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Out Treatment Team: Compassionate & Experienced Staff

The key to successful recovery lies not only in an innovative treatment approach, but also in the dedicated professionals who implement it.

Our treatment team is the backbone of our program, providing the expertise, compassion, and support that our clients need to overcome addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders.

From the moment you enter our program, you’ll be surrounded by a team of professionals committed to your success. We work closely with each client to develop personalized treatment plans, addressing individual needs and challenges.

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Burning Tree Lodge Treatment Office

Leadership & Care Team

Eric Button, PRSS
Eric Button, PRSS
Executive Director
Dr. Dr. Alejando D. Kudisch M.D., D.L.F.A.P.A
Dr. Alejandro D. Kudisch M.D., D.L.F.A.P.A
Medical Director
Joshua New, LCSW, EMDR-Trained
Joshua New, LCSW, EMDR-Trained
Clinical Director
Rebecca Griganavicius, PMHNP, FNP
Rebecca Griganavicius, PMHNP, FNP
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Caroline Nilsen, MA, LCDCI
Caroline Nilsen, MA, LCDCI
Counselor
Aaron Ball, BSN, RN
Aaron Ball, BSN, RN
Director of Nursing
Doug Wade, LMFT
Doug Wade, LMFT
Family Program Director
Kristi Miles, CCMA
Kristi Miles, CCMA
Medical Assistant
Russell Angell, MA, LPC-A, LCDCI
Russell Angell, MA, LPC-A, LCDCI
Primary Counselor
Chance Lippert, LCDCI
Chance Lippert, LCDCI
Counselor
Ariel Antman-Kennedy, Director of Recovery Services
Ariel Antman-Kennedy
Director of Recovery Services
Mathew Orman, Director of Family & Client Relations
Mathew “Hunter” Orman
Director of Family & Client Relations
Brook McKenzie, LCDC
Brook McKenzie, LCDC
Chief Executive Officer
David Elliott
David Elliott
Founder & President

Admissions and Community Relations

Olivia Wilder, Director of Admissions
Olivia Wilder
Director of Admissions
Josh Jordan, Director of Community Relations
Josh Jordan
Director of Community Relations
Deitra Deal, Admissions Specialist
Deitra Deal
Admissions Specialist
Alexis Thomas, Admissions Specialist
Alexis Thomas
Admissions Specialist
Holly Burnett, Admissions Specialist at Burning Tree Lodge
Holly Burnett
Admissions Specialist

Operations

Jessica Peralez, BS, Director of Operations
Jessica Peralez, BS
Director of Operations
Rico Hernandez, Maintenance
Rico Hernandez
Maintenance

Financial Services

Evan Varty, LCDCI, Director of Utilization Review
Evan Varty, LCDCI
Director of Utilization Review

Creating a Life of Excellence Beyond Sobriety

Since 1999

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Josh Jordan
Director of Community Relations

Josh Jordan serves as the Director of Community Relations for Burning Tree Lodge, part of the Burning Tree Programs network. With extensive experience in the addiction and mental health treatment field, he has served as a sober living operator, interventionist, recovery coach, and outreach professional. His deep understanding of long-term recovery isn’t just professional—it’s personal. An alumnus of Burning Tree, Josh entered the program in 2014 after years of struggling with addiction, convinced that nothing would work. But through the structure and accountability of Burning Tree, he found lasting recovery. Today, he is not only sober but a dedicated father, husband, and leader in his community. His passion is helping others find the same hope and transformation that changed his life, connecting families and professionals with the life-saving care they need.

Mathew "Hunter" Orman
Director of Family & Client Relations

Matthew “Hunter” Orman serves as Director of Family & Client Relations for Burning Tree Lodge. He is highly motivated to help spread the message of hope, freedom, and creating a new life which he gained during his own recovery journey. As someone whose recovery is a product of a well thought-out aftercare plan, he is able to bring a unique perspective and thoughtfulness to treating clients. Hunter is skilled at one-on-one client intervention, active listening, and real time crisis intervention.

Ariel Antman-Kennedy
Director of Recovery Services

Ariel Antman-Kennedy serves as the Director of Recovery Services at Burning Tree Lodge. Ariel found her passion for helping others in recovery while still in treatment herself, and made the decision to begin working in the field shortly after. With a deep understanding of the importance of building a strong foundation for recovery, she helps individuals develop sustainable habits through both a 12 step and mindfulness based process. Ariel also emphasizes the power of accountability, believing that it drives personal growth and helps clients unlock their highest potential. Her compassionate yet results-driven approach has made her a guide for those seeking lasting transformation in their recovery.

