The People

Boy’s Team

Director’s Message

Excellence is a commitment to the patients and families we serve, and to ourselves. 

Helping young people and their family members is more than our profession — it is our vocation. Adolescent mental healthcare is one of the most challenging and rewarding areas of medicine. Making a positive change in the life of a young person can set the stage for success throughout the rest of that person’s life, and benefit family members, friends, and future generations. 

Young people, today, are experiencing unprecedented rates of mental illness. There has never been a more critical time to make effective treatment available to teens and families or for this field to develop new clinical insights to answer the growing need.

Every member of the Turnbridge Adolescent team considers these programs to be their life’s work and was selected because they want to become the best in their respective fields. Unwavering quality is the standard upon which this program is founded, and is the guiding principle that governs our work. Ours is a culture of performance. 

Our care providers are exceptionally well-trained, highly skilled, experienced, and dedicated to using the most effective approaches. Turnbridge represents the best thinking, practices, and resources to address the complex issues of adolescent mental health.

Boy’s Treatment Team

Dr. Hassan Minhas, MD

Medical Director

Hassan M. Minhas MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with training in Adult Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Forensic Psychiatry.

In addition to serving as the Medical Director of Turnbridge, Dr. Minhas is also the Chief of Autism Services at the Hospital for Special Care, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at the Yale University School of Medicine Department of Law and Psychiatry.

He graduated medical school from Rawalpindi Medical College in Pakistan, then completed his internship, residency, and pediatric psychiatry fellowship at Brown University. Following his clinical training, he completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry at Yale University.

Dr. Minhas has been the recipient of many awards and fellowships. Some of these include the APA Leadership Fellowship, the Brain Conference Travel Award, the Martin B. Keller Award, and the Haffenreffer Family Resident Award. Most recently, he was recognized by the Hartford Business Journal as one of their 40 under Forty honorees.

Achievements

Education and Training

  • M.B.,B.S., Rawalpindi Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
  • The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
  • Yale University, New Haven, CT
  • Harvard-Macy Program for Post-Graduate Trainees

Honors and Recognition

  • 2011 – 2013 Brown Psychiatry Residency Research Track Awardee
  • 2011 Second Prize Psychiatry Residency Research Poster, Fourteenth Annual Research Symposium on Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
  • 2011 Runner-up to the Weinshilboum Prize (invited to attend the 10th Annual Psychiatric Genomics Course), Department of Psychiatry, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
  • 2012 Second Prize Psychiatry Residency Research Poster, Fifteenth Annual Research Symposium on Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
  • 2012 Travel Fellowship awardee, 17th Annual Research Colloquium for Junior Investigators, American Psychiatric Association
  • 2012 – 2014 American Psychiatric Leadership Fellow, American Psychiatric Association
  • 2013 Brain Conference Scholar Travel Award, American Association of Directors of Psychiatric Residency Training
  • 2013 International Medical Graduate Fellow, American Association of Directors of Psychiatric Residency Training
  • 2013 Society of Biological Psychiatry, 68th Annual Convention, Mentor-Mentee Program Participant
  • 2013 Martin B. Keller Award for the Outstanding Resident in the General Psychiatry Residency Graduating Class, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
  • 2015 Haffenrefer Family House Staff Excellence Award; awarded to 5 graduating house staff across specialties for demonstrating excellence in clinical service, professionalism, leadership and scholarly activities, Rhode Island Hospital

State and National Organization Committees

  • American Psychiatric Association
  • Rhode Island Council for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law

Hospital and Training Program Committees

  • Brown University
  • Bradley Hospital
  • Butler Hospital

Publications

  1. Minhas HM, Pescosolido MF, Schwede M, Piasecka J, Gaitanis J, Tantravahi U, Morrow EM. An unbalanced translocation involving loss of 10q26.2 and gain of 11q25 in a pedigree with autism spectrum disorder and cerebellar juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A. April 2013;161(4):787–791
  2. Minhas HM, Vahabzadeh A. Autism Spectrum Disorder in DSM-5. The Residents’ Journal, American Journal of Psychiatry, May 2013;8(5):4-6
  3. Banerjee R, Liu JJ, Minhas HM. Lyme Neuroborreliosis Presenting with Alexithymia and Suicide Attempts. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. October 2013;74(10):981
  4. Minhas HM, Lowenhaupt EA. Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor, 2015 edition.
  5. Minhas HM, Philip N. Antipsychotics. The Encyclopedia of Clinical Psychology, First Edition, 2015.
  6. Minhas HM, Lowenhaupt EA, Xavier, SL. Conduct Disorder. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor, 2016 edition.
  7. Minhas HM, Elliot MB, Price LH. Altered mental status due to hand sanitizer ingestion. British Journal of Psychiatry, December 5 2011. bjp.rcpsych.org/letters/
  8. Aoun EG, Minhas HM, Hunt JI. Synthetic Marijuana: a serious emerging substance use problem in adolescents. The Brown University Child and Adolescent Behavior Letter (CABL). January 2014; 30(1)

