Katie BrussackKatie Brussack is the Clinical Director of Amethyst Recovery Center in Port St. Lucie, Florida, one of USR’s expert treatment centers for substance use and co-occurring disorders. Both personal experience and a lifelong curiosity about the connection between addiction, trauma, mental health, and human behavior shaped her passion for behavioral health. Growing up, she witnessed her mother’s recovery journey after achieving sobriety when Katie was 10 years old, giving her an early understanding of the hope and transformation that recovery can bring. Her father also served as a firefighter, paramedic, and EMT for 31 years, inspiring a deep respect for first responders and the challenges they face. These experiences led Katie to earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology followed by a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling.
As a therapist, Katie is passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can embrace vulnerability, challenge unhealthy thought patterns, and build healthier beliefs about themselves. She finds great fulfillment in helping clients develop self-worth, self-compassion, and hope while working toward lasting emotional wellness, recovery, and meaningful personal growth. She also has a special passion for supporting first responders and individuals navigating addiction and co-occurring mental health challenges.
One of Katie’s most meaningful personal milestones came in 2025 when she had the honor of presenting her mother with her 27-year sobriety medallion. That experience continues to reinforce Katie’s belief that long-term recovery is possible and inspires the compassionate, hopeful approach she brings to every client relationship.
Barbara Rivero-NodalBarbara Rivero-Nodal is the Clinical Director of Ignite Recovery Center and a licensed psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience in psychology and mental health care. She holds a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and is a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida.
Barbara’s clinical expertise centers around dual-diagnosis treatment and integrated care for individuals with both addiction and mental health disorders. Her leadership at Ignite supports a multidisciplinary team focused on quality outcomes and person-centered care.
Barbara finds deep fulfillment in her role at Ignite, where she works closely with clients and staff to foster healing and progress. She is respected for her calm, supportive presence and her ability to inspire high standards among clinicians.
David DukesDavid Dukes is the Executive Director of Ignite Recovery Center in Fort Lauderdale, one of USR’s premier treatment facilities for substance use and co-occurring disorders. A dedicated leader with a degree in Health Administration from Florida Atlantic University, David’s career with USR began in 2017 as a Behavioral Health Technician and Intake Coordinator.
Over the years, David has held key positions in admissions, operations, and clinical services—gaining a comprehensive understanding of treatment delivery from intake through discharge.He now oversees all aspects of Ignite’s operations and works to maintain a high standard of care while expanding access to those in need.
David is passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health and addiction. He pairs this mission with an operational mindset that ensures Ignite delivers results-driven, compassionate care every day.
Andrew StellatoAndrew Stellato serves as Call Center Manager for USR Holdings, overseeing the front lines of communication for those seeking help. Since joining USR in 2017, Andrew has played a pivotal role in launching and growing the call center into a highly responsive, client-centered hub that connects thousands of individuals each year with life-changing treatment options.
Originally from Western Massachusetts, Andrew relocated to Florida in 2016 to begin his own recovery journey. His experience lends authenticity and depth to his leadership, as he mentors staff and manages high-pressure calls with empathy, precision, and professionalism.
Andrew is known for his positivity, multitasking ability, and calm leadership under stress. Outside of work, he recharges through outdoor adventures, exercise, and music—bringing balance and resilience into every aspect of his life and work.
Laurel McGinnisLaurel McGinnis serves as the Director of Corporate Compliance at USR Holdings, overseeing regulatory adherence, accreditation standards, and organizational best practices across all facilities. With more than two decades of experience in legal and regulatory affairs, Laurel brings critical insight into healthcare compliance and enforcement.
She studied Political Science at the University of Kansas and holds certification as a National Investigator and Inspector (CNII) through the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR). Before joining USR, Laurel served as Director of Enforcement for a state regulatory agency, where she led oversight initiatives to ensure accountability in licensed professions.
At USR, Laurel ensures programs remain aligned with federal and state requirements and accreditation bodies like CARF and The Joint Commission. Her work helps maintain operational integrity and fosters a culture of transparency and excellence in care delivery.
