Gambling Addiction Rehab Staff

FOUNDER | ICGC-II, CPGC

Rick Benson

Rick founded Algamus Recovery Centers in 1992 and has directed gambling specific, Algamus residential facilities in Florida, South Carolina, Quebec, and Arizona.

A Cornell University graduate, Rick is an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II) and a Canadian Problem Gambling Counselor (CPGC). Algamus and Rick were featured on the very first episode of Intervention on the A&E channel.

For more than 30 years he has been both a student and a facilitator in Bonding Psychotherapy, Holiotropic Breathwork, Primal Therapy, and the Enneagram. He is presently a member of both the Arizona Enneagram Association and the International Enneagram Association and was deeply involved in the Enneagram Prison Project. He is an executive board member of the International Primal Association.

Rick now provides a variety of consulting services including admissions and network/marketing to Algamus. Contact Rick at 888-527-2213.

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Bryan Hullihen

For over 14 years, Bryan Hullihen has been a noteworthy leader in the addiction treatment space. Bryan is the author of "Destructing Self," founder of both High Standards Recovery and Paramount Recovery Center. Bryan initially became the Program Director at Algamus Gambling Treatment Services in 2010. He has served as Managing Director since 2020.

Bryan holds an Applied Science degree in chemical dependency, a level one and level two certificate in substance use disorders, and a national certification for peer support.

Bryan specializes in creating and managing teams of professionals to deliver unparalleled treatment outcomes for those who suffer from gambling disorders. He is significantly focused on the further national expansion of Algamus.

CO-FOUNDER & CEO | ICGC-II

Jody Pegram

Jody is an International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II) and, in 2007, he co-founded the Algamus Recovery Center of Arizona after serving as the program director of Algamus of North Palm Beach, Florida. Jody entered into the addiction recovery field in the late nineties. Beginning in Palm Beach, FL, he was integral in the development of C.A.R.E. in southern Florida and was appointed associate director/founder in 1999.

His insight and creative ability have also earned him positions in a broad range of capacities in the Behavioral Health field: Consultant/Therapist, Director, Executive Director of Addiction Management, and responsibilities for developing and instituting extended care planning at notable addiction treatment centers around the country.

CO-FOUNDER & COO | ICGC-II

Joel W. Elston, CHT, MLC

Joel W. Elston is a Master Life Coach and accomplished author. He began his career as a client at Algamus and thereafter became Director and co-owner of Algamus of South Carolina. He later served as the Director of Operations for Williamsville Wellness and as COO at Master Center for Addiction Medicine.

Joel is a certified Hypnotherapist, Brain Health Coach, Health Coach, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming Practitioner. He also holds advanced certifications in Emotional Freedom Technique and Positive Psychology and has received certification in Nutrition, Health, and Lifestyle from Vanderbilt University, and in Nutrition for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention from the University of California. He has a Ph.D. in Metaphysical Science from The Institute of Metaphysical Humanistic Science.

Joel is actively involved in researching the use of psilocybin for treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction, and he advocates for the clinical use of this substance. He is also a vocal advocate for difficult-to-place children in foster care. Joel enjoys powerlifting, hiking, movies, and spending time at the beach.

Joel is the author of the bookThe Bench, a detailed description of his Algamus journey, and is publishingThe Law of Action, set to be released soon. He also co-hosts the podcast "LOA Today," which explores the topic of the Law of Attraction.

PSYCHIATRIST

Dr. Mona Amini, MD, MBA

Mona Amini, MD, MBA is a highly esteemed adult board-certified psychiatrist renowned for her extensive expertise in the field of mental health and behavioral addiction. With a remarkable track record of diverse administrative and c-suite roles throughout her career, Dr. Amini has positioned herself as a prominent national leader in the realm of mental health advocacy and awareness.
Motivated by an unwavering commitment to effect meaningful change in the field of mental health, Dr. Amini has devoted her entire professional journey to delivering exceptional care to her patients. Her dedication to providing outstanding services has earned her immense respect and admiration.