Deitra Deal
Admissions Specialist

Deitra Deal serves as an Admissions Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. As an advocate for families struggling with the disease of addiction, she has served various roles during her professional career, including interventionist, case manager, and clinical outreach professional. As she pursued her degree in Psychology from Dallas Baptist University, Deitra simultaneously embarked on a long-term journey to serve the interest of those affected by trauma, codependency, and grief. Today, she lends her passion, skillset, and wisdom to the families and clients of Burning Tree. Deeply involved in her own personal recovery, Deitra serves as a welcome refuge for those weary and in need of support.

Joshua New, LCSW, EMDR-Trained
Clinical Director
Joshua New serves as Clinical Director for Burning Tree Lodge. His educational background includes a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of New England. Joshua’s therapeutic approach is distinctly holistic, focusing on the comprehensive well-being of the individual, encompassing physical, spiritual, and emotional health. Rooted in positive psychotherapy, his approach empowers individuals to recognize and leverage their inherent strengths, fostering a more optimistic and effective engagement with their life circumstances. This leads to outcomes that are both hopeful and productive. In long-term recovery himself, Joshua has served in various clinical roles with Burning Tree since 2011.
Caroline Nilsen, MA, LCDCI
Counselor
Caroline Nilsen serves as a Counselor for Burning Tree Lodge. She is a former Ph.D. candidate in history and earned her master’s degree at the University of Houston in 2013. As someone who achieved recovery at Burning Tree Lodge in 2021, Caroline is passionate about paying forward the integrated mind-body-spirit approach to all current clients. She is a certified Mindfulness in Recovery facilitator and believes strongly in helping clients explore what a fulfilling, meaningful life in recovery means for them, personally. Caroline utilizes mindfulness tools alongside motivational interviewing, REBT, and ACT approaches to give clients the skills they need to rediscover their joy in life and begin making that a reality.
Rebecca Griganavicius, PMHNP, FNP
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca is dual-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner for Burning Tree Lodge. Rebecca received her Master of Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Texas State University. She received her post-masters certificate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She was just accepted into their Doctorate of Nursing Practice Program. Rebecca is in the Nurse Corps for the Navy Reserves. She has experience treating dual-diagnosis patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Rebecca enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and reading.
Dr. Alejando D. Kudisch M.D., D.L.F.A.P.A
Medical Director
Dr. Alejandro D. Kudisch serves as Medical Director for Burning Tree Lodge. He is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist and a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is an Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. He has been in Practice in South Texas for over 25 years. Dr. Kudisch has been recognized as a Super Doctor for Psychiatry by Texas Monthly Magazine and received Lifetime Service Award for Addiction Medicine by the American Society of Hispanic Psychiatrists. He is chairman of the Drug Utilization Review Board for Texas Medicaid/HNSC. He serves on the Texas Medical Board as an Expert Consultant in Psychiatry dealing with Standard of Care Issues. Dr. Kudisch is married and has two adult children.
Tracy Cain
Tracy Cain
Business Development Representative
Tracy Cain serves as Business Development Representative for Burning Tree Programs. With a healthcare career spanning 20 years in acute care settings, she is excited to focus solely on the addiction and mental health services offered by Burning Tree Ranch and Burning Tree Lodge. Passionate about guiding others in a complicated behavioral health system, Tracy enjoys connecting people with the resources they need while reassuring them that seeking treatment is the best path to a better life for themselves and their loved ones. Tracy is a graduate of Oklahoma State University and resides in Edmond, OK.
Coming Soon
Dr. Veda von Bergen, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, RYT-200
Doctor of Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner
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Dr. Veda von Bergen plays a crucial role as a Doctor of Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner at Burning Tree Lodge. With her extensive experience and expertise in the field of nursing, Dr. von Bergen provides exceptional care to patients seeking treatment for mental health, substance abuse and addiction. At Burning Tree Lodge, Dr. von Bergen works closely with a team of healthcare professionals to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient. She is responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments, diagnosing medical conditions, and providing evidence-based treatment options to help patients achieve long-term recovery.
