Meet Our Team

Drew Horowitz brings a vast range of expertise working with and overseeing our clinical team. He gained a wealth of knowledge through his own recovery, extensive training, and a master’s level education from the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation’s Graduate School of Addiction Studies. Drew did his undergraduate degree at Hofstra University in NY, where he focused on psychology and human development. Most recently, Drew became an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with the capability to diagnose and provide mental health treatment.

Within his decade plus of experience in the field, he has worked with a multitude of populations providing consultation, intervention, coaching, and counseling. Drew is most well known for his mastery in conducting clinical interventions. Over the past several years Drew has gained significant experience traveling the country and even internationally to assist individuals with accessing treatment. The intervention process, according to Drew, must be done with compassion, empathy and a strong understanding of the pain individuals are experiencing while active in addiction. Drew has assisted over 500 families with the intervention process. Primarily, focusing on young adult males and adolescents. Drew’s intervention and coaching style was shaped by a background and training in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and client-centered care.

Stephanie Goode, LADC, MBA is the Executive Director at Gateway Recovery Center with 17 years of experience in the addiction field. Stephanie began her career at the grass roots of treatment and rehabilitation working as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at Twin Town, Hazelden Center City and Hazelden St. Paul in Residential and Outpatient settings. She additionally served on Ramsey County DWI Court and worked in programs that specialized with health care professionals.

After completing her MBA and a business internship in 2018, Stephanie returned to Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. In her role of Market Manager she worked to provide solutions, education, and training for SUD and Behavioral health on evidence-based practices, specifically regarding the stigma and use of MAT services.

Stephanie joined Gateway Recovery Center during its inception and startup as the Treatment Director. Gateway Recovery Center has grown and has two- 18 bed facilities with a focus on withdrawal management and preparation for clients success into long term addiction solutions.

Nicole graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato and obtained a Graduate level certificate in Addiction Studies Through Winona State. Nicole has spent her career working with men in a intensive outpatient setting at River Ridge Treatment Center. Her previous employment included working in a co-occurring treatment facility with a specialization in trauma responsive care. She enjoys assisting clients in making positive changes in their lives. She does this by giving clients an opportunity to feel seen and heard while providing skills and knowledge to make lasting changes. Some of her hobbies include spending time with her dog, cooking, being on the water, and house projects.

Anna is a skilled professional with a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota’s Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) program. Holding active licenses as both an Alcohol & Drug Counselor and a Professional Clinical Counselor, Anna brings a wealth of expertise to her work. Additionally, she is recognized as a BBHT-approved LADC supervisor, demonstrating her commitment to ongoing professional development and mentorship.

Historically, Anna has provided direct client care with male-identifying clients in residential and outpatient settings. Anna is dedicated to providing personalized, Person-Centered Care. Her approach emphasizes empowering clients to cultivate independence and autonomy, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. Anna’s practice also incorporates exploration of The Self, fostering self-awareness and personal growth on both internal and external levels.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Anna finds joy in spending time with loved ones, exploring new destinations through travel, and exploring new restaurants.

Eva, originally from Texas, has been a resident of Saint Paul, Minnesota for over 13 years. Her journey to Minnesota in 2009 marked a pivotal moment in her life when she sought to address her substance use disorder and entered residential treatment. Completing the program, she then transitioned to sober living in St. Paul for six months. During this time, Eva made the courageous decision to permanently relocate to Minnesota, shift away from the service industry, and embark on her educational journey in the addiction field.

Eva graduated summa cum laude from Metropolitan State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. She went on to become a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and obtained certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist. Currently, Eva is pursuing her graduate degree in Public and Nonprofit Administration at Metropolitan State University. Her professional career in the addiction field began at The Retreat in 2012, where she served as the Admissions Supervisor, simultaneously completing her internships at Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. Throughout her career, she has held roles such as Program Director at Saint Paul Sober Living, admissions counselor at NUWAY, and Women’s Program Coordinator at The Retreat.