Dr. Amini's extensive leadership experience extends to prestigious organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, where she has held influential positions. Additionally, she served as the past president of the Arizona Psychiatric Society, leaving an indelible mark on the organization. Recognizing the importance of fostering inclusivity and empowerment, Dr. Amini co-founded the AZ Psychiatric Society's Women's Group, further solidifying her commitment to supporting and advancing women in the field.

Dr. Mona Amini stands as an authoritative figure in the field of Psychiatry, commanding respect and admiration for her vast knowledge and unwavering commitment to enhancing mental health. Through her exceptional leadership, compassionate care, and dedication to education, she continues to shape the landscape of mental health and inspire others to prioritize their well-being.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | MS, LCADC, ICGC-II, CCTP, DRCC, IGDC

Ken Litwak

Ken Litwak is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II), and holds trauma (CCTP) and psychological first aid (DRCC) certifications. Ken was the first person internationally awarded the International Gaming Disorder Certification (IGDC). Ken holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management from City University of Seattle, a Master of Science in Professional Counseling specializing in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology from Northcentral University in California.

Ken has presented workshops and trainings at a variety of gambling recovery events and conferences throughout the United States. Ken is a U.S. Navy Veteran who has circumnavigated the Earth twice.

While working as the Executive Director for Gambling, Education, and Community Relations at John Brooks Recovery Center, Ken founded the only residential and outpatient gambling treatment program in the Atlantic City, NJ area. Ken also previously held several positions with the New Jersey Council on Compulsive Gambling.

CLINICAL DIRECTOR | LPC

Donna Jordan, MA

Donna is an independently Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Arizona. Donna received her Masters of Arts in Counseling and Guidance from New Mexico State University before relocating to Arizona. Donna has been working in the field of general mental health and substance use counseling since her 2015 in a mix of outpatient clinics, inpatient facilities and detox facilities in the Phoenix area before advancing her career to administration and supervision in 2021.

Donna joined the Algamus team as clinical director in November of 2021 and is working to establish a client centered and evidenced-based approach to recovery for individuals in the Algamus program. Donna specializes in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with an emphasis on Rogerian/Existential approach and client-driven goals. Donna also specializes in anxiety and depression, PTSD, mood and personality disorders through a trauma-informed approach. Donna provides administrative supervision to the behavior health technicians and counselors throughout the treatment process for clients at Algamus.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Renee Siegel, LISAC, MAC, HHP, CPIC, PCC

Renée Siegel, MA is a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) and International Coaching Federation Coach (ICF), Certified Enneagram Teacher, and International Enneagram Association (IEA) accredited professional. Renée has been working with individuals, couples, and families impacted by gambling disorders, and trauma for over 40 years. She has been treating disordered gamblers in Arizona since 1994 while teaching and training globally. Renée is particularly recognized for her progressive treatment of the families of disordered gamblers.

She has served on the Board of Directors for the National Council for Problem Gambling and has been ICGC-II and BACC credentialed while supervising the certification of ICGCs. Her passion is to integrate the Enneagram into her counseling and coaching work. Renée has authored/co-authored Recovering Together Against All Odds, Lost and Found, Considering the Enneagram, and Reclaiming YOU.

THERAPIST

Stephanie Schwind, MA

Stephanie, MA is an Arizona native who recently completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She is in the process of obtaining her ICGC-I and applying for LAC through the state of Arizona. Stephanie has been studying in the general mental health field for six years, working with addiction and other mental health diagnoses through crisis units, inpatient, and outpatient settings. Stephanie works with integrated and eclectic treatment modalities. A paramount modality is the use of cognitive restructuring.

BOARD CERTIFIED PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER

Sandra DeGroat

A board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 30 years’ experience working in both chemical and behavioral addictions, inpatient and outpatient settings, correctional facilities, schools, and crisis centers, Sandra holds three master’s degrees and is pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology specializing in victimology.

Sandra is a Certified Clinical Trama Professional (CCTP) and Certified Addiction Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). Throughout her career, Sandra has won numerous awards and held a variety of leadership positions with professional organizations. Sandra is a Certified Human Rights Consultant and Certified Anti-Human Trafficking Consultant.