Miesha KasbarMiesha Kasbar is the Corporate Clinical Director at USR Holdings, bringing more than 25 years of behavioral health experience to her leadership role. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor, a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional, and a Certified Rapid Resolution Therapist. Miesha is also a Qualified Supervisor for emerging clinicians in the state of Florida.
Her academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Bethune-Cookman University and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Miesha’s career spans diverse populations, including individuals involved in the criminal justice system, those with severe mental illness, and geriatric patients. She has led teams in both inpatient and outpatient settings and spent over a decade in clinical leadership roles in managed care.
Since joining USR in 2020, Miesha has guided program development, mentored clinical directors, and strengthened front-line teams to align care with industry standards and compassionate outcomes. Outside of work, she values time with family, nature, and continual growth—personally and professionally.
Jared TurnerJared Turner is the Director of Element Medical Billing, USR’s partner company that provides full-cycle billing services for behavioral health and substance use treatment facilities nationwide. A graduate of Indian River State College with a degree in Accounting, Jared brings both technical and executive-level finance experience to the role.
Prior to founding Element, Jared worked at a CPA firm and later served as CFO of a medical billing company. In 2020, he partnered with USR to launch Element Medical Billing, which now supports over 30 treatment centers across the country.
Jared is known for his operational precision, transparency, and deep understanding of healthcare finance. When not at work, he enjoys time with his wife and their two children, Addison and Jaxson.
Johnny GauJohnny Gau serves as the Director of Operations at Amethyst Recovery Center, where he leads day-to-day management, facility coordination, and staff operations. With a background in healthcare administration and firsthand experience in the behavioral health space, Johnny brings a unique blend of structure and compassion to his leadership.
Johnny has served in multiple roles within USR—across clinical, intake, and operations functions—before being elevated to his current position. His mission is to ensure that every part of the client journey is supported by operational excellence, from admission through aftercare.
Outside of work, Johnny is a devoted father of four and finds creative expression through tattoo artistry. His leadership is marked by a grounded perspective and a strong connection to both team and mission.
Michaela Welk, LMHCMichaela Welk is the Clinical Director of Onyx Behavioral Health. A Licensed Mental Health Counselor, she holds a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology from Edgewood College and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University.
Michaela brings a warm, intentional approach to care, cultivating a therapeutic environment that prioritizes safety, exploration, and resilience. She believes deeply in the inherent strength of each individual and leads her clinical team with empathy, authenticity, and evidence-based practices.
Outside of her work, Michaela is a dedicated mother who embraces mindfulness, meditation, and self-care as part of both her lifestyle and therapeutic philosophy.
Judy Serfaty, LCPC, LPC, NCCJudy Serfaty is the Clinical Director at The Freedom Center and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC, LPC) with national certification (NCC). She holds a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Maryland.
Judy brings extensive experience in both therapy and leadership, having served in inpatient and outpatient roles as a Primary Therapist and Clinical Supervisor. She is skilled in evidence-based approaches, including Trauma-Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and treatment for dual-diagnosis clients and eating disorders.
At The Freedom Center, Judy leads the clinical team with a focus on client-centered care, staff development, and therapeutic excellence. Her work is grounded in integrity, compassion, and a deep belief in recovery.
Corey HassetCorey Hassett is the Executive Director of The Freedom Center, a USR-operated behavioral health treatment program based in Maryland. With services spanning residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient levels of care, Corey has been instrumental in building the facility’s community presence and clinical reputation since co-founding it in 2018.
Corey began his career in business development at Amethyst Recovery Center in Florida before returning home to Maryland to lead The Freedom Center’s expansion. He has cultivated strong partnerships with hospitals, local officials, and referral sources, helping position The Freedom Center as a trusted hub for compassionate, effective treatment.
Corey is a proud father of three boys and an active community member. His mission is to ensure every local resident has access to quality behavioral healthcare, regardless of financial barriers.
