OUR STAFF
DR. ROBERT BOTA MD, MSG, DFAPA
MEDICAL DIRECTOR, NEUROMODULATION SERVICES
Dr. Robert Bota is a board-certified Psychiatrist and a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has studied transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at Harvard University. He started and lead the first TMS program at UC Irvine for three years, where he was a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry. The focus of his clinical activities and of his patient-oriented research has always been on understanding the interplay between psychiatric illnesses and medical conditions and on developing innovative ways of addressing the whole spectrum of psychosomatic needs in patients with complex presentations. He has published over 60 articles and book chapters and has given over 100 presentations at national and international conferences.
JOE HISEL
FOUNDER / DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Joe was introduced to the field of recovery in 2012 as a Facilities Manager. As Joe’s passion for recovery progressed, so did his career. In 2014, Joe became Program Director for a 60-bed facility, which included overseeing transportation and logistics, coordinating admissions, providing crisis intervention, state licensing and CARF accreditation. Joe’s dedication to the betterment of others led him to founding A Better Life Recovery. His goal was to create a seamless transition for individuals in early recovery by offering an opportunity to develop essential life skills. Joe understands that recovery can be a tumultuous time for family and the recovering person. His goal is to ease this process. Joe maintains involvement in admission, intake and ongoing treatment to ensure that all individuals feel supported and guided through the recovery journey. With the help of his partners, Joe has created a team of experienced, passionate and educated experts to assist in the treatment process. Joe believes that the foundation of recovery comes from hard work and he and his team are dedicated to providing the support necessary for the work to begin.
DAVID MUNCE CADC-II
FOUNDER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
David Munce is a founder and Program Director at A Better Life Recovery. He has been actively working in the field of recovery since 2010 and has held various positions in administration including Admissions Director and Associate Director. He brings with him a passion to help others achieve their goals through recovery. His immense recovery knowledge, not only through his personal experience but also his ongoing education in the Human Services field, sets him apart as a professional. David takes great pride in his work and holds the utmost ethical standards. His number one priority is helping clients and families on the road to recovery.
JEFF ROBBINS
FOUNDER / GENERAL COUNSEL
Jeff Robbins possesses over 15 years’ experience as a practicing attorney. Over the last 9 years Mr. Robbins has served as partner in the firm of Watt Tieder Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP, Irvine, CA where he specialized in litigation. He holds a B.A. degree in English from UCLA and a J.D. degree with great distinction from University Of The Pacific McGeorge School Of Law. Mr. Robbins is a founder of A Better Life Recovery LLC.
PAUL STACKHOUSE
FOUNDER / DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
Paul Stackhouse possesses over 30 years of experience in investment banking, private equity capital, and advising and managing startup companies across a variety of industries. His career experience includes positions as Senior Vice President with Bank of America and Founding Partner of Frontier Capital, both located in Charlotte, NC. Mr Stackhouse believes that the professional management and sound operating platform he has helped build at A Better Life Recovery translates into higher quality of care and greater success for our clients. Mr. Stackhouse holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from Harvard University and an MBA, Finance, from The University of Chicago. He is a founder of A Better Life Recovery LLC.
DR. MEGHAN MARCUM
CHIEF PSYCHOLOGIST
Dr. Meghan Marcum serves as Chief Psychologist of A Better Life Recovery in San Juan Capistrano, California. Dr. Marcum’s role is to ensure the highest standard of clinical care for each client. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Arizona State University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from The American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She completed her pre and post-doctoral training in the specialty field of chemical dependency and has also achieved specialized training in treating traumatic disorders with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Dr. Marcum previously worked in the Neurosciences Institute at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, California where she continues to hold full privileges. She has developed an interest in helping those with co-occurring disorders by examining substance abuse as it relates to neurological changes over the course of the illness.
