National Executive Director

Ashley is a behavioral healthcare executive who specializes in strategic and clinical operational leadership, team development, and community building.

Ashley brings a wealth of experience in the care and treatment of adults with severe mental illness and co-occurring disorders. As a licensed Marital and Family Therapist, she has gained extensive competence with diverse populations, including adolescents, homeless teens, college students, and adults. Ashley has provided care to individuals, couples, families, and groups within various settings, such as the juvenile justice system, outpatient, and residential treatment environments.

During her tenure at BrightQuest Treatment Center in San Diego, Ashley played a key role in the start-up and management of multiple residential treatment homes, offering both short- and long-term care for patients with severe mental illness and co-occurring disorders. As the Director of Residential Services, she oversaw facility administration, staff supervision, patient care coordination, and clinical services.

After relocating to Chicago, Illinois, Ashley facilitated the launch of the intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs for Foundations Recovery Network as the Director of Outpatient Services. She later moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where she successfully opened BrightQuest Nashville as its Executive Director. In 2021, Ashley advanced to the role of National Executive Director for BrightQuest, overseeing operations at both the Nashville, TN, and San Diego, CA locations.

Ashley is deeply passionate about applying her clinical, leadership, and management expertise to create a supportive and healing environment for individuals and families. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with minors in Business Administration and Sociology, and a master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy, both from the University of San Diego. Ashley is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and Tennessee and is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.

Executive Clinical Director

William Coombs is a Doctor of Social Work and Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently serving as the Executive Clinical Director for BrightQuest San Diego. After completing 15 years of honorable service in the United States Marine Corps, William chose to become a Social Worker and Therapist, which placed him in a variety of roles and working with many different populations. William has worked in crisis response and intervention, palliative care, alcohol and substance use treatment, and private practice. Throughout his career, William has learned that despite the population, authenticity, understanding, and transparency are the keys to truly understanding the needs of his clients. Few things bring him more joy than to connect with clients on a human level, and William is most at home when working to understand the specific needs of the people he serves. William believes that helping to provide a familiar environment for his clients is the best way for them to find the versions of themselves they seek in treatment.

Medical Director

Dr. Sean Ryan was born and raised in Northern California. He began practicing psychiatry in 2003 after completing his residency at The University of California, San Diego Department of Psychiatry. He is board certified in Psychiatry as a diplomate of The American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He earned his medical degree from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in 1999. He completed his undergraduate studies at The University of California, Los Angeles, graduating cum laude with a B.S. in Biology.

Dr. Ryan has been part of the BrightQuest community since December of 2017, having taken on the role of medical director in May of 2019. In addition to his role at BrightQuest, Dr. Ryan has an outpatient private practice in La Jolla where he treats adults dealing with mood, anxiety, trauma and substance use disorders. He also works part time for The County of San Diego at one of their outpatient clinics providing care to homeless mentally ill with primarily psychotic, mood and substance use disorders. Dr. Ryan has a strong medical background and continues to provide Consult & Liaison Services to Scripps Green Hospital for medical patients with psychiatric needs.

Dr. Ryan completed additional training with the San Diego Psychoanalytic Society and Institute in their Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Training Program in 2014. As a result of this additional training, Dr. Ryan uses a combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to meet the needs of his patients. Dr. Ryan has vast experience with a variety of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, cognitive or attention problems, eating disorders, stress, relationship struggles and personality/interpersonal issues.

During his leisure time, Dr. Ryan enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, camping, hiking, and playing ukulele.

Psychiatrist

Eric Rafla-Yuan, M.D. is a board-certified physician, researcher, educator, and policy expert. He is a voluntary assistant clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego, where he founded and led the psychiatry residency diversity committee. In this role he teaches other physicians and medical students, as well as social workers, nurses, and other professional students. He graduated medical school and completed additional training in bioethics at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and completed residency training at the UC San Diego Community Psychiatry Program.

As a board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Rafla-Yuan works with patients of all ages and specializes in trauma and development. For many individuals, the often-resulting challenges of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) get in the way of performing their best, feeling their best, or having the relationships they seek. Sometimes, and not uncommonly, it can even get in the way of individuals getting the medical or dental care they need. Dr. Rafla-Yuan utilizes a mentalization-based treatment (MBT) approach and believes that being patient-centered and trauma-informed is the most effective way to meet patients wherever they are. Dr. Rafla-Yuan has worked with a wide range of patients of all ages and backgrounds, in a wide range of settings, including academic medical center hospitals and clinics, residential treatment programs, public sector services, assertive community treatment teams, and the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital system.

