected leader in the behavioral health community.
Throughout her extensive tenure, Tonda has honed a unique blend of compassion, insight, and strategic acumen, offering invaluable support and reassurance to clients and their families navigating the challenging terrain of behavioral health. Her exceptional ability to cultivate and lead admissions teams reflects a deep-seated understanding of the nuances inherent in admissions processes, consistently striving for excellence and setting unparalleled standards in the field.
Driven by the belief that “reassuring hope is the most treasured gift you can ever give to someone,” Tonda remains steadfast in her mission to empower individuals on their journey towards recovery, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touches and embodying the essence of compassionate leadership in every endeavor she undertakes.
When not fulfilling her passion, Tonda finds solace and joy in the company of her family. She enjoys nature through skiing, fishing, and hiking in Mammoth Lakes, California. Additionally, she cherishes moments with sunset walks along the beach, rejuvenating her spirit.
Katie Gregory
Katie Gregory is a proven leader in business development and driving growth. She brings over 30 years of experience in the mental health and chemical dependency field, having held executive management roles in both national and international companies, including Executive Director, Bridges to Recovery; Co-Owner, Insight Adolescent Treatment Programs; Owner, Psychiatric Supportive Living; creating and building, Solara Mental Health, San Diego. Her track record includes successful management and revenue generation, notably contributing to the acquisition of Bridges to Recovery by Constellation Behavioral Health and their global expansion as Senior International Strategic Advisor.
Katie is thrilled to lead business development and leverage her network to expand Centered Health’s reach and further its goal of delivering transformative care to those in need. In her free time, Katie can be found in Topanga, California working on her passion project creating and designing living spaces and making art through pottery and photography influenced by Mexican cultures. She also enjoys hiking with her movie-worthy Mexican street dog, Mango.
OUR TEAM
The Meadowglade’s professional team has a reputable track record with many years of experience in the fields of adult mental health and adult eating disorders.
Our team is comprised of doctoral level medical healthcare professionals, mental health specialists and therapists, and eating disorder practitioners and therapists.
Additionally, our clinical staff is available for 24 hour clinical guidance should an individual need support outside of the outpatient clinic hours.
COMMITMENT & CONFIDENTIALITY
Our Meadowglade team operates with the highest values of dedication, commitment and confidentiality at all times. We are proud to have a strong team of quality personnel, where each member brings stellar experience, education, and proactive care to our clients in order to foster and accelerate sustained healing and deep-rooted rehabilitation, during and post treatment at our facility.
CONTACT US TODAY
At The Meadowglade, we help you navigate through mental health challenges so that you are able to live a healthy, happy life.
Click our phone number to call us, or simply request a callback.
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