SAMANTHA GRIMES
THERAPIST
Samantha Grimes is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist whose passion for mental health and ending the stigma of addiction has led her to be one of the primary therapists at A Better Life Recovery. Samantha has worked in various mental health settings since 2013 including inpatient treatment for adults struggling with addiction, outpatient clinics working with families and couples and at schools working with at-risk youth. Samantha’s personal mission is to help people believe in their own worthiness, break down shame, and navigate challenging relationships with themselves and others, and find ways to embrace the unknown. Samantha works from a collaborative and authentic approach, using eclectic ways to support others navigate recovery. Samantha received her BA from UC Santa Barbara in Cultural Anthropology with a minor in Applied Psychology. Samantha continued her education by receiving her MA in Counseling Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Alameda, CA. Samantha has received specialized training in anxiety/panic disorders and trauma-informed approaches to healing.
BILLY MARA
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Billy Mara joined the staff of A Better Life Recovery in July 2016 after deciding that he wanted to follow his longtime passion: to help and serve those in need. A graduate of Quinnipiac University, Billy obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Law in 2013 and moved into an administrative position at Boston University. It was after relocating to California and undergoing his own journey of self-discovery that Billy decided to join the ABL team so that he can help addicts, alcoholics and those with a dual-diagnosis to discover their potential. As the Director of Safety and Environment of Care Billy ensures compliance with the requirements that the Joint Commission outlines to ensure that A Better Life Recovery continues on its path to becoming the premier destination for substance abuse treatment and providing outstanding, quality client care.
BRETT ALLEN CATC-R SUD
CASE MANAGER
Brett is a certified CATC-R SUD counselor and is currently enrolled in the Alcohol and Drug Studies Human Services program at Saddleback College. Brett has worked in recovery for 3 years and has a passion for helping others on their recovery journey. He specializes in 12-step modalities and enjoys connecting with clients on an individual basis.
VICTOR GEORGESCO CADC II
CASE MANAGER
Victor is certified through CCAPP as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He received his certificate and Associate’s Degree in Alcohol and Drug studies from Saddleback College and began employment in related fields in 2014. Through extensive work with substance use related difficulties, Victor has developed a strong sense of compassion and empathy towards the problems that substance abuse creates for each individual. He embodies the core belief that anyone who struggles with addiction has the potential to stay sober. With thorough ethical background and diligence on continued education and exploration of the factors that contribute to substance use problems, Victor continues to strive to make recovery a reality for everyone who has a desire to change their life for the better.
COREY RICHMAN
VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMISSIONS
Corey joined the Better Life Recovery Team in 2015. He has over 4 years experience in the Recovery field and possesses more than 10 years’ experience in management, strong leadership skills and exceptional work ethic. Corey is emotionally invested in helping others, whether it be his staff or our clients. Corey is a graduate of San Diego State University, with a major in Business Management Technology and a Minor in Business Administration. His personal ties to the recovery and the loving support he provides to our community have made him a valuable asset.
ROBIN LOVELL CADCII
DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL OUTREACH
Robin began her career in the behavioral health field in 2007 as a clinician providing counseling and support to clients. She has since fulfilled director and CEO positions within behavioral health organizations including opening her own treatment center. Her vision of connecting clients to the best services possible remains her priority. Robin’s amazing personality along with her extensive experience as a clinician gives her the ability to work with clients and families on a deeply personal yet clinical level. She has a strong love for the field and truly enjoys watching her clients progress in life. Her objective is to connect families and those in need to the resources within our community. Robin has a passion for helping those in need, along with the experience required to find a solution for those suffering from the most dire behavioral health situations.
KRISTEN ADAMS NCDA
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT DEVELOPMENT
Kristen Adams is a fully licensed and credentialed Secondary Education teacher. Over the past 20 years she has worked in both the classroom and in corporate America helping build and shape educational and career pathways. Kristen specializes in working one and one with clients to formulate a specific plan to help them reintegrate successfully back into society. She is well versed in helping clients wherever they are at on the educational and career spectrum whether its helping clients obtain their High School Equivalency certificate to successfully reentering their former profession. Kristen believes firmly that helping clients successfully transition out of treatment requires a solid educational foundation, a clear career pathway and concrete goals to help them achieve these milestones.
