Trauma treatment in Pacific Palisades CA
Dr. Darsa is a licensed psychologist, an author, creator of RITTM, and founder of Reconnect. She has more than 20 years of clinical and administrative experience in trauma and mental health disorders. Dr. Darsa began her career in 1998 as a foster care social worker and continued her work with abused children and their families and adults abused as children.
In 2002, Dr. Darsa began studying with Christine Schenk, founder of the CHRIS-Technique, a unique energy work focused on teaching clients how to ground themselves in their bodies. Dr. Darsa has completed numerous evidence-based trainings in the treatment of trauma and mental health disorders, including Master Level in Brainspotting and in EMDR. In addition, she completed 2 years of Somatic Experiencing and 1 year of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. With each advanced training, Dr. Darsa developed a deeper understanding of trauma processes and healing, and developed Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Model which is an n integration of evidence-based, cutting-edge trauma treatment models.
In 2012 Dr. Darsa became the co-creator of Invisible War Recovery, a program designed to treat military sexual trauma survivors. She has been interviewed by Katie Couric, Susan Ortolano, and Lisa Tahir, and was featured on the Voice of America. She lectures about trauma treatment at various universities such as the University of Southern California, UCLA and Cal Lutheran. She also speaks at treatment centers and conferences.
Dr. Darsa realized that what is often missing in trauma treatment is a finely attuned, gentle, body based process to help heal and reconnect mind and body when clients become disregulated due to traumatic events, developmental trauma, or emotional disorders. Thus, Dr. Darsa created RITTM to close those missing gaps in trauma treatment. Reconnect Center embodies that philosophy in offering intensive one on one work to help truly heal each individual that comes through her doors.
A native of Turkey, Dr. Darsa has been living in the United States for 25 years. She has also lived in Spain, France and Brazil. Dr. Darsa’s exposure to numerous ethnic and social groups allows her to understand the cultural differences in human thought and behavior. She can provide therapy in English, Spanish, French and Turkish and is able to converse in Italian and Portuguese as well.
Jorge is a University of California Economics graduate with a computer science, finance and investment background. He has over 30 years of experience managing investments internationally for high net worth individuals, Non-Profit Institutions and Pension Plans. His expertise includes designing information systems dashboards, data simulators and data base integrated solutions for investment firms, pension plans and other institutions.
Jorge has been participating at Reconnect Psychological Services since its inception supporting proudly the efforts of Dr. Darsa in establishing an efficient network of clinicians that can offer one of the best trauma treatment programs.
A dual citizen from Mexico and the United States, Jorge loves spending time with his 3 children camping, snow skiing or hiking.
Dr. Viviana Suaya is a Los Angeles psychiatrist with more than two decades of experience in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She and her professional team are committed to providing patients with the very best of care, using expertise and compassion to achieve the best possible outcome for each patient.
Dr. Suaya pursued a medical degree at the Buenos Aires University School of Medicine in Argentina, where she graduated Cum Laude. Her interest in pediatrics inspired her to become a pediatrician, and she completed a postgraduate program at the Children’s Hospital in Buenos Aires in 1988. Two years later, she relocated to Los Angeles to continue postgraduate training at the Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Psychiatry.
She is an associate professor at Keck school of medicine USC teaching introduction to clinical medicine through the family practice department.
Today, she remains in Los Angeles, where she has unfailingly served patients for more than twenty years. As a Los Angeles psychiatrist with a background in pediatrics, Dr. Suaya specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents.
Shilloy Sanchez is Chief Clinical Officer of the Reconnect outpatient programs. A PhDc, LMFT and CCTP II clinician, she has extensive administrative and clinical experience in trauma, addiction, eating disorder treatment, and school-based programs.
Her career spans three decades and a wide range of leadership positions in clinical psychology, crisis communications, public relations, technology, and youth theater activism. Her journey has been featured on CNN Health and in Seeking Serenity: The 10 New Rules for Health and Happiness in the Age of Anxiety (Penguin Random House 2015).
Before Reconnect, Shilloy was Program Director and Primary Therapist at The Bella Vita, a residential eating disorder treatment facility, and an administrator at Passages, a world-renowned addiction treatment center. In both facilities, Shilloy worked from a strong family systems orientation integrating multifamily and community support groups to the program’s experience.
She earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology specializing in Trauma from Antioch University and is a doctoral candidate in Analytical Depth Psychology specializing in Integrative Therapy and Healing Practices at Pacifica Graduate Institute. She is trained in Brain Spotting (BSP), the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She also holds training/certifications in RITTM, Mother Hunger Level I, Janina Fisher’s TIST Model, Dr. Darsa DID Training,Trauma Focused CBT and Systematic Training for Effective Parenting.
Shilloy’s approach at Reconnect focuses on the transformational process of restoring wholeness and a deep sense of purpose, achieved by bringing a creative alchemical balance of spirit and soul to structured treatment. Shilloy is committed to working closely with the founder, Dr. Darsa, on individualized trauma treatment that includes an elevated sense of awareness and compassion in its programming. She is also dedicated to ensuring ongoing compliance with licensing and regulatory standards consistent with The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), for all levels of care in the supervision and training of Reconnect’s multidisciplinary clinical team.
An aspiring runner, Shilloy has completed three marathons and is training for her fourth. Her hobbies include hosting backyard barbecues, trying new recipes, and hiking. She lives in Southern California with her partner and two bulldogs.
Janice is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Psychology from Antioch University. She is a certified EMDR therapist and trained in the Trauma Resiliency Model.
She works collaboratively with clients to explore behaviors that are preventing them from leading the kind of life they deserve. Janice believes we all developed coping strategies when we were young to protect ourselves. While they helped us survive at the time, she finds they are often the very things holding us back now. Janice uses EMDR and TRM to target the original traumas by employing both the body and the mind. Her belief is that once the original traumas are dealt with, the need for the now maladaptive behaviors are no longer there. She finds symptoms such as depression and anxiety can be alleviated faster when EMDR and TRM are used in conjunction with traditional talk therapy.
