Meet The Team
Meet The Team
John Puls
Co-Founder / Owner
John began working with individuals suffering from substance use disorder and pervasive mental illness in 2013 in a support staff role. During this time John completed his bachelor’s degree in social work from Florida Atlantic University in August of 2016. John was accepted to the advanced standing master’s in social work (MSW) at Florida Atlantic University and completed his degree in May of 2017. Currently, John is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a master’s certified addiction professional (MCAP). John is passionate about providing community based services that bridge the gap from conventional treatment into the community. John uses a firm strengths-based approach to help clients and their families achieve their goals.
Brian Pagan
Co-Founder / Owner
Brian began his work in the field of psychology in 2008 while completing his Bachelors degree in Counseling Psychology and Business Administration. Brian was recruited by one of his professors to assist her on grant (number 5U79SM0507014) aiding families of severely emotionally disturbed youth in the tri-state area. The grant focused on evaluating the fidelity outcomes for the new Wraparound Fidelity Index 4 (WFI-4) instrument, part of Systems of Care (SOC), a federally funded National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) grant. As part of this research he received training for structured interviewing techniques and cultural competence. He worked closely with families of severely emotionally disturbed youth in Northeast Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi. He collaborated on a new survey to be implemented during Action for Kids family nights and modified existing surveys used for the grant. Brian also collaborated with other psychology students in conducting a research experiment focused on the effects of the post-modern movement in the filed of psychology. He presented this research at conferences at a State, Nation and International level including the 2008 SWPA, and APA conferences. After graduating from Arkansas State University Brian decided to move to Florida where he and attended Nova Southeastern University and earned his Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling. Following the completing on his Master’s degree Brian worked as a primary therapist at a Dual Diagnosis treatment center in Boca Raton, FL and earned his (CAP) Certified Addiction Professional certification from the State of Florida. After several years working in treatment facilities Brian decided to branch out and start his own practice in 2014 where he works with individuals, couples and families. Brian is a certified trauma specialist utilizing RTM (reconsolidating of traumatic memories) protocol to treat individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress and unwanted/intrusive thoughts, images and nightmares. Brian specializes in working with individuals suffering from trauma, mood disorders, substance use disorders, developmental disorders & co-occurring mental disorders. Brian is passionate about helping individuals suffering from mental illness reconnect with or build on their family relationships and develop healthy interpersonal relationships.Brian utilizes several theoretical approaches in his practice including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT), Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), Reality Therapy and Adventure Based Therapy. Brian lives a healthy lifestyle and believes strongly in a holistic approach.
Casey Brannigan
Clinical Director
Casey began his career in a non-profit organization that focused on high-risk adolescents and families in 2012. Since that time, he has worked in several dual diagnosis treatment programs with both adolescents and adults. He completed his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Florida Atlantic University in 2011. In 2014, Casey completed a Masters in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in addiction from Palm Beach Atlantic University. In 2016, following his degree in mental health counseling, he completed an MBA from Florida Atlantic University with a focus on our modern healthcare system. Casey is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Master Level Certified Addictions Professional (MCAP) in the State of Florida. He has an extensive history of working with adolescents, adults and families. Casey is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Adventure Therapy, Behavioral Therapy and Family Therapy.
Craig Mastrony
Director of Case Management
Craig Mastrony is originally from Stratford, Connecticut but has been living in Florida since 1999. He has been in long term recovery since 2017 and an active member of the 12 step community where he developed a passion for helping others and led him to working in the treatment industry in early 2018. Craig’s main focus is based in helping men and women struggling with addiction and/or alcoholism but is also well equipped to assist in mental health cases. Craig is a Certified Recovery Support Specialist and Case Manager. Craig is dedicated to mastering his craft and continues to pursue different certifications, seeks additional education and experience wherever possible, and has plans to pursue a degree in social work.
Joseph Lee
Therapist
Joseph is a licensed clinical social worker with over 6 years experience working as a psychotherapist with a wide range of clients. He completed his master’s in social work degree from Florida Atlantic University as well as a postgraduate CBT certification. He specializes in substance use disorder and underlying issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. Joseph is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while drawing upon other modalities such as psychodrama/experiential, narrative, person-centered and solution focused therapies. Joseph believes strongly in a client centered approach and meeting clients where they are at.
