Kate Mears, Art Group Facilitator/Counselor

Raised in Russia during Soviet communism, Kate Mears learned first-hand the importance of human compassion and support. Daughter of a psychologist father, who is now a director of the Institute of Psychology in Moscow, she studied theories of Psychology from childhood. After high school, Kate became a technician at the Moscow Institute of Oncology, earning credits toward medical school. Observing the despair of patients and their loved ones, she realized the importance – and the lack - of psychological support during devastating illness.
During her third year at Moscow Medical Academy, Kate came to a turning point. Working under the supervision of the head of the spinal trauma unit of a major Moscow hospital, her patients were largely young male victims of motorcycle accidents, paralyzed for life. She again witnessed grave suffering, and the absence of psychological counseling. The Medical Academy curriculum included no courses in psychology, nor any discussion or lectures on post-traumatic rehabilitation. She left medical school, determined to devote her life to the study and practice of psychological counseling for people experiencing significant life change.
Kate immigrated to Los Angeles, married, and started a family. Having attained a BA in Human Behavior from Ryokan College in Los Angeles, and currently working to complete her PhD in Clinical Psychology, she is certified by San Diego's Life Purpose Institute as a Life and Career Coach, and trained in the Marshak MethodTM. Grateful to be in recovery, Kate is an active and proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous. She deeply believes in the principles of the Program and in the help that this program offers to people with addictions. Integrating her knowledge in psychology and medicine, cultural versatility, immigration experience, and motherhood, Kate's uniquely empowering coaching style is especially effective for people who are undergoing a major life transition.

Michelle Sanders, MS, MSTI
Therapist

Nick Techentin, Ph.D
Therapist

Gregory Chatman
Counselor

William Hazen
Counselor

Darlene Allen
Counselor

Alexandra Carmel
Exercise Instructor

Marina Alexander, MS
Director of Business Development

Jennifer Damon
Counselor

Steve Monnier
Chef

Kate Mears, BS
Art Group Facilitator / Counselor

Dennis Filmonoff
Marshak House Manager