Treatment Team

Michael Chase is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Connecticut and New York, specializing in treating adolescents and young adults. At Turnbridge’s Woodbury, Connecticut adolescent residential facility, Michael provides comprehensive psychiatric care within a highly structured, therapeutic environment designed to support lasting recovery.

Michael delivers diagnostic evaluations, psychopharmacologic management, and ongoing clinical monitoring for adolescents with complex psychiatric and substance use presentations. He works closely with therapists, families, and the multidisciplinary treatment team to ensure coordinated, individualized care that addresses both mental health and substance use needs. His approach emphasizes trauma-informed, strengths-based treatment and meaningful family involvement—key elements in supporting sustainable change for young people.

In addition to his work at Turnbridge, Michael brings diverse experience across inpatient geriatric psychiatry, acute care settings, residential substance use treatment, and outpatient private practice. He has managed high-acuity cases, overseen crisis stabilization, and treated co-occurring disorders across the lifespan. Earlier in his career, he provided trauma-informed care to adolescents in residential and hospital-based psychiatric programs, further shaping his understanding of youth development and behavioral health.

Michael earned his Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Saint Joseph. His clinical philosophy centers on compassionate engagement, clinical rigor, and empowering adolescents and families to build resilience, insight, and long-term recovery.

Melissa Rayment attended Johns Hopkins University, where she graduated with both her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. She subsequently obtained board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). During her time at Johns Hopkins, she led a quality improvement initiative focused on suicide prevention within the community.

Prior to her graduate training, she attended the University of Connecticut, where she earned dual undergraduate degrees in Psychological Sciences and Human Developmental Sciences. During this time, she engaged in research focused on supporting individuals with trauma histories and mental illness, including participation in the ACT (Act, Contribute and Thrive) program funded by The Village. She also contributed to published work presented at the Society for Research in Child Development’s 2019 Biennial Meeting.

Melissa is committed to working with individuals experiencing complex mental health conditions through a holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach. Her clinical practice is grounded in current evidence-based research to ensure the delivery of high-quality, up-to-date care.

In her free time, she enjoys exercising, hiking, reading,  and spending meaningful time with friends and family.

Dr. Ficko is a Licensed Family Nurse Practitioner, completing his undergraduate degree at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine and post-graduate work at Fairfield University. He has spent 10+ years working in emergency medicine both in the hospital and in the field, developing various programs designed to deliver reliable, evidence-based care to underserved communities. Dr. Ficko joins our team at Turnbridge to provide clients with individualized medical evaluation and management.

Mary is a Licensed Practical Nurse with experience across acute rehabilitation and hospice care, bringing a steady, compassionate presence to every setting she serves. She is especially passionate about supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, drawing from both her professional background and personal connection to the community. Mary approaches her work with deep empathy, patience, and respect, creating meaningful connections with those in her care. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her beloved huskies.

Justin Alter draws on both professional expertise and his lived experience with addiction and recovery to support families and clients as they navigate the complex challenges of healing. In his role as Care Team Director, Justin equips parents with practical tools and strategies to better support their child’s recovery, while also working directly with clients to address problematic behaviors and foster meaningful personal growth. His approach centers on empathy, accountability, and collaboration, helping families strengthen communication and build resilience. Dedicated to bridging the gap between clients and their loved ones, Justin brings guidance, hope, and perspective to every stage of the recovery process.

Avery Broderick, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry with a focused clinical interest in autism spectrum disorder as well as trauma and stressor-related disorders. She provides evidence-based care for adolescents with expertise in medication management and individualized treatment planning.

Avery is recognized for a structured, thoughtful approach that emphasizes accurate diagnosis, patient education, and collaborative care. She is committed to creating a respectful, supportive environment and tailoring interventions to unique client needs to promote meaningful and sustained mental health outcomes.

Christine Burby is a Registered Nurse with a BSN received from American Sentinel University, dedicating her career to helping individuals with mental health challenges.

Christine started her career as an ambulance EMS first responder while working on her psychology degree. Her nursing career spans a variety of psychiatric settings, including managing ECT and TMS, opening an Esketamine clinic, and providing psychiatric home health services in inpatient settings. She also has many years of medical nursing experience in Labor and Delivery, ICU, Medical/Surgical, and home care nursing.

