Our Team At Casa Capri Recovery: For Women, By Women

Karen is a graduate of Saddleback College and obtained her Alcohol and Drug Studies Certificate. Joining the Casa Capri Recovery team with years of experience in the treatment industry, Karen has been on a mission to help women recover since 2008. Arriving in California from Florida, Karen has proven that grit and determination are the keys to her success. Even in her earliest days as support she was keenly aware that clients were the most important part of the equation and their experience mattered above all else. Her special attention to detail, while also being able to keep an eye on the big picture, allows Karen to lead from a unique perspective. A leader by nature, her vast clinical knowledge and education (coupled with her practical sense) make her an asset to the entire treatment process, not just for the team she leads, but the clinical team and, of course, the clients. One asset in herself she holds in the highest regard and looks for in others is to remain teachable; she is always exploring creative ideas and ways to be more efficient. Karen believes a significant part of client success is having the best support team in place to ensure the client experience is safe, loving and comfortable.

Liz Miller, our Clinical Programming Director, brings her specialized expertise in both substance abuse and eating disorders to Casa Capri. Utilizing a psychodynamic framework, Liz integrates principles from Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment theory, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into her work with clients. Since beginning her career in substance abuse treatment in 2014, Liz has gained valuable experience in a variety of clinical and operational roles. Today, Liz works closely with clients to ensure that all aspects of every case are addressed, taking great joy in helping her clients achieve freedom from the bondage of their substance use and eating disorders. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from New York University.

Michelle was born and raised in La Habra, CA where she graduated from La Habra High. At a very early age Michelle knew she wanted to make a difference by taking care of others. After graduating High school, she went on and furthered her education by graduating from Cerritos College in Cerritos, CA with an AS degree in Science. From there she propelled into Stanbridge College in Irvine, CA, where she graduated with her LVN license. With her ambitious passion and intelligence, Michelle has been working in the field for the past 3 years. Michelle specializes in Eating Disorders, Drug and Alcohol Addictions, and in Sublocade/Vivitrol injections. Her full determination and positive outcomes led her to our facility to bring us her heart, knowledge, and expertise.

Hanna McAlister is the Registered Dietitian at Casa Capri Recovery. Hanna’s nutritional background began with the eating disorder population in 2011 working as a Dietetic Technician. In 2013 she graduated with her BS in Nutritional Science from California State University, Los Angeles, and then went on to work in public health with WIC (women, infants, and children) where she completed her dietetic internship. From 2016 to 2018, Hanna was a Registered Dietitian at an eating disorder treatment facility working in all levels of care: inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient. Hanna discovered her passion of working with the substance abuse population in 2017 when she began facilitating nutrition groups and counseling clients at a treatment facility in Newport Beach. Hanna is an intuitive eating advocate and loves to help clients find balance in their diet and lifestyle, while also healing their metabolic function and any other co-occurring nutritional issues relating to their substance abuse.

Sophie, our dedicated Operations Director, goes above and beyond to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the women in our community. With a strong background in daily operations and staff management, she is committed to creating a nurturing, supportive environment for those seeking recovery. Sophie’s passion for helping women thrive is evident both in her professional and personal life. Before starting at Casa Capri, she could be found volunteering at the Lynn House or Ashland Home working with newly sober women. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women to heal and thrive makes her a valuable asset to our team.

Halle Biggins comes to us after being in the mental health industry for the past 8 years, the first 3 in ABA for children with autism. Halle graduated in 2023 from GCU with a master’s in professional clinical counseling and is now a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Halle knows first-hand what addiction can do to a family as she has close family that have suffered, and she understands the effects the disease has on the addict and families alike. Passionate about people and their mental health, she believes working with women to better their lives is one of her purposes in life. Halle is looking forward to helping women feel empowered and arming them with the tools so they can take control of their lives.

Lauren values every client’s individuality and utilizes a strength-based approach to assist them in reaching their goals. She wholeheartedly believes every client is deserving of long-term recovery and stability. She has worked in the public health sector, hospice/palliative care, addiction, mental health and eating disorders. Having a wide range of experience expands her knowledge to further support clients with a variety of needs. Lauren has experience providing brainspotting, inner child work, cognitive therapy, emotion focused therapy, somatic work, internal family systems, and many more modalities. She is fully certified in brainspotting and EMDR, as well as being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to further improve the outcomes of the individuals she serves.

Juana is a dedicated Case Manager with a passion for helping women build healthier, more fulfilling lives in recovery. She attended InterCoast College, where she completed the Substance Use Disorder Counseling program, later earning her Associate degree. She is currently completing the requirements for her CADC II certification. Juana specializes in substance use disorder treatment, case management, recovery support, relapse prevention, and aftercare planning. Known for her ability to build trust and rapport, she creates a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered to grow. Inspired by her own recovery journey and the strong women who helped guide her along the way, Juana is committed to helping clients recognize their strengths and believe in what is possible for their future. She finds the greatest fulfillment in watching women gain confidence, develop new skills, and begin to see their potential. Guided by honesty, integrity, compassion, accountability, and kindness, Juana believes that every individual deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to create lasting change. Her dedication to client care earned her Rookie of the Year recognition during her first year as a Case Manager, and she continues to make a meaningful impact through the support, encouragement, and hope she brings to those she serves.