Eva is an active member of the St. Paul Recovery community and has served on several boards including St Paul Intergroup and Women in Recovery. Her work with staff and clients is deeply informed by her wealth of personal recovery experience. When not immersed in her professional pursuits, Eva finds joy in spending quality time with her partner Tylor, their daughters Logan and Dylan, their dog Jack, and indulging in her passion for fishing.

Recognized for her enthusiasm and commitment, Eva serves as an advocate, guide, and mentor, driven by her profound passion for assisting individuals in rebuilding their lives in ways that are more enriching and fulfilling in recovery.

Michelle joined our team bringing over 10 years of experience working in the chemical dependency field. She was previously with Meridian Behavioral Health as their lead intake coordinator. Michelle worked primarily in the women’s residential program where she worked directly with referents, patients, families, funders, etc. to assist in accessing the care they need as quickly as possible. During her time in the field she has built a network of resources and relationships that are ongoing. Michelle has passion and a deep understanding of chemical dependency and mental health. Aside from the years of experience and all she has gathered, what drives Michelle is her heart and dedication to see others succeed.

In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with her husband, 3 daughters and variety of pets. She is an animal lover. They enjoy traveling, attending the Indy 500, camping and plans on taking up golf this summer…FORE!

Choice has a variety of experience working in the substance use treatment field. He has worked as a counselor with both women and men at Reflections in Stillwater and at Gateway Detox in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. Choice also worked closely with men at The Recovery Academy and Drew Horowitz and Associates as an Addiction Specialist, Sober Coach and Mentor. He considers himself on a life-long learning quest, He enjoys music, nature and spending time with loved ones as well as being a volunteer at KFAI radio in Minneapolis.

Taharah graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Studies and a Minor in Psychology from Minnesota State University Mankato. She started her career working in the all-women’s treatment program at Wellcome Manor as a Client Manager. The last three years she worked at the co-ed high intensity treatment program at Beauterre Recovery Institute as a primary counselor. Taharah finds great purpose in her life by assisting individuals in understanding their substance use and mental health. She is driven to help individuals who are searching for healing, hope, and purpose. She values a holistic approach to recovery and is compassionate with her patients by using motivational interviewing and person-centered care.

She loves outdoor activities, traveling and exploring new places, embroidery, fashion, exercising, yoga, and spending time with her family and friends.

Nicki earned her master’s degree in Health Promotion and Education from Vanderbilt University and is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian.

In addition to providing individual and group nutrition education for Elite clients, Nicki leads a team of providers that include a Recreational Therapist, Occupational Therapist and Registered Nurse and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. This unique team of clinicians help clients adopt practical and enjoyable lifestyle behaviors that better support their recovery.

Kyle graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Metropolitan State University in 2019. Kyle is a Certified Recovery Specialist. Kyle joined the Elite Recovery team with three years of experience in the recovery field, supporting individuals new to a life in recovery. Kyle is eager to learn and grow and is dedicated to help others find their path to recovery.

Kyle enjoys spending time with his friends and family, being outside, and listening to bluegrass.

Ashley graduated with honors from Minnesota State University Mankato with a Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Studies and a Minor in Communications. She started her career working in the all-women’s treatment program at Wellcome Manor as a Parent Aide. She has worked as a primary counselor in an IOP level of care, but most recently has been providing gender-responsive care for men in a high intensity outpatient treatment setting. Ashley strongly believes in a holistic approach when working with her clients and works from a trauma-informed lens. Ashley enjoys spending her free time trying new recipes, paddle boarding up north or spending time with her pets, Rockie and Akira.

She is one of the primary counselors in the Advantage men’s program and her credential is an LADC.