MARK GEORGESON
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Mark is a long-time resident of Orange County, CA. He graduated from Pepperdine University in 1992 with a B.S. in Liberal Arts. He brings his passion for education and 20 years of corporate America experience to our family. Mark is often the first face a client sees. Mark oversees the residential component and all logistics that apply to the day-to-day operations of A Better Life Recovery. Mark brings a level of compassion and safety that is critical to foster the transition into ABLR treatment and equally important in the transition or reintegration as a client’s treatment plan dictates. Mark is well-versed in many modalities of treatment and is constantly evolving to provide solution and support to staff and clients alike. Mark is a passionate and consistent presence in the recovery community and a proud and active member of A.A. He is a loving and present father of two who has been blessed by The Promises of sobriety. He lives by the code of, “to keep it you must freely give it away.”
GARRY LARABEE
DIRECTOR OF COMPLIANCE AND QUALITY
Garry Larabee is the Director of Compliance and Quality at A Better Life Recovery. He has over 15 years of administrative experience working in the field of behavioral healthcare and professional consulting for numerous successful addiction treatment providers. Garry specializes in state regulatory compliance, Joint Commission accreditation, quality assurance, and healthcare data analytics. A firm believer in ongoing compliance and performance improvement concepts and its positive relationship to best business practices and quality of care outcomes, Garry regularly researches the latest technological trends in healthcare data management and analysis for A Better Life Recovery in their overall goal of achieving and maintaining clinical excellence.
JEFFREY FARBMAN
BILLING MANAGER
Jeffrey has been working, volunteering and studying in the field of mental health and substance abuse for several years. He has an unyielding passion for helping others struggling with mental illness and substance use disorders. Jeffrey studied psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has extensive experience and knowledge in the realm of behavioral health, from both clinical and administrative paradigms. Jeffrey’s passion and drive for helping others has led him to our administrative department where he manages our billing and financial operations team. Jeffrey works closely with insurance companies and advocates on our client’s behalf to ensure that everyone has a chance to get the treatment and the “better life” they deserve.
DR. ROBERT BOTA MD, MSG, DFAPA
FMEDICAL DIRECTOR, NEUROMODULATION SERVICES
Dr. Robert Bota is a board-certified Psychiatrist and a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has studied transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at Harvard University. He started and lead the first TMS program at UC Irvine for three years, where he was a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry. The focus of his clinical activities and of his patient-oriented research has always been on understanding the interplay between psychiatric illnesses and medical conditions and on developing innovative ways of addressing the whole spectrum of psychosomatic needs in patients with complex presentations. He has published over 60 articles and book chapters and has given over 100 presentations at national and international conferences.
JOE HISEL
FOUNDER / DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Joe was introduced to the field of recovery in 2012 as a Facilities Manager. As Joe’s passion for recovery progressed, so did his career. In 2014, Joe became Program Director for a 60-bed facility, which included overseeing transportation and logistics, coordinating admissions, providing crisis intervention, state licensing and CARF accreditation. Joe’s dedication to the betterment of others led him to founding A Better Life Recovery. His goal was to create a seamless transition for individuals in early recovery by offering an opportunity to develop essential life skills. Joe understands that recovery can be a tumultuous time for family and the recovering person. His goal is to ease this process. Joe maintains involvement in admission, intake and ongoing treatment to ensure that all individuals feel supported and guided through the recovery journey. With the help of his partners, Joe has created a team of experienced, passionate and educated experts to assist in the treatment process. Joe believes that the foundation of recovery comes from hard work and he and his team are dedicated to providing the support necessary for the work to begin.
DAVID MUNCE CADC-II
FOUNDER / PROGRAM DIRECTOR
David Munce is a founder and Program Director at A Better Life Recovery. He has been actively working in the field of recovery since 2010 and has held various positions in administration including Admissions Director and Associate Director. He brings with him a passion to help others achieve their goals through recovery. His immense recovery knowledge, not only through his personal experience but also his ongoing education in the Human Services field, sets him apart as a professional. David takes great pride in his work and holds the utmost ethical standards. His number one priority is helping clients and families on the road to recovery.
