At New Method Wellness, we are proud of our highly qualified and empathetic professional treatment team. With over 60 employees and growing, we have the opportunity to provide the individualized treatment our clients deserve on their road to recovery. From our Clinical Director to our Nutritional Therapist, we have the most educated and experienced addiction professionals serving on our treatment staff. Each staff member brings to the table their expertise, years of experience and their passion for substance abuse treatment, treating New Method Wellness as their home away from home.
ED BLUM Chief Executive Officer, Owner / Founder
As an Owner/Founder and the Chief Executive Officer at New Method Wellness, Ed Blum brings a supportive, no-nonsense approach to the center. He is passionate about recovery service and has been a crucial leader in developing New Method Wellness, bringing the center’s strengths to the forefront. Ed’s hands-on, personable leadership style enables him to connect with clients during their treatment; his vested interest in each person’s progress makes clients feel they have a personal ally at the highest level of the organization. Ed cites the consistency and spiritual values of the company as its strengths, and he sees his contribution as rearticulating those fundamentals. Ed has a 30-year background as a successful business executive and has served in the military for 15 years. He enjoys cooking for crowds and loves to play golf.
DEANNA J. CROSBY, M.A., LMFT, LAADC, Psy.D.(C) Clinical Director
DeAnna M. Crosby supervises a team of caring, well-trained clinicians who provide continued support throughout a client’s stay. With over 20 years of experience working with clients in recovery, Crosby is an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in maintaining healthy relationships. Her expertise has catapulted her into the spotlight. Featured on several episodes of the Dr. Phil Show as a mental health expert, DeAnna is a routine contributor for NBC News, The Huffington Post, Elle Magazine, MSN, Fox News, Yahoo, Glamour, Today, and several other prominent media outlets. After receiving her bachelor’s degree from the University of California in Irvine, Crosby did postgraduate work at Centaur University where she graduated at the top of her class with a CAADAC certification in Centaur’s chemical dependency program. Following her time at Centaur, Crosby received her Master of Counseling Psychology degree from Pacifica Graduate Institute, where she also attained a Doctoral Degree in Depth Psychology.
As a recovering addict, Crosby brings a breadth of personal recovery experience to her clinical leadership and believes a comfortable, structured and supportive environment is an essential part of maintaining long-term sobriety. In addition to her passion for recovery, Crosby is extremely involved in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and Consider the Lily. As a current Woman of the Year candidate, Crosby is campaigning to raise funds for LLS blood cancer research in honor of local children who are blood cancer survivors.
BING CROSBY, BA Chief Financial Officer
Bing is the Chief Financial Officer at New Method Wellness. He oversees payor relations, support services, information technology, legal, standards and compliance, and health information management areas. Having owned several businesses in the past, including a daycare center, Bing is well suited to serve as our financial strategist. He utilizes his economic management and strategic planning experience to help New Method Wellness continue to grow and provide cost-effective services to clients and their families. After landing a football scholarship at Boise State University, Bing graduated from Vanguard University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
SUSIE HOPSON-BLUM Owner/Founder
Having been in recovery for over 30 years, Hopson-Blum has been an active, vital member of the recovery community ever since she went into treatment herself in 1988. Her experience managing and directing a behavioral health treatment facility has roots in Sober Pacific Living, a sober living house that opened its doors to clients with a passion for treatment and recovery. Susie Hopson-Blum used her professional expertise and personal experience to establish New Method Wellness, a dual diagnosis treatment center that takes a holistic approach to recovery.
JUANITA WELLS, CADC-II, ICADC Director of Admissions
Juanita serves as the Director of Admissions at New Method Wellness. Having joined New Method Wellness in 2013, Juanita served for five years as a practicing clinician before accepting the role of Assistant Clinical Director in 2018. During this time, Juanita helped expand the role of the LGBTQ, trauma, and aftercare programs. Now, in her role as Director of Admissions, Juanita utilizes her extensive clinical background in pursuit of identifying relationships with other nationally prominent treatment providers that address mental health and addiction in America. Juanita assists families in navigating the admission process at New Method Wellness. Juanita is a duly accredited Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC-II) with International Accreditation (ICADC).