Christopher Cutter, PhD

Chief of Adolescent Psychology

Assistant Professor, Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine

Dr. Cutter is one of the world’s foremost behavioral healthcare researchers and clinicians in the fields of psychotherapy development, behavioral medicine, and addiction medicine in urban and rural environments. He received his PhD in Counseling Psychology from Northeastern University, his Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Southern California, and his BA in Psychology from California State University. He has held teaching and/or research positions at Yale University, Harvard University, Northeastern University, and University of Hartford.  Dr. Cutter is currently a tenure-tracked faculty member at Yale School of Medicine’s Child Study Center.

Previously, Dr. Cutter was a clinical program developer within some of Harvard’s teaching hospitals, and directed the Pain Treatment Services Units for Yale’s Department of Psychiatry and Silver Hill Hospital. A former assistant dean of Yale College and a Beck Institute Scholar, Dr. Cutter has received numerous professional honors over the course of his career and his work has been widely cited in peer-reviewed manuscripts and continues to direct a highly active and prolific behavioral science clinical research laboratory out of Yale’s Child Study Center.

Dr. Cutter hopes to one day leverage the exceptional outcomes produced at Turnbridge to lobby congress to support legislation that will increase access to long-term dual diagnosis treatment for all populations.

Turnbridge is a leader in adolescent care where young people become better and caregivers become their best. Compassion for each young person and family we are privileged to help is at the center of everything we do.

Achievements

Education and Training

  • Postdoctoral Fellow, Yale University School of Medicine (School of Arts and Sciences), 2009
  • Predoctoral Fellow, Harvard Medical School, 2007
  • Ph.D. Counseling Psychology, Northeastern University, 2007
  • M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Southern California, 2002
  • B.A. Psychology, California State University, Long Beach, 1998

Honors and Recognition

  • 2017 Eastern Pain Association, Outstanding poster presentation
  • 2013 Beck Institute Scholar at the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy
  • 2011 National Institute on Drug Abuse Travel Award co-sponsored with the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and American Psychological Association Division 28 (Psychopharmacology and Drug Abuse) and 50 (Addictions)
  • 2010 National Institute on Drug Abuse Psychotherapy Development Center Pilot Project Grant
  • 2010  National Institute on Drug Abuse Junior Investigator Travel Award
  • 2010 Psi Chi National Psychology Honors Society Summer Internship Teaching Grant
  • 2009-14 National Institute of Health Clinical Loan Repayment Program by National Institute on Drug Abuse

Awards and Grants

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse
    • 1 R01 DA019511-03: “Counseling for primary care office-based buprenorphine”
    • 1 RO1 DA020576-01A1: “Buprenorphine maintenance vs. detoxification in prescription opioid dependence”
    • 1 R01 DA019511-03: “Pain and Opioid Dependence”
    • 2 P50DA009241: “Psychotherapy Development Center Pilot Program”
    • 5 R01 AA01892303: “Reducing Heavy Drinking to Optimize HIV/AIDS Treatment and Prevention”
    • 1 R01 DA034678: “Automated Recovery Line for Medication Assisted Treatment”