Janice became a therapist after seeing for herself the transformative effects of psychotherapy. She knows firsthand that EMDR and TRM are indispensable in the treatment of trauma.
Janice is RITTM Trained.
Along with his work at Reconnect, Ben is the Neurofeedback Coordinator at the Salvation Army Bell Shelter where he helps Veterans heal from extreme PTSD. Ben has extensive experience in helping Veterans reduce symptoms ranging from lack of sleep to severe panic attacks. Additionally, Ben works on alleviating chronic pain, tinnitus, hyper-alertness, excessive worry and many other anxiety related symptoms. Specializing in Neurofeedback Ben has helped Veterans and Private clients improve memory, word finding, creativity and executive thought process. Ben realizes the importance of having the brain and body working together as efficiently as possible. He believes that Neurofeedback is a key component for Peak Performance in sports, the arts, and business. As an avid golfer, Ben especially enjoys working with golfers and other athletes of different levels to help improve their overall performance.
Ben is RITTM Informed.
Gina obtained her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Expressive Arts Therapy from Lesley University. She has been working in the field of mental health and trauma treatment for approximately 10 years, in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment programs, skilled nursing facilities, addiction treatment centers, and community outreach. Providing individual and group support, Gina has worked with clients across the life span to develop a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment at every age.
Gina utilizes compassion, attunement, and mindfulness to help clients connect with their inner wisdom that guides each person’s unique healing journey. Her therapeutic process is person-centered and strengths-based, drawing upon creativity, warmth, and humor in each clinical relationship.
Gina is trained in expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, body-oriented psychotherapy, Brainspotting levels 1 and 2, and RITTM, and is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She continues to maintain an active connection with the arts as a way to support both her personal and professional development.
Maia Akiva is a Motivational Speaker, Entertainer, Facilitator, a reality bender and an emotional researcher who dips into every flavor of human behavior and self-discovery using self-help fiction, magical realism, original visual storytelling and and emotional coaching.
Originally from Israel. Her award-winning self-help plays and short stories have been produced and published all over the United States in the past 10 years, inspiring hundreds of people to go on a journey of understanding, get to know themselves better and deeper, and ask themselves some important questions about their inner emotional lives, their struggles and their relationship with themselves. She led workshops of self-discovery at Models of Pride conference in the US, and at Brave Trails Camp, Resilience Treatment Center, Reconnect center and many more awesome places. She teaches meditation at The Den Meditation in Los Angeles. Maia’s creative work and her desire to help people take a look at themselves come from her own experience. After turning her back on herself for many years, suffering from depression and self-negativity she finally decided to start a new relationship with herself and turned her life around, living a life full of Joy and positivity.
Maia is RITTM Informed.
Nadine graduated her masters program in Clinical Psychology 2015 with a focus on healing from a holistic perspective; with an emphasis on trauma and the utilization of eco/wilderness therapy, somatic approaches, resiliency and post traumatic growth.
Nadine has had the privilege of working with clients who come to Reconnect since 2014. Nadine’s personal approach is passionate, empowered, purposeful and authentic. When working with clients; compassion, empathy, and faith in the client and their process are primary.
Nadine works to nurture strengths, interests and passions while aiming to encourage radical self love and acceptance. Additionally, Nadine infuses eco therapy and nature based work, nested with various forms of resourcing to support clients in building self care skills and mindfulness to facilitate a deeper sense of connection and wellbeing to Self, that, in turn can support a person on their journey of ongoing healing and be- coming whole. Nadine is EMDR and CRM trained and continues her study of Somatic Based work as well.
Nadine is RITTM Certified.
Soleah is a Certified TRE® (Tension & Trauma Release Exercises) Provider and graduated from the TRE® Los Angeles certification program. She also has extensive training and certifications in a variety of modalities some of which include Natural Health Practitioner, and Life Coach.
Soleah Nicolis found her way into the wellness field because of her own personal healing journey. She began her holistic health career in 2004, as an assistant to renowned holistic chiropractor Dr. Eileen Kenny. Under her guidance, Soleah assisted with clients of all ages, health concerns and backgrounds. Soleah’s curiosity about health, community, and service allowed her to apply her lifelong passion for helping people uncover and rediscover their wholeness.
Soleah is RITTM Informed.
Marina has eight years of experience in the banking industry and close to a decade in the herbal industry providing elaborative instruction in the use of herbal therapy and understanding and practicing principles of preventive nutrition, eradicating the cause of disease utilizing wholesome foods and intensive detoxification programs, and healing the body through natural methods. She holds a Nutritional Herbalist certification from the School of Natural Healing and is pursuing a BS degree in natural health science, concentrating on clinical nutrition. She loves the outdoors, traveling, watching documentaries, reading, decoding ingredient lists, yoga, drawing, festivals, has great appreciation for cultural diversity and listening to music from all over the world. As program coordinator, she works closely with the clinical director as well as clinicians to ensure that clients are assigned the best possible schedule.
Sharon is a graduate of the Loyola Marymount University Yoga Therapy Rx, TRE® Los Angeles and The Resilience Toolkit certification programs.
Sharon discovered TRE® and then The Resilience Toolkit on her own healing journey, discovering the benefits of turning on the body’s natural ability to restore itself to balance. She has built a private practice integrating yoga therapy and The Resilience Toolkit as needed for those who suffer from various illnesses, injuries, mood disorders and complex and/or shock trauma. Sharon believes that her role is to guide individuals into their own healing potential by creating a safe space whereby they can progress towards self-regulation and self-empowerment.
