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The Hope Institute Team

Meet the dedicated leadership team at The Hope Institute, a premier drug and alcohol rehabilitation center based in New Jersey. Our team comprises seasoned professionals and medical experts, each bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to helping individuals overcome addiction. Our leadership has already set a high standard of care, driven by our shared vision of fostering hope, healing, and recovery for every patient we serve. Together, we’re not just treating addiction – we’re transforming lives.

The Road To Recovery Starts Here

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With a heart devoted to making a positive impact, Ashley brings over 12 years of experience in working with individuals facing diverse challenges. As a compassionate professional in the field, she is committed to guiding individuals towards recovery within the supportive environment of our rehab facility.

Ashley’s journey into the field of substance and alcohol abuse was inspired by a personal mission—having successfully assisted family and friends in seeking treatment, she recognized the transformative power of empathy and support. This profound desire to make a difference led her to dedicate her career to helping others overcome addiction. Ashley’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of others, coupled with her diverse experiences, shapes her into a dedicated professional ready to make a meaningful impact on the journey to recovery.

Beyond her role in the rehab facility, Ashley finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. When she’s not extending a helping hand, you’ll likely find her immersed in quality family time, exploring new DIY projects, or indulging in her love for cooking and watching movies.

Will’s journey in recovery began in 2014, a transformative experience that ignited his unwavering commitment to aiding others. Motivated by his passion for helping those in need, Will has recently transitioned into the treatment field, viewing it as his life’s calling to ensure equitable access to quality care and extend the same opportunity for recovery that he received.

Wholeheartedly aligned with The Hope Institute’s mission, Will is resolute in his dedication to assisting individuals grappling with addiction. His driving force is to offer a beacon of enduring hope to all who are affected by this disease.

Within his role, Will collaborates closely with healthcare professionals in the Northern New Jersey and New York regions. His primary objective is to eliminate any barriers preventing individuals from receiving the help they deserve. With a steadfast commitment, he diligently works to ensure swift and effective placement of individuals into appropriate levels of care. Will’s approach is defined by integrity, transparency, and an unwavering sense of compassion.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Will finds solace and joy in spending quality time with his family. He also nurtures his well-being through fitness, frequenting the gym to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, he appreciates enjoying moments of relaxation while watching movies.

In summary, Will’s personal journey through recovery has ignited a powerful mission to help others, and his role within The Hope Institute allows him to realize this mission every day. Through his collaborative efforts and resolute dedication, Will strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of those seeking hope and healing.

Erica’s transformative journey within the recovery community began in 2016, igniting a deep passion that has propelled her forward ever since. Transitioning into a career in admissions in 2019, she skillfully combines her personal experiences and professional insights to fulfill her purpose as the initial point of contact for clients and their families seeking help. With unwavering dedication, Erica guides individuals and families through the admission process, aiming to minimize stress and equip them with comprehensive information.

Now, Erica’s focus has shifted towards Community Outreach, where she actively engages with local resources to spread awareness about our Program. Recognizing the vital role of community support, she passionately shares her knowledge, ensuring that individuals have access to the resources they need to embark on their healing journey.

In Erica’s perspective, the key ingredients for maintaining long-term recovery encompass a robust clinical program, fortified by community and familial support, alongside physical activity, restful sleep, and proper nutrition. Embracing a holistic approach, she firmly believes that this combination lays a solid foundation for sustainable healing.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Erica cherishes moments spent with loved ones and finds joy in the art of baking. Her adventurous spirit thrives as she explores new slopes while indulging in her deep passion for skiing. Additionally, she wholeheartedly embraces the practice of barre fitness, seeking balance and well-being in all aspects of life.

Charlee’s devotion to the substance use population comes from personal experiences of friends and family challenged by substance use disorder and co-occurring mental illness. Charlee earned her undergraduate degree in History from Montclair State University and her Master of Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey.

Charlee is currently a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), and is currently working towards her Clinical Social Work license (LCSW) and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor license (LCADC). Prior to joining The Hope Institute, Charlee gained experience in partial care and residential treatment facilitating groups, individual counseling, and family counseling sessions. Charlee also has experience as a Crisis Intervention Clinician and discharge planning.

Outside of her professional life, Charlee enjoys spending time with her partner and dogs. She also enjoys floating on the lake, snowboarding, trying new foods, and watching scary movies.

