MEET OUR TEAM
Jen Shotwell, MS, MBA, LPC, LCDC, CS, EMDR TRAINER, NCC
Clinical Director
UNIVERSITIES + DEGREES
Northcentral University [In Progress, Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology], Southern Methodist University [Master of Science in Counseling, MS], University of North Texas [Master of Business Administration, MBA], University of North Texas [Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance, BBA]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Jen specializes in the treatment of personality disorders and substance use disorders, with an integrated focus on both the client and their family system. Her professional journey has included roles in transitional living programs, treatment centers, non-profits, and private practice. Drawing on both her lived experience and advanced training, Jen provides clinical therapy as well as consultation and education to families and professionals who feel stuck in the referral process or uncertain about how to engage complex cases. She is particularly recognized for her ability to break down complicated, overwhelming information into clear, practical, and usable strategies. Her dissertation research focuses on the causation and treatment of personality disorders, further deepening her expertise in this highly specialized area.
CERTIFICATIONS
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC)
- Licensed Clinical Supervisor (CS)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Trainer
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Nick Nissen, MD
Medical Director
EDUCATION
Harvard Medical School [Psychiatry Residency], Brown University Alpert Medical School [Doctor of Medicine, M.D.], University of Notre Dame [Bachelor of Arts]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Dr. Nissen is a board-certified psychiatrist and former Harvard Medical School Chief Resident of Student Mental Health. A Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, he brings a holistic, personalized approach to care—integrating biological, psychological, and social strategies. He specializes in non-stimulant ADHD treatment, including medication alternatives, targeted supplementation, and executive functioning skill-building. He also addresses anxiety at its roots, combining cognitive and exposure therapies with thoughtful medication management and lifestyle changes. As a parent and former coach, Dr. Nissen is committed to helping patients achieve meaningful, lasting change.
CERTIFICATIONS
Board-Certified Psychiatrist (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology), TEAM-CBT Level 1 Cognitive Behavioral Therapist
TAYLOR M. BARSTAD, LCSW
Director of Operations
EDUCATION
Colorado State University [Master of Social Work, MSW], University of Montana [Bachelor of Social Work & Psychology, BSW]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
As Director of Operations, Taylor combines her clinical insight with operational strategy to ensure the delivery of high-quality, client-centered care. She oversees the infrastructure and systems that support effective treatment, bringing a unique blend of logistical leadership and clinical understanding to her work. Taylor is passionate about creating environments where both clients and staff can thrive with a strong emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and integrity in care delivery. Taylor Barstad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with specialized training in eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, and trauma. Taylor’s clinical foundation continues to inform her leadership as Director of Operations.
CERTIFICATIONS
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Certified
RYAN YOUNG
Chief Executive Officer & Founder
EDUCATION
San Diego State University [Economics, BA]
Ryan Young has spent over a decade leading and shaping mental health and addiction
treatment programs rooted in compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence. His work spans all levels of care, where he has focused on building treatment environments that are both deeply therapeutic and operationally grounded. Ryan’s strength is operating programs that prioritize the client experience while cultivating a strong, supported, and mission-aligned team. His leadership reflects a commitment to innovation without compromising quality, always centering care that is relational, responsive, and evidence-informed.
Ryan’s expertise includes the operation of trauma-responsive, integrative models of care;
creating collaborative, values-driven staff cultures; and building systems that elevate both the client and employee experience. At The Annex, he leads with a clear vision: to offer a more human, progressive model of mental health care that reflects the complexity of those it serves.
Haley Daroowala, LMFT
Assistant Clinical Director
EDUCATION
Abilene Christian University [Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A.], Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo [Nutrition Sciences, B.S.]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Clinical Specialization: Haley Daroowala specializes in treating complex trauma and attachment disorders, eating disorders, body image struggles, and anxiety disorders. Her training as a marriage and family therapist emphasizes the role of the family system in the development of complexities in developing healthy relationships with others and with the self. Haley works with teens (16+), adults, and families. She draws from an eclectic range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, attachment theory, and ACT, to create individualized treatment plans catered to the needs of each unique patient.
CERTIFICATIONS
EMDR Trained
MYCAH MILLER, MA, LMFT
Clinical Therapist
EDUCATION
St. Edward’s University [Counseling, MA], Texas A&M University [Sport Conditioning (psychology, coaching minors), BS]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Mycah is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in attachment, emotional regulation, and recovery from relational trauma. She integrates Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic approaches to support individuals and high-conflict couples in healing trust, self-worth, and connection. Her work is grounded in the brain-body relationship and emphasizes relational and systemic wellness. Mycah has extensive experience working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, and incorporates mindfulness, nature-based practices, and walk-and-talk therapy to support meaningful, embodied change across diverse client populations.