Janell is a dedicated Case Manager who is passionate about helping women find hope, healing, and lasting recovery. She graduated from InterCoast College with a focus in Alcohol and Other Drug Studies with honors.

Janell specializes in client care, crisis management, and building trust with individuals navigating addiction, trauma, neurodiversity, and eating disorders. Inspired by her own recovery community, she is committed to creating meaningful connections and helping clients rediscover their strength and purpose. Known for her authenticity, compassion, and servant-hearted approach, Janell finds the greatest joy in watching the spark return to a client’s eyes as they begin to heal. Her dedication to both clients and colleagues earned her Employee of the Year within her department and recognition as a Client Care Champion award her first year of working. She remains committed to serving others with integrity, hope, and genuine love for her work.

Venice Sanchez, MD, is a double board-certified physician specializing in Psychiatry and Neurology as well as Addiction Medicine. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. At her private practice in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Sanchez offers a holistic approach to patient care, integrating medication management, therapy, spirituality, healthy eating, exercise, and attention to social factors that impact well-being. Dr. Sanchez earned her bachelor’s degree from UCLA and her medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at UC Irvine, where she was honored with the Outstanding Resident of the Year Award. Her subspecialty in addiction medicine allows her to guide patients through the difficult journey of recovery. Dr. Sanchez has been recognized as Women in Medicine Top Doctor 2024 and Best of 2024 Newport Beach, Psychiatrist.

Paul Alexander is the CEO, President, and Founder of Northbound Treatment Network in Newport Beach, California. With over 27 years in behavioral healthcare, Paul brings deep expertise in integrated treatment for substance use and mental health disorders, along with a passion for organizational health and transformational leadership.

A pioneer in collegiate-based residential treatment, Paul authored a research study at the University of California validating this innovative model. His experience spans clinical development, operations, strategy, marketing, and financial planning—making him a respected leader in both care delivery and organizational growth.

Paul holds a BA in Criminology, Law, and Society from UC Irvine (Summa Cum Laude), a JD from Loyola Law School, and a Certified Addiction Treatment Specialist designation from Saddleback College, where he was honored with the Outstanding Alumni Service Award. He currently serves on the board of NAATP, as well as The Family Recovery Foundation and CarePossible, both of which support treatment access for military families.

In long-term recovery himself, Paul is known for his integrity, vision, and personal commitment to the work. He lives in Orange County with his wife Silvana and their sons, Noah and Dean.

Jillian McCarney has devoted her career to helping individuals heal from substance use and mental health disorders. As a co-owner of Northbound Treatment Network, a leading behavioral health provider in California, her leadership has played a key role in guiding clinical teams to deliver exceptional, evidence-based care.

With a diverse background in medical sales and behavioral health, Jillian brings a unique, macro-level perspective to the healthcare industry. Her experience as a consultant and brand developer has allowed her to collaborate with some of the most forward-thinking professionals in the field, blending innovation with compassion.

Previously serving as a District Manager for Foundations Recovery Network, Jillian thrived in roles focused on team development, training, and coaching. She is committed to lifelong learning, continuously expanding her knowledge through certifications, trainings, and international conferences.

Jillian’s passion, professionalism, and curiosity continue to drive her impact in the recovery space—both as a business leader and an advocate for integrated, high-quality treatment.

Erick Rocca is a seasoned financial leader known for his ability to blend strategic business insight with deep financial expertise. As Chief Financial Officer at Northbound Treatment Services since 2019, Erick brings a collaborative approach—partnering with department leaders and mentoring finance teams to ensure that every business decision is both informed and impactful.

Erick’s career began at Ernst & Young as a Senior Auditor, where he honed his technical foundation. He later spent over a decade at The Irvine Company in senior finance roles, culminating as Senior Director of Accounting and Finance. Since joining Northbound in 2017, first as Vice President of Finance and Accounting, Erick has played a key role in scaling operations and supporting sustainable growth.

A Certified Public Accountant, Erick earned his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from California State University San Marcos. He is recognized for his strategic mindset, steady leadership, and commitment to building financially sound, mission-driven organizations.

Alexa Pelech is the Chief Marketing Officer at Northbound Treatment Services, where she combines her passion for helping others with a strong track record in addiction treatment marketing and outreach. Since joining Northbound in 2019, Alexa has held several key roles—including Referral Relations Manager and Director of Business Development—before stepping into her current leadership position in March 2023.

Alexa began her career in behavioral healthcare as an Outreach Coordinator with American Addiction Centers, where she quickly developed a reputation for her compassionate approach and results-driven mindset. Today, she leads Northbound’s marketing strategy with the same energy and heart, driving growth while staying true to the mission of recovery.

Alexa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fine and Studio Arts from San Francisco State University and later studied Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling at Los Angeles Pierce College. Her creative background and commitment to service continue to shape her authentic, human-centered leadership style.