BRIANT STRINGHAM, CATC-I Program Director/IOP Coordinator
Briant has been working in the Addiction Treatment field since 2016. Briant is passionate about assisting those struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. His goal is always to assist those struggling to rebuild their lives, rise from the ashes, and become the people they were always meant to be. Briant is in recovery himself and believes his experience with chronic relapse is vital to those who believe themselves to be hopeless. Briant is currently working towards his master’s in counseling.
SUE ANNE TINYO, RADT-I Director of Client Affairs
Sue Anne is our Director of Client Affairs at New Method Wellness. Sue Anne comes to New Method Wellness with a rich management work history in business development and customer service. As the Director of Client Affairs, Sue Anne is often the first face our new clients see during the intake process and the last face they see during discharge. A constant with every client throughout their time at New Method Wellness and long after, Sue Anne coordinates check-ins with alumni. It ensures that all clients transition efficiently back into their families, work, and personal life as sober members of society. She is extremely personable and kind, making her a valuable confidant for our clients.
DR. STANLEY CHOU, MD Medical Director
Dr. Chou received his Doctor of Medicine and undergraduate degrees from the University of Southern California, where he graduated as the university valedictorian. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in cardiovascular disease at Oregon Health & Science University, where he was elected chief cardiology fellow. He is board-certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Stanley Chou is a true believer of proactive and preventive healthcare and uses a holistic approach with his patients that combines advanced medical therapies with nutritional eating, regular exercise, and stress reduction. Dr. Chou’s approach to treatment starts with patient listening, followed by a complete and thorough examination. He then works to tailor a personalized plan to meet his patient’s needs, goals, and unique medical and physical condition. He understands that although patients may be diagnosed with the same condition, they can respond very differently to treatment.
DR. RANDALL TURNER, DO Addiction Psychiatrist
Dr. Randall Turner is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Having earned his Medical Degree from the distinguished Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine, he then completed his Psychiatric Residency training at the prestigious Loma Linda University. At New Method Wellness, Dr. Turner serves as direct supervisor to Michael Clark, PA-C, MSPAS. Married with four children, Dr. Turner is a talented musician who enjoys reading, bird watching, and traveling.
KATHY SHINOZAKI, PA-C, MSPAS, MPH Physician Assistant
Kathy graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She earned her Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and Masters of Public Health from Touro University – California. Kathy is certified through the California Association of Physician Assistants and the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
Kathy was working in endocrinology and hepatology prior to focusing her practice in addiction medicine. Her primary goal in patient care includes a complete patient focused history, a thorough physical exam, and an open and realistic treatment plan with her patients. Kathy believes each patient’s story is different, and thus each treatment plan should be individualized.
MICHAEL CLARK, PA-C, MHS Physician Assistant (Psychiatric)
Michael received a B.A. in psychology from University of Tennessee. He received his Masters of Health Science from the University of South Alabama where he belonged to the Alpha Theta Chi Honor Society, Michael is certified through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Michael is a member of the California Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants.
Michael cares for the psychiatric needs of patients with an emphasis on communication to ensure each patient is thoroughly assessed. He works closely with our medical team to ensure any concerns are met. Michael Clark is supervised directly by Dr. Randall Turner, DO.
DR. RUTA STERNBERGS, Ed. D,. Psy. D., CADC-II Therapist
Dr. Sternbergs is one of New Method Wellness’s longest serving therapist. She started her career as a registered nurse (RN), which lead to her interest in the psychological needs of individuals. She received her doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Boston University, where she was asked to co-evaluate their inaugural Master’s Program Specializing in Counseling Women. Ruta also completed the requirements for her Doctor of Psychology degree (Psy.D.) from the American Behavioral Studies Institute. For the past several years, she has been an active member of the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) of Orange County. She has discovered that her true calling is in the field of addiction recovery. “I cannot think of any other disease that has such a profound impact on so many.” She considers it to be an honor to connect and work with clients as they embark on their personal recovery journey. Ruta enjoys her family, friends and all creatures, big or small.
TRACY MARSHALL, CADC-I Counselor
Tracy is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-1) at New Method Wellness. Having focused her college education in the field of psychology, Tracy utilizes evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help aid her clients towards a transformative and healing treatment experience. Mindful and compassionate, Tracy utilizes her own lived experience in long-term recovery to help the client see themselves as capable and worthy of living their very best life. Raised in Lake Winnipesaukee, NH, Tracy maintains a passion for running, healthy living, and investing quality time with her two teenage sons.