Sharon also teaches small therapeutic yoga groups and The Resilience Toolkit sessions at PCH Treatment Center as well as therapeutic yoga at several physical therapy offices, yoga studios, cancer centers and group classes in both public and private schools (preschool – 12th grade) throughout Los Angeles. Additionally, Sharon has experience with support in the 12-steps for addiction and codependency.
Sharon is RITTM Informed.
Certified Trauma Professional (CTP)
Jessica graduated Magna Cum Laude and currently holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside. Now, she is pursuing a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (PsyD). Jessica has been involved with the counseling and psychological services provided by the Board of the University of California, advocating and educating students to normalize mental health. Her passion currently resides working with individuals who have been affected by trauma as well as working with the underserved population.
Jessica has been working under the supervision of licensed psychologists and therapists for over three years, gaining experience and knowledge in trauma related disorders, crisis management, and grounding techniques. She previously worked at Reconnect in the residential facility as a Resident Advisor for 2 years catering to the adult female population that were survivors of trauma. Jessica has also worked in substance abuse treatment providing case management services and implementing treatment plans to individuals ages 18 to 26 years old. Jessica would meet with clients weekly to maintain and work on goals set forth to increase their success in all areas of their life. She supplied guidance and support to all her clients while maintaining program guidelines and professional, yet empathetic boundaries.
Her academic research interests revolve around intergenerational trauma and how trauma affects brain development within cultural minorities. Currently, the focus of her dissertation is centered around the up and coming field of perinatal mental health.
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Jessica is RITTM Certified.
Day 1: Friday, November 15, 2019
8:15 – 9:00 – Registration
9:00-10:30
10:30-10:45 Break
10:45-12:30
12:30-1:30 Lunch
1:30-3:45
3:45-4:00 Break
4:00-5:00
Day 2: Saturday, November 16, 2019
9:00-10:30
10:30-10:45 – Break
10:45-12:30
12:30-1:30 Lunch
1:30-3:15
3:15-3:30 Break
3:30-5:00
Rhona Rosenblatt is a Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Integrative Body Psychotherapy practitioner. Using an integrative approach that favors somatic modalities, Rhona works with clients to explore what is held non-verbally in the body as an avenue toward healing and growth. Using the body’s wisdom as a guide, therapeutic interventions address traumatic memory, post-traumatic stress, and nervous system dysregulation. Rhona has found somatic work particularly effective with clients who have experienced acute and relational trauma, and clients often find a reduction in symptoms and an overall sense of improved well-being.
Rhona received her MSW from UCLA and is licensed as an LCSW. Rhona has previously worked in the field of child abuse and neglect, foster care, and domestic and international adoption, including work with multi-racial and non-traditional families. Rhona has presented at conferences and spoken on the subjects of adoption and foster care on NBC television and KPCC and KABC radio. Rhona also worked as a school therapist in the Santa Monica-Malibu school district with children and families presenting with anxiety, panic, depression, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, family violence, and adjustment issues.
Rhona is RITTM Trained.
Laura Gajda has a background in eating disorders and mental health diagnoses. Laura was the Adolescent Dietitian at Rosewood Centers for Eating Disorders and specializes in educating and working with families of adolescents with eating disorders. She also specializes in working with adults that have eating disorders and building sustainability in their own recovery. Laura graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelors of Science in Dietetics where she also completed her internship. She looks forward to providing individualized care to each and every client. She helps each client build their own sense of autonomy around food and decrease the power that food can have over their life.
Anita is a Certified Massage Therapist in the state of California and has been National Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork since 2008. She uses massage and bodywork to fulfill her passion of assisting others to decrease stress levels, relax the nervous system, relieve pain, trauma and physical disabilities. She is trained in somatic bodywork, a holistic mind-body approach used to release, integrate and heal emotions that remain in the body from past negative experiences. Consequently, restoring wholeness and well-being. Clients frequently comment on their increased ability to handle stress more effectively. She works with addiction, PTSD trauma, sexual abuse, and dissociative personality disorder. She also has experience working with special needs and terminally ill children and their families, in a Children’s Hospice Program. Anita is an Ayurvedic Health practitioner and has taken 200-hour Yoga Teacher training. Drawing on these holistic modalities she is able to assess dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and mental states. Thereby, assisting clients maintain a healthy life, eliminate impurities, reduce stress, and disease prevention. Prior to 2008 Anita has worked as a Radiation Therapist in Oncology both in hospital and private clinical environment for over 14 years. She has volunteered at Children’s Hospital Orange County, with the Homeless in Orange and Los Angeles counties. She recently volunteered at a global outreach program teaching and giving massage in India.
Anita is RITTM Informed.
EMDR, Primary Therapist LMFT17346
David Grill has been a licensed psychotherapist with over 35 years of specialization in the treatment of trauma as well as other difficulties and struggles that result in fear and a disconnect, with ourselves and others, and with life. He has extensive training and certifications in both cognitive behavioral and somatic treatment approaches and is one of the pioneers in understanding the importance of working with the psychological and physiological symptoms and difficulties of traumatic stress and PTSD.
He has been a faculty member and teacher/trainer for Somatic Experiencing. He was a faculty member for The Institute for Trauma & Loss In Children, and a national trainer and consultant supervisor for their National Certification Program. He was a faculty member and teacher for the Graduate Institute of Santa Barbara, and has presented at major conferences, and has conducted debriefings and trainings for major corporations, businesses, and schools.
David’s life work has been devoted to helping heal trauma and empower others. He specializes in working with strengths and resources to provide the means of building a sense of agency. He believes that connecting with ourselves and with others is vital for living a life we all want. He also believes that connecting with one’s heart, which can often feel so frightening, can be a most rewarding experience for our commitment and hard work.
David is RITTM Certified.
Primary Therapist
Daniel believes in a holistic approach to healing and performance including mind, body, and soul which facilitates internal change and progress. Based on his personal and professional experience he has realized that healing and internal growth is connected to all aspects of a person, not just the cognitive mind.
