Meet Our Team

Ryan attended college at the Ohio State University and the University at Buffalo, receiving degrees in Sociology. His background and experience in the healthcare space has led him to his role as a managing partner at Compassion Behavioral Health. Ryan demonstrates a strong ability to identify project needs, formulate strategies, maintain good practice quality assurance, and manage a team to deliver the highest standard of client care and professionalism.

Matthew comes to Compassion Behavioral Health with experience as a director of operations, program director, director of compliance, therapist, case management, as well as starting off in this field as a behavioral health technician. Working in this field since 2015, Matthew has been a part of creating and implementing new programs and facilities across the country, as well as overseeing and ensuring the utmost client care. Matthew received his degree in psychology and sociology from FAU and is also a Certified Addictions Counselor.

During his 30+ years as a Human Resources professional, Joe has set up and managed HR departments for South Florida companies in a variety of industries: healthcare, software tech, construction, retail, and currently, mental health and addiction treatment. His skills and experience encompass many components of HR and include recruitment, on-boarding, benefits, payroll, HRIS, compliance/policies, employee relations, management coaching, and training.

Joe has notable success meeting large volume staffing needs for rapidly growing companies as well as staffing new locations for initial launch in multiple states. Always interested in improving processes and efficiencies, during his career Joe has performed the role of Project Manager implementing HRIS/Payroll systems.

After achieving his SPHR, Joe was an instructor for the SHRM Learning System PHR/SPHR Certification prep class at Florida Atlantic University for three years. Early in his HR career, while managing HR departments in the healthcare industry, Joe held positions of Vice President and then President of the South Florida Healthcare Human Resources Association (SFHHRA). Joe and his HR Team were awarded the 2018 HR Department of the Year by the Society for Human Resources (SHRM) Palm Beach Chapter.

Joe believes that his role as a Human Resources Professional is to work closely with his organization’s owners and senior executives to help them achieve growth and create and maintain a great place to work.

Originally from Long Island, NY, Paul uses his personal battle with addiction to help others. He dedicates his career to supporting individuals with substance use and mental health issues, focusing on aftercare and recovery programs. He passionately shares his journey to inspire and assist clients in their recovery.

Psychiatrist

Lisa is a licensed mental health counselor with nearly 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field in various roles such as Case Management, Therapist, Clinical Director, and Executive Director. She has a diverse background working in various settings, such as in communities, schools, hospitals, substance abuse, and mental health treatment, as well as with various populations, ranging from children to adults.  Lisa’s extensive experience and passion in working with individuals struggling with severe and persistent mental illness has solidified the foundation to effectively treat various diagnoses. She possesses exemplary conceptualization skills to individualize client experience and takes pride in working amongst an interdisciplinary team and leading the clinical department in delivering quality care while meeting the unique needs of each client.

Studied at the University of Pittsburgh graduating with a degree in Nursing and a minor in Psychology. Her background and passion is in Mental Health and Substance Abuse. Providing quality care and making an impact on those in need is Jennifer’s #1 goal.

When not at work Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband of 30 yrs, her four children, and her dog, Molly.

Primary Therapist

Sarah is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in helping individuals overcome a plethora of challenges such as mental illness, PTSD, family dysfunction, low self-esteem, and addiction. Sarah earned her Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2019 and has worked in a wide variety of settings. Throughout her career, she has worked with various populations such as adults within the criminal justice system, adolescents, psychiatric stabilization, adults and adolescents struggling with addiction, and dysfunctional families. Sarah believes that everyone has the right to live a happy and fulfilling life and takes pride in supporting her clients on their journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. She believes that therapy is a collaborative journey and a life changing opportunity to achieve self-empowerment and a better quality of life.

Stephanie is a Mental Health and Substance abuse Counselor. Stephanie has been working in the mental health and substance abuse field since 2009. Stephanie acquired a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a concentration in Human services at Walden University and continued her education at Drexel University and earned a Master of Science degree in Addiction Counseling. Stephanie is also a Florida Board Certified Addiction Professional (CAP). Stephanie has also worked with clients dealing with mental health, dual diagnoses, anxiety, depression, addiction, anger and stress management, and trauma. Stephanie uses interventions such Person centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and Motivational Interviewing.

Heather Brathwaite has been a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse in Florida since 1991 and holds a board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her educational journey includes a BSN from Florida International University in 1991, an MSN/APRN from the same university in 1996, and a doctorate in nursing from Barry University in 2016. With extensive expertise in treating psychiatric disorders across various settings and age groups, Brathwaite adopts a holistic approach to care, emphasizing the importance of tailored, comprehensive patient care. Her clinical focus lies in consultation, treatment planning, and care coordination for outpatients with psychiatric conditions and co-occurring disorders.Beyond her clinical endeavors, Brathwaite contributes to nursing education as a full-time faculty member at Miami Dade College and has led the psychiatric mental health course. With 24 years in academia, she has also taught at several other universities and is involved in multiple professional organizations. Her dedication to nursing extends globally, as evidenced by her efforts to support nursing education in Ghana by distributing textbooks and supplies to various institutions.

Case Manager at Residential Facility in Hollywood, FL

Psychiatrist

Ana, bilingual in Spanish and a licensed mental health counselor, serves as the Clinical Director at Compassions Behavioral Health. With a rich and passionate background in helping others, Ana pursued a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of San Diego. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to supporting individuals grappling with life’s toughest challenges, including suicide, trauma, severe mental illness, and substance use disorders. Ana integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Gestalt therapy, and mindfulness practices into her approach, aiming to ensure that all her clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to overcome the challenges they face.