Justin Mehan
Justin Mehan, PMHNP
Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
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Justin Mehan, PMHNP serves as board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Burning Tree Lodge. With a strong commitment to helping those struggling with mental health and addiction issues, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. As a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Justin specializes in treating patients of all ages, from children to seniors. He is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition, he has extensive experience in treating addiction and substance abuse disorders. Justin’s compassionate and patient-centered approach to care makes him a valuable asset to the Burning Tree Lodge team.
Coming Soon
Dr. Julius F. Cantu, M.D.
Medical Director
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Dr. Julius F. Cantu, M.D. serves as the Medical Director at Burning Tree Lodge. With over two decades of experience in treating patients with addiction and mental health disorders, Dr. Cantu is an expert in dual diagnosis treatment. At Burning Tree Lodge, Dr. Cantu works closely with a team of experienced clinicians to provide comprehensive care to individuals struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues. He is known for his compassionate and personalized approach to care, and is dedicated to helping his patients achieve lasting recovery. Dr. Cantu’s expertise in dual diagnosis treatment is especially valuable, as many individuals with addiction also suffer from underlying mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. By addressing both the addiction and the mental health issue simultaneously, Dr. Cantu and the Burning Tree Lodge team are able to provide the most effective and holistic care possible.
Gerad Davis
Gerad Davis
Admissions Specialist
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Gerad Davis serves as a dedicated Admissions Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. Alongside his mother, Lisa, Gerad co-authored “Before There Was An After,” a book penned in 2023 chronicling their addiction and recovery experiences. His role in admissions involves understanding individual needs, conceptualizing solutions, and linking family members with the appropriate resources they need. Gerad himself is a proud Burning Tree alumnus, maintaining sobriety since 2018. He is on a mission to give back and help those in similar situations. Beyond his professional commitments, Gerad is an avid writer, painter, and marathon runner.
Paulo_Jacuzzi
Paulo Jacuzzi
Admissions Specialist
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Paulo Jacuzzi serves as Admissions Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. After graduating Burning Tree in 2001, he returned home to help manage the family business. Serving in various C-Level roles including President and CEO, Paulo declares, “It was an honor to be entrusted with my father’s legacy; a true gift of sobriety.” He rejoined the Burning Tree Team in 2023. “My passion is to help families struggling with addiction, and to aid them in finding the freedom we discovered.” Sober for more than twenty years, Paulo and his bride, Jennifer, live in Arkansas with their ever-expanding brood of rescue animals.
Holly Burnett
Admissions Specialist
Holly Serves as Admissions Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. Having worked in various clinical roles throughout her career, what Holly most enjoys is connecting clients and families with the services they need to achieve their full potential in recovery. With the ultimate goal of becoming a licensed therapist, she is currently completing her degree in Social Work. Certified as a Mindfulness In Recovery Facilitator, she seeks to lend a sense of calm, diligent attention to the important needs of each and every loved one that seeks help from the Burning Tree organization.
Allison Stoutenger, LCDCI, Counselor
Allison Stoutenger, LCDCI
Counselor
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Allison serves as Counselor for Burning Tree Lodge. Informed by her education in Biology and Psychology, Allison utilizes evidence-based therapeutic practices to help each client achieve a new freedom, and a new happiness. Prioritizing a teamwork approach, she values coordinating with the psychiatric, medical, and clinical team to help uncover and treat co-occurring mental health disorders that support better treatment outcomes. An active member of the Austin-area recovery community, Allison and her husband share two beautiful children.
Brittany O'Malley, LCDCI, Clinical Team Member
Brittany O'Malley, LCDCI
Clinical Team Member