Daniel is a former college and professional basketball player. He received a Master’s degree in Counseling with specialization in drug addiction from Pace University in New York in 2012. Daniel is a trauma therapist with knowledge on transgenerational trauma. He spent the last 8 years in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil having a private practice working with a variety of people with varying degrees of mental and mood disorders. He has been trained in Brainspotting since 2014 along with other modalities such as Neurolinguistic Programing, Ericksonian Approach, and Whole Approach to Mind Trauma Therapy. Daniel is also a certified HeartMath Institute trainer providing workshops and individual sessions teaching Heart Coherence Techniques for emotional wellbeing. Lastly, he is versed in Sports Psychology and enjoys working with athletes and anyone interested in enhancing their performance through mental skills and mental preparation.
Daniel is RITTM Certified.
Program Assistant
Enrique graduated and currently holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside. At the moment, trying to pursue a master’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy. Enrique aspires to work with the Latinx community in hope of providing counseling and support services for struggling families. His intent is to help individuals who have been affected by trauma and bring means to these individuals who do not have them.
Enrique has been involved with educating individuals with autism and other intellectual disabilities. He has provided guidance and support to these clients by educating them on basic life skills and coping strategies. Creating connections and establishing boundaries, he was able to create a safe and professional environment for his clients. Furthermore, he builds relationships that cultivated into a thriving and overall, positive experience.
He loves traveling to many different places and experiencing the culture around him. From the food to the music, Enrique has a great appreciation of cultural diversity and to the people surrounding that. He likes to watch films, cook, run, hike, and embrace life. As a Program Assistant, he works closely with the administrative team and clinical team to ensure that clients are receiving the best experience while at Reconnect.
Pronouns: He/His/Him
Yoga Specialist, Yoga Alliance 152615
Lauren is a trauma-informed yoga instructor and a soon to be certified yoga therapist through the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT).
Lauren initially became interested in yoga and its self-care benefits as a result of her personal discoveries while healing her own trauma. During her deep work and research, she found that deliberate breath practice, postures and mindfulness tools could help to regulate the nervous system and aid in self-soothing, creating the foundation needed for true healing. Lauren understands the importance of connecting back to one’s body and she loves working with clients to help them to meet these deeply personal needs.
In an effort to help those in her community suffering from anxiety, addiction and other illnesses, Lauren has presented workshops addressing issues like Yoga for Overwhelm and Yoga of Recovery. She is dedicated to continuing her education but also knows the importance of making time to create and nurture her own practice. Lauren loves music and values time outdoors, as well as any opportunity to draw or paint, and she loves to dance.
E-RYT 200, RYT 500
Lauren is RITTM Informed.
MA, MTBC, AVPT
Stacie Aamon Yeldell, MA, MTBC, AVPT is a Board Certified Music Psychotherapist and sound healing vocalist with 15 years of experience in addiction and mental health treatment. She has treated tens of thousands of individuals in dozens of institutions, hospitals and treatment centers. Stacie’s transformative work at the Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles was featured on ABC News. She received a Masters degree in Music Therapy from New York University and a certification in Sound and Music Healing from the Open Center in New York City. She is also a Vocal
Psychotherapist (AVPT), which emphasizes the use of the voice as a path to wellness and healing. Stacie is a pioneer and thought leader in her field and recently introduced her customized mindfulness modality, The Amontra Method, which incorporates live acoustic guitar, song and mantra, as well as guided visualizations. Stacie is a staunch advocate for music and the creative arts as healing modalities. She is passionate and dedicated to radically empowering humanity through her workshops, trainings, retreats and private sessions.
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR
Dr. O’Loughlin is a licensed clinical psychologist. She blends an interpersonal-style therapy with mind-body modalities to help clients untangle and release old scars.
Laura welcomes those from a variety of backgrounds and lifestyles — while focusing on each person’s unique challenges, she fosters a collaborative, warmhearted connection. She has an affinity for working with those who struggle with recurring relationship troubles, navigating rocky life transitions, low self-esteem, and ADHD.
With a doctorate from The Chicago School of Prof Psych, Laura also has intensive training in insight-oriented, psychodynamic therapy at the Wright Institute Los Angeles and The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy where she developed a love of group process and dream analysis. In addition to studying Dr. Karol Darsa’s RITTM model for trauma, Laura is trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR.
For each client Laura holds the intention of alleviating unnecessary suffering and increasing the capacity for ease and joy.
RITTM
Mahogany is an Associate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Associate License Clinical Counselor with a Master of Arts in Psychology from National University. She is currently in training at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology to receive her Psy. D in Applied Clinical Counseling. She is trained and certified in the RITTM model.
Mahogany works collaboratively with clients to re-establish connection to self and others. She is devoted to helping heal trauma and empower others through re-establish internal and external safety. She believes in developing coping strategies that help individuals increase their quality of life and increase a sense of control. Mahogany’s personal approach is noble, inspiring, meaningful and altruistic. When working with clients she is considerate, understanding, and passionate to process of develop ways to dealing with Trauma.
Mahogany became a therapist after spending many years working with individuals and families using Applied Behavioral Analysis and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has seeing the transformation of clients using psychotherapy. She has had firsthand experience using RITTM modalities in the treatment of trauma.
Primary Therapist
Lora Kojovic MA, LMFT (CA 114066), CSAT Candidate (2020-3198), is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a certified sex addiction therapist candidate. Lora completed her master’s degree in clinical psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles. She is also trained in trauma treatment modalities EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and RITTM (Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Model).
