ADMINISTRATION

Larry Davis, LCSW, Administrative and Clinical Director

With 30 years in the field of clinical social work and as former clinical director of The Friary, Larry recently returned to The Friary as its administrative and clinical director. Larry has worked throughout the Lakeview system and continues to teach, develop treatment and advocate recovery for those who are seeking balance in their lives. "Recovery is a complicated process. We have a truly dedicated, multidisciplinary team here at The Friary to help people begin believing in themselves once again. Recovery ends ‘just surviving’ and allows people to begin really living and sharing their lives."

 MEDICAL AND NURSING 

Terry Ptacek, MD, Medical Director, Certified Addictionologist

Dr. P’s blend of expertise and compassion bring our patients the best medical care available. In his role as Medical Director he works closely with the treatment team to assure that total patient care is achieved. "When people stop abusing drugs and alcohol it’s amazing to see how the body can heal."

Colleen Manning, RN, BS, Director of Nursing

Colleen has 33 years experience as an RN and has been with The Friary for six years. While she has experience in many different areas of nursing, working with people with addictions is very special to her. She is committed to compassionate care. "Everyone is struggling with his or her own difficulties in life. We should remember this in our day-to-day patient interactions.”

 CLINICAL 

Melanie Cassulo, LMHC, Addictions Therapist

Melanie’s experience working with a broad spectrum of patients helps her identify and address co-occurring disorders. Her focus on Interpersonal Process, Cognitive Behavioral, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) help facilitate recovery. “I see the whole person and not just the problem that brings him into treatment. To be successful in recovery, mind, body and spirit all must be addressed.”

Wadell Davis

Wadell is in charge of our Continuing Care program and works to strengthen our alumni network. He lives what we teach. "We’ll love you till you can love yourself."

Don Johnson, LMHC, Addictions Therapist

Don’s treatment at The Friary in 1986 was life changing. In sobriety he decided to change careers from a successful insurance salesperson and return to school for a Masters degree in Counseling. He initially returned to The Friary as Continuing Care Coordinator and then as a therapist. "This place saved my life. I hope to give some of that back."

Melanie “Mel” Murray, MA, Addictions Therapist

“I have been fortunate to experience an array of different populations and settings within the field. From this I have learned that people of all ages and with varying challenges need basic elements from therapy. They need to be cared for, heard, understood, and supported.” Working with dually diagnosed clients has taught Melanie the importance of focusing on addiction and mental/emotional problems in order to build a strong foundation for recovery. Melanie’s use of cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal approach has worked well for those seeking recovery.

W. Dale Perkins, MA, MSW, Addictions Therapist

Dale holds a masters degree in social work and has worked with residential clients for more than seven years.  He specializes in motivational interviewing and is a respected innovator in the twelve-step facilitation approach.  Dale has developed expertise in working with clients with a family history of substance abuse, and he believes that improving how we relate to others is a critical element in recovery. “Recovery is not an end but a life long journey.”

Rita Wood, MS, Addictions Therapist

Rita has been a staff member of The Friary since 2001. Currently she is a registered mental health counselor intern and a certified mental health professional. Rita’s treatment interest and specialized training have been in trauma and addiction. She is a skilled clinician working with co–occurring disorders, relapse prevention, experiential activities and individual treatment needs. Rita strongly supports and participates in The Friary Alumni Association and all it’s activities, continuing care and aftercare program.

 ADMISSIONS 

Darlene Bancroft, BSW, Admissions Specialist

Darlene comes to us with a degree in social work and has several years’ experience in crisis intervention. She has worked with medical insurance billing for more than 13 years. Her dedication in helping others is reflected in her work each day. "I love helping people help themselves and working with a committed team that helps people overcome life’s challenges."

Teresa Maxwell, BSW, Admissions Specialist

Teresa’s experience working in the child welfare system has given her a first–hand perspective of how addiction impacts not only the individual but the whole family. This experience, combined with a degree in social work, motivates her to help people get the help they need to overcome the impact of addiction on themselves and their families. Her motto is, "Its not where you’ve been that counts; it’s where you are going."

Ben Allan Wood — In loving memory, December 24, 2005 – June 28, 2010

Ben Allen was a loving staff member at The Friary for several years. He provided a warm greeting and unconditional love to many Friary family members. Ben is recognized by the AKC as a "good citizen," as demonstrated by his gentle interaction with staff and clients. He will be remembered for his playful antics, unique markings, special charm and comforting nature.