Stephanie Aster
Therapist
Stephanie graduated from University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and went on to earn her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. Stephanie believes that therapy is beneficial for everyone and can be a wonderful experience, but that the beginning of therapy can often be scary for individuals. She believes in meeting clients where they are, and joining them and supporting them through whatever has brought them to this moment. Stephanie believes that the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of therapy, and she loves building individual relationships and trust with each client. Stephanie offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to therapy in order to provide optimal support in reaching goals. Her passion is to help teens and adults work through issues such as (not limited to) anxiety, depression, trauma, self-worth, substance abuse, and life adjustments. She is also a master’s level certified addictions counselor, an internationally certified alcohol and drug counselor, and has training in EMDR trauma therapy.
Phillip Treiber
Therapist
Phil initially found his passion for helping others in 2016 as a behavioral health technician at a trauma and addiction treatment center, and during that time he enrolled in the Clinical Mental Health Program at Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL. While attending school full time, he worked as a full-time clinical case manager in a detox, facilitated IOP groups, and worked as an individual case manager for primarily mental health clients. After completing his internship in a highly competitive position at a local non-profit community center, he graduated at the top of his class and was chosen as the first-ever counseling student to be the graduate speaker for the entire Lynn University graduating class for 2020. This passion for counseling has led him to attend conferences both on a national and international level. He has also authored two substance abuse cases and edited three others that were published in a case study textbook for undergraduate psychology students, presented research at a national counselor-educators conference, and recently submitted an article with his research team to multiple scholarly journals for potential publication. Currently, he is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern within the State of Florida, recently attained the National Certified Counselor designation, and recently obtained the Masters Level Certified Addictions Professional designation within the State of Florida. He has also done advanced classes in CBT and completed an EMDR training course.
Amber Nagy
Case Manager
Amber Nagy was born in New Jersey and has been living in South Florida for the past 5 years. She received her undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice at St. John’s University, graduating cum laude in 2015. Amber is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University and working towards her supervision hours to become a Certified Addiction Professional. Amber is a student member of the Florida Counseling Association. She has been working in the treatment field for about 3 years now and has worked various roles such as Behavioral health technician, case manager and certified recovery advisor. Amber is dedicated to helping others navigate their way to fulfillment within their own lives.
Nicholas Lee
Case Manager
Nicholas “Nick” Lee was born and raised in New York City, moving to South Florida in 2007. He earned his BA from The University of Miami and his MBA from Lynn University. Having endured several mental health disorders from a young age, Nick is a testament to the power of proper medical and therapeutic care — with over 14 years of continuous sobriety, he is an active member of the 12 step recovery community and an avid fitness and mental health advocate. After long careers in Finance and Marketing, he transitioned to Case Management, seeking to use his experience with CBT, DBT, 12-step principles and other proven techniques to aid in our clients’ journeys. Nick utilizes his personal experience to help fellow men and women overcome their difficulties, conquer their pasts, and thrive in the present while supporting both clients and their families. He is also pursuing additional CRSS certification and enrollment in the master’s in mental health program at a local university.
Lane Stupell
Case Manager
Lane Stupell is originally from East Greenwich, Rhode Island. She has been working with clients suffering from substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders since 2018. Lane started as a behavioral health technician, and through her hard work and eagerness to grow in the field, she eventually became a case manager. Lane is now in school earning her health and wellness coach certifications, in order to strengthen her work with clients. Lane believes in a strength based approach to motivate her clients to exhibit positive change in their lives.
TD Young
Case Manager
T.D. received his bachelor’s degree in Health Science and Rehabilitative Services from the University of Florida in 2010. He is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist, as well as yoga certified instructor. After 10+ years of working in the health and fitness industry, he began to focus on individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. As someone with lived experience enduring both, he possesses the unique ability to empathize and connect on a deeper level with the clients he works with. He is currently pursuing his Certified Recovery Support Specialist certification.
Josh Kapulskey
Case Manager
Josh is originally from Mount Holly, New Jersey. He has been living in South Florida and in long term recovery since 2016. During this time, Josh has worked in the behavioral health industry as a group facilitator and sober coach. He is currently working towards acquiring his Certified Recovery Support Specialist accreditation with the state of Florida. Josh is an Eagle Scout, an active member of the local 12 step community. Josh has a newfound passion for health and fitness as he has lost over 80 pounds and continues on his journey.