Breanna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Studies from the University of South Dakota. She started her career working in a high-intensity residential program at Project Turnabout, as an intern and primary counselor. She then spent three years at River Ridge Recovery working in their high-intensity residential program and their IOP program. Breanna finds purpose in empowering clients to be their own healers within their healing journey. Breanna believes in creating a safe space for clients to heal and grow into the individuals they desire to be, while also demonstrating a non-judgmental, respectful, and educational setting. Breanna works from a trauma-informed lens, relational cultural therapy approach (healing through relationships), and holistic approach.

In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and friends, adventures in nature, singing, dancing, and learning about herbalism.

Brian graduated from Metro State with a BA in Organizational Communications in 2000 and recently completed the substance use disorder baccalaureate program at Metro State. While attending Metro State, Brian worked as an addiction technician at RCCS and ADC-T at Cedar Ridge inpatient treatment center. Brian has found his passion in life supporting individuals struggling with addiction. Providing comprehensive knowledge of evidence based treatment including individual and group therapy with compassion, honesty and empathy. Brian is a strong advocate for addiction awareness and prevention, actively participating in community programs and delivering presentations to share his experience, strength and hope. Brian plans to continue working toward becoming an LPCC. Brian enjoys spending time with his wife and three children eating good food, traveling, exercising and walking their two dogs.

Bio Coming Soon!

Jackelyn began working in the SUD field working in various roles at a women’s residential program before deciding to go back to school. Jackelyn graduated with an AS Degree in Addiction Counseling from Minneapolis College (MCTC) in the Spring of 2023. She began her career at Elite Recovery as an intern in January of 2023 before moving into her current role as a primary counselor. Jackelyn is currently attending Metropolitan State University to finish a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree. Jackelyn strives to provide person centered care meeting each individual exactly where they are at. Jackelyn is highly compassionate and empathetic. She believes people just need to be seen, heard, and believed. 

Jill has worked with men and women in her career as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, in a variety of residential and outpatient settings. She most recently was the Clinical Supervisor at Alliance Wellness Clinic, a culturally specific program helping East African and Somali men address their substance use and mental health issues.

Jill is grateful for her own recovery journey and shares her experience, strength, and hope with clients to assist them in discovering their best selves.

Karla Selness is a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADC) with a BS in Addiction Studies from Metropolitan State University. She is passionate about walking with those struggling with addiction and mental health to help them build a life that they don’t want to relapse from. She believes in treating the individual, not by just removing the substance from their life, but finding out the root cause to their use.

She is a member of, and vocal advocate for, LGBTQ+ communities and is passionate about supporting humans as they grow and change, taking pride in empowering her patients.

Karen attended Minneapolis College and earned her Associates Degree in Addiction Counseling. She attended Saint Mary’s University and completed her B.S. in Psychology with an interest in Art and Animal Assisted Therapy. Prior to coming to Elite Recovery, Karen worked at Park Avenue Center Men’s IOP, and NUWAY CO-ED IOP. Karen has over 10 years of experience working in the addictions field and is passionate about recovery. In her spare time, Karen enjoys antiquing, thrift shopping, spending time with her nephew, going on hikes with her German Shepherd Luna, and spending time with her partner.

Maggie Rogers is a dynamic Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a proven track record of leading teams/groups, personalized trauma-informed treatment, and operational excellence within SUD treatment. Maggie’s extensive experience across clinical, operations, human resources, and project management in the SUD treatment milieu, makes her a great addition to the Elite team. She holds an MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport, a B.S. in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude) from the University of Houston Downtown, and multiple certifications, including LADC, LCDC, SHRM-CP, and CAPM. Maggie is skilled in fostering group cohesion and building strategic partnerships to achieve clients’ personalized goals.  Maggie’s hobbies include kayaking, gardening, and travel. She and her husband moved here from Houston, TX and she is looking forward to making an impact on the Minnesota recovery community. 