Select Publications

  1. Moore, B.A., Barry, D.T., Cutter, C.J., Sullivan, L.E., O’Connor, P.G., Schottenfeld, R.S., & Fiellin, D.A.  (2012).  Counseling and directly observed medication for primary care buprenorphine/naloxone maintenance: A pilot study.  Journal of Addiction Medicine. 6(3):205-211.
  2. Beitel, M., Savant, J. D., Cutter, C. J., Peters, S., Belisle, N., & Barry, D.T. (2012). Psychopathology and pain correlates of dispositional optimism in methadone-maintained patients. The American Journal on Addictions, 21, S56-62.
  3. Moore, B.A., Fazzino, T., Garnet, B., Cutter, C.J., Barry, D.T. (2011).  Computer-based treatments for drug abuse and dependence: A Systematic Review.  Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 40: 215-223
  4. Garnet, B., Beitel, M., Cutter, C.J., Savant, J.D., Peters, S., Schottenfeld, R.S., Barry, D.T.  (2011)  Pain catastrophizing and pain coping among methadone maintained patients. Pain Medicine; 12: 79-86.
  5. Barry, D.T., Beitel, M., Cutter, C.J., Garnet, B., Joshi, D., Rosenblum, A., Schottenfeld, R.S. (2011). Exploring relations among traumatic, posttraumatic, and physical pain experiences in methadone-maintained patients. Journal of Pain,12: 22-28.
  6. Barry, D.T., Beitel, M., Breuer, T., Cutter, C.J., Savant, J.D., Peters, S., Schottenfeld, R.S., Rounsaville, B.J.  (2011). Group-Based Strategies for Stress Reduction in Methadone Maintenance Treatment: What Do Patients Want? Journal of Addiction Medicine, 5: 181-187.
  7. Barry, D.T., Beitel, M., Breuer, T., Cutter, C.J., Savant, J.D., Schottenfeld, R.S., Rounsaville, B.J. (2011). Conventional and unconventional treatments for stress among methadone-maintained patients:  Treatment willingness and perceived efficacy.  American Journal of Addiction, 20: 137-142.
  8. Barry, D.T., Beitel, M., Cutter, C.J., Joshi, D., Falcioni, J., Schottenfeld, R.S. (2010).  Conventional and non-conventional pain treatment utilization among opioid dependent individuals with pain seeking methadone maintenance treatment: A needs assessment study. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 4: 81-87.
  9. Barry, D.T., Beitel, M., Cutter, C.J., Garnet, B., Joshi, D., Schottenfeld, R.S., Rounsaville, B.J. (2009).  Allopathic, complementary, and alternative medical treatment utilization for pain among methadone-maintained patients: An exploratory study.  The American Journal on Addictions, 18: 379-385.
  10. Weinberg, I., Gunderson, J.G., Hennen, J., Cutter, C.J. (2006). Manual-Assisted Cognitive Treatment for the Deliberate Self-Harm for Borderline Personality Disorder Patients.  Journal of Personality Disorders, 20: 482-492.

Mark Beitel, PhD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Associate Research Scientist, Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine

Dr. Mark Beitel is a practicing clinical psychologist, researcher, and professor. Dr. Beitel holds degrees in psychology from the University of Michigan, Fordham University, and the New School for Social Research. Beitel completed post-doctoral work at the Yale University School of Medicine. 

Beitel serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the Yale School of Medicine, where he teaches undergraduate and graduate courses, trains students and conducts clinical research. Beitel is a prolific author who has contributed more than 40 research papers and peer-reviewed articles on psychotherapy, substance use, chronic pain, and connections between culture and psychology. 

Dr. Beitel brings a passion for helping people understand and manage their mental health conditions and in-depth knowledge of the theory and practice of effective, evidence-based therapy to Turnbridge clients and families. 

Achievements

Education and Training

  • Ph.D. Fordham University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, 2003
  • MA New School for Social Research, The Graduate Faculty, 1996
  • BA University of Michigan, Psychology Honors Program, 1994

Professional Affiliations

  • American Psychoanalytic Association, Research Associate (2004-08)
  • American Psychological Association, Member (2003-08)
  • Connecticut Psychological Association, Member (2004-present)
  • Mind, Brain, Consciousness & Culture Faculty Group, Yale University, Member (2003-07)
  • Society for Psychotherapy Research, Member (2003-present)
  • The Diversity Initiative, Fordham University, Founding Member (2000-03)
  • University of Michigan Alumni Association (2004-present)
  • Yale Group for the Study of Native American (2013-present)