Geoffrey SmartGeoffrey Smart is the Admissions Director at USR Holdings, where he leads intake coordination and admissions services across the company’s treatment programs. With nearly a decade of experience in addiction recovery, Geoff began his career as a Behavioral Health Technician and steadily advanced through his reliability, warmth, and effectiveness in crisis navigation.
A native of Davie, Florida, Geoff has become a trusted guide for individuals and families seeking care. He is known for his steady presence and his ability to turn difficult first conversations into hopeful beginnings.
Outside of work, Geoff finds joy in time with his family and dogs, grounding his professional
mission in personal connection and empathy.
Max CohenMax Cohen is the Director of Quality Assurance for USR Holdings, responsible for maintaining documentation integrity, compliance standards, and records management across all facilities. A veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, Max began his journey in behavioral health as a technician and has since grown into one of USR’s most valued internal experts.
Certified as a Peer Support Specialist and Recovery Coach, Max brings firsthand knowledge of recovery into every protocol he develops. His strong attention to detail and systems thinking were instrumental in modernizing documentation procedures and aligning them with evolving industry standards and insurer requirements.
Max now collaborates with department heads across facilities to ensure clinical records exceed regulatory expectations and support patient-centered care. His path from entry-level staff to senior leadership reflects USR’s commitment to growth, recovery, and excellence from within.
Aaron AlmeidaAaron Almeida serves as Director of Client Relations at USR Holdings, where he provides individualized support to those navigating the first steps of recovery. Since joining USR in 2017, Aaron has become known for his compassion, calm demeanor, and ability to form lasting connections with clients and families during their most vulnerable moments.
Deeply committed to behavioral health and substance use treatment, Aaron plays a critical role in client engagement and satisfaction, ensuring each person receives the empathy and clarity needed to enter care with confidence. His leadership in client relations reflects USR’s core values of accessibility, respect, and compassion.
Aaron is also a proud husband and father. His personal dedication to family informs his work, reminding him daily of the resilience and support systems essential to successful recovery.
Nicholas BellofattoNicholas Bellofatto serves as Chief Marketing Officer for USR Holdings, leading the admissions, marketing, and outreach strategies for the company’s substance abuse treatment facilities. He oversees a team of 16 professionals and is responsible for brand development, admissions operations, and strategic communications.
A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Nick holds degrees in Communications and Journalism. After joining USR in 2017, he earned his MBA in Finance from Florida Atlantic University, graduating with a 4.0 GPA. His expertise spans talent development, digital strategy, financial analysis, and risk mitigation.
Nick’s leadership philosophy is grounded in three pillars: knowledge, compassion, and compliance. His goal is to ensure that every individual who reaches out to USR is met with informed guidance, empathetic support, and a seamless path to care. When not at work, Nick enjoys woodworking, golf, basketball, and time with friends and family.
Cori BaizaCori Baiza is the Corporate Director of Finance at USR Holdings, where she leads all financial planning, forecasting, and sustainability efforts across the company’s behavioral health portfolio. With a background in accounting and operations, Cori ensures efficient budgeting, cost management, and revenue optimization for each entity under USR’s management.
After beginning her career as Office Manager at Amethyst Recovery Center, Cori was promoted to her current role in 2018. In 2021, she became a partner and Vice President of Finance at Ignite Recovery Center. Cori is also a Certified Recovery Residence Administrator and a commissioned Notary Public in Florida.
Cori’s strengths include financial modeling, strategic forecasting, and cross-department collaboration to ensure mission-aligned growth. She is known for balancing integrity and empathy with precision and accountability. Outside of work, Cori cherishes time with her husband and their three dogs, finding joy in both family life and her role in sustaining USR’s impact.
Mark GudimMark Gudim is the Director of Facilities for USR Holdings, responsible for implementing and managing all aspects of facility safety, compliance, and environmental standards across the organization’s treatment centers. He oversees critical operations including Environment of Care, Life Safety, and Emergency Management Plans to meet and exceed regulatory standards set by CARF, The Joint Commission, ACHA, CPS, and DCF.