John Puls
Co-Founder / Owner
John began working with individuals suffering from substance use disorder and acute mental illness in 2013 in a support staff role. During this time John completed his bachelor’s degree in social work from Florida Atlantic University in August of 2016. John was accepted to the advanced standing master’s in social work (MSW) at Florida Atlantic University and completed his degree in May of 2017. Currently, John is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a master’s certified addiction professional (MCAP). John is passionate about providing community based services that bridge the gap from conventional treatment into the community. Along with his community based work, John serves as an adjunct professor at the Florida Atlantic University School of Social Work. John uses a firm strengths-based approach to help clients and their families achieve their goals.
Brian Pagan
Co-Founder / Owner
Brian began his work in the field of psychology in 2008 while completing his Bachelors degree in Counseling Psychology and Business Administration. Brian was recruited by one of his professors to assist her on grant (number 5U79SM0507014) aiding families of severely emotionally disturbed youth in the try state area. The grant focused on evaluating the fidelity outcomes for the new Wraparound Fidelity Index 4 (WFI-4) instrument, part of Systems of Care (SOC), a federally funded National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) grant. As part of this research he received training for structured interviewing techniques and cultural competence. He worked closely with families of severely emotionally disturbed youth in Northeast Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi. He collaborated on a new survey to be implemented during Action for Kids family nights and modified existing surveys used for the grant. Brian also collaborated with other psychology students in conducting a research experiment focused on the effects of the post-modern movement in the filed of psychology. He presented this research at conferences at a State, Nation and International level including the 2008 SWPA, and APA conferences. After graduating from Arkansas State University Brian decided to move to Florida where he and attended Nova Southeastern University and earned his Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling. Following the completing on his Master’s degree Brian worked as a primary therapist at a Dual Diagnosis treatment center in Boca Raton, FL and earned his (CAP) Certified Addiction Professional certification from the State of Florida. After several years working in treatment facilities Brian decided to branch out and start his own practice in 2014 where he works with individuals, couples and families. Brian is a certified trauma specialist utilizing RTM (reconsolidating of traumatic memories) protocol to treat individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress and unwanted/intrusive thoughts, images and nightmares. Brian specializes in working with individuals suffering from trauma, mood disorders, substance use disorders, developmental disorders & co-occurring mental disorders. Brian is passionate about helping individuals suffering from mental illness reconnect with or build on their family relationships and develop healthy interpersonal relationships.Brian utilizes several theoretical approaches in his practice including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT), Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), Reality Therapy and Adventure Based Therapy. Brian lives a healthy lifestyle and believes strongly in a holistic approach.
Casey Brannigan
Clinical Director
Casey began his career in a non-profit organization that focused on high-risk adolescents and families in 2012. Since that time, he has worked in several dual diagnosis treatment programs with both adolescents and adults. He completed his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Florida Atlantic University in 2011. In 2014, Casey completed a Masters in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in addiction from Palm Beach Atlantic University. In 2016, following his degree in mental health counseling, he completed an MBA from Florida Atlantic University with a focus on our modern healthcare system. Casey is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Master Level Certified Addictions Professional (MCAP) in the State of Florida. He has an extensive history of working with adolescents, adults and families. Casey is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Adventure Therapy, Behavioral Therapy and Family Therapy.
Craig Mastrony
Director of Case Management
Craig Mastrony is originally from Stratford, Connecticut but has been living in Florida since 1999. He has been in long term recovery since 2017 and an active member of the 12 step community where he developed a passion for helping others and led him to working in the treatment industry in early 2018. Craig’s main focus is based in helping men and women struggling with addiction and/or alcoholism but is also well equipped to assist in mental health cases. Craig is a Certified Recovery Support Specialist and Case Manager. Craig is dedicated to mastering his craft and continues to pursue different certifications, seeks additional education and experience wherever possible, and has plans to pursue a degree in social work.
Joseph Lee
Therapist
Joseph is a licensed clinical social worker with over 6 years experience working as a psychotherapist with a wide range of clients. He completed his master’s in social work degree from Florida Atlantic University as well as a postgraduate CBT certification. He specializes in substance use disorder and underlying issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. Joseph is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while drawing upon other modalities such as psychodrama/experiential, narrative, person-centered and solution focused therapies. Joseph believes strongly in a client centered approach and meeting clients where they are at.