CLAUDIA CRUZ, RAC Case Manager/Counselor
Claudia is an accomplished individual pursuing her master’s degree in psychology at Arizona State University. With a strong focus on psychology, she has dedicated many years to serving as a life coach and counselor. Claudia’s extensive experience in the field, spanning over eight years, has equipped her with a deep understanding of various treatment modalities. Having triumphed over her battles with addiction, Claudia has emerged as a beacon of hope for others seeking recovery. Her personal journey toward sobriety has provided her with invaluable insights and empathy, which she uses to guide her clients through their own paths of healing. As a resident of South Orange County, Claudia’s passion for helping people in her community is evident in her unwavering commitment to their well-being.
Kathi Rehbein, B.S., SUDRC, Case Manager/Counselor
Kathi is a Substance Use Disorder Registered Counselor at New Method Wellness. Kathi graduated from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies and minors in Psychology and Human Services. Having found trauma relief and recovery through a personal yoga practice, Kathi became a 500-hour certified Yoga Teacher. She incorporates Yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness to help aid her clients toward a transformative and healing treatment experience. Kathi has experience facilitating trauma and addiction recovery groups through Yoga 12 Step/ trauma within the military/veteran communities.
Ismary Colon Angueira JD, BA, RADT I Counselor
Ismary is a Counselor at New Method Wellness. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and is a Juris Doctor. Motivated by a desire for an impactful career with a more personal nature, she decided to pursue a graduate counseling degree at Naropa University with an emphasis on wilderness therapy. Drawing from her mental health training and outdoor interests, Ismary provides holistic support with a humanistic and transpersonal approach to therapy. In her free time, she enjoys backpacking, camping, connecting to the natural world, as well as traveling and exploring new cities, foods, and cultures.
Morgan Brennan BS, RADT I Counselor
Morgan is a counselor at New Method Wellness. She graduated with a B.S. in Psychology from Montana State University in Bozeman, where she gained experience working as a crisis counselor on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and began her passion for working with families in crisis. Morgan is earning her master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern University. She is particularly interested in the dual diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and substance use disorders. In her spare time, Morgan enjoys puzzles, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.
Olivia Burnette Wolff RADT I, Case Manager
Olivia began acting in film and television at six and has enjoyed a successful career, starring in numerous roles over the past 35 years. After her own struggles with addiction and finding joy and freedom on her path to recovery, she became inspired to return to school with a newfound passion for helping others. She is close to completing her bachelor’s degree in criminal psychology and a minor in religious studies. She plans on continuing with her education and will pursue a master’s degree in counseling. Her goal and what she feels is the true role of a lifetime is to bring hope, comfort, and healing to those who are hurting.
VANESSA GALLARDO Resource Manager / Social Media Specialist
Vanessa serves as the Human Resources Manager at New Method Wellness. With her creative mind, Vanessa is also an asset as our Social Media Specialist. She is attending Walden University to obtain her BS in Psychology with Addiction and plans on continuing her education toward pursuing a master’s degree in social work. Along with her academic studies and personal experiences, Vanessa uses her intellect to connect with the clients and create a comfortable and safe environment when entering treatment. Additionally, Vanessa is an animal lover interested in learning more about animal-assisted therapy. In her free time, Vanessa enjoys spending time with her family, watching scary movies, and walking dogs.
April Donna, LMFT, CEFP
April is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and certified in Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy. April has been partnering with New Method Wellness to provide Equine Therapy for over 10 years. She utilizes a trauma-informed approach to her work, focusing on the horse-human connection as a pathway to healing. She is passionate about sharing the transformative power of horses, and firmly believes in the horses ability to facilitate change. April is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and received specialized training in Equine Facilitated EMDR.
DR. MARGARET SINNER, BS, MBA, PhD. Clinical Supervisor
Margaret E Sinner serves as the Clinical Supervisor to PhD candidates at New Method Wellness. Born and raised in North Dakota, Dr. Sinner grew up with basic values of kindness, generosity and service to others. Received a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, MN, and went on to earn her MBA from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI. Dr. Sinner works now as a business owner and health and wellness advocate. She has been married for 38 years and still adores her husband. Her primary extra-curricular passion is playing golf.