When not caring for others, Christine enjoys cruising, traveling, spending time with her four grown kids, two grandchildren, and, of course, her two fur babies.

Steve Trimandillis, APRN, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and a proud graduate of Fairfield University, with four years of experience in primary care and over 10 years in the emergency department as a registered nurse. As a compassionate provider, I take the time to truly listen to my patients and understand their concerns. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care guided by the latest evidence-based practices. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing golf, hiking, and kayaking.

Janelle Beard works as an Academic Advisor. She has a master’s degree in education and has worked in a middle school for over seven years as an executive functioning interventionist and strategic reading teacher. She is passionate about meeting children where they are and being a compassionate and educated guide to ensure emotionala nd academic growth.

Nicole joined Turnbridge in January 2025 as a Clinical Resident Liaison (CRL) for the Adolescent Residential Program. She brings a grounded and compassionate presence to her role, meeting clients where they are. As part of the clinical team, Nicole works primarily in the community with male clients, supporting them through crisis intervention, leading groups, conducting intakes, and providing individual and family sessions as needed.

Nicole earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Florida and holds her LMSW. She has long been passionate about working with youth and is driven by helping clients grow, supporting them as they build trust, take accountability, and recognize their own progress. She is especially committed to reducing the stigma surrounding substance use and mental health challenges in young people, approaching each client with empathy, respect, and a strong belief in their capacity for change.

Outside of work, Nicole enjoys spending time with friends and family, exploring thrift shops, trying new recipes, and staying active with her dog, Tyrion.

Rachel Naumann is a Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist who earned her Master of Science in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. Rachel has experience working in clinical nutrition and behavioral health settings, supporting individuals with a range of health conditions by providing medical nutrition therapy and evidence-based care focused on sustainable behavior change and a whole-person approach. She has worked in eating disorder residential treatment, providing meal support and helping clients build more consistent and supportive relationships with food during recovery.

She completed her clinical training through Clinicians Incubator, where she developed a strong foundation in trauma-informed, evidence-based, client-centered nutrition care, with an emphasis on individualized care planning and integrating nutrition into behavioral health treatment. Rachel has additional experience in residential treatment settings supporting individuals in recovery, which informs her compassionate and collaborative approach to care. She utilizes motivational interviewing and emphasizes realistic, sustainable changes to help individuals reconnect with their body’s needs and establish consistent nourishment patterns. Rachel is passionate about fostering a supportive, nonjudgmental environment and helping clients develop a healthier, more balanced relationship with food and their bodies.

Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Connecticut who earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Southern Connecticut State University. While her academic training focused on school social work, she dedicated much of her time outside the classroom to advocating for survivors of sexual and domestic violence through her university’s Title IX office. This early experience laid the foundation for her commitment to trauma-informed care and client-centered advocacy.

Following graduate school, Amanda began her career as a Youth Trauma Specialist at a sexual and domestic violence center, where she developed a strong passion for supporting individuals through trauma and fostering healing through meaningful connection. As her career progressed, she transitioned into a social work role within a school for individuals with autism. There, she became a trusted resource among colleagues, frequently leading professional development training and offering insights on trauma-informed practices. This experience deepened her commitment to supporting neurodivergent individuals and further expanded her clinical expertise.

Amanda has pursued extensive independent research and training on trauma, its neurological impacts, and effective treatment approaches. She believes there is no “one-size-fits-all” method in therapy and instead utilizes an eclectic approach, drawing from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and more. Amanda prioritizes meeting clients where they are, emphasizing genuine connection as the foundation for the healing process.

In her free time, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, attending concerts, and journaling while listening to music.

Chelsea Mackay is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Master’s degree from Fordham University and is known for her insight, warmth, and collaborative approach. With experience across all levels of care, Chelsea has been instrumental in developing treatment programs and enhancing the quality of care for young people facing mental health challenges.  She also offers thoughtful, hands-on clinical supervision helping fellow clinicians navigate complex cases, manage emotional dynamics, and grow their confidence in delivering evidence-based care.

Chelsea began her career focused on eating disorder recovery and over the past few years has expanded her practice to support clients navigating executive functioning challenges, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. She is especially passionate about working with adolescents as they explore their identity, build resilience, and step into young adulthood. At the heart of Chelsea’s work is a commitment to helping clients develop a stronger sense of self-worth and build lives they’re proud of, approaching each session with compassion, curiosity, and a touch of humor.