Mark holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Economics from the University of Rhode Island. He is a Certified Facility Manager (CFM) and a licensed Home Inspector in the state of Florida. His technical expertise allows him to assess infrastructure needs, navigate compliance regulations, train staff, and ensure each facility supports client healing in a safe, well-maintained environment.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Mark enjoys outdoor adventures, water activities, and giving back through mission work in Haiti. He believes every facility should be a space where healing can happen without distraction—safe, secure, and focused entirely on recovery.
Brie RodriguezAs Director of Human Resources, Brie Rodriguez leads all aspects of USR Holdings’ talent strategy, compliance, and employee experience. Since joining the company in, Brie has brought over 15 years of healthcare administration experience to the role—ensuring HR operations meet the unique demands of the behavioral health field.
Brie manages recruitment, licensing compliance, benefits, performance management, and HR systems across the organization. She is a passionate advocate for creating positive, supportive workplaces where team members feel empowered to deliver exceptional care.
A graduate of Springfield Technical Community College with a background in healthcare and finance operations, Brie is known for her empathy, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and beloved pets.
Jarret AdamoJarret Adamo is the Director of Business Development for USR Holdings, where he plays a central role in strategic growth, portfolio expansion, and long-term partnerships. Since beginning his career in healthcare marketing and outreach, Jarret has earned a stake in the company through consistent performance and innovation, becoming the second-largest shareholder behind the CEO.
Jarret’s strengths lie in competitive analysis, stakeholder collaboration, and maintaining high-value relationships with referral sources and executives. His ability to identify market opportunities and nurture trusted partnerships has made him a key figure in USR’s expansion across regions. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Jarret is an entrepreneur with ventures in digital marketing and other industries. An avid outdoorsman, he balances work with time spent fishing, golfing, and traveling.
James ScriberJames Scribner serves as Chief of Corporate Operations at USR Holdings, where he oversees systems integration, compliance oversight, and operational performance across all entities. With a business degree from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, James began his career auditing national insurance and nonprofit organizations—developing a detailed understanding of organizational systems, risk, and governance.
Since entering recovery in 2010, James has become a passionate advocate for accessible, ethical treatment. His unique blend of financial expertise and lived experience has helped shape USR’s operational model, with a strong emphasis on transparency, individualized care, and results-driven recovery planning. James is a CCAR-certified Recovery Coach and co-founder of The Freedom Center in Maryland, a treatment program built in the community where he began his own recovery. His professional
mission is to ensure every client receives thoughtful, evidence-based, and compassionate support on the path to long-term healing.
Dr. Jeffrey M. BishopDr. Jeffrey M. Bishop brings more than three decades of clinical and executive leadership to his role as Corporate Medical Director at USR Holdings. Board Certified in both Family and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Bishop earned his degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and served in the U.S. Navy, where he was one of the youngest Physician Assistants in service.
A pioneer in Palm Beach County’s medical community, Dr. Bishop previously owned the region’s largest primary care practice and held leadership roles at Wellington Regional Medical Center, including Chief of Staff and Director of Medical Education. He has chaired numerous peer review and utilization committees and remains actively engaged as a board member for hospice and higher education institutions.
Dr. Bishop’s focus at USR is guiding clinical integrity, medical education, and the quality of addiction treatment across all partner facilities—bringing deep experience, regulatory insight, and unwavering patient advocacy.
Samuel Kesarisskesaris@usrholdings.com
954.665.3826
Samuel Kesaris is the Founder and CEO of USR Holdings LLC, a diversified management and investment company specializing in behavioral health and substance use treatment. Since taking over as CEO in 2019, Sam has led the company’s strategic expansion–growing it’s portfolio to include multiple substance abuse treatment centers, clinical laboratories, a billing company, and a internal digital marketing agency.
With deep experience in leadership, financial modeling, patient outcomes, and marketing strategy, Sam’s approach is rooted in scalable, values-driven growth. He is the majority stakeholder in USR Holdings and continues to develop programs designed to serve individuals across the socioeconomic spectrum.
Beyond USR, Sam owns multiple companies across real estate, digital marketing, insurance, luxury retail, and IT. His mission remains focused: building a behavioral health organization capable of helping anyone in need–regardless of their circumstances.