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Brittany serves as a valuable member of the Burning Tree Lodge clinical team. Sober since 2015, Brittany is an active member of the Austin, TX recovery community, an avid animal lover, and a long-time advocate for mental health and addiction. Holding a degree from Howard College, Brittany completed her addiction studies education at the renowned ICDS Institute. Soon to be married to the love of her life, Brittany has a cat named Frank and a dog named Tank.
Patty Raymer
Patty Raymer
Director of Community Relations
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Patty Raymer serves as Director of Community Relations for for Burning Tree Programs. Active in the national recovery community since 1992, Patty has enjoyed over 30 years of sobriety, service, and excellence in her personal triumph over addiction. Today she helps guide families and clients in their own quest for meaningful, individualized treatment solutions. As one of the most recognizable names in our industry, Patty believes that enrolling in one’s own personal work is the best way for the family to heal from the wounds of addiction. Subscribed to the mantra of “Trust God, Clean House, Help Others,” Patty and her husband reside in the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Russell Angell, MA, LPC-A, LCDCI
Primary Counselor
Russell Angell, Primary Counselor at Burning Tree Lodge, holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Midwestern State University and a B.S. in Human Sciences from Texas Tech University. He is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern and a Certified Mindfulness In Recovery Facilitator. Utilizing ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness techniques, Russell leverages his personal recovery experience to assist clients in understanding the interplay between spirituality and mental health. He resides in Elgin, Texas with his family.
Evan Varty
Director of Utilization Review
Evan Varty serves as the Director of Utilization Review at Burning Tree Lodge. His experience as a client with The Lodge back in 2018 is what launched his passion for helping others. Now as a part of the team at Burning Tree Lodge he is furthering his education and studying to become a LCDC. In his role as Director of UR Evan manages the utilization review department, insurance contracting, credentialing, and continuing care.
Rico Hernandez
Maintenance
Rico Hernandez serves as the Director of Maintenance for Burning Tree Lodge. Responsible for managing and maintaining the Grounds, Facilities, and Fleet of the eleven acre property of Burning Tree Lodge. Rico employs a broad range of professional skills in commercial and residential construction. Earning employee of the year twice since 2009. Rico, his son and three dogs Puggles, Franklin (Pugs) and Ace (Husky) reside in his home town of Elgin Tx. Rico exhibits Burning Tree Lodge passion for “Creating a life of excellence beyond sobriety”.
Jessica Peralez, BS
Director of Operations
Jessica Peralez serves in the combined role of Operation Director and Human Resources Administrator. She has a passion for helping others where she gravitated towards the field of substance abuse. As a daughter of a recovered alcoholic, she wanted to continue to be of service for clients and employees alike. She has been with Burning Tree since 2018 and resides in the nearby town of Bastrop, Texas with her two dogs and fiancé. She is engaged to be married in February of 2023. She intends to pursue obtaining her PHR certification to assist in the development and future growth of Burning Tree.
William Zaney, LCDCI
William Zaney, LCDCI
Biz. Dev. Representative
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William Zaney, LCDCi has over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health and is currently a Business Development representative for Burning Tree Lodge. William is a licensed therapist and is pursuing a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration at Texas Tech School of Health Professions. His previous roles within the organization include Admissions Specialist, Counselor, Director of Utilization Review and Discharge Coordinator. William is happily engaged to fiance, Erin. He enjoys spending time on his farm and going to the movies whenever possible.
Julian Duran
Julian Duran
Nat’l Biz. Dev. Representative
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Julian Duran serves as National Business Development Representative for Burning Tree Programs. By educating families and providers on the unique program offered at Burning Tree Ranch, Julian seeks to create as many opportunities as possible for the chronic relapser. Prioritizing open-mindedness, teachability, and faith as the foundational principles of his own recovery, Julian helps our network of community partners continue to grow on a daily basis. Counted amongst his favorite hobbies are weightlifting, reading, dancing and service work. Sober since 2012, Julian resides in beautiful Arizona.
Eric Button, PRSS
Executive Director