Lora is a primary therapist at Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Center. Prior to joining the team at Reconnect Center, Lora was a primary therapist at Seeking Integrity Los Angeles, a treatment facility specializing in intimacy disorders, working with individuals impacted by sex, love, and/or porn addictions, chemsex (fusion of maladaptive drug use and sexual behavior), as well as sexual anorexia and love avoidance. In providing psychotherapy, Lora uses a holistic, interpersonal-neurobiology-based approach, in addition to attachment-focused, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches. Lora’s passion for the fields of intimacy disorders and trauma stems from her desire to facilitate integrative healing and help people realize their potential.
Additional academic and work background: Lora received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin – Madison with a double-major in finance and French. Her desire to study subjects comprehensively enabled her to graduate at the top of her class in both her graduate and undergraduate studies. Before her career in psychotherapy, Lora worked in investment banking in New York City and then in the film industry in Los Angeles.
Hayley is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Registered Dietitian. She is originally from Pennsylvania and obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Marywood University and her Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College. She is trained in Phase 1 of Brainspotting as well as Cognitive Processing Therapy for people with PTSD. She is also a Certified Eating Disorder Registered Dietitian and Supervisor, which means she has taken 4 additional courses on treating people with eating disorders, countless continuing education courses on treating people with eating disorders, passed a certification exam, and has worked with people with eating disorders for over 8 years. She has a special interest in working with people with eating disorders and trauma.
She works from a Health At Every Size framework, which means she does not treat people differently based on size and believes people are healthy at every size. She rejects diet culture mentalities and helps people to nourish their bodies without shame or guilt. She loves working with people on improving their relationships with food and their bodies. She combines cognitive behavioral approaches with somatic approaches to help those achieve their goals while also noticing what the body is trying to tell them. She connects with you on goals you would like to achieve while also noting any barriers that may come up.
Hayley feels called to this work because of her belief that everyone can recover from an eating disorder with a little help and support from providers.
AMFTEinat is an Associate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, trained and certified in the RITTM model developed by Dr. Karol Darsa, with a Master of Arts in Psychology from Antioch University. She utilizes empathy, authentic positive regard, and attunement, to develop therapeutic alliance, and collaboratively works with clients on their journey towards healing.
Einat was trained at The Maple Counseling Center, and combines Psychodynamic theories with Somatic and Holistic techniques, which allows for a wholesome integrative experience and results. She uses coping strategies, mindfulness exercises and other tools to support brain integration and works on reestablishing a stronger sense of self, resilience and well being.
Embracing her many years of diverse life experiences, which have included academic legal studies, spiritual studies, and years of travels to distant communities, led Einat to her calling to become a therapist. Her studies in Zen Buddhism, Vipassana and Kabbalah taught her diversified approaches to mental health. She believes that each person is equipped with internal wisdom, strength, and resources that could be accessed in the process of recovery from trauma, and to reconnect with self and others.
With her passionate, loving, and down to earth approach to help others, Einat continues her journey to contribute to her community and to better each individual’s experience with their surrounding environment.
Sam Breen (she/her)
AMFT 129081
Sam is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about the mind-body connection and the body’s innate wisdom to heal itself after challenging life experiences. Her therapeutic style integrates depth therapy with trauma-informed somatic practices, mindfulness, and self-compassion. She brings her warm gentle nature and holistic approach to support clients in uncovering their true resilient selves.
In addition to her work as a trauma therapist at Reconnect, she works in private practice with teens and adults, works with teens at a crisis hotline, and facilitates surf therapy groups for women. Sam’s work engages the mind, body, and heart with influences from trainings in the Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Model, Trauma Resiliency Model (Levels 1 and 2), Brainspotting Phase 1, and the Hakomi Method. Additionally, her yoga, meditation, and surf practices inform her work. As an inclusive therapist, Sam feels grateful to support people of all ages, races, sexualities, genders, abilities, and backgrounds in reconnecting with Self, others, and community.
Sam received her undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis with a major in Psychological & Brain Sciences. She then went on University of Southern California to complete her M.S. in Applied Psychology, where she was immersed in the field of psychological research. Inspired to pursue further clinical training, she went back to graduate school to receive her M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, where she specialized in Spiritual and Depth Psychology.
Chris Meehan
AMFT
Chris Meehan is a Psychotherapist and Integrative Trauma Recovery Trained Specialist, supervised by Dr. Karol Darsa. As a natural caregiver, Chris has had a lifelong desire to help a broad slice of the population. This desire has led him to extensive experiences treating a wide variety of clients, including treatment resistant clients who suffer from severe depression, anxiety, and psycho-physiological and complex trauma. He has worked with at-risk youth as a service instructor and counselor, and has a breadth of experience treating substance abuse.
Chris’s modalities include psychodynamic psychotherapy, childhood developmental work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, REBT, and Mindfulness based psychotherapy. He has a deep empathy for human suffering, and finds it very fulfilling to journey with his clients towards healing and transformation through the therapeutic process. He is known for his warmth and relatability, and ability to authentically connect with his clients throughout the course of treatment.
Additionally, Chris volunteers as a facilitator for an annual men’s retreat and monthly meetings, providing men with a unique and confidential space to share and connect, which promotes renewal, community cohesiveness, and personal growth.
Chris is a fourth generation Californian, native San Franciscan, and has lived in the Colorado Mountains, New York City, and San Diego. He is also an accomplished playwright, whose first love of the creative process introduced him to the vastness of the human experience.
Roisin Taylor
AMFT, APCC
Portland Oregon native, Roisin Taylor is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist whose integrative person-centered and collaborative approach helps clients recognize their internal strength and resources, while achieving personal growth and healing. She believes that individualized therapy that is personalized to meet the unique needs of the client can lead to an increased self-awareness and emotional attunement. The goal of treatment is to feel secure, and obtain a true connection with mind and body, which will allow for therapeutic transformation. Roisin is trained and certified in the RITTM model developed by Dr. Karol Darsa. She is also a Substance Use Disorder Registered Counselor.