Select Publications

  1. Oberleitner, D.E., Marcus, R., Beitel. M., Muthulingam, D., Oberleitner, L., Madden, L. M., Eller, A., Barry, D. T. (in press). “Day-to-day, it’s a roller coaster. It’s frustrating. It’s rewarding. It’s maddening and it’s enjoyable:” A qualitative investigation of the lived experiences of addiction counselors. Psychological Services.
  2. Mun, C. J., Beitel, M., Oberleitner, L., Oberleitner, D.E., Madden, L. M., Bollampally, P., & Barry, D. T. (2019). Pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance predict pain severity and interference among methadone-maintained patients. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 75, 2233-2247.
  3. Barry, D. T., Beitel, M., Cutter, C. J., Fiellin, D. A., Kerns, R. D., Moore, B. A., Oberleitner, L., Madden, L. M., Liong, C., Ginn, J., & Schottenfeld, R. S. (2019). An evaluation of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for opioid use disorder and chronic pain. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 194, 460-467.
  4. Beitel, M., Wald, L., Hutz, A., Green, D., Cecero, J.J., Kishon, R., & Barry, D. T. (2015). Humanistic experience and psychodynamic understanding: Empirical associations among facets of self-actualization and psychological mindedness. Person-Centered and Experiential Psychotherapies, 14, 137-148.
  5. Beitel, M., Bogus, S., Hutz, A., Green, D., Cecero, J.J., & Barry, D. T. (2014). Stillness and motion: An empirical investigation of mindfulness and self-actualization. Person-Centered and Experiential Psychotherapies, 13, 187-202.
  6. Barry, D. T., Savant, J. D., Beitel, M., Cutter, C. J., Moore, B. A., Schottenfeld, R. S., & Fiellin, D. A. (2013). Pain and associated substance use among opioid dependent individuals seeking office-based treatment with buprenorphine-naloxone: A needs assessment study. American Journal on Addictions, 22, 212-217.
  7. Beitel, M., Hutz, A. E., Hopper, K. M., Gunn, C., Cecero, J. J., & Barry, D. T. (2009). Do psychologically-minded clients expect more from counseling? Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, and Practice, 82, 369-383.
  8. Barry, D. T., Bernard, M. J., Beitel, M. (2009). East Asian child rearing attitudes: An exploration of cultural, demographic, and self-disclosure factors among U.S. immigrants. International Journal of Psychology, 44, 342-350.
  9. Cecero, J. J., Beitel, M., & Prout, T. (2008). Examining the relationships among early maladaptive schemas, psychological mindedness, and adjustment to college. Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, and Practice, 81, 105-118.
  10. Hutz, A. E., Martin, W., & Beitel, M. (2007). Ethnocultural person-environment fit and college adjustment in light of relevant demographics: Some implications for college counselors. Journal of College Counseling, 10, 130-141.
  11. Beitel, M. (1997). Nuances before dinner: Exploring the relationship between peer counselors and delinquent adolescents. Adolescence, 32, 579-591.

Jack Britton, LPC

Vice President of Clinical Services

Jack grew up in Dallas, Texas, where he earned B.B.A. and master’s degrees in accounting from S.M.U. and started work with a Big Four firm, auditing hedge funds and energy companies. Getting sober in 2007 led Jack to consider other professions that he might enjoy more, and in 2010 he moved to rural Minnesota where he completed a master’s in counseling from Hazelden. Not a fan of blizzards, in 2011 Jack left for Lubbock, Texas, where he worked as a counselor at a residential treatment program for young adults and developed a passion for helping families. In 2015 he briefly lived in Austin to help a college friend open a counseling office. Over time, Jack saw first-hand how quality of life improves the most when a person engages in long-term treatment, a truth supported by decades of research, and so in 2016 he moved to Connecticut to work in Turnbridge’s young adult program.

Since then, Jack has held roles in all our service offerings. He started as a primary clinician and later a family therapist. In 2017 Jack helped open and was director of Turnbridge’s community outpatient services, which started in New Haven in the evenings and have since shifted to our Westport clinic. In 2020 Jack co-developed and -launched Turnbridge’s first adolescent residential treatment center in Woodbury, serving as clinical director. In 2021 he shifted to non-client care to work on a variety of projects ranging from program analysis and enhancement to hiring and training.

As Vice President of Clinical Services, Jack ensures the ethos of Turnbridge’s mission is carried to and thrives within all our programs. He also recruits and hires superb clinical talent from around the country. Additionally, Jack builds and develops relationships with Turnbridge partners through tours, conferences, and speaking engagements. Jack loves spending his time with his wife and their daughter, golf, and travel.