In her free time Chelsea enjoys reading, yoga, knitting, and spending time with her husband and pets. 

Abbey Halloran is a licensed therapist who earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Art from Central Connecticut State University, and went on to receive her Master’s degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University. Abbey’s clinical experience includes work in child welfare as well as providing counseling to young adults. She is especially passionate about helping clients develop healthier communication skills and bridging gaps in understanding within relationships. Abbey values creating a supportive, collaborative, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and capable of meaningful and lasting growth. Outside of her clinical work, Abbey enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and connecting with nature. She also loves animals and values the sense of comfort, joy, and grounding they can bring into everyday life.

Melissa Keilty received her MSW in Policy Practice from the University of Connecticut in 2021. She has a passion for recognition of the individual in the systems that perpetuate inequalities and their influence on holistic wellbeing. She began her career after multiple losses inspired her to engage in advocacy for causes such as equitable access to healthcare, harm reduction strategies, suicide prevention, and LGBTQ+ youths involved in the legal system. She holds a particular affinity for working with adolescents as a primary clinical population for the  purpose of healing intergenerational traumas and supporting their recovery with a person-centered approach. Her preferred clinical modalities include DBT, ACT, and motivational interviewing to support client self-efficacy and provide useful tools for adolescents.

Bobbie Jo Mrowka is a licensed social worker who earned her master’s degree from Sacred Heart University. She is recognized for her warmth, patience, and calm demeanor, qualities that help her form authentic connections with clients and families. Bobbie began her career in a group home serving youth with autism spectrum disorder and has dedicated over 12 years to working with the Department of Children and Families as a licensed foster and adoptive parent. She draws on that experience to foster hopeful, trusting relationships with the clients and families she serves. She has also guided children and parents as Program Director at a Youth Service Bureau, has extensive crisis intervention knowledge from her work with inmates in a Connecticut correctional facility, and as a provider for adults navigating substance use and mental health challenges through MCCA and the Torrington Court system. Outside of work, Bobbie Jo enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and their two dogs. She loves watching movies, kayaking, and attending local fairs and festivals.

Nicole Santulli brings extensive training in developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed care and behavioral interventions to her role as Operations Manager at Turnbridge. She ensures that each adolescent residence is safe, structured, and deeply supportive of healing. With a hands-on, compassionate approach, she trains staff to deliver consistent, client-centered care that meets the highest standards. Nicole’s passion lies in the small details that make a big difference. She focuses on creating spaces that feel like home, celebrating milestones, and helping clients experience moments of joy amidst hard work. She takes pride in ensuring Turnbridge meets the highest standards, both in care and in environment. An expert in adolescent care, Nicole brings over a decade of experience providing behavioral and educational support to teens facing mental health challenges. Outside of work, she’s a proud mom and devoted dog lover who brings heart to everything she does.

Thomas Satkowski works as a Turnbridge Academic Advisor. He has his undergraduate degree in Management and Leadership and his master’s degree in Sports Leadership and Coaching. While getting both degrees, he played for his college’s (NCAA Div. III) football team. Before Turnbridge, Thomas worked as a building substitute teacher in a middle school and as a teacher and counselor at a therapeutic boarding school. Thomas is a passionate mentor helping clients reach their full potential in education and life. Some of Thomas’s favorite hobbies include football, golf, fishing, video games, and working out.

Lizzie Svitlik is an Academic Advisor at Turnbridge, where she provides individualized academic support and guidance to clients working toward their educational goals. She graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing and has since dedicated her career to helping clients recognize and achieve their full potential. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, she excels at meeting everyone where they are, fostering growth, confidence, and resilience. Lizzie’s ability to connect with clients and create a supportive environment has made her a trusted mentor and advocate within the Turnbridge community. Outside of her work, Lizzie is passionate about personal wellness and continuous learning. She enjoys weightlifting, running, and spending time in nature, which reflects her dedication to both discipline and balance. A lifelong learner, she also loves reading and has interests in biology, physiology, and neuroscience.

Angelika Ptak is a dedicated and empathetic discharge planner for the Turnbridge Adolescent Residential Treatment Program for Girls in Killingworth, where she supports adolescents as they transition from structured care to the next stage of their lives. Angelika is committed to ensuring that each client receives thoughtful, personalized guidance and access to the resources they need for a stable and successful reintegration.