CERTIFICATIONS
200-Hour Yoga Teacher Certified, Eidetic Imagery (Level 1)
SAM GOLLUB, MAC, LMFT - ASSOCIATE
Clinical Therapist
EDUCATION
St. Edward’s University [Master of Arts in Counseling], Elon University [French, BA]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Sam Gollub, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, supervised by Alycia DeGraff, PhD, LMFT-S, specializes in delivering evidence-based psychotherapy rooted in systemic theory. Drawing from experiential therapy, attachment theory, and Inner Family Systems (IFS), his focus grounds understanding in context to tailor treatment to the individual. His work is focused on helping families and couples navigate their relationships and develop their interaction patterns. Sam has experience working with grief, anxiety, and depression.
Sonali Krish, LPC-ASSOCIAtE, ERYT-500
Clinical Therapist, Yoga & Sound Healing Practitioner
EDUCATION
Capella University [Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA], University of Texas at Austin [BSA], 500-hour Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (ERYT-500)
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Sonali, supervised by Vanessa Rosage, LPC-S, specializes in integrative, trauma-informed psychotherapy that bridges traditional counseling with holistic mind–body practices. She incorporates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Polyvagal Theory, Narrative Therapy, and somatic frameworks to support clients in nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, and identity exploration. Her practice centers on individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, relational challenges, life transitions, and self-worth concerns.
In addition to individual therapy, Sonali facilitates experiential groups and community offerings that integrate yoga, breathwork, sound healing, and reflective inquiry. Her approach invites participants into deeper relationship with their bodies, parts of self, and collective healing practices.
CERTIFICATIONS
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A), 500-hour Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (ERYT-500), Certified Sound Healing Practitioner, Ongoing advanced training in Somatic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, IFS, and NARM
Tanushree Bhandari, LPC
Clinical Therapist
EDUCATION
Medaille University [Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA], University of Toronto [Psychology & English, BA]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Tanushree is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. Her work is grounded in warmth, collaboration, and deep listening, creating a space where clients feel genuinely seen and understood. She works with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, and is particularly attuned to the ways these challenges show up in daily life. She integrates evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT, SFBT, CPT, and EMDR, to support meaningful, lasting change. Her goal is to help clients build insight, develop practical tools, and reconnect with a steadier, more grounded sense of themselves.
Austin Britten, MS, LPC-ASSOCIATE
Clinical Therapist
EDUCATION
Abilene Christian University, Abilene [Psychology, BS], Abilene Christian University, Abilene [Counseling Psychology, MS]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, Austin is dedicated to helping individuals find meaningful peace and long-term mental wellness. With a robust background in psychological assessment and therapeutic interventions, he specializes in addressing mood disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, suicidality, and borderline personality disorder.
Austin is especially passionate about identifying and addressing the root causes of emotional distress. He integrates compassion with a client-centered approach to foster healing and self-understanding. His work emphasizes cultivating lasting peace within oneself, one’s relationships, and one’s environment.
CERTIFICATIONS
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Minnesotta Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2), Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI-IV), Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS).
Miranda Hayes, MS, LPC-Associate, NCC
Clinical Therapist
EDUCATION
University of Texas at San Antonio [Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.S.]
University of Texas at San Antonio [Psychology, B.A.]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Miranda Hayes is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with experience in inpatient psychiatric and community-based settings, supporting adolescents and adults experiencing acute psychiatric needs, mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, suicidality, and trauma histories.
During her time in inpatient care, Miranda provided crisis-oriented treatment, including individual counseling, group facilitation, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to support stabilization and patient safety. She also has extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual trauma through individual counseling and crisis hotline services, and holds a Sexual Assault Training Program Certification.
Miranda partners with clients to increase emotional awareness, strengthen regulation skills, and develop practical coping strategies, empowering them to navigate high-intensity situations, build resilience, and foster lasting wellness.
CERTIFICATIONS
Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (Texas),
National Certified Counselor (NCC), Sexual Assault Training Program Certification, Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Certified
Nina Sinai, MA, LPC-Associate LCDCi
Clinical Therapist
EDUCATION
Marymount Manhattan [Musical Theater, BFA], Northwestern University [Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Nina Sinai specializes in providing trauma-informed care to individuals with borderline personality disorder and substance use disorders. Their experience in substance use treatment and work with individuals with autism spectrum disorder motivates them to help clients develop interpersonal communication skills, more secure attachments, and a stronger sense of self. Nina draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Psychoanalysis, and strengths-based approaches to empower each client to discover and maintain a higher quality of life.
CERTIFICATIONS
Psychological First Aid
Leslie Lambert, LCDCI, CTIC
Counselor
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Leslie Lambert built experience in residential treatment, specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders. She is certified in Trauma-Informed Care and brings a client-centered, attachment-informed, and strength-based approach to her work. Leslie draws from advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mentalization-Based Therapy, and trauma-focused modalities, integrating clinical expertise with her own lived experience in recovery. With a deep passion for neurobiology and emotional regulation, she equips clients with practical tools for managing cravings, anxiety, and distress while helping them explore the underlying “why” behind their behaviors to support meaningful, lasting change.