LAUREN SPRINGER, LMSW

Director of Family Relations

We know that mental health and substance use disorders are diseases which affects the entire family.  As the Family Liaison for Turnbridge families, Lauren offers support, caring guidance and education to parents and families as they negotiate the pathway to their own recovery.   She believes that parents having their own recovery program is not only essential to their own health and well-being, but in turn aids in their sons’ or daughters’ recovery.

Much of the insight Lauren brings to the position of Family Liaison is from her personal experience as the mother of a son who has the disease of addiction.  Lauren believes that much of her strength comes from involvement in recovery programs as well as in helping other parents build a program of recovery to find peace and serenity in their own lives.  Lauren is a Licensed Master of Social Work.  She earned her Masters Degree from the University of Pennsylvania, with a concentration in adolescent health care.  She has worked with adolescents and their families throughout her career in hospital setting, child protection, judicial system, special education and social service development in NJ.  Lauren currently facilitates a Caron Foundation support group for parents of addicted children in Northern NJ.

Abigail Horowitz, MSW

Senior Academic Advisor

Abigail Horowitz completed her Master in Social Work degree at Springfield College in 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree(s) in Psychology, Spanish, and Youth Services from University of Saint Joseph. A certified school social worker in Connecticut, she has also participated in ADHD and academic coach training. 

Prior to Turnbridge, she was a Residential Supervisor at a sub-acute psychiatric facility for children ages 6 to 13 and a Supervisor at an Extended Day Treatment Program. She has spent time abroad, volunteering with the elderly and youth in Central and South America and a semester studying abroad in Ecuador. Additionally, she was paramount in facilitating youth programs at a local YMCA and a key player in coordinating the YMCA College Tour in the mid-west and south for students for a number of years. She is passionate about mental health and education, which led her to her current position as the Senior Academic Advisor here at Turnbridge. 

BILL SIMMONS, CAC

Vice President of Operations

Bill has over 15 years of professional experience in the field of mental healthcare, having made significant contributions as a direct-care clinician and administrator in multiple settings and levels of care. Bill is both nationally and internationally credentialed as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor and is a certified BLS & CPR trainer through the American Heart Association. Additionally, Bill’s personal experience in long-term recovery adds to his ability to combine professional expertise with a unique passion and motivation. This has afforded Bill the opportunity to help others achieve their own sustained recovery with approaches that are evidence-based, while respecting the unique needs of the individual.

In Bill’s current role as Vice President of Operations, he provides visionary leadership ensuring that the logistical systems of staffing, safety, and administrative and procedural reporting are in place and functioning effectively. Bill’s creative leadership has contributed to the growth of the organization through increased operational efficiency. Bill has an energetic style that, combined with respectful and constructive communication, has allowed him to increase the retention, ability, and capacity of his staff, which has directly led to improved outcomes for clients.

GORDON DICKLER, CAC, ICADC

Vice President of Admissions

Gordon oversees the admissions department and helps families in crisis find help for their loved ones in need. As both a board certified counselor and a Turnbridge alumni, Gordon’s intimate understanding of Turnbridge’s powerful ability to help young people overcome behavioral health conditions is informed by both personal and professional experience. This perspective allows Gordon to relate deeply to these issues, and to explain at a foundational level the many aspects of Turnbridge’s Programs.

After receiving his Bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University, Gordon realized a newfound desire to help others overcome mental health disorders. He subsequently completed a counseling certification program and in January of 2011 joined the team of professionals at Turnbridge, where he’s excelled in a variety of direct-care roles. In July of 2013, Turnbridge asked Gordon to apply his knowledge and insight to the work of Admissions, where he has the privilege of being among the first points of touch between families seeking help, and Turnbridge’s ability to give hope.  Today, Gordon leads a team of compassionate and knowledgeable admissions coordinators who on the front lines supporting families through the process of evaluating appropriate treatment solutions for their loved one.

In his free time, Gordon enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children and patronizing New Haven’s many exceptional restaurants.

BETH LEGACKI

Senior Director of Admissions

Beth is a certified interventionist with over 16 years of experience working in behavioral healthcare. She has dedicated her professional life to helping those who have been affected by mental health and substance use disorders. She is an energetic and passionate advocate for change who believes in the profound importance of early intervention.

As a person in long-term recovery, Beth relies heavily on her personal story to impart hope and inspire action in family members seeking support. Being on the front lines helping loved ones navigate the chaos of mental illness and addiction has been the most rewarding and challenging work of her life thus far. It has also cemented the gratitude she feels for the loved ones who fought for her many years ago when she was too sick to fight for herself.