Phillip Treiber
Therapist
Phil initially found his passion for helping others in 2016 as a behavioral health technician at a trauma and addiction treatment center, and during that time he enrolled in the Clinical Mental Health Program at Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL. While attending school full time, he worked as a full-time clinical case manager in a detox, facilitated IOP groups, and worked as an individual case manager for primarily mental health clients. After completing his internship in a highly competitive position at a local non-profit community center, he graduated at the top of his class and was chosen as the first-ever counseling student to be the graduate speaker for the entire Lynn University graduating class for 2020. This passion for counseling has led him to attend conferences both on a national and international level. He has also authored two substance abuse cases and edited three others that were published in a case study textbook for undergraduate psychology students, presented research at a national counselor-educators conference, and recently submitted an article with his research team to multiple scholarly journals for potential publication. Currently, he is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern within the State of Florida, recently attained the National Certified Counselor designation, and recently obtained the Masters Level Certified Addictions Professional designation within the State of Florida. He has also done advanced classes in CBT and completed an EMDR training course.
Stephanie Aster
Therapist
Stephanie graduated from University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and went on to earn her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. Stephanie believes that therapy is beneficial for everyone and can be a wonderful experience, but that the beginning of therapy can often be scary for individuals. She believes in meeting clients where they are, and joining them and supporting them through whatever has brought them to this moment. Stephanie believes that the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of therapy, and she loves building individual relationships and trust with each client. Stephanie offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to therapy in order to provide optimal support in reaching goals. Her passion is to help teens and adults work through issues such as (not limited to) anxiety, depression, trauma, self-worth, substance abuse, and life adjustments. She is also a master’s level certified addictions counselor, an internationally certified alcohol and drug counselor, and has training in EMDR trauma therapy.
Lane Stupell
Case Manager
Lane Stupell is originally from East Greenwich, Rhode Island. She has been working with clients suffering from substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders since 2018. Lane started as a behavioral health technician, and through her hard work and eagerness to grow in the field, she eventually became a case manager. Lane is now in school earning her health and wellness coach certifications, in order to strengthen her work with clients. Lane believes in a strength based approach to motivate her clients to exhibit positive change in their lives.
Josh Kapulskey
Case Manager
Josh is originally from Mount Holly, New Jersey. He has been living in South Florida and in long term recovery since 2016. During this time, Josh has worked in the behavioral health industry as a group facilitator and sober coach. He is currently working towards acquiring his Certified Recovery Support Specialist accreditation with the state of Florida. Josh is an Eagle Scout, an active member of the local 12 step community. Josh has a newfound passion for health and fitness as he has lost over 80 pounds and continues on his journey.
Amber Nagy
Case Manager
Amber Nagy was born in New Jersey and has been living in South Florida for the past 5 years. She received her undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice at St. John’s University, graduating cum laude in 2015. Amber is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University and working towards her supervision hours to become a Certified Addiction Professional. Amber is a student member of the Florida Counseling Association. She has been working in the treatment field for about 3 years now and has worked various roles such as Behavioral health technician, case manager and certified recovery advisor. Amber is dedicated to helping others navigate their way to fulfillment within their own lives.
TD Young
Case Manager
T.D. received his bachelor’s degree in Health Science and Rehabilitative Services from the University of Florida in 2010. He is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist, as well as yoga certified instructor. After 10+ years of working in the health and fitness industry, he began to focus on individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. As someone with lived experience enduring both, he possesses the unique ability to empathize and connect on a deeper level with the clients he works with. He is currently pursuing his Certified Recovery Support Specialist certification.
Nicholas Lee
Case Manager
Nicholas “Nick” Lee was born and raised in New York City, moving to South Florida in 2007. He earned his BA from The University of Miami and his MBA from Lynn University. Having endured several mental health disorders from a young age, Nick is a testament to the power of proper medical and therapeutic care — with over 14 years of continuous sobriety, he is an active member of the 12 step recovery community and an avid fitness and mental health advocate. After long careers in Finance and Marketing, he transitioned to Case Management, seeking to use his experience with CBT, DBT, 12-step principles and other proven techniques to aid in our clients’ journeys. Nick utilizes his personal experience to help fellow men and women overcome their difficulties, conquer their pasts, and thrive in the present while supporting both clients and their families. He is also pursuing additional CRSS certification and enrollment in the master’s in mental health program at a local university.