Staff Stories

At Promises, our staff members are highly qualified and educated in the field of addiction, allowing them to provide the best care and support for clients. Many of our staff members are in recovery themselves, which delivers hope and inspiration to clients.

Here you can read interviews with Promises staff members, learning about their backgrounds, philosophies of treatment, and personal stories.

• Patricia Meyers – Patricia Meyers, Clinical Director of Admissions at Promises, uses her own experience of recovery to guide the treatment plan for each client, ensuring they have the right specialists on board when they arrive for treatment. Read Patricia’s story.
• Richard Rogg – Promises founder, Richard Rogg, describes how it all began – with a vision for providing the best treatment and environment for people recovering from alcoholism and other addictions. Read Richard’s story.
• Julie Mermelstein – With nearly two decades in recovery herself, Julie Mermelstein draws on her personal and professional experience to help clients and their families heal from addiction.Read Suzanne’s story.
• Susanne Tarleton – Susanne Tarleton, Director of Outpatient Services, has spent over a decade specializing in dual diagnosis and bringing innovative therapies to the clients at Promises. Read Suzanne’s story.
• Kimberly Mitchell – Making sure clients get exactly what they need in a warm, welcoming environment – that’s the goal of Kimberly Mitchell, Residential Manager of Promises West L.A. Read Kimberly’s story.
• Lee Fitzgerald – Lee FitzGerald, Director of Clinical Outreach, joined Promises to be of service to others and emphasizes those values in her work with patients and staff. Read Lee’s story.
• Sheila Balkan – Sheila Balkan, a criminologist and court consultant with 30 years of experience, helps clients address legal issues and matches them with the right volunteer opportunities for their interests. Read Sheila’s story.
• Jamie Deans – Jamie Deans manages the Professionals Treatment Program at Promises, ensuring that every client receives evidence-based care alongside other professionals in recovery. Read Jamie’s story.
• Chris Weber – Chris Weber draws on his personal experience in recovery in his work as an outpatient counselor at Promises, helping clients develop the skills that have proven effective in supporting lifelong sobriety. Read Chris’ story.
• Chances the Dog – People aren’t the only ones who get second chances. A survivor in her own right, Chances the Dog can often be seen around Promises, offering affection and support to those most in need. Read Chances’ story.
• Jason Levine – Promises Executive Director, Jason Levine, coordinates closely with staff to create an ideal environment for clients to do the work of recovery. Read Jason’s story.
• Patricia Womack – After addiction took her to ‘hell and back,’ Patricia Womack, Residential Counselor at Promises West L.A., found something that she truly loves: helping others realize there is life after drugs. Read Patricia’s story.
• Chester Williams – When clients first come to Promises, Chester Williams sets them at ease with a blend of empathy, respect and lighthearted humor. Read Chester’s story.
• Margot Chambers – Traditional Chinese Medicine is a personal and professional passion for Margot Chambers, who utilizes acupuncture and other techniques to treat pain, insomnia, anxiety and a host of other complaints common in early recovery. Read Margot’s story.
• Betsy Spier – Betsy Spier meets every client where they’re at. She works to provide structure, compassion and a listening ear, but also believes in letting clients find their own individual path to recovery with guidance from the staff. Read Betsy’s story..
• Jonathan Appelhans – Knowing just how alone and overwhelmed people in early recovery can feel, Life Coach Jonathan Appelhans helps clients develop the skills to make a smooth transition from residential drug rehab into a new life outside of treatment.Read Jonathan’s story..