Many moons ago, Beth attended Indiana University on a track and field/cross country running scholarship. She spent eight years working as a high-end real estate professional in New York City, where she collaborated with top marketing firms, architects and real-estate agencies.

Beth is an avid runner, a passionate dog-rescuer, and a loving wife and mother.

Samantha Tramuta, LCSW

Clinical Director

Samantha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She was born and raised in Connecticut, and received her Master’s of Social Work from The University of Connecticut. Samantha specialized in group work treatment during her clinical training, and she is passionate about the growth and connections formed through group treatment for adolescents.

Samantha started her career treating at-risk youth and high school students in Connecticut before moving to Colorado to enjoy the Rocky Mountains. After spending time working with various populations in outpatient and emergency department settings, Samantha found her passion working as the Clinical Director of a long-term residential mental health and substance use program. In that role, she helped to develop a creative clinical program that included on-site equine-assisted therapy and rock climbing, a specialized nutritional recovery program, and experiential group work strategies. She also worked hard to provide the highest ethical and quality delivery of treatment and led the program to achieve remarkable levels of client completion and the agency’s first perfect audit from their governing body.

In her role as Clinical Director of the Turnbridge Adolescent Residential Program, Samantha uses her training in family systems, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential group work, and dialectical behavioral therapy to facilitate creative treatment that adolescents want to truly engage in. She loves to work together with Turnbridge families to ensure that a complete package of care is provided to everyone who loves our clients. She firmly believes that getting better can also mean having fun.

In her free time, Samantha loves spending time with her two children and getting to fall in love with the New England culture all over again.

Achievements

Education and Training

  • B.A. Political Science and Human Rights, University of Connecticut
  • M.S.W. Group Work Concentration, University of Connecticut

Kara Moonan, APRN

Director of Nursing

Kara has been a nurse for over 10 years. She completed her undergraduate work at Bryn Mawr College in classical cultures. Kara went on to complete her nursing degree and graduate work at Yale School of Nursing where she specialized in pediatric primary care. Kara comes to us with a wealth of experience in residential living and is passionate about adolescent care services and care coordination. Kara strives to integrate mental and physical health models into treatment programming and values building relationships with her clients.

Achievements

Education and Training

  • Yale School of Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, August 2008
  • Bryn Mawr College, B.A. in Classical Cultures and Society, August 2003 – May 2007
  • Connecticut State Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, 2010
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, 2010
  • Connecticut State Registered Nurse, 2009
  • Infant, Child and Adult CPR /AED certified, American Red Cross, 2018
  • DCF Certified Medication Administration Instructor, 2018

Honors and Recognition

  • Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society member, Delta Mu Chapter, Bryn Mawr College, May 2010

Allison Price, LMFT

Primary Therapist

Allison Price is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from The University of Connecticut and her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fairfield University.

The vast majority of Allison’s clinical experience has been working with adolescents and their families. She utilizes a systemic perspective in her treatment approach and views the problems of the individual in relation to the family as a whole. She knows that the behavior of the adolescent is informed by and inseparable from the functioning of the family and thus closely examines family structure, relationships, and patterns. Specifically, Allison specializes in structural family therapy, strategic family therapy, and Bowenian family therapy, and uses her skillset to challenge adolescents and their families to create healthier patterns of communication and interaction. Allison also utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy to help her clients alter negative thought cycles and regulate their emotions. She firmly believes that all her clients, regardless of age, have the solutions to their problems inside of them and helps them explore the possibilities with solution-focused therapy techniques.

Although she considers her career to be her passion, when not working, Allison enjoys spending time with her friends and family and tending to her 100+ houseplants.

Raymond Demers, LMSW

Primary Therapist

Raymond Demers is a Licensed Master Social Worker. He earned his Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Connecticut and his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work. 

Raymond has been working with young children, adolescents, adults, and families of diverse populations for over ten years. He specializes in motivational interviewing to increase internal motivation for a positive change in behavior within his clients. Raymond also incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness Based Therapies in his practice. Through the lens of Systems Theory, he takes a holistic approach to consider the various factors that can influence and promote the possibility of change within any individual.

In his free time, Raymond enjoys attending sporting and music events and spending time with his family and friends.