In addition to working one on one with patients, Dr. Rafla-Yuan is dedicated to improving the health of communities across California and the nation and has previously served as senior policy advisor for the County of San Diego and held leadership roles with the San Diego Psychiatric Society and the California State Association of Psychiatrists. He is on the board of the Miles Hall Foundation as well as the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Council of Advocacy and Government Relations. His research focuses on policy and structural drivers of health outcomes and his work on 988 and clinical crisis services has been published in popular media as well as the New England Journal of Medicine and Health Affairs. He is the vice president of the Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists, chair of the APA Caucus on the Social Determinants of Health, a delegate in the American Medical Association House of Delegates, and formerly served as Health Counsel in the United States House of Representatives during the 117th session of Congress.

Director of Admissions & Outreach

Kasey was born and raised in South Carolina before moving to Nashville, TN, where he completed his bachelor’s degree at Belmont University in Social Entrepreneurship. From an early age, Kasey had an interest in mental health and a passion for serving others. He decided to pursue his Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Belmont and graduated from that program in 2018. During his studies and internship, Kasey’s clinical knowledge grew and he gained extensive experience working with those with complex substance abuse and mental health issues. After completing his Master’s Program, Kasey worked as a therapist before finding his home in Admissions. He discovered that his passion for helping others and interest in mental health was perfectly married working in Admissions. Kasey strives to help families feel as comfortable as possible as they go through the difficult process of finding treatment for their loved ones. Due to his therapeutic background, Kasey is able to offer an in-depth clinical knowledge and a calming presence to families as they begin the process of seeking help at BrightQuest.

In his downtime, Kasey enjoys traveling, watching and playing sports, and spending time with family and friends along with his dog, Wolfie. He joined the BrightQuest Nashville team in November 2019 and hopes to help the BrightQuest family continue to grow.

Admissions Manager

Simon has been an integral part of our team since October 2020 when he joined us as a residential support staff. With his exceptional dedication and commitment, Simon quickly established himself as a valuable team member. In April 2022, he transitioned into his current role as an admissions advisor, leveraging his experience and compassion to assist clients and their families from the moment they embark on their treatment journey. Hailing from San Diego, Simon’s passion for mental health began during his undergraduate years, where he pursued a degree in clinical psychology. After obtaining his BA, Simon applied his knowledge and skills as a behavior technician, effectively utilizing behavioral and cognitive studies to make a positive impact. Notably, Simon was part of a research initiative consisting of a team of five students who successfully introduced mindfulness practices into a Pomona school system plagued by delinquency and suspension. Through their dedication to positive psychology, they developed a curriculum that helped alleviate the prevailing issues at the time. Simon’s journey at BrightQuest has been marked by his growth and unwavering dedication to our clients and their families. While fulfilling his role as an admissions advisor, he provides compassionate support and guidance, drawing on his extensive experience and genuine care. Recognizing the importance of ongoing professional development, Simon is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. This pursuit reflects his desire to fulfill his dreams of becoming a therapist and further contribute to the field of mental health.

Outside of his work, Simon values quality time spent with family and friends. He also nurtures his passions for reading, writing, and fitness, recognizing the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Director of Operations

Christa has been a resident of San Diego since 1978 when her family relocated from the East Coast. After a lengthy career in Retail Management Christa decided to change careers and completed her Masters degree in Criminal Justice in 2013. After focusing much of her graduate research in the area of addiction Christa decided to pursue becoming certified as a Substance Use Disorder counselor. In her pursuit of her SUD certification Christa has worked with juveniles with SUD and has spent a great deal of time coaching clients with Co-Occurring disorders and guiding them to make better life choices. She then worked as a Clinical Supervisor at a Medically Assisted Treatment facility where she saw firsthand the devastation of the Opioid crisis. Christa has a passion for helping others navigate the road to recovery and has experience in the different modalities geared toward substance use recovery treatment. Christa runs a non-profit that sponsors an annual retreat into the mountains of Julian geared towards folks new to recovery. In her spare time Christa enjoys hiking, biking, road trips, spending time at the beach, and visiting family all over the United States. SUDCC #8668.