Matthew comes to Compassion Behavioral Health with experience as a director of operations, program director, director of compliance, therapist, case management, as well as starting off in this field as a behavioral health technician. Working in this field since 2015, Matthew has been a part of creating and implementing new programs and facilities across the country, as well as overseeing and ensuring the utmost client care. Matthew received his degree in psychology and sociology from FAU and is also a Certified Addictions Counselor.

Monya is a licensed mental health counselor with a passion for helping individuals overcome substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health. Her 7+ years of experience in a variety of settings, including residential programs, detoxification centers, and intensive outpatient treatment. Monya has honed her skills in building rapport with clients and their families, fostering a trusting environment conducive to healing.

Monya’s therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and solution-focused therapy. She empowers clients by equipping them with the tools they need to manage their conditions and achieve lasting recovery. Her expertise extends beyond individual therapy, as she also facilitates group sessions, educating clients about mental health, substance abuse and coping strategies.

Monya’s experience extends to diverse populations, allowing her to tailor treatment plans to individual needs and cultural backgrounds.

Aimee is a primary therapist at Compassion Behavioral Health. Her primary goal is supporting and uplifting clients while helping them work through emotional and mental burdens. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling, both from Florida State University. Aimee enjoys working with people from various ages, races, and backgrounds. She employs an eclectic mix of techniques and interventions tailored to meet clients where they are and enhance their motivation throughout their mental health and sobriety journeys. Some of these methods include Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Known for her bubbly and open personality, Aimee connects with clients effectively, fostering growth and change.

Primary Therapist

Primary Therapist

Tharlene is the neurofeedback technician at Compassion Behavioral Health. She has performed, generated, and assessed an extensive amount of neurofeedback sessions. By providing neurofeedback services, she has noninvasively helped clients deal with their anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD symptoms. Tharlene has a very bubbly, and inviting personality. She takes her time to explain the process and benefits of neurofeedback. She is trustworthy, a great listener, and is easy to talk to. She has a strong passion for helping others, which is one of the many reasons that she enjoys working in the healthcare field. She loves being a part of the growth and change that is seen in each client that comes into CBH! Along with her neurofeedback certification, she has also obtained her degree in Associate of arts and remains in school to continue her pursuit in the healthcare field.

Gregory is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with the state of Florida. Gregory has completed the DBT and EMDR basic trainings in order to practice DBT/EMDR with clients who have experienced trauma. Gregory has been contributing to the well being of others since 2008 when he started Applied Behavior Analysis with children, adolescents, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectually Disabled and other co-occurring disorders. Gregory graduated from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL in January 2012 with his Master’s of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling. Gregory currently is a LMHC working in substance abuse field to effectively treat the disease of addiction, mental health and trauma symptoms. His aspirations include studying to receive his certified addictions professional (CAP) and pursuing his PhD in Neuropsychology.

Heather Brathwaite has been a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse in Florida since 1991 and holds a board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her educational journey includes a BSN from Florida International University in 1991, an MSN/APRN from the same university in 1996, and a doctorate in nursing from Barry University in 2016. With extensive expertise in treating psychiatric disorders across various settings and age groups, Brathwaite adopts a holistic approach to care, emphasizing the importance of tailored, comprehensive patient care. Her clinical focus lies in consultation, treatment planning, and care coordination for outpatients with psychiatric conditions and co-occurring disorders.Beyond her clinical endeavors, Brathwaite contributes to nursing education as a full-time faculty member at Miami Dade College and has led the psychiatric mental health course. With 24 years in academia, she has also taught at several other universities and is involved in multiple professional organizations. Her dedication to nursing extends globally, as evidenced by her efforts to support nursing education in Ghana by distributing textbooks and supplies to various institutions.

Nurse Practitioner

Joseph Aragona, is the Operations Manager for Compassion Behavioral Health. He provides oversight and leadership to the operations at the facility. He assists in the development and implementation of patient treatment programs. Joseph demonstrates expertise in working collaboratively with the clinical, medical, and admissions teams, which is imperative to effective operation. Originally from New York, Joseph began his recovery journey when moving to South Florida.

In 2015, he started in the industry as a behavioral health technician and eventually housing director. He continues to exhibit his leadership abilities and knowledge of legal rules and guidelines in the role of Operations Manager. When he isn’t working, Joseph enjoys recreational time with his family outdoors, including watersports, fishing, and boating. He is a dedicated Father with a passion for spending quality time with his daughter and son.

Housing Supervisor

Cameron is the Lead Case Manager at Compassion Behavioral Health. With extensive experience in the behavioral health field, including roles as a Behavioral Health Technician and Intake Coordinator, she is deeply committed to supporting clients in achieving their goals. Currently, Cameron is furthering her expertise by pursuing a degree in Social and Human Services with a focus on Addiction. She is known for creating a positive and supportive environment for clients, leveraging her strong interpersonal skills and empathy. Outside of work, Cameron enjoys her passion for music and spends quality time with family and friends. She is honored to be a part of the Compassion Behavioral Health team and is dedicated to positively impacting the lives of their clients.

Ramona Guzman is one of the first team members that clients and their families meet with as the Case Manager at Compassion Behavioral Health.

She has 15 years of experience in addiction recovery which helps her offer that personalized and unique experience in welcoming clients to begin their recovery journey at Compassion Behavioral Health.

Ramona comes with a personal story of addiction recovery. “After going through addiction and seeing first-hand the damage it can cause, it is now my passion to reach out and help other addicts and mental health Clients achieve stability.”

When asked why she chose to work at Compassion Behavioral Health, she explained that the center’s outstanding reputation in the addiction and mental health recovery community initially drew her in. The intimate environment that Compassions provides to clients is something that she firmly believes in.