Suzy Smith, LMSW

Primary Therapist

Suzy Smith is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She was born and raised in Connecticut and received her master’s degree in Social Work from Quinnipiac University. Suzy started her career working in a residential treatment facility for adolescent and young adult females who struggle with mental health, eating disorders, and substance use. Over the course of her career, she has also worked in an outpatient setting treating mental and behavioral health for children and youth, including Early Intervention Programs for at-risk children in preschools and elementary schools. Suzy also holds experience in school social work providing direct and indirect services to students and families. Suzy is passionate about the work she provides to her clients and aspires to make a difference.

In her free time, Suzy enjoys spending time with her 3-year-old son, fitness, cooking, as well as spending time with her two dogs.

David Doheny

Senior Operations Manager

David Doheny is a Senior Operations Manager at Turnbridge.  David is a certified Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Instructor, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to high quality evidence-based treatment for adolescents which endorses our core values. In addition, David holds certifications as ServSafe Manager, guaranteeing that Turnbridge meets the highest standards for food and sanitation, PMT, First Aid, CPR, Ropes Course and lifeguard certified, ensuring the highest level of safety for clients.

As a founding member, David embodies the spirit and integrity of Turnbridge, his knowledge and expertise are invaluable.  He is a decisive and proactive leader who anticipates and resolves weaknesses in Turnbridge’s infrastructure before they happen. David works tirelessly, managing service demands and the daily nuances of residential life and ensures policies and procedures are of the highest standards. David ensures the facility is up to code for licensing and accreditation requirements. David is invested in the professional development of his staff by creating and fostering a positive and cohesive work environment. David effortlessly deals with public relations, various contractors, and vendors to cultivate partnerships, elevating our brand awareness.  David strives to provide the best services and experiences possible for the clients and families of Turnbridge.  His customer service-oriented mindset ensures clients and families the best possible experience at Turnbridge. 

Tammy Platt

Academic Advisor

Tammy Platt is a certified teacher in Special Education, Physical Education, and Health. Tammy has Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology from the University of Rhode Island and completed graduate work at Southern Connecticut State University. Tammy has been in education for over fifteen years and has extensive experience in general and special education. Tammy has a broad range of experience outside academics including coaching youth and high school sports and founding the first Unified Sports Program in region 14.

Tammy oversees the academic and fitness programs at Turnbridge’s Adolescent Boys Residential Treatment Center. Tammy is a consistent, reliable, and compassionate professional who strives for excellence in everything she does. Tammy takes an active role in client’s academic lives and provides assistance and individualized attention to promote each student’s success.  Tammy is a fierce advocate for her clients and has fostered a safe learning environment which allows clients to develop meaningful educational goals that are consistent with their personal interests, values, and abilities.

Tammy’s passion for fitness and unwavering commitment to helping youth build a healthy relationship with their mind and body led to the development of our fitness program. The fitness program provides clients with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to empower them to independently navigate any fitness center safely and effectively. Through fitness, clients build the self-confidence and self-efficacy needed to tackle life’s stressors while having fun and building a sense of camaraderie and community with their peers. Clients leave feeling mentally and physically stronger and confident in their ability to tackle the obstacles that lie ahead.

Outside of work, Tammy lives an active lifestyle. She loves spending time with family, sports,  and long summer days.

Hiliary Bassett, MA

Academic Advisor

Hiliary Bassett is a Connecticut Certified Teacher that specializes in therapeutic education. She received both a Bachelor of Arts in English Education and a Master of Arts in Education from Fairfield University. Hiliary specialized in secondary education and working with marginalized communities to overcome barriers to schooling.

Prior to coming to Turnbridge, Hiliary worked with students and families in special education and trauma-informed classroom settings, both private and public. Her background in therapeutic education aids in her understanding of our clients and accommodating specific needs that may stand in the way of educational success. She has ample experience creating Social Emotional Learning curriculum and incorporating therapeutic skills into the classroom environment. Hiliary believes in a holistic approach to education and in meeting a client where they are, celebrating successes and supporting setbacks. She creates personalized academic plans for clients while at Turnbridge and works with schools and families to ensure a smooth transition and appropriate services in their continued education.

Hiliary is a Connecticut native with a goal of hiking the highest peak of every state. She is an equine enthusiast and shares her love of horses with many clients on the Killingworth campus.

Kate Mezick, BA

Academic Advisor

Kate Mezick received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Minor in Psychology from Quinnipiac University. Kate has spent her career crafting exceptional skills in communication, empathy, and advocacy in the mental health field. She has over 8 years of diverse experience both clinically and with case management for clients of all ages throughout multiple levels of care.