With a professional background as a case manager working with incarcerated individuals, Angelika brings a well-rounded perspective to her work. Her experience navigating complex systems and advocating for vulnerable populations has strengthened her ability to coordinate care, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and provide meaningful support tailored to each client’s circumstances.

Currently pursuing her Master of Social Work, Angelika continues to deepen her knowledge and clinical skills to better serve those in her care. She is known for her compassionate approach, strong communication, and dedication to empowering the individuals and families she works with.

Outside of her professional life, Angelika enjoys playing guitar and spending time hiking, finding balance and inspiration in both creative expression and the outdoors.

Rafael A. Mercado brings nearly 15 years of experience in the field of mental health and addiction services, offering a well-rounded blend of operational leadership and direct client care. Rafael joined Turnbridge in 2014 and has held a variety of impactful roles, allowing him to contribute across multiple levels of care. In addition to serving as a First Aid and CPR Instructor and leading onboarding orientations for new operational staff, Rafael has played a key role in fostering a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment. His strong working knowledge of the Department of Public Health (DPH) and Joint Commission standards ensures that both integrity and compliance remain at the forefront of his work. In his role as Care Team Director, he supports clients and families through complex journeys while helping coordinate care, navigate challenges, and build sustainable plans for long-term recovery.

Rafael’s professional approach is deeply informed by over 20 years of personal recovery, which allows him to connect with clients and families through authenticity, empathy, and a genuine understanding of the process. He is known for his ability to build trust, model accountability, and meet individuals where they are, while still encouraging growth and personal responsibility. His recognition as the 2017 Men’s Program Case Manager of the Year reflects both his dedication and the meaningful impact he has had on those he serves.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Rafael remains deeply engaged in his community. He has served as President of the Greater New Haven Sober Softball League, creating opportunities for connection and fellowship within the recovery community. He is also an active participant in Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and volunteers his time as a Little League baseball coach, mentoring youth and emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and confidence both on and off the field.

A devoted husband and father of two sons and a daughter, Rafael places great importance on family and leading by example. He enjoys helping his sons manage their family egg stand, working on carpentry projects, and spending time fishing the Canadian waters alongside his extended family. Whether at home, in the community, or in his professional role, Rafael’s commitment to service is evident and grounded in integrity, compassion, and a sincere passion for helping others build meaningful, connected, and healthy lives.

Madeline is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Resident Liaison at Turnbridge, where she plays a pivotal role in ensuring that individuals transitioning from residential treatment care to the next phase of recovery receive the support and resources they need for a successful reintegration. With a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Madeline brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her work, advocating for clients’ well-being and providing comprehensive discharge planning services tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

Her expertise spans coordinating care transitions, collaborating with healthcare teams, and connecting clients to community resources, ensuring a smooth and supportive journey toward recovery. Madeline is known for her commitment to client-centered care, her attention to detail, and her ability to build trust with clients and their families during some of their most challenging times.

When she’s not working, Madeline is passionate about continuing to expand her knowledge in the field to better serve those in need at Fordham University’s Master of Social Work Program. She enjoys traveling, reading and spending time outside.

Ryan Cremin is a behavioral health professional specializing in discharge planning and aftercare coordination. Experience across multiple levels of care, from admissions and direct support to recovery coach and interventionist, gives Ryan a comprehensive understanding of the treatment continuum and a rounded perspective on the roles of each treatment phase and team member. He is skilled in guiding individuals through treatment transitions, connecting them with appropriate resources, and promoting continuity of care.

Drawing on his personal recovery journey, Ryan brings authenticity and empathy to his work, enabling him to meaningfully connect with clients and families.

Ian Vroom is a graduate of the Turnbridge men’s program who brings both professional experience and lived understanding to his role. Having achieved sustained recovery, Ian draws on his personal journey with mental health and addiction to connect authentically with clients and support their growth.

Ian has been a valued member of the Turnbridge team for several years, beginning his work in the operations department before transitioning into direct care. He now serves as a Care Team Director, where he works closely with clients and their families to support lasting change. Ian is committed to fostering a structured, supportive environment and helping families stay engaged in the recovery process, ensuring clients feel understood, challenged, and encouraged throughout their treatment journey.