JEFF ROBBINS
FOUNDER / GENERAL COUNSEL
Jeff Robbins possesses over 15 years’ experience as a practicing attorney. Over the last 9 years Mr. Robbins has served as partner in the firm of Watt Tieder Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP, Irvine, CA where he specialized in litigation. He holds a B.A. degree in English from UCLA and a J.D. degree with great distinction from University Of The Pacific McGeorge School Of Law. Mr. Robbins is a founder of A Better Life Recovery LLC.
PAUL STACKHOUSE
FOUNDER / DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
Paul Stackhouse possesses over 30 years of experience in investment banking, private equity capital, and advising and managing startup companies across a variety of industries. His career experience includes positions as Senior Vice President with Bank of America and Founding Partner of Frontier Capital, both located in Charlotte, NC. Mr Stackhouse believes that the professional management and sound operating platform he has helped build at A Better Life Recovery translates into higher quality of care and greater success for our clients. Mr. Stackhouse holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from Harvard University and an MBA, Finance, from The University of Chicago. He is a founder of A Better Life Recovery LLC.
DR. MEGHAN MARCUM
CHIEF PSYCHOLOGIST
Dr. Meghan Marcum serves as Chief Psychologist of A Better Life Recovery in San Juan Capistrano, California. Dr. Marcum’s role is to ensure the highest standard of clinical care for each client. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Arizona State University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from The American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She completed her pre and post-doctoral training in the specialty field of chemical dependency and has also achieved specialized training in treating traumatic disorders with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Dr. Marcum previously worked in the Neurosciences Institute at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, California where she continues to hold full privileges. She has developed an interest in helping those with co-occurring disorders by examining substance abuse as it relates to neurological changes over the course of the illness.
SAMANTHA GRIMES
THERAPIST
Samantha Grimes is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist whose passion for mental health and ending the stigma of addiction has led her to be one of the primary therapists at A Better Life Recovery. Samantha has worked in various mental health settings since 2013 including inpatient treatment for adults struggling with addiction, outpatient clinics working with families and couples and at schools working with at-risk youth. Samantha’s personal mission is to help people believe in their own worthiness, break down shame, and navigate challenging relationships with themselves and others, and find ways to embrace the unknown. Samantha works from a collaborative and authentic approach, using eclectic ways to support others navigate recovery. Samantha received her BA from UC Santa Barbara in Cultural Anthropology with a minor in Applied Psychology. Samantha continued her education by receiving her MA in Counseling Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Alameda, CA. Samantha has received specialized training in anxiety/panic disorders and trauma-informed approaches to healing.
BILLY MARA
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Billy Mara joined the staff of A Better Life Recovery in July 2016 after deciding that he wanted to follow his longtime passion: to help and serve those in need. A graduate of Quinnipiac University, Billy obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Law in 2013 and moved into an administrative position at Boston University. It was after relocating to California and undergoing his own journey of self-discovery that Billy decided to join the ABL team so that he can help addicts, alcoholics and those with a dual-diagnosis to discover their potential. As the Director of Safety and Environment of Care Billy ensures compliance with the requirements that the Joint Commission outlines to ensure that A Better Life Recovery continues on its path to becoming the premier destination for substance abuse treatment and providing outstanding, quality client care.
BRETT ALLEN CATC-R SUD
CASE MANAGER
Brett is a certified CATC-R SUD counselor and is currently enrolled in the Alcohol and Drug Studies Human Services program at Saddleback College. Brett has worked in recovery for 3 years and has a passion for helping others on their recovery journey. He specializes in 12-step modalities and enjoys connecting with clients on an individual basis.
VICTOR GEORGESCO CADC II
CASE MANAGER
Victor is certified through CCAPP as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He received his certificate and Associate’s Degree in Alcohol and Drug studies from Saddleback College and began employment in related fields in 2014. Through extensive work with substance use related difficulties, Victor has developed a strong sense of compassion and empathy towards the problems that substance abuse creates for each individual. He embodies the core belief that anyone who struggles with addiction has the potential to stay sober. With thorough ethical background and diligence on continued education and exploration of the factors that contribute to substance use problems, Victor continues to strive to make recovery a reality for everyone who has a desire to change their life for the better.