Clinical Manager

Born and raised in Edwardsville, Illinois, just outside St. Louis, Missouri, Stephanie left home to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder where she received her Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology and English. After several years of working in marketing and sales, Stephanie moved to San Diego in 2008 and worked as the director of a national communication and assertion program for families, based on Carl Rogers’ humanistic approach. It was at this point she decided to pursue a career in therapy where she could work more closely with families. Stephanie then returned to school to receive her Master’s in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy. Stephanie joined the BrightQuest community in August 2010. A competitive rower, she also enjoys skiing, cooking, and playing the piano in her free time. Stephanie is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 85956).

Executive Clinical Advisor

Brooke was born in Southern Eastern Kentucky and raised in East Tennessee. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University, San Diego.

Brooke began her journey with BrightQuest San Diego in August of 2015 as a Clinical Intern and briefly held the role of a Residential Support Staff before shifting into the role of Clinician until April of 2018. She then relocated to Nashville, Tennessee to support the opening of BrightQuest Nashville. Brooke was promoted to Clinical Manager and provided oversight to the clinical team, residential team, and medical team before stepping away briefly in January of 2020.

Brooke returned to the BrightQuest Nashville team as a Clinical Supervisor and Onboarding/Training Facilitator in July of 2020. Brooke is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee (1492) and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Mentor.

Therapist

A California native, Tania started her journey during her undergraduate years working with survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence. After receiving her bachelor’s in Psychology, Tania joined the Constellation Behavioral health team where her passion for working in the mental health community started. Tania earned her master’s in Psychology with a concentration in Marriage Family Therapy and Licensed Clinical Counseling in hopes to pursue her dreams of becoming a therapist. During her off time, Tania loves to spend time with her loved ones traveling and finding adventures to get into.

Therapist

Alyse was born and raised in the east Bay Area of Northern California. She graduated with her bachelor’s in Psychology from California State University, Sacramento, where she discovered her passion for giving back to surrounding Latino communities by joining Mujeres Ayudando a La Raza, a Latina-based club dedicated to providing support and resources to local, underserved populations. She furthered her education at John F. Kennedy University back in her hometown, where she earned a master’s in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in clinical psychology and marriage and family therapy.

Alyse has experience working with children, teens, transitional youth, and adults struggling with mental illness. As a Latina, Alyse is passionate in allowing for women of color to feel seen and heard through the acknowledgement and understanding of their unique, cultural experiences that play significant roles in shaping who they are. Through these connections, Alyse seeks to identify and strengthen women’s sense of self, self-esteem, and personal empowerment. Alyse enjoys using somatic experiencing, radical acceptance, and mindfulness in her practice. In her free time, you can find Alyse scouting new taco trucks, at a local farmer’s market hunting down samples, and being overly competitive at a game night with her friends. Alyse Freitas is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #123263).

Therapist

Theresa is an associate marriage and family therapist. She supports clients through active listening and trauma informed care using modalities such as a client centered approach, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and art therapy. Theresa is skilled in guiding clients through anxiety, depression, anger, and grief management.

Theresa received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at College of Charleston and her master’s in counseling at National University. Much of her experience has been working with teenagers and families through individual and group therapy. She uses her expertise as a former teacher to provide psychoeducation around the nervous system as well as the mind-body connection. Theresa creates a safe and supportive space to allow for an exploration of emotions.

Outside of being a therapist, Theresa enjoys reading, spending time with family, and baking.

Therapist

Jasmin is a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on empowering
teens, adults, couples, and families.

Jasmin brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her practice, having worked with
diverse clients seeking support and guidance. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy
and understanding, aimed at fostering healthy relationships and resilience.

Beyond her clinical work, Jasmin is deeply committed to educating individuals and families
within the Hispanic community about mental health. She believes in breaking down barriers and
promoting awareness to enhance well-being and foster meaningful connections.

In her leisure time, you can often find Jasmin exploring new coffee shops, relaxing at the beach,
or engrossed in a good book. These activities not only recharge her spirit but also inspire her
approach to therapy, emphasizing holistic wellness and self-care.

Therapist

Mariela is a dedicated Latina therapist and Pepperdine University graduate, passionate about promoting mental health awareness within the Hispanic community. With
experience working with diverse populations, she brings an empathetic, open-minded approach to therapy.

Creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and personal growth. As she explores and discovers her therapeutic niche, Mariela remains
committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and empowering individuals to seek help and embrace their emotional well-being. Mariela is committed to tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Outside of her professional life, she loves exploring new food spots, traveling, relaxing at the beach, listening to captivating podcasts, and spending quality time with her furry baby Ollie.

Therapist

Eli is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in the field of mental health and education on and off over the past 10 years. Supporting an array of populations including children and adults that have experienced significant trauma in systems. In high school Eli started a program for student inclusion for all types of learners, Eli started her career being a Price Scholar at San Diego City College, completing her Associate degree in Elementary education. Eli then transferred to San Diego State University to developmental disabilities, however graduated with a degree in developmental disabilities and counselling and social change. Followed with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. Eli is currently a student at Northcentral University studying a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy specializing in Therapist Educator and Supervision. Eli’s fun fact is she is a therapist that goes to therapy and is proud of her self-improvement work she has accomplished.

Art Therapist

After completing her master’s degree in art therapy and counseling, Andrea began leading art therapy sessions in different organizations throughout San Diego. Andrea believes art serves an important role in strengthening emotional wellbeing and she utilizes a range of art making techniques to assist clients with developing art-based coping skills. Andrea  looks forward to leading each art therapy session at BrightQuest and continuing to provide ongoing support for clients through making art for personal growth and self-expression.

Clinical Intern

Nicolette was born and raised in Northern California. She moved to San Diego for college and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and her Minor in Counseling and Social Change at San Diego State University. Nicolette is currently completing her Master’s degree in Marital & Family Therapy at University of San Diego. She has experience working in homes in San Diego with children who have autism and their families, as well as volunteering for a crisis line helping individuals going through distress. Nicolette is passionate about helping people cultivate a meaningful life, as well as uncovering the strength within themselves. In her free time, Nicolette enjoys doing yoga, listening to music, going to the beach, photography, and reading!

Lead Dietitian

Madeleine was born and raised in San Diego and grew up just mere miles from where BrightQuest is located. She received her bachelor of science in Food and Nutrition from San Diego State University and completed her dietetic internship through Iowa State University with rotations throughout the San Diego area. Her nutrition philosophies are rooted in cultivating inner wisdom, confidence, and self-love. Madeleine has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of mental health levels of care. She has found food and nutrition to be a critical component of the healing process for both mind and body. In her free time she enjoys quality time with loved ones, trying out new cuisines (at home or in restaurants), and enjoying the beautiful outdoors that San Diego offers. Madeleine is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist.

Client Care Coordinator

After 12 years in the Philippines, Reydel moved to San Diego with his immediate family. As a first-generation immigrant, Reydel learned and adapted to American culture. Along the way, he found many interests and passions, one of them is Psychology. Reydel graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with focuses on Psychology, Sociology, and Political Science. Before the pandemic, he was looking for a career path. In late 2020, he worked as a Site Coordinator for COVID shelters and High-Risk Population shelters with Equus Workforce Solutions. As he moved up the company and became a Site Supervisor, he realized that helping underserved communities such as the majority of the guests that he would serve in the shelters, is a career path he would like to pursue. In his spare time, he likes to watch movies, play sports, and try new restaurants.

Work Development Program Coordinator

Born and raised in San Diego, California, Billal is one of our locals with a passion for bringing healing to people who have survived a traumatic and stressful life experience. Billal started his career at BrightQuest back in 2016 as the healthcare coordinator and transitioned to a leadership position for the residential team where he played a major role in leading and developing new staff. Billal was also an integral piece in the opening of our newest residence. Billal has since transitioned into the role of Work Development Coordinator where he supports our clients with continuing their education, finding volunteer opportunities, and re-entering the work field. In his free time, he enjoys playing sports, listening to comedy or music, reading, cooking, traveling, and spending time with his family and friends.

Operations Coordinator

Daniel earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychological Science from California State University San Marcos. Daniel began his journey at BrightQuest San Diego in October 2020 as residential support staff. Daniel earned several promotions including house manager, lead support staff, and recently took on the role of operations coordinator.

Daniel was raised in Alaska and Southern California. He is an avid PC gamer and was nicknamed “The KIPU Wizard” for his computer and problem-solving skills at BrightQuest San Diego. Daniel greatly enjoys rock climbing, going for walks, spending time in nature, gaming, and socializing with friends.