Prior to joining the Turnbridge family, Kate was a Senior Counselor with an intensive in-home program working with adolescents and their families. This role primarily involved collaborating with outside providers and meeting with educational facilities to advocate for appropriate services needed. Kate has also maintained a Per Diem position as a Telephone Counselor for the Accessline since 2018. Accessline is a statewide program supporting individuals seeking treatment resources for substance use. Additional experience also includes working in an outpatient setting as an Art Therapy Mentor for youth and case management of Special Needs Trusts for adults and elders with disabilities. Outside of work Kate enjoys traveling, seeing live music, and playing in seasonal bowling and softball leagues.

DAVID VIEAU

Founder & CEO

David’s extensive business background combined with his personal story of recovery led to the founding of Turnbridge in 2003. Under his direction, Turnbridge has evolved into a nationally provider of residential behavioral healthcare services for both young adults and adolescents. He has pioneered innovative approaches and developed programs specifically for these age groups that have changed the way the industry approaches treatment.

His educational background includes a Liberal Arts education from Harvard University. In addition to spending most of his career in the non-profit world, his professional experience also includes a variety of leadership roles with start-up organizations and educational institutions.

He enjoys spending time with his sixteen year old daughter Alexis, is an aspiring musician, and an avid golfer.

BRETT TIBERIO

President

As President, Brett provides oversight and support to all departments within Turnbridge. He joined Turnbridge in February 2010 and is responsible for maintaining focused and driven clinical operations, project management and execution, increasing programmatic efficiencies, and ensuring quality outcomes and customer satisfaction are acheived.

As a longtime alumni of the Turnbridge Young Men’s Program, Brett offers a unique perspective on client-centered treatment. He frequently speaks with families and clients to share his experiences and knowledge of the Turnbridge Program. Before joining Turnbridge, Brett worked for Blum Shapiro, the largest regional accounting, tax and business consulting firm in New England. He graduated from Champlain College with a B.S. in Professional Writing. In his free time, Brett enjoys spending time with his family, maintaining an active lifestyle, the arts, and the pursuit of personal growth.

JAMIE HAZELTON

Executive Vice President

As Executive Vice President, Jamie oversees daily operations and spearheads the effort to build bridges between Turnbridge and other high quality treatment programs across the country. Maintaining close ties with other centers gives Turnbridge two distinct advantages. First, knowing the people, philosophies, and practices of other centers makes the process of integrating new residents from these centers smoother and easier. Second, by understanding the specialties of other centers, it allows Turnbridge to recommend the best care option when Turnbridge may not be their best solution. Jamie has helped hundreds of families navigate the difficult road of choosing a treatment program that best suits their loved one’s needs.

Himself a Turnbridge graduate, Jamie offers a compassionate ear and first-hand knowledge of the Turnbridge program and its unique benefits. Before joining Turnbridge, Jamie attended college for nursing, and has extensive experience caring for people in need including his work with veterans for the American Red Cross. Jamie continues to live his passion for helping others as a Turnbridge Leader.

Matt Leahy, BA, CPRS

Admissions Manager

Matthew understands that a call to Turnbridge often means a family is in crisis. As Admissions Manager, Matt’s primary goal is to offer a calming presence and clear direction to families during these difficult moments. In addition to his direct work with families, Matt supervises a team of admissions and intake coordinators and oversees the logistical aspects of the enrollment process, from insurance verification to physical admission.  As a certified recovery coach, Matt understands there are multiple pathways to recovery and truly believes that a young person’s journey towards wellness is a personal one that requires a multi-disciplinary approach.

Matt graduated from Temple University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts and subsequently worked as a legal assistant for a criminal defense attorney.  He went on to hold several different positions within the Pennsylvania judicial system.

Matthew has been a part of the Turnbridge family since early 2014 when he entered the Turnbridge Young Men’s Program as a client. Upon completing the Turnbridge program, Matt was hired as a support staff member and eventually went on to become a Case Manager. He has grown tremendously, both professionally and personally, since that time and is forever grateful for the support of the people at Turnbridge that work tirelessly to help young adults and adolescents build a life worth protecting.

Matt is a doting father and fiancé. During his free time, Matt enjoys playing baseball, softball, and taking weekend trips to visit his family at the Jersey Shore.