I am a dedicated and compassionate professional with over a decade-long journey in recovery, fueled by a passion for helping individuals transform their own lives. Originally hailing from Northeast Pennsylvania, I have grown my roots of recovery in Northern New Jersey, where I’ve proudly called home ever since.

My personal journey of recovery has been a transformative and enlightening experience. Through my own challenges and victories, I’ve come to better understand the complexities of substance use and the importance of resilience. I believe that recovery is not just about overcoming the substance; it’s about rediscovering one’s inspirations and purpose.

My genuine commitment to helping others has molded my interpersonal skills. I firmly believe in the power of connection, empathy, and active listening. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand that every individual’s path to recovery is unique. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where individuals can heal and grow. I wholeheartedly believe that there is a pathway for everyone, with one common thread: connection.

I have obtained the following qualifications:

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS): As a CPRS, I bring firsthand experience and empathy to my work, bridging the gap between professional guidance and lived experience. I understand the power of peer support in the recovery process.

When I’m not advocating for recovery, you can find me enjoying all four seasons. In the winter, I’m an avid skier. In the summer, I enjoy spending time at the beach and periodically attempting to surf. I like riding my motorcycle, in addition to pretty much anything that produces the occasional adrenaline rush. I also love sports and competitions of any kind! Traveling has always been an inspiration as well. I have made several trips to Thailand, where my twin brother lives. Most recently, I visited Italy, where I indulged in my love for food. Above all, I find peace by relaxing with my wife (and our dog, Porter) at home.

Let’s connect.

I’m always up for connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for recovery and a love for the simple life. Whether you’re seeking guidance on your journey or simply want to chat about skiing or beach trips, feel free to reach out.

Linda’s unwavering passion for the field of addiction and substance abuse stems from personal experiences witnessing the profound effects of substance abuse within her own family. This understanding of the deeply rooted impacts that substance abuse can have on individuals, their loved ones, and every aspect of their lives has fueled her commitment to making a difference. Linda earned her Masters in Counseling, specializing in Addictions, from Montclair State University.

Drawing from her background working with clients from the criminal justice system and drug court, Linda has honed her skills and demonstrated compassion in assisting individuals who are often overlooked. Her ability to cultivate internal motivation and instill hope in this population has been instrumental in their journey towards recovery. Linda believes in delving deep to comprehend the underlying aspects of each individual, striving to discover their true essence beyond the challenges that led them to seek treatment.

With a firm belief in using her firsthand experiences with substance abuse, along with her education and professional expertise, Linda is dedicated to helping those grappling with substance use disorders and dismantling the stigma surrounding addiction. As part of her commitment to continuous growth, Linda is actively working towards her License Professional Counselor (LPC). Her aspiration to devote her life to assisting the addiction population remains steadfast.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Linda finds joy in spending quality time with her family and loved ones. She nurtures her adventurous spirit through travel and outdoor activities, basking in the warmth of the sun. Linda particularly delights in engaging in thrilling pursuits that involve heights, seeking excitement and new experiences along the way.

Susan is a dedicated professional in the field of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, with experience dating back to 2012. She earned her Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2016 and has since excelled in her work at The Hope Institute. Prior to joining the institute, Susan honed her skills in a Private Practice setting, focusing on Substance Abuse and Mental Health clients. Her expertise lies in Addiction Counseling, where she has worked across various roles, serving both clients and families.

Susan completed her Doctorate in Social Work and her research focused on harm reduction practices for substance use treatment. With licenses as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), Susan brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice. She is well-versed in therapeutic techniques such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychotherapy. Susan possesses a profound understanding of addiction’s impact on individuals and families, firmly believing that everyone has a path to recovery.

Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys activities like physical fitness, live music, reading, and spending quality time with her guinea pigs.

The Hope Institute Team

Leadership Team

Clinical Team

Operations Team

Community Outreach Team

The Road To Recovery Starts Here

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The Hope Institute Team

Leadership Team

Dustin Baarck

Clinical Team

Dr. Susan Woomer

Linda Salazar

Charlee Miller

Operations Team

Carrie Bailey

Community Outreach Team

Erica Bessemer

William Wallace

Ashley Wallace

The Road To Recovery Starts Here

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