COREY RICHMAN
VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMISSIONS
Corey joined the Better Life Recovery Team in 2015. He has over 4 years experience in the Recovery field and possesses more than 10 years’ experience in management, strong leadership skills and exceptional work ethic. Corey is emotionally invested in helping others, whether it be his staff or our clients. Corey is a graduate of San Diego State University, with a major in Business Management Technology and a Minor in Business Administration. His personal ties to the recovery and the loving support he provides to our community have made him a valuable asset.
ROBIN LOVELL CADCII
DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL OUTREACH
Robin began her career in the behavioral health field in 2007 as a clinician providing counseling and support to clients. She has since fulfilled director and CEO positions within behavioral health organizations including opening her own treatment center. Her vision of connecting clients to the best services possible remains her priority. Robin’s amazing personality along with her extensive experience as a clinician gives her the ability to work with clients and families on a deeply personal yet clinical level. She has a strong love for the field and truly enjoys watching her clients progress in life. Her objective is to connect families and those in need to the resources within our community. Robin has a passion for helping those in need, along with the experience required to find a solution for those suffering from the most dire behavioral health situations.
KRISTEN ADAMS NCDA
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT DEVELOPMENT
Kristen Adams is a fully licensed and credentialed Secondary Education teacher. Over the past 20 years she has worked in both the classroom and in corporate America helping build and shape educational and career pathways. Kristen specializes in working one and one with clients to formulate a specific plan to help them reintegrate successfully back into society. She is well versed in helping clients wherever they are at on the educational and career spectrum whether its helping clients obtain their High School Equivalency certificate to successfully reentering their former profession. Kristen believes firmly that helping clients successfully transition out of treatment requires a solid educational foundation, a clear career pathway and concrete goals to help them achieve these milestones.
MARK GEORGESON
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Mark is a long-time resident of Orange County, CA. He graduated from Pepperdine University in 1992 with a B.S. in Liberal Arts. He brings his passion for education and 20 years of corporate America experience to our family. Mark is often the first face a client sees. Mark oversees the residential component and all logistics that apply to the day-to-day operations of A Better Life Recovery. Mark brings a level of compassion and safety that is critical to foster the transition into ABLR treatment and equally important in the transition or reintegration as a client’s treatment plan dictates. Mark is well-versed in many modalities of treatment and is constantly evolving to provide solution and support to staff and clients alike. Mark is a passionate and consistent presence in the recovery community and a proud and active member of A.A. He is a loving and present father of two who has been blessed by The Promises of sobriety. He lives by the code of, “to keep it you must freely give it away.”
GARRY LARABEE
DIRECTOR OF COMPLIANCE AND QUALITY
Garry Larabee is the Director of Compliance and Quality at A Better Life Recovery. He has over 15 years of administrative experience working in the field of behavioral healthcare and professional consulting for numerous successful addiction treatment providers. Garry specializes in state regulatory compliance, Joint Commission accreditation, quality assurance, and healthcare data analytics. A firm believer in ongoing compliance and performance improvement concepts and its positive relationship to best business practices and quality of care outcomes, Garry regularly researches the latest technological trends in healthcare data management and analysis for A Better Life Recovery in their overall goal of achieving and maintaining clinical excellence.
JEFFREY FARBMAN
BILLING MANAGER
Jeffrey has been working, volunteering and studying in the field of mental health and substance abuse for several years. He has an unyielding passion for helping others struggling with mental illness and substance use disorders. Jeffrey studied psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has extensive experience and knowledge in the realm of behavioral health, from both clinical and administrative paradigms. Jeffrey’s passion and drive for helping others has led him to our administrative department where he manages our billing and financial operations team. Jeffrey works closely with insurance companies and advocates on our client’s behalf to ensure that everyone has a chance to get the treatment and the “better life” they deserve.
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