Michael has over 4 years of experience working as an alcohol & drug counselor in the Twin Cities. Michael finished a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Metropolitan State University after attaining an associate’s degree in Addiction Counseling from Minneapolis College (MCTC). Michael began his career working as a Float Counselor and later as an Admissions Counselor at one of NUWAY’s Intensive Outpatient Programs before joining the incredible team at Elite Recovery as a Primary Counselor. Michael’s own experiences as a person in recovery are a driving force in his passion for helping others find their path to a better life. In his free time, Michael enjoys rooting for his home state of Wisconsin’s sports teams, golfing with friends, and watching movies.

Peter is an intern in the Men’s Program. He graduated from St Cloud state with Honors with a double major in Developmental Psychology and Philosophy with an Ethics Emphasis. He just finished his classroom work for the Certificate Program at Metropolitan State. Peter has some prior experience in this field, including having worked with adolescents and adults, in both inpatient and Intensive outpatient settings. He has experience working with justice involved individuals, both male and female. Peter’s last position was as a Targeted Case Manager with clients who had a primary diagnosis of a mental illness and secondary diagnosis of a substance use disorder.

Peter is in long term recovery and for self-care loves music. He has been playing guitar for decades. He is also an avid motorcycle enthusiast and enjoys history.

Richard graduated Minneapolis Community Technical College in 2017 where he obtained his AS in Addiction Counseling. On to Metro State to obtain BA in Art in 2020. Richard started his career at 1800 Chicago Detox as an intern, then hired. From detox his goal was to gain experience working with people in a group setting which led to Meridian Behavioral Health where he moved onto inpatient counselor role at Cedar Ridge and Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. Richard is an active member in the sober community where he shares people’s hopes and struggles to find a better way to live through Recovery.

Sara is a dedicated counselor with over 12 years of experience providing substance use disorder treatment services. She completed her bachelor’s degree in alcohol and drug counseling from Metropolitan State University in 2014. Sara has experience providing evidence-based clinical services to a variety of clientele. She has a demonstrated passion and commitment to supporting those on the journey to overcome addiction. Sara has been working on completing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling  with Capella University and plans to continue her work as a dually-licensed counselor.

Outside of work, Sara enjoys spending time outdoors, gardening, attending outdoor concerts, and spending time with her family and dogs.

With over three years of experience as an alcohol and drug counselor, Terry embraces a collaborative, strengths-based philosophy to empower clients in regaining ownership of their lives. He believes that the most effective therapy is grounded in authenticity and infused with humor, creating a comfortable and trusting environment where clients can thrive. His commitment is to support each individual’s unique journey, fostering resilience and positive change.

Terry’s personal interests include spending time with his family, being out in nature, and reading horror novels with the lights on.

Anna graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Spanish. Anna is currently a graduate student at Augsburg University pursuing both her Master’s in Social Work and her LADC. She began her career working for People Incorporated as a Mental Health Practitioner in Adult Foster Care and has since worked as a Qualified Health Home Specialist, ARMHS Mental Health Practitioner, Psychometrist, and Research Coordinator. Anna has extensive experience working directly with clients with serious and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI), and prioritizes a strengths-based, holistic approach.

In her free time, Anna enjoys exercising, reading, caring for her plants, and cuddling with her cats, Tiki and Benny.

Nicole Lindberg is currently an intern at Elite Recovery. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Winona State University in 2004. She has worked with adults diagnosed with mental health disorders and co-occurring substance use disorders for the past 20 years. She is currently earning her master’s degree in social work and alcohol and drug counseling at Augsburg University and will graduate in May 2025. Nicole focuses on providing person-centered and trauma-informed care to the individuals she works with.

When she’s not working you can find Nicole hanging out outside with her husband and 2 kids. Nicole loves to travel, loves music, and attending concerts, and enjoys sunsets.

Rick has been a chemical health professional for over 40 years, with experience in residential, outpatient, and jail-based treatment settings. Educated at Brown University and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, he was Program Director at Meridian Behavioral Health for 12 years, followed by 10 years as Clinical Director for River Ridge Treatment Centers. Rick returned to the workforce in 2023, part-time, after 3 years of retirement and he is enjoying working with interns and other staff new to the field.