CERTIFICATIONS
Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern, Certified Trauma-Informed Counselor
Cami Eastman, RDN, LD
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Cami approaches nutrition counseling with compassion and curiosity, working closely with clients to understand their goals, health concerns, and day-to-day lives. She is known for simplifying complex nutrition science into practical strategies that support digestion, energy, hormones, and overall well-being. As a former yo-yo dieter herself, Cami understands how confusing and frustrating nutrition advice can feel—especially for those navigating digestive issues, hormonal changes, ADHD, or disordered eating. She believes there is no one-size-fits-all approach to health and works collaboratively with clients to build sustainable habits and a more supportive relationship with food.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
• Digestive health, including IBS and gut health
• Women’s hormonal health, including PCOS and menopause
• Eating disorder recovery
• ADHD-related nutrition challenges
Lauren White, CTRS, LCDC-I
Care Coordinator
EDUCATION & DEGREES
Texas State University [Therapeutic Recreation, BS]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
With over four years of experience in dual diagnosis substance use and mental health treatment, she specializes in supporting individuals navigating co-occurring disorders and thought disorders. Her approach integrates relational, mindfulness-based, and parts-informed frameworks to foster insight, stability, and sustainable growth. Grounded in compassion and collaboration, Lauren prioritizes individualized care that honors each client’s strengths, values, and goals while promoting resilience, connection, and long-term recovery.
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Recreational Therapist (CTRS) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern (LCDC-I)
Ansley Stephenson, BA
Care Coordinator
EDUCATION & DEGREES
St. Edward’s University [Psychology, BA]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION
Ansley has experience in acute psychiatric settings supporting adolescents and adults through crisis, neurodivergence, addiction, and co-occurring disorders. Her clinical foundation includes trauma-informed care, behavioral intervention, and crisis de-escalation. Ansley’s approach is grounded in empathy with a focus on trust and attunement to each client’s unique needs. She is committed to client-centered care and values connection, collaboration, and consistency throughout the treatment process.
Eric Feagins, MSN, FNP-C
Family Nurse Practitioner
EDUCATION & DEGREES
Clinical Specialization
Certifications
Jeremy Bradley, RN
Nurse
Clinical Specialization
Jeremy Bradley brings over 12 years of emergency nursing experience to his leadership role, having worked in more than 15 hospitals across the U.S. A former U.S. Navy Corpsman, he is known for his calm presence, clinical precision, and compassionate care—especially when supporting patients in crisis. Jeremy believes in advancing “brain health” as an essential part of overall well-being, reframing stigma and promoting understanding that mental health challenges are medical, not moral. Currently pursuing his Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) license, he is dedicated to addressing the emotional impact of social media and restoring deeper human connection.
Megan Barry
Behavioral Health Operations Supervisor
Clinical Specialization
Megan brings a diverse professional background rooted in leadership, team development, and operational management. Prior to entering the behavioral health field, she led high-performing teams in fast-paced environments, building a reputation for being dependable, calm under pressure, and deeply committed to supporting both staff and clients. Her leadership style emphasizes clear communication, accountability, and fostering a culture where individuals feel safe, respected, and empowered to succeed.
Her transition into behavioral health is deeply personal. Through her own recovery journey, Megan developed a strong passion for helping others navigate similar challenges. She understands firsthand the impact that consistent support, structure, and compassion can have on long-term healing, and she brings that perspective into her work every day.
At The Annex, Megan is dedicated to strengthening team operations while ensuring clients receive attentive, empathetic care. She is passionate about creating an environment where both staff and clients can grow, and she remains committed to supporting the organization’s mission of providing individualized, holistic treatment.
Lauren Juvers, BS
Director of Clinical Outreach
EDUCATION & DEGREES
Palm Beach Atlantic University (Psychology, B.S.)
EXPERIENCE
Lauren Juvers is a seasoned professional in the behavioral health field with a strong background in national outreach, relationship development, and program representation. With over six years of experience connecting families, referents, and clinicians to long-term, ethical care, she brings a reputation for authenticity and compassion.
As an alumna of long-term treatment herself, Lauren offers a unique blend of professional insight and lived experience, making her a trusted voice in the field. Her passion lies in helping individuals and families find the support they need for lasting transformation. In her role at The Annex, Lauren serves as a national representative of the program, helping expand awareness of its mission to treat complex trauma, attachment injuries, and personality disorders.
Anden Suárez
Admissions Specialist
EDUCATION & DEGREES
Texas Tech (Currently pursuing Counseling & Addiction Recovery Sciences B.S.), Attended Brown University studying Psychology
Clinical Specialization
Anden Suárez is a dedicated behavioral health professional with a strong background in admissions and client care. With specialized training in trauma-informed practices and crisis de-escalation, Anden excels at guiding individuals and families through the recovery process with empathy and clarity. Her approach is rooted in compassion, integrity, and a deep understanding of the challenges facing those seeking mental health support. Known for her steady presence and solution-focused mindset, Anden brings both professionalism and heart to every client interaction. She ensures an empathetic, streamlined admissions experience that prioritizes dignity, trust, and long-term healing outcomes.
Certifications
Trauma-informed Care Training, Crisis Intervention & De-escalation Training, HIPAA Compliance Training
Tex
Director of Canine Comfort & Care