Russ WarringtonA native of Kansas City, Russ Warrington attended the University of Central Oklahoma where he competed as an NCAA athlete until he completed his undergraduate in 1996 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Upon graduation, he worked in various capacities at a youth mental health facility in the Oklahoma City area. A few years later, he was recruited by Corporate America, ascending the ranks over the next two decades into various sales, marketing, and leadership roles. In 2014, Russ relocated to Florida to pursue a C-Suite level opportunity with a biotech startup that supported the substance abuse treatment industry. As Vice-President of Operations, he oversaw all non- scientific functions such as Business Planning, Human Resources, Benefits and Payroll Administration, IT Infrastructure, Accounts Payable/Receivable, Vendor Management, and Client Management. The experience enabled him to develop additional business operations skills where he focused on establishing processes and performance standards for each department of the organization. He believes that working as a member of the leadership team at USR has given him the opportunity to bring his career path full circle back to where he started in mental health treatment in 1996. Russ’ mission is to employ his many years of leadership experience in helping the organization to continue its well charted growth plans, while providing much needed and crucial behavioral health care to the community.
Jimmie PowersJames Powers is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with a proven track record of success in a variety of industries. With a strong work ethic and a keen eye for opportunity, he has founded and grown multiple successful businesses over the course of his career. James started his recovery journey in 2013 and has been sober for over 10 years. He feels strongly about his work in the substance abuse and behavioral health fields and continues to work closely with those in early recovery to help them achieve long term sobriety.
Currently serving as Chief Executive Officer for multiple entities and Chief Operating Officer of Ignite Recovery Center, James is a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in strategic planning, team management, and financials. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in driving growth and profitability across each of these organizations.
In addition to his impressive business accomplishments, James is also a dedicated student and lifelong learner. He earned an A.A. degree in Business Administration from Palm Beach State College and is pursuing a B.A. degree in Business Administration and Management from Florida Atlantic University.
Through his hard work, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit, James has become a respected leader in the business and recovery communities. He is known for his innovative ideas, his ability to build and motivate high-performing teams, and his commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Carlos Hernandez
Jared TurnerJared Turner is the CEO of Element Medical Billing. Element Medical Billing LLC is a medical billing company specializing in behavioral health billing including mental health and substance abuse. Element provides the full revenue cycle as offered services. This includes verification of benefits, utilization review, claim billing, claims follow up, medical records, payment posting and analysis, reporting and patient collections. Jared is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, marketing, accounting, budgeting, human resources, credentialling, client relationships and accounts receivable at the company. Jared has a strong focus based on his accounting background on reimbursement analysis and trends.
Jared Turner grew up in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. He spent his childhood playing baseball and a variety of other sports with his 3 brothers. He attended Lincoln Park Academy for high school in Fort Pierce, Florida. After graduating high school, he attended Indian River State College where he where he was a teacher’s assistant, tutor and received a bachelor’s degree in accounting. After college, Jared worked at a CPA firm with a focus on tax and bookkeeping. Jared intended to become a CPA himself and was working toward his hour requirements and master’s degree at Florida Atlantic University at this time. In 2015, Jared was approached by one of the CPA firm’s clients to join their company as Chief Financial Officer. The company who offered him the position was a medical billing company specializing in substance abuse treatment centers. Jared accepted the position and grew to love medical billing and claims analysis. During his tenure, Jared became an expert in managing a medical billing company, medical billing, coding, complex claims issues, reimbursement analysis and reporting. This coupled with his accounting background allowed him to easily explain and breakdown complex data to their clients’ citing trends and changes in the industry. Jared became the main point of contact with the facilities and their owners as he could convey information and communicate with these owners on their level as executives. In March 2020 USR holdings partnered with Jared to form Element Medical Billing and named Jared CEO, along with his wife, Erica Turner, who also is an expert in medical billing with more than 10 years of experience and serves as Element Medical Billing’s COO. Element currently bills for more than 30 treatment centers nationwide with a primary focus in inpatient and outpatient substance abuse and mental health.