Roisin received her undergraduate degree at Loyola Marymount University, majoring in Psychology and Special Education. She continued her education at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology where she received her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. Before ReConnect, Roisin worked in outpatient clinics for substance use, specifically opioid addiction. She also has many years of experience working with children on the autism spectrum, in the classroom and at home, implementing Applied Behavior Analysis interventions.
Anita is a Certified Massage Therapist in the state of California and has been National Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork since 2008. She uses massage and bodywork to fulfill her passion of assisting others to decrease stress levels, relax the nervous system, relieve pain, trauma and physical disabilities. She is trained in somatic bodywork, a holistic mind-body approach used to release, integrate and heal emotions that remain in the body from past negative experiences. Consequently, restoring wholeness and well-being. Clients frequently comment on their increased ability to handle stress more effectively. She works with addiction, PTSD trauma, sexual abuse, and dissociative personality disorder. She also has experience working with special needs and terminally ill children and their families, in a Children’s Hospice Program. Anita is an Ayurvedic Health practitioner and has taken 200-hour Yoga Teacher training. Drawing on these holistic modalities she is able to assess dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and mental states. Thereby, assisting clients maintain a healthy life, eliminate impurities, reduce stress, and disease prevention. Prior to 2008 Anita has worked as a Radiation Therapist in Oncology both in hospital and private clinical environment for over 14 years. She has volunteered at Children’s Hospital Orange County, with the Homeless in Orange and Los Angeles counties. She recently volunteered at a global outreach program teaching and giving massage in India.
Anita is RITTM Informed.
Kacy O’Donnell
LMFT
Kacy is the Clinic Program Manager of Reconnect Clinic Outpatient programs and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has administrative and clinical experience in trauma, addiction, and severe mental illness and is trained in RITTM, Mother Hunger Level I, Janina Fisher Parts Work, Dr. Darsa DID Training, and Seeking Safety. Before Reconnect Kacy was the Administrator and Program Director at Passages in Malibu and her journey has included working at Exodus Recovery Center, Crisis Counseling through Teenline, Alcott Center for Mental Health Services, non-profit under DMH, and as a Crisis Intervention Specialist before getting into residential treatment for adolescents. Kacy is also an avid golfer and workout enthusiast.
Roni Silberstein
AMFT
Roni Silberstein is an AMFT Primary Therapist, RITTM Specialist, and Client Care Advocate at both the Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Clinic and the Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Center. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles specializing in Psychological Trauma Studies. She holds certifications in many areas of trauma treatment, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychological First Aid, and RITTM.
In her work at Reconnect, Roni brings creativity, insight, and gentle support to help her clients strengthen self-compassion, the mind-body connection, increase self-awareness, process trauma, and achieve healing. She takes a client-centered approach to her work both as a clinician and as Client Care Advocate, meeting the unique needs of each client in both clinical settings and in discharge planning.
Roni is a Los Angeles native and is an accomplished classical musician. Her extensive experience in music opened her mind to the creative process and unspoken emotional connections between people. In her free time, she likes to make art and pet dogs.
Lisa Maslavi
CADC
Lisa is a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC), specializing in substance abuse, and dual diagnosis treatment. She has been working in the field since 2016. Lisa utilizes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Techniques (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques (CBT), Motivational Interviewing Methods, and Addiction Recovery. Lisa has her own journey through recovery and therefore has the ability to connect with clients, meeting them where they are.
Tami Remen
SEP
Tami Remen is a Somatic Experience Practitioner (SEP). She graduated from the Somatic Experience Institute, founded by Peter Levine. In addition to this 3-year program, she has completed several advanced trainings in somatic touch, developmental trauma and working with syndromes. In the past, Tami worked as a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Wellness Coach. She has also attended Jon Kabat Zinn’s mindfulness-based stress reduction workshops and completed The Dynamic Neural Retraining System Program, developed by Annie Hopper. Her past academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from The American University and a Master of International Business from The American Graduate School of International Management.
Tami is passionate about and devoted to helping people access more joy and synergy in their lives. Her work supports her clients to discover their innate capacity to heal deeply held stress, emotional pain, and trauma.
Anne Platt
C-IAYT, YTRx-500c
Certified Yoga Therapist, RITTM Informed, Yoga for Mental Health Certification, Long Exhale Yoga Therapy Certification – 300 hours
An accomplished Yoga Therapist and teacher, Anne has developed and managed Yoga programs for a wide range of organizations and studios – including the Tower Cancer Research Center, the Veterans Yoga Project(501c3) and the Greater Los Angeles Veterans Administration – where she pioneered an innovative Yoga Therapy program to help combat vets reduce and manage symptoms of PTSD and other combat-related injuries.
A graduate of the 4-year Loyola Marymount University Yoga Therapy Rx program, Anne has provided Yoga Therapy at the Venice Family Clinic and Pacific Teen Rehab, as well as for a wide variety of corporate and private clients. Her background in dance and fitness gives her a unique insight into body alignment and strength training.
Maia Akiva
Maia Akiva is a Motivational Speaker, Entertainer, Facilitator, a reality bender and an emotional researcher who dips into every flavor of human behavior and self-discovery using self-help fiction, magical realism, original visual storytelling and and emotional coaching.
Originally from Israel. Her award-winning self-help plays and short stories have been produced and published all over the United States in the past 10 years, inspiring hundreds of people to go on a journey of understanding, get to know themselves better and deeper, and ask themselves some important questions about their inner emotional lives, their struggles and their relationship with themselves. She led workshops of self-discovery at Models of Pride conference in the US, and at Brave Trails Camp, Resilience Treatment Center, Reconnect center and many more awesome places. She teaches meditation at The Den Meditation in Los Angeles. Maia’s creative work and her desire to help people take a look at themselves come from her own experience. After turning her back on herself for many years, suffering from depression and self-negativity she finally decided to start a new relationship with herself and turned her life around, living a life full of Joy and positivity.