LOUIS HEIT, MFT, LCSW Clinical Supervisor
Louis Heit is our Clinical Supervisor, providing supervision and clinical oversight to our counselor and therapist team. He is licensed in California as both a Clinical Social Worker and as a Marriage and Family Therapist, has Professional Certificate training in Business Management from the University of California, and has over thirty years of experience in providing direct care, training, supervision, program development and management, with specialties in trauma recovery, substance abuse treatment, mood disorders, and pain management. In addition to running a private practice and his work at New Method Wellness, Louis is a clinical preceptor for the US Navy, Camp Pendleton Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program, and is on the faculty at the University of Southern California, School of Social Work.
JAMES SHOFFEITT, CADC-II Serene Waters Adventure Therapy
Serene Waters Adventure Therapy was founded in 2016 By James Shoffeitt. He has a deep passion for helping guide men and women of all ages to discovering their own internal peace, sense of serenity, character strengths, and personal recovery. James has been clean and sober since 2008, and has been counseling for over six years. Serene Waters Adventure Therapy has been specifically created to promote individuals in early recovery to have first-hand experiences with coping skills, discover their own spiritual path, explore nature, have fun, reconnect with innocence, interact with peers on an intimate level, learn necessary tools for recovery, and open up in an alternative therapeutic environment.
KENZI RUTHER, MT-BC Board Certified Music Therapist
Kenzi has been a Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) since 2018. Kenzi graduated from the University of Kansas with her bachelor’s in Music Therapy where she found her passion for working with individuals in mental health and substance abuse treatment. Having worked in various corrections settings (county jail, federal prison, and state prison), Kenzi currently works for Sonic Divinity Music Therapy Services LLC where she treats individuals in various treatment centers in the Orange County area. Kenzi’s passions include traveling, music, yoga, being in nature, family time, being with her kitty (MoMo), and football – GO CHIEFS!
DR. TRACY L. PROCTOR, Psy.D., LMFT.
Dr. Proctor serves as the head of the utilization review for New Method Wellness. Dr. Proctor began her career as a parent educator for the County of Orange, working with the children and family services department. In this role, she provided education to focus on issues common to families in crisis such as safety, communication, problem-solving and effective parenting. Her goal was to reduce the impact of trauma, decrease stressors that can trigger the onset of mental health problems, and increase overall family resiliency. This role ignited her passion for working with families in crisis. Dr. Proctor received her Masters Degree in Psychology and Mental Health Therapy from Hope International University. She went on to complete her Doctorate at Capella University with a Specialization in Clinical Psychology. Tracy has provided clinical leadership to numerous substance abuse facilities over the years; serving as the Clinical Program Director and Chief Clinical Officer. In Tracy’s spare time, she enjoys being with her family and volunteering within the community assisting those in need.
LIANA CHO, MS, RD Dietitian
Liana Cho serves as the Registered Dietitian at New Method Wellness. Liana earned her Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Point Loma Nazarene University and her Master of Science in Clinical Dietetics from Grand Valley State University, completing both programs with Honors. Her role at New Method includes providing group and individual nutrition education, as well as tailored nutrition therapy based on each client’s needs. Liana also has extensive experience working in eating disorder treatment with both adults and adolescents, which has helped shape her nutrition philosophy and provide a greater depth of support when working with clients overcoming addiction. Her goal is to make nutrition concepts relatable and realistic to her clients and to encourage and challenge them through their wellness journey.
GENEVIEVE GARCIA, MA, Psy. Therapeutic Arts Instructor
Genevieve is our Therapeutic Arts Instructor at New Method Wellness. She finds that having a creative outlet enables individuals to express emotions that are sometimes difficult to communicate through words. Genevieve facilitates workshops where clients use a variety of different media as an outlet to express themselves through being creative. She finds that creativity can be a wonderful tool to build confidence, express emotions, and process difficult experiences. Her goal is for clients to be in the moment and lose themselves in the process, to experience peace, insight, positive reinforcement, and expression through creativity. Genevieve has studied both psychology and art. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University and a certificate of Therapeutic Arts Facilitation from Chapman University’s extended education program.
JIMMY OLIVIERI, BA Medical Operations Director
Jimmy Olivieri serves as the Medical Operations Director for New Method Wellness. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the Arizona State University, Jimmy’s administrative functions include medical appointment scheduling, pharmacy fill-order management and logistical care coordination between members of the clinical, medical, and operational departments. As an Alumnus of the New Method Wellness program (2014), Jimmy understands first-hand the importance of maintaining a safe, comfortable and caring environment. An avid dog-lover and practitioner of Brazilian Ju Jitsu, Jimmy utilizes humility and compassion to inspire others towards change.