Rick is a co-author (with Dr. Stephanie Covington and Dan Griffin) of Helping Men Recover, the first trauma-informed treatment curriculum for men. He has presented at numerous national conferences and has trained clinicians across the United States and Canada.

In 2016, the Minnesota Association of Resources for Recovery and Chemical Health recognized his contributions to the addiction field with their annual Leadership Award. In 2018, Rick was again honored by his peers with the MARRCH President’s Award. He has been in personal recovery from alcohol and drug addiction for 43 years.

Jalisa graduated with her diploma in Addiction Counseling from Minneapolis College in May of 2020. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre from North Central University. Jalisa is currently enrolled at Saint Mary’s University to earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services. Jalisa is eager to continue her education to better serve her clients.

Jalisa is passionate about serving each individual and facilitating a safe space where clients can grow and support one another. She believes in the power of community. Jalisa has a variety of experience working with people including: various child care positions, Personal Care Assistant with individuals with special needs, and Independent Living Skills Specialist working in mental health. Jalisa is of Native American decent and thrives to assist people that may seek to engage in their personal culture and heritage. Jalisa is passionate about meeting clients where they are in their personal journey and further assist them as they seek their own life fulfillment.

Michelle is a licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor with a background and license in Special Education, with a focus in Autism Spectrum Disorder. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison; her Special Education license from the University of St. Thomas; and her Alcohol and Drug counselor license from Century College.

Michelle spent most of her career in classrooms focusing on behavior management, life skills and crisis intervention. About six years ago, she decided to change careers about after coming into recovery herself.  She uses her acquired skills to help others struggling with addiction achieve a life in sobriety with meaning and purpose. Since then, she has worked as a technician at Avivo Women’s Residential and NUWAY Men’s Residential. She has experience as an LADC at Progress Valley Men’s Residential and River Ridge Recovery Outpatient. Her newest role as a float counselor at Elite Recovery gives her the chance to touch the lives of many individuals in recovery through group facilitation where she helps clients form meaningful connections through the common bond of addiction.

Sean graduated with high honors from Metro State University with a certificate in Alcohol & Drug Counseling. He has a prior BS from UW-Parkside and plans to further pursue his education in hopes of one day becoming an LPCC. Before this, Sean was a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist at Avivo in Minneapolis, MN where he was able to work with a diverse population of individuals with both housing as well as recovery needs. Sean has a passion for bringing wellness, recovery, and peace into peoples lives as well as helping each individual he works with reach a state of empowerment though a holistic, compassionate, client centered, fundamental, and strength based model.

In his free time Sean enjoys being in nature, reading, playing guitar, and stand up comedy.

Bio Coming Soon!

Cherste has a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health from the University of Minnesota, along with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Aurora University. She earned her Master’s in Nursing Education from St. Catherine University.

As part of the Health Promotion team, Cherste hopes to provide clients with knowledge to make confident decisions about their health and wellness.

Danielle is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul. Danielle went on to obtain her master’s degree in parks, recreation, and leisure with an emphasis in therapeutic recreation from the University of Minnesota.

Prior to joining Elite, she worked at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in the inpatient mental health unit. Danielle enjoys assisting individuals with finding out what their leisure interests are and encouraging others to focus on what they can do. Danielle has a passion for animal-assisted therapy, laughter, fun, and hot chocolate.

In her free time, Danielle enjoys traveling, walking her two dogs, trying new restaurants, listening to music, spending time with family and watching her favorite tv shows.

Annie is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Services from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, which she earned in 2009. In 2013, she furthered her qualifications by obtaining licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor from Metropolitan State University. Throughout her career, Annie has focused on helping a diverse range of clients, including seniors and individuals affected by the criminal justice system, as an intake and assessment counselor. Her passion lies in assisting clients on their journey towards recovery. Outside of work, Annie’s interests include staying active, quality time with her family, reading, exploring new places through travel, and walking her dog, Bardie Girl.