Maia is RITTM Informed.
Lisa Pierce
M.A., LMFT
Lisa Pierce has been providing psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, couples and families in her private practice for 15 years. Using an individualized approach to the unique needs of each client, Lisa’s framework for treatment is the RITTM approach. She incorporates multiple modalities in her work, such as psychodynamic and gestalt therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as mindfulness-based, and somatic therapy. She believes it is essential to create a safe, non-judgmental, empathic environment for her clients.
At Reconnect, Lisa provides treatment for all types of trauma, including sexual assault, loss of a loved one, natural disasters, and childhood relational trauma, to name a few. Within the trauma treatment work, areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, and sleep disorders.
Lisa’s goals include helping her clients to regulate their nervous system, educate them about how trauma affects their mind and body, as well as helping them to identify and access suppressed feelings in their body in order to heal the trauma. Lisa’s clients appreciate her genuine commitment and heartfelt care and compassion for their wellbeing, and her goal is to support them in making a positive, transformative change in their lives.
Lisa received her bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Wisconsin- Madison in 1991. She went on to attend Pepperdine University to earn her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology in 2004. Lisa became licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in 2007. Lisa joined the Reconnect team in August 2022.
Ruhi Bhakta
MASSAGE CERT. #7368
Hi, I’m Ruhi (Ridhdhi), a certified yoga instructor and a licensed massage therapist
I began this journey as a young girl with my chaperone, my 100-year-old grandfather who cultivated in me, a holistic approach to maintaining a healthy mind and body. Meditation, yoga and an ayurvedic way of eating had been a part of my daily regime ever since I was young. It wasn’t until I moved to the U.S. in my teenage years that I recognized that my normal way of life wasn’t the normal for many in the US. As I learned throughout the years, my normal way of living was in fact a sought after lifestyle in the western world.
NUTRITION: I have acquired experience and qualifications in nutrition (BS in Nutrition, CSULA), I started as a nutritionist at WIC (women, Infant and children center). Simultaneously, I also conducted many seminars on health and healing, such as Nutrition on Diabetes and Hypertension, Nutrition for Mental health and many more for the general public in my community.
YOGA & MEDITATION: I have acquired experience and qualifications in breathing and meditation techniques (Art of Living program, Los Angeles CA), a 200 hours certification in yoga instruction (Yoga and Ayurveda Center) and a certification in Trauma-Conscious Yoga Method to receive the knowledge necessary to work with trauma survivors in diverse settings in a way that is empowering, healing and resists re-traumatization.
As a yoga instructor, I support my clients at The Reconnect Center by providing them with a safe, supportive space to reclaim their bodies and empower their own healing and trauma resolution through yoga sessions. I also host zoom classes for seniors, teaching chair yoga and for busy mothers, holding space for them as they carve out some “me” time for themselves.
MASSAGE: I have acquired experience and qualifications in a State Certification in Massage therapy (CMT, Kali Massage Institute and Somatic Therapies) specializing in neuro-muscular therapy and trigger point therapy. As a massage therapist since 2007, I have helped many people recover from their injuries and traumas. I have also worked as massage therapist instructor at the Burke Williams Academy, teaching over 500 hours in their massage therapy program, guiding my students into their career path to become successful massage therapists. Now, at The Reconnect Center, I practice massage therapy using restorative practices as tools, supporting clients in accessing a state of potent healing.
Finally, by combining my skills & experience in yoga & massage therapy, I wish to continue my efforts in helping people reconnect with themselves, bringing the attention inwards, taking control of their body and mind, to slow down, to breathe and to be present.
I believe that a balance in physical, mental and spiritual health is vital for any individual who wants to live their life fully.
With Gratitude,
Peter Smick
AMFT
Peter Smick is an AMFT Primary Therapist at the Reconnect Integrative Trauma Treatment Clinic. His integrative, relational approach helps clients find their voice and harness their inner strength on the pathway to healing. He believes that individualized therapy that is tailored to meet the unique needs of the client can lead to increased self-awareness, self-regulation and emotional attunement. The goal of treatment is to reconnect with self in mind, body, and spirit, allowing for authentic relation with self and others enroute to therapeutic transformation.
Peter earned his Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. He is currently a doctoral candidate in Analytical Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute, specializing in Integrative Therapy and Healing Practices. Prior to joining Reconnect, Peter spent two years at the Maple Counseling Center, where he worked as a primary therapist with individual adults, adolescents and families. He also facilitated groups on creating meaningful relationships. He also has experience working with clients who have suffer from process addictions, such as sex/love and social media addiction.
A Washington, D.C. native, Peter began his career in the entertainment industry in New York City after completing his B.A. at Columbia University. Working in media and market research opened his eyes to the psychographic significance of understanding the wants and needs of an audience. After attending UCLA’s graduate Film School, Peter spent a decade working in marketing and advertising in the entertainment industry. Working roles in creative strategy and social media strategy prior to his therapeutic work, and garnering analytical insights therein, he remains fascinated about the interpersonal neurobiological implications of society’s ubiquitous mobile platform, always-on social content consumption.
Sezin Hason
Having formally trained in Economics and Graphic Design, Sezin worked with the independent film industry in worldwide distribution and production for about 15 years. In her mid 30s, she started to question her career choices and with that came lots of inner research and self development courses. Having always interested in health and wellness, she became a Certified Holistic Health Coach.
Sezin found helping people achieve physical health very rewarding but when she got diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, she learned the hard way that physical health without mental and emotional health was not enough. She soon established her company MindBodySoul Healing Center.