Eric Button serves as Executive Director for Burning Tree Programs. Eric works to unite our families with the clinical process at Burning Tree Ranch, introducing each family to the support, education, and resources available throughout their loved one’s treatment process. As an alumnus, he shares his personal recovery story throughout the United States, helping connect as many families as possible to the wide network of professionals who, like Eric, are dedicated to improving the lives of others. An avid aircraft enthusiast and aviator, Eric has been sober since 2005. He and his fiancé reside in Austin, TX.

Sally Lebeau
Sally Lebeau
Admissions Specialist
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Sally serves as a dedicated Admissions Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. An alumna of Burning Tree Ranch, Sally believes that “by aiding our clients and families in the process of finding a program that best fits their needs, I get to play a small part in helping them accomplish a life beyond their wildest dreams.” Sober since 2005, Sally has over 5 years experience working as a professional in the treatment industry. She believes in the virtues of honesty, integrity, and compassion. Happily married, Sally enjoys the beach, reading, and eating her favorite icecream with her husband, Matt.
Alexis Thomas
Admissions Specialist
Alexis “Lexi” Thomas serves as Admission Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from the University of Arizona, Lexi lends passion, knowledge, and insight to the admissions process. Treating every inquiry with a sense of tenderness and empathy, Lexi knows first-hand what the family member’s experience of addiction feels like. After losing her own family member to addiction, Lexi dedicated her life to helping others find the freedom they deserve. A native of Tucson, AZ., Lexi is happily married and mother to her newborn, Otto. She also counts one dog and a cat amongst her growing family.
Sarah Adams
Sarah Adams
Admissions Specialist
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Sarah serves as a dedicated Admissions Specialist for Burning Tree Programs. Known for her compassionate and insightful nature, Sarah is often one of the first friendly voices a client or family member will engage. “I like to meet people where they are at, listen and learn. It is always an inspiration to get to be the outstretched hand that someone is reaching for in need.” With a degree in biology from Stephen F. State Austin University, Sarah is constantly seeking to expand her education. Most recently, she has begun pursuing her counselor’s license. In her free time, Sarah enjoys reading, traveling, exercising and exploring the great outdoors.
Erik Jokinen
Erik Jokinen
Admissions Specialist
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Erik serves as a dedicated Admissions Specialist at Burning Tree Programs. Being in long-term recovery himself, Erik enjoys helping families and individuals find the same freedom that he and his loved one’s discovered on their shared journey to wellness. With over 8 years of professional treatment experience, Erik’s favorite part of his career is getting to support those in need as they engage in the inspirational process of asking for help. Erik has a 4-year old daughter, one dog and two cats. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his family and attempting to be decent at golf.
Olivia Wilder
Director of Admissions
Olivia Wilder serves as Director of Admissions for Burning Tree Programs. Responsible for helping execute the organization’s vision of excellence, Olivia leads a talented team of admissions specialists dedicated to Burning Tree’s philosophy of “creating a life of excellence beyond sobriety.” Trained in multiple intervention disciplines, Olivia utilizes mindfulness, DBT skills, and a solutions-focused approach to help achieve dynamic results on behalf of the loved one in need. Sober since 2014, Olivia is a proud alumna of Burning Tree Ranch. She counts her two children and loving husband amongst her greatest blessings. Her intervention training includes a specialization on Drug and Alcohol and Applied Suicide.
David Elliott
Founder & President
David Elliott serves as the Founder and President of Burning Tree Programs. Responsible for architecting the vision of the organization, David’s chief mission is to promote lasting change in the lives of those suffering from chronic relapse. With a hands-on approach, involved presence, and unyielding commitment to excellence, David serves as the heartbeat of our organization’s steadfast commitment to long-term, progress-based treatment. “My favorite part of what we do is to witness the evolution that individuals undergo during the course of treatment at Burning Tree.” An avid dog lover, Mr. Elliott resides in Dallas, TX. He has been sober since 1992.
Brook McKenzie, LCDCI
Chief Executive Officer

Brook McKenzie serves as Chief Executive Officer for Burning Tree Programs. Featured as an Addiction Expert on several episodes of Dr. Phil, Brook frequently contributes to some of the Nation’s most prominent media outlets. With compassion, understanding, and a deep insight into the mind of the chronic relapser, Brook seeks to engage in the healing experience of every family that Burning Tree serves. Happily married with two young boys, Brook enjoys fatherhood, sobriety, and all the wonders of living a whole life in recovery.

Chance Lippert, LCDCI
Counselor

Chance Lippert serves as a Counselor at Burning Tree Lodge. He is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern and Certified Mindfulness In Recovery Facilitator. William incorporates his knowledge of 12 step recovery and mindfulness practices to help clients establish recovery by helping them stay engaged in a new way of life. Chance is also responsible for organizing alumni sweat lodge events. William has been sober since November 2018 and found his way into the addictions treatment field shortly after. Chance is happily married with two daughters with whom he lives in Austin, Texas.

Kristi Miles, CCMA
Medical Assistant

Kristi Miles serves as a Medical Assistant for Burning Tree Lodge. She has been a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant for 11 years and has worked in various specialties during that time. Some of these include pediatrics, internal medicine, psychiatry, and rheumatology. She has worked in the substance abuse treatment field for almost 6 years. 

