Algamus Gambling Treatment Staff

Our dedicated team brings together specialists with a wide range of expertise to support lasting recovery from gambling addiction. From experienced therapists specializing in gambling addiction to counselors, and other medical and wellness professionals, along with our caring support team, each member plays a vital role in recovery. Learn more about our founders, directors, and full care team, and how they can help in your treatment journey.

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," and 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 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.

CLINICAL DIRECTOR

Donna Jordan, LPC, 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 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.

As Clinical Director at Algamus, Donna is committed to fostering a client-centered, evidenced-based approach to recovery. She 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. She provides administrative supervision to the behavior health technicians and counselors throughout the treatment process. Donna began treating gambling addiction at Algamus in 2021.

THERAPIST

Stephanie Schwind, LAC, MA, ICGC-I

Stephanie, a dedicated master’s-level psychotherapist, is committed to helping individuals heal, grow, and thrive. As a licensed associate counselor accredited by The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners, she offers a compassionate, trauma-informed approach tailored to each client’s unique journey toward wellness. Stephanie holds a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University.

A paramount modality is the use of cognitive restructuring. She began treating gambling addiction at Algamus in 2023 and continues to support individuals on their recovery journeys.

RESIDENCE DIRECTOR AND CASE MANAGER

Doug Martin

As a Peer Certified Recovery Coach (PCRC) and accredited Gambling Counselor, Doug has undergone training and possesses first hand knowledge of the challenges individuals face in overcoming gambling addiction. His multiple years of successful recovery following his own lifelong struggle with gambling addiction gives him a deep understanding and empathy for those going through similar experiences.

Prior to joining Algamus, Doug gained valuable experience interning under Ken at the John Brooks Recovery Center outside of Atlantic City.

Doug attended the University of Delaware majoring in business. Doug was not only dedicated to his studies but also excelled as a pivotal member of the football team, demonstrating his strong work ethic, leadership abilities, and team collaboration skills.

Doug Martin brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to his role as Residence Director and Case Manager at Algamus making him an invaluable asset to the organization.

MIDWEST BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Chuck Bovis, ICGC-II

As a Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II) and long-time Vice President of the Indiana Council for Problem Gambling (ICPG), Chuck Bovis brings over two decades of experience and dedication to supporting individuals struggling with gambling addiction. His own journey of recovery, having abstained since August 28, 2000, gives him firsthand insight into the challenges of overcoming gambling disorders and fuels his deep empathy for others on similar paths.

Chuck has served on the ICPG Board of Directors for over 20 years, playing a vital role in the organization’s mission to provide resources, support, and hope to those affected by problem gambling across Indiana.

Chuck’s lived experience, combined with his professional credentials and leadership within ICPG, make him a trusted advocate and a passionate voice in the field of gambling recovery.

CONSULTING PSYCHIATRIST, AVAILABLE FOR REFERRAL

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.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR / FAMILY PROGRAM THERAPIST

Renée 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.

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. Nicole brings her yoga practice to support Algamus patients’ recovery by fostering physical and emotional well-being through mindful movement and breathwork.

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.

MEDICAL PROVIDER

Blair Ball, FNP-C

Blair Ball, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and serves as the Medical Provider at Algamus. With over seven years of experience in internal family medicine and additional training in emergency care and psychiatric care, Blair brings a comprehensive and compassionate approach to patient care.

As someone in long-term recovery from a gambling addiction, Blair understands firsthand the deep challenges and emotional pain that compulsive gambling can cause. This personal experience fuels a deep commitment to helping others reclaim their lives and health through evidence-based medical care, empathy, and hope.

Blair is dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals struggling with gambling disorders can begin their path to recovery—knowing they are not alone and that healing is possible.

COUNSELOR

Andrew Ayala, B.A., P.S.S., B.H.T

Andrew Ayala is a dedicated clinician with three years of experience working in addictions treatment in Arizona. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and is completing his Master’s degree through Grand Canyon University, with graduation expected in February. Andrew is passionate about supporting individuals through recovery and brings a compassionate, evidence-based approach to his work. His clinical interests include helping clients build insight, develop coping skills, and create sustainable paths toward long-term wellness.

AFTERCARE COORDINATOR

Brian Dolan, MHC, CRC

Brian is a dedicated Mental Health Counselor (MHC) and Certified Recovery Coach (CRC) specializing in gambling addiction recovery. Drawing from his own long-term recovery from gambling, drugs and alcohol, Brian offers a unique, empathetic perspective to his clients. He views his personal journey as his greatest asset, allowing him to connect deeply with individuals facing similar battles.

Brian earned his Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fairfiled Universiry in 2023. Professionally he led Collegiate Recovery Programs at both Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University to support students struggling with addiction. Brian now focuses most of his efforts on problem gambling. He specializes in young adults and ex-athletes and has worked at Shine psychotherapy in Connecticut. He's also a member of the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling.

CORPORATE COUNSEL

Tom Cherichello, JD

Tom is licensed to practice law in Florida, New Jersey, Louisiana, and Iowa and expects to enter several other states in 2026. He is formerly a licensed owner of a very large stable of standardbred racehorses throughout the United States and Canada, including multiple world champions.

Tom has over 50 years of experience with problem gambling through his father; he attended his first Gamateen meeting at the age of 12. Tom personally hasn't gambled in over 17 years. He presently assists all Algamus residential clients with a variety of legal issues and is an integral member of the Algamus team.

FAMILY SERVICES FACILITATOR

George Mladenetz M.Ed., ICGC-II, LCADC

George Mladenetz, M.Ed., LCADC, ICGC-II has worked in the addictions and mental health fields for over forty years. He possesses a master’s degree in counseling from The College of NJ, has been licensed as a Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor since 2005, and is an International Certified Gambling Counselor – II. George has worked in a variety of treatment settings and as an administrator within the NJ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

He also worked for the NJ Council on Compulsive Gambling for six years. For the past fifteen years, George’s work has mostly focused on gambling disorder. George has lived experience and has worked with family members and affected others who are negatively impacted by gambling.

One of George’s special interests is the impact stigma has on a problem gambler, which often serves as a barrier in keeping individuals from seeking treatment.
George is a board member of the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization. He is the Sergeant-at-Arms for the Association of Professionals Treating Problem Gambling. George is also a member of the following organizations: National Council on Problem Gambling; Mercer County Psychological Association; NJ Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Professional Ethics and the Mercer Council on Alcoholism and Drug Addiction.