Bio coming soon!

Katherine graduated from Bethel University with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services in 2014 and has spent the past 10 years working with and supporting those struggling with addiction. She started her own recovery journey in 2006 and knows first-hand how difficult it is making changes to the people, places, and things of the past while establishing and stabilizing a new way of life in early recovery. Katherine is excited to utilize her education, professional experiences, and personal strengths as she helps others take next steps in their recovery. She is passionate about life transformation through community, faith, and self-awareness.

Katherine loves spending time with her friends and family. She enjoys reading, walking, volunteering, and finding new places to eat tacos!

Stephanie, originally from Michigan, has lived in Minnesota since 2013 and has been an active member of the local recovery community since.  Stephanie received her CPRS certification in 2018 from Minnesota Recovery Connection and has worked as a CPRS at Wayside Family Treatment and Amethyst Recovery Solutions. She is excited to bring her passion for recovery to the Elite team as a Treatment Coordinator and to help those seeking their own path to recovery.

In her free time, Stephanie enjoys reading, running and going on adventures with her family and pets, Louie, Mowgli, Doris and Ben.

Betsey graduated from Metropolitan State University with a Bachelor of Science degree and has been licensed and working as an LADC since 2014. Betsey has worked in various settings as a primary counselor and as an admissions counselor. She has experience with recovery from all sides of substance use disorders, personally and professionally. She believes it is a privilege to walk with those seeking a better life and enjoys seeing the miracles every day as a primary counselor. It is her passion to create a safe space for her clients to heal.  She brings a client-centered approach to her work and believes in all pathways to recovery.

Betsey enjoys spending time with her husband of 30 years, her four children, and her two dogs. She loves to garden and travel as much as possible. She cares about her community and tries to be helpful to everyone she meets.

Spencer graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 2019 from Saint Cloud State University and earned his graduate certificate in Addiction Counseling from Century College in the Spring of 2023. Spencer is new to the treatment field but is eager to learn a lot from his coworkers about how to apply some of the concepts that he has learned in school so that they best serve the clients that he works with. Spencer is focused on providing client-centered treatment that meets each client where they are at and has enjoyed learning more about clients using this method, as he believes that it can lead to individual success and feelings of connection over time.

In his free time, Spencer enjoys watching sports, running, listening to music, and cooking.

Tracy joined the Elite team bringing over 10 years of experience working in the chemical health field. Tracy started with Meridian Behavioral Health at one of their inpatient facilities as a Chemical Health Tech, moving on to become the Tech supervisor, then promoted to their Program Assistant. After 2 years, Tracy transitioned to one of their IOP locations as an intake coordinator. She would eventually become their Program Manager, managing all eight of their IOP locations. Tracy has a deep understanding and compassion for chemical dependency and mental health.

In her free time, Tracy enjoys cooking, puzzles, music and traveling, but most of all spending time with her family.

Andrew is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with experience supporting individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. He is committed to empowering others through advocacy, person-centered care, and partnering with individuals deserving of dignity and quality of life.

Andrew received his certification from Recovery Institute International in 2018. Before joining Elite Recovery, he worked as a CPRS in men’s and women’s residential, outpatient, and crisis programs for People Incorporated-Mental Health Services. Prior to that, Andrew worked for the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Phoenix Residence. He has an Associate of Applied Arts degree and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling from Metropolitan State University. Andrew thrives on connections with loved ones and friends.

Chris, originally from Pennsylvania, has lived here in Minnesota since 2020. After years spent battling addiction, he was finally able to get clean in 2019. Following a 13-month long treatment, he came to Minnesota to begin his recovery journey. While in sober living, Chris rooted himself, and his life, in the AA recovery community. Along with Chris’ dedication to AA, he’s also worked with a coach and mentor to continue his path along recovery.