Administrative Coordinator

Cynthia moved to San Diego over 11 years ago from Arizona, where she spent most of her childhood. After graduating high school, she spent most of her working career in the Food & Beverage Industry. Her goal has always been to serve others while still focusing on her interests in cooking and baking. Since the beginning of the pandemic, she has had a shift in her career goals, but not in her attitude of service to others. She has a deep desire to help others in regards to metal health within their day to day lives.

Much of her life has been spent learning to serve others around her and her community, teaching her leadership and humility. She has spent 10+ plus years coordinating community outreaches that bring resources to families, youth and individuals struggling with addictions, mental instability and homelessness. Within this past year, she has been able to realize and cultivate the change that she’s desired.

In her spare time, she enjoys helping others, spending time with her son, reading, and enjoying time with family in Mexico. She believes we are always growing and learning, and enjoys investing her downtime in researching topics that interest her.

Facilities Manager

Prior to coming to BrightQuest, Mo worked in the construction industry for 28 years in a multitude of roles.  They were a licensed contractor who specialized in remodels and additions and spent many years in the industry working on a multitude of specialized projects.   Mo also spent 6 years as a Sales Consultant and Project Manager for The Home Depot.

Mo came to BrightQuest in October 2020 with a desire to have a different type of Construction/Project Management experience.  Mo has the ability to fix, schedule, and manage all of BrightQuest housing needs in a timely manner as well as instrumental in flipping houses in short time frames.

In their spare time, Mo spends a lot of time with their dog Thumper, a pit bull rescue, anything outdoors and on the ground like yoga, biking, running, and paddle boarding. Mo also spends their spare time helping friends with upgrades and repairs to their homes.

Admissions Advisor

Jake brings with him a wealth of experience in direct client care services and treatment center program management within the behavioral health field. He received his B.A. in Psychology from Willamette University in 2021 with a focus on personality dynamics. Jake chose a career within the mental health field due to a desire to make a difference in the lives of others and live the motto of his alma mater, De la Salle, “Enter to learn. Learn to serve.” He believes that authenticity, compassion and integrity are vital for effectively meeting the needs of his clients. Jake’s commitment to innovation and excellence in behavioral health ensures that every individual receives the support they need to embark on their treatment journey. He believes in creating meaningful connections and guiding families through the decision-making process with empathy and understanding.

Outside of work, Jake is an avid fan of Lord of the Rings, enjoys hitting the golf course, and spending time with his dachshund-mix, Toby.

Client Accounts Manager

Lauren is a proud Nashville, TN native and an alumni from Middle Tennessee State University. She earned her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Microbiology with a minor in Psychology in 2014. She has always had a passion for helping others, building relationships, and working in healthcare. She worked in marketing and customer relations for 5 years until she found her real passion- mental health and addiction.

Lauren began her career working in healthcare at Foundations Recovery Network in 2017. She worked in the business office as a charge analyst and grew quickly into new roles as a billing specialist, patient account representative, and self pay representative. Lauren joined Constellation Behavioral Health in December 2021 as a client account representative. Lauren strives to provide optimal customer service for all BrightQuest’s families regarding finances, billing, and insurance.

Dance Instructor

Monique Guzmán has been dancing for over 40 years. At the age of 5, she began with ballet & tap, then moved on to jazz and hip hop, until she honed in on mastering the latin rhythms: Brazilian Samba; Flamenco; Argentinian Tango. As a professional performer, choreographer, instructor & director she has shared her love of dance & music around the world. Monique has been the lead soloist in a Spanish tablao, has danced Tango in Buenos Aires, & has studied flamenco in Madrid & Sevilla. She studied with Brazilian born instructors and was the Dance Director of Super Sonic Samba school for almost 10 yrs. Monique has performed with the SD Symphony at the Copley Theater & CECUT theater in Mexico. Monique has also taught musicality, been in cabaret shows from the roaring 20’s to CanCan & more. Monique is a native San Diegan, born of immigrant parents. She is a multi-disciplined artist. Not only is she an accomplished dancer but also a published fashion designer, writer, designer, chef, producer, conga drummer & painter. When Monique is not dancing or creating, she is hiking and camping with her husband or enjoying her 5 grown children and grandson.