ASHLEY CORWIN Director of Operations
Ashley serves as the Director of Operations at New Method Wellness. Having joined the team in 2017, Ashley’s primary focus is on the detoxification process, coordinating patient care by interfacing with the medical, psychiatric, and clinical components of the New Method Wellness program. Owing to a personal background of overcoming her own obstacles, Ashley provides a compassionate, secure, and non-judgmental space for individuals to feel at home in our facility. Ashley, a graduate of the New Method Wellness, seeks to champion the client’s needs as her priority constantly. Ashley enjoys scary movies, hiking, fishing, and playing video games in her free time.
KRIS KERELUIK Director of Operations
Kris Kereluik serves as the Director of Operations at New Method Wellness. Sober since 2013, Kris helps our clients cultivate a sense of pride in their recovery. Having joined the New Method Wellness team in 2015, Kris has had the opportunity to serve the needs of hundreds of clients. Attentive and kind, Kris is yet another trusted confidant for our clients to look to during their treatment process. Kris enjoys his family and friends, and anything to do with the great outdoors.
RICHARD BISHOP Acupuncturist
Richard is our Licensed Acupuncturist/Herbalist at New Method Wellness and has over 14 years of clinical experience. He uses the following treatment methods in the clinic: Traditional Chinese Acupuncture, Korean Hand Acupuncture, Cupping, and the Balance Method. He also treats the following: detoxification, addiction, the pain of any kind (physical or emotional), weak digestion, stress, anxiety, sleep problems, fatigue, and mind-body disconnection. In addition, Richard is a Mentor and Trainer at a well-known Day Spa in California. He holds a BA and a Master of Science Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from South Baylo University in Los Angeles, California.
BECCA BRISTOW Yoga Instructor/Reiki Master
Becca Bristow is 200 Hour Registered Yoga Trainer (RYT) and a Reiki master. She started her healing journey five years ago when her therapist recommended yoga to help ease her stress and anxiety. She attended yoga classes for one year and noticed a significant change in her mental health. After that, she was on her path; she began seeking to help others heal through yoga and reiki. She is currently continuing her education and training to become a Yoga Therapist and have her yoga studio to further her mission. “My mission as a Yoga Instructor is to assist my clients in their transitions and healing journeys. Whether individuals struggle with mental health, physical injuries, addiction, or just following their soul’s calling, I will guide them with an intuitive heart powered by a divine purpose.” Becca also has personal experience with recovery, having her own recovery time. “I couldn’t think of a better place to be than working with a clientele that I deeply understand.”
KENDRA FLORES Massage Therapist
Kendra has lived and worked in Orange County for over 20 years. A mother, wife, friend, and an intuitive healer. Her journey began with her own awakening, educating herself on a physical, nutritional, and healthy lifestyle.
Quickly, she realized others, like herself, need to be educated on the benefits of healthy eating and exercise. She created a blueprint for a better and healthier way, which we all strive for but never know how to get there! She has a passion for healing others, and her calling came through the touch of massage with an emphasis on energy healing. When she lays her hands on someone, there is a pure and genuine intent to help heal the difficulties or pains each client is going through.
She is committed to personal growth and continuing education as a massage therapist and yoga instructor. All the while working alongside each client, promoting their education to participate in this powerful self-healing process.
SUE MORAN Front Desk Supervisor
Sue serves as the Front Desk Supervisor for the Outpatient Clinical Facility at New Method Wellness. Responsible for a wide breadth of duties ranging from care coordination, facilities management, and client communications, Sue is one of the favorite smiling faces of every New Method Wellness client and staff. Kind, endearing, and helpful, Sue seeks to ensure that operations run smoothly and effectively so the vital work of recovery can remain the core focus of the New Method Wellness mission. When sue is not contributing to the care of the clients at New Method Wellness, she enjoys dining out, spin classes, roller skating, and exploring boutiques.
CHARLES CROSBY
Meet Charles Crosby, AKA Carlos, Chucky-dog, or Chucky-boy. He is a trauma sensitivity specialist. He is always available for treats and pets.
MABEL
Mabel is New Method Wellness’ intake support specialist. When you arrive, do not let her tell you that she ate her breakfast and deserves a treat. She is available for hugs and pets.