Chris stepped into the recovery industry in 2021 by working with the Men’s Center at The Retreat. Since then, Chris has gotten his certifications as a Recovery Coach and CPRS. He continues to work with men to discover their purpose and vision along their recovery paths.

A Minnesota native, David attended Bethel University, graduating in 2018 with a BA in Biblical & Theological Studies. David obtained his Peer Recovery Specialist certification in 2023 and has since been working in homeless advocacy and treatment centers. Prior to joining Elite, he worked in many fields, from being a barista to book editing. After wrapping up his Masters of Arts in religious sociology from Princeton Seminary, David intends on pursuing a Masters in Addiction Science. An avid reader and passionate about social issues, David enjoys spending his free time at coffee shops, hiking around the Midwest, spending time with his cat, Major Tom, and listening to music.

Bio Coming Soon!

Linda Towle received her CPRS certification from Twin Cities Recovery Project in 2021. Prior to joining the Elite team as a Peer Recovery Specialist, she worked as a Parenting Mentor for mothers struggling with substance use. She’s also worked 20+ years in the fitness industry, using fitness as a tool to improve mental and physical health. With a passion for wholistic wellness, Linda is deeply committed to helping clients discovery their own unique path to long term recovery. When she is not at work, she loves gardening, reading, yoga, and hanging out with her husband, five grown children, three grandchildren and one Australian Shepherd.

David holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Music from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In 2018, he obtained an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where he concentrated in investment management while managing a portion of the University’s endowment with a team of 9 other professionals. He has worked in middle market debt and equity for 8 years, running operations and credit monitoring teams for various organizations in Charlotte and New York City. After entering a life of recovery, David moved to St. Paul and decided to separate from the financial industry to join a team dedicated to helping others make headway in their recovery journeys. When David isn’t working, he can be found behind a drum set or walking his dog, Moose, in St. Paul while listening to music.

Elise is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who graduated from Century College with an Associates of Science degree in Addiction Counseling and continued her education at Bethel University where she graduated with honors with a degree in Human Services. Elise previously worked at a high intensity residential program doing intakes, assessments, and has been in an assessor role for most of her career. Elise enjoys helping clients take the first steps in their recovery and meeting them where they are.

In her free time, Elise enjoys spending her time on the water and traveling.

Kara obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1991 from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She spent over 25 years after college in account management roles, both in the information technology field and the Behavioral Health field. After entering a life of recovery herself in 2014, Kara began using her experience to serve others still suffering from substance use disorder. For the past nine years, she has worked in residential and outpatient addiction facilities coordinating resources and collaborating with individuals to embark on a healthy journey in recovery. She also works as a Certified Treatment Coordinator, Sober Coach and Companion and Intervention Transporter to walk beside women who are beginning a life in recovery. Kara has 24-year old twins who are adulting in the world and are her greatest gift. In her free time, you can find her in the woods either hiking or cross-country skiing.

Mark Evans graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1985 and has worked in the technology field since 1987. Prior to coming to Elite, he worked at Apple supporting business customers nationwide and with local Apple pioneer, FirstTech.  He has hosted a tech podcast, wrote tech articles for online publications, and appeared on local media covering emerging technology. He lives in Red Wing with his wife Susie and his dog Lincoln. He enjoys traveling with his family and exploring their favorite places including Lake Superior and New Zealand.

Mark also enjoys hiking, coffee, and reading.

Samantha LeMieur is the Director of Human Resources. She has over 13 years of Human Resources experience in the healthcare field and in areas such as full employee life-cycle needs, organizational development, and HR Administration. She has worked with both nonprofit and for-profit organizations, most recently with Associated Clinic of Psychology as their Human Resources Supervisor. Samantha has a strong passion for helping others and supporting colleagues to succeed. In her free time, Samantha loves spending time with her family, traveling, and spending time outdoors.