Sezin is now a Certified Co-Active Coach, Trauma-Sensitive HeartMath® Trainer, NLP Master Practitioner, EFT/TFT Tapping Practitioner, Seeking Safety Facilitator, Mindfulness Practitioner, and Master Trainer with Points of You® whose teachings are based on therapeutic photography. Sezin is currently studying for her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology.
Through her own company Sezin continues to see coaching clients and facilitate corporate workshops/trainings on various topics. Sezin is a specialist at Reconnect IntegrativeTrauma Treatment Center doing individual and group HeartMath and Mindfulness sessions.
Sezin is RITTM informed.
Grayson Leonard
After many years of my own journey with substance abuse and mental health, I chose to start working in the field to help others on their journey. My experience allows me to meet the clients where they are, have a relatable understanding, empathy and compassion for their situations.
Danielle Pegnato
Danielle has over 10 years of experience working in the healthcare industry. Before joining the team at Reconnect, she managed the day-to-day operations for an integrative medical nutrition therapy practice in Santa Monica. Originally from the East Coast of Massachusetts, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management & Policy at the University of New Hampshire. Prior to moving to Los Angeles to pursue her MBA at the UCLA Anderson School of Management, Danielle worked for a large post-acute care hospital and outpatient network in the greater Boston area coordinating network-wide digital transformation projects and managing Medical Staff Credentialing operations. She also mentored several interns through a workforce development program designed to prepare folks for full-time job placement in rewarding healthcare administrative roles.
During her time at UCLA, Danielle completed an internship at a digital health startup working in business development, marketing, and sales, helping the young company re-brand and enter the senior care market with their technology application. She worked as a strategic consultant for a cohort of healthcare executives and community health advocates participating in an executive training program during which they developed high-impact strategic projects. Over the course of several months, she worked one-on-one with each participant to help advance their health clinic/system’s mission through organizational assessments, project planning, and goal setting focused on improving patient care, staff satisfaction, and community impact. Danielle was also the business advisor for a team of Physicians bringing an innovative new women’s health drug to market. She assisted them in developing a strategic business plan and set them up for success as they embarked on the lengthy journey of drug development and commercialization. Danielle is very proud of the work she was able to do and the highly talented and inspiring healthcare professionals she was able to interact with during her MBA journey that took place mostly during the global pandemic.
In addition to healthcare, Danielle is passionate about music. She holds a Minor in Music from the University of New Hampshire, participated in international choral singing competitions in 3 different European countries, and played the clarinet in various music ensembles for over 15 years. In her down time, she enjoys playing pop, folk, soul, and classic rock songs on the ukulele.
Financial Auditor
Fatima has a master’s in Finance and has been working at Reconnect for 2 years. She excels at assisting clients with all billing matters as well as compiling and analyzing financial information.
She’s passionate about working in the mental health space because she knows she’s making a difference in people’s lives. Her empathy paired with her quick decision-making skills have helped her excel at her role at Reconnect.
A few of her interests include Cycling, going on long walks and music.
Selin Muslu
Clinic Scheduler
Originally from Turkey, Selin graduated from University of California, Los Angeles where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Following her graduation, Selin joined the Reconnect team in 2021 to gain experience working in the mental health field, as Selin aspires to become a Clinical Psychologist and is aiming to pursue a Doctor of Psychology degree. In her down time Selin enjoys doing yoga, reading, and going to the beach.
Dr. Arno Kroner
DAOM LAc Dipl.OM MBA
Acupuncture Specialist
Dr Arno Kroner is a Board Certified California Licensed acupuncturist, herbalist and integrative medicine doctor who specializes in endurance sports medicine, trauma care, post op and injury recovery as well as pain management, sleep disorders, migraines and addiction treatment. Arno graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Doctorate & Master in Traditional Oriental Medicine from Emperor’s College in Santa Monica, CA. In addition to academic studies, he completed residency training at The Roy and Edna Disney Family Cancer Center in Burbank as well as at the Being Alive Community Clinic in West Hollywood, CA. Finally, Dr Kroner is also a Medical Reviewer and a member of the Medical Advisory Board at Very Well Health and health.com.
Shana Bujake
AMFT
Shana Bujake is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist whose person centered approach helps clients to create a sense of empowerment and a positive self image. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, with an emphasis in spiritual and depth psychology. She is nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), RITTM, Reiki and was trained in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy.
Shana is a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but spent most of her childhood years in Clearwater Beach, Florida. She moved to Brentwood in 2004 where she raised her two children who are now in their late teens. In her free time she enjoys yoga, hiking, and spending time with her family and Bobo the kitten.
Ellen Hair
APCC
Leila Yang
Leila comes from the heart of the People’s Republic of China where she successfully mastered language skills that pressed her to complete her master’s degree in International Management from Surrey University, UK.
Leila has been a pioneer and leader with over ten years in the challenging and rewarding Invitro Fertilization Science (IVF). She has helped established IVF on three Continents and multiple cultural environments with an unmatched degree of professionalism.
From the United Kingdom, she accepted assignments in the United States specific to Southern California. She was instrumental in integrating Health Care Services and IVF into worldwide markets to bring to best components for Complete Treatment.
As an industry pioneer, she can be relied on and she is a good team member. During her spare time, She likes to play tennis, watch movies and she likes to collect whiskey.
Kevin Kunkel
LMFT, SEP
Kevin is a somatic psychotherapist who is EMDR certified, RITTM trained, and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. He is a both a primary therapist and a somatic experiencing practitioner here at Reconnect. A former massage therapist and yoga teacher, he uses innovative approaches that explore old, fixed ways of feeling and thinking about oneself and the world and co-create new experiences of feeling and thinking.
Kevin continues to assist in Somatic Experiencing trainings and continues his study with advanced trainings in treating the body and mind to create effective improvement in mental and physical wellness. As well, he continues his own decades-long practice of getting out of his own head and into his body, bringing ever-greater levels of integrity, authenticity, and simplicity when sitting with clients.