Sandra has recently relocated to Arizona from New Jersey with her Certified Therapy Dog named Alaska.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Anthony Williams

Anthony Williams is an Arizona native and dedicated professional in the field of addiction treatment, bringing his compassionate curiosity and mindfulness practices to help individuals on their path to recovery. With over six years of experience working with individuals with diverse backgrounds, Anthony has made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Since 2017, Anthony has been unwavering in his commitment to providing support and guidance to those struggling with addiction. His approach is grounded in the belief that a life lived authentically is a life well lived. Anthony finds purpose in helping individuals rediscover their passions and who they were meant to be.

Anthony is dedicated to creating, maintaining, and improving operational systems that maximize the use of a client's time in care. Integrity and efficiency are deeply engrained in his management style of both staff and clients. He believes that when you walk your talk, others are inspired to do the same.

DIRECTOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT / CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER

Jack Van Kooten

Jack Van Kooten began working in gambling addiction treatment in 2010 and has been with Algamus since 2021. With experience in operations, admissions, business development, and management, Jack understands all facets of the treatment experience. Whether it is an initial phone call, a mid-treatment workout, or a post-graduation ride to the airport, Jack plays a vital role in ensuring that Algamus clients receive the inspiration and care that they need.

Jack is also in recovery and is able to utilize many years of experience to connect with clients. Jack holds a degree in chemical dependency, has peer support certification, and is also a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) personal trainer. His passion in life is helping individuals transcend addiction. “I strive to create the conditions that allow individuals to become connected to the whole. Through this process, I am able to find my flow, my spiritual connection, and my purpose for living.”

YOGA INSTRUCTOR & BREATHWORK FACILITATOR

Nicole Warren

Nicole Warren has been practicing yoga for 16 years. She was born in California and comes from a military family. She studied art history and early childhood education in Santa Barbara, CA. She is 500 YTT certified and teaches Bikram yoga, Pilates, HIIT, Barre, meditation, breathwork, power & vinyasa yoga, restorative yoga, and sound vibrational therapy through drumming.

She left her career in the corporate industry to follow her passion to teach full-time in February 2020. She has dedicated her teaching career to helping serve others, donating her time to give back to multiple communities. She teaches at The Foundry Yoga and started teaching yoga & meditation to the airmen at Luke AFB in 2020. She continues to bring movement and mindset to many. She leads weekly yoga sessions with young baseball players in California looking to take their game to the next level. She helped launch the wellness program at Wigwam Resort and teaches both a weekly class and teaches for groups and conference attendees at the resort. She recently became the newest yoga ambassador for Lululemon and will be bringing more movement to more communities. She has taught at local and international yoga retreats and will lead her first yoga retreat in Bali in August 2023.

Her philanthropy extends to different communities around her and she believes in helping others through breath & connecting the mind and body. She is an incredibly proud and grateful mom of 2 sons.

PEER COUNSELOR / RESIDENT MANAGER

Danae Harris

In 2014, Danae developed a gambling disorder which for several years resulted in much unmanageability. She found Gamblers Anonymous meetings where she discovered her passion for helping others to navigate away from this seemingly hopeless situation.

Danae has a deep understanding of the psychological and emotional complexities associated with gambling addiction. She regularly attends Gamblers Anonymous meetings, seminars, and workshops. She recently obtained her peer support certification and is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference; Danae is pursuing her Master's degree in addiction counseling.

As a dedicated member of the recovery community, she is deeply committed to fostering personal growth and healing, utilizing her skills and knowledge to better serve Algamus clients. Her personal experience is relatable, motivational, and encouraging. She has embarked on a mission to provide support, guidance, and hope to those affected by this debilitating disorder. Her unwavering dedication, empathy, and expertise make her an invaluable asset in gambling addiction recovery. Through her work, she aspires to bring healing and hope to individuals and families impacted by gambling disorder. Danae truly believes she has found her calling in helping others achieve happiness in recovery through her work at Algamus. Using her own experiences in recovery, Danae works to be a bridge for anyone pursuing sustained, long-term, gambling recovery.

Algamus Gambling Treatment Staff