Auryana
Auryana Malek, FNP
Family Nurse Practitioner
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Auryana Malek serves as a Family Nurse Practitioner for Burning Tree Lodge. She has an extensive healthcare background and a passion for providing compassionate care to patients of all ages. Skilled in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), primary care, psychiatry, addictions, and MAT. Strong healthcare services professional with a Master’s degree focused in Family Nurse Practitioner from The George Washington University. Auryana maintains passion for providing holistic quality healthcare to all populations, especially those struggling with addiction.
Doug Wade, LMFT
Family Program Director
Doug Wade, LMFT serves as the Director of Family Programs for Burning Tree Lodge and Burning Tree West. Clinically trained in Marriage and Family Therapy, his commitment to helping individuals and their families is evident as he works to nurture families in their burgeoning recovery. Using a strengths-based approach to the Family System, Doug engages each member with the intention of creating a safe place for relationships to heal. His unique approach to each family has been regarded as a highlight of their recovery. Doug holds a B.S. in Family Studies and Gerontology and a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Aaron Ball, BSN, RN
Director of Nursing

Aaron Ball serves as the Director of Nursing for Burning Tree Lodge. He has been an Registered Nurse for 12 years and has worked in many different specialties. He has spent the last 5 years working across the entire spectrum of the substance abuse treatment field and has found a passion for working with those that struggle with addiction and alcoholism. His own personal experience with recovery has granted him a unique and valuable perspective that allows him to serve this patient population most effectively.

Mark Muecke
Mark Muecke, LMSW, LCDCI
Primary Counselor
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Mark Muecke serves as a Primary Counselor for Burning Tree Lodge. He received his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Houston in 2019. Mark also received advanced training graduate of the Dallas Psychoanalytic Institute-Academic Track. He also holds a BS in Mathematics, BA in History and a Master’s degree in Journalism and Public Affairs. Mark is also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern. Mark utilizes the therapeutic modalities of Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and CBT. He has a passion for utilizing empathy and respect to help clients gain insight to support long term recovery.
Melissa
Melissa Rivera, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Nurse Prac.
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Melissa Rivera serves as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for Burning Tree Lodge. She is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed and trained to treat behavioral health concerns across the lifespan. Melissa graduated with her Master’s in Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin where she completed a scholars program in Integrative Behavioral Health. Melissa is trained in multiple therapeutic modalities including: psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy, and motivational interviewing. Before her entry into nursing she received her Masters in Counseling and worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Austin Area. Her experience as a LPC spanned from working with severe mental illness through the local mental health authority doing community-based outreach, working with adolescents in the juvenile probation system, as well as working with families and children who were victims of abuse through the Child Advocacy Center in Travis County. Melissa’s approach to treatment is to work collaboratively with her patients to support their treatment goals with evidenced-based practice, while fostering an empathetic and non-judgmental environment.
Brent Thach
Brent Thach, BA, LCDC
Clinical Director
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Brent Thach serves as the Clinical Director for Burning Tree Lodge. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from West Texas A&M University, is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a Certified Mindfulness In Recovery Facilitator. Brent’s utilizes the therapeutic modalities of REBT, ACT, and mindfulness practice. Brent’s area of expertise is teaching our clients how mindfulness and the 12 steps complement one another in recovery. His leadership style encourages clients to learn how to live mindfully and a life of purpose guided by their values. Brent also has 11 years of sobriety and resides in Elgin, Texas.
Philip Hensarling, LCDCi
Philip Hensarling, LCDCI
Executive Director
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Philip Hensarling serves as the Executive Director of Burning Tree Lodge. Philip has served Burning Tree Programs for over 6 years which roles include Admissions and Corporate Director of Utilization Management. Philip is also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern (LCDCI) and alumni of Burning Tree Ranch. He is also pursuing his Bachelors of Healthcare Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. Philip specializes in insurance contracting and negotiations. His goal is to make quality treatment more accessible to those suffering from the disease of addiction. He has a passion for running and loves his lab mix Murray.

Carlos Tirado, MD, MPH
Carlos Tirado, MD, MPH
Medical Director
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Dr. Carlos Tirado serves as the Medical Director for Burning Tree Lodge. He is board certified in general and addiction psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and addiction medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Tirado attended medical school at The University of Texas Houston Health Science Center and completed his residency in general psychiatry at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Dr. Tirado received specialty training in addiction psychiatry and research at the internationally prestigious Center for Studies on Addiction at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Tirado is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.