Jason Bermak, MD, Ph.D.

Medical Director

A distinguished psychiatrist with over 20 years experience, Dr. Bermak specializes in the prevention,
treatment and diagnosis of mood, personality, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Bermak’s comprehensive
approach incorporates biological, psychological, and social components to treat the whole person. He is a
core member of our treatment team at Rosebay.

Jake Hackman

Director of Admissions

I have spent the last 8 years working with people with debilitating co-occurring disorders such as substance abuse and mental health. I began my career when I completed my own treatment in 2013. Soon after I started school for substance abuse counseling and found myself working in different roles at different facilities throughout the years. I am fortunate to have found Rosebay as what I feel is a permanent home. Rosebay allows me to do the right thing for every individual person that calls our admissions line and to use the creativity that is necessary to break the cycle of mental health. If you are in a dark place and need help or someone to talk to, I encourage you to pick up the phone and call us.

Samuel McFarland

Primary Therapist

Samuel’s passion for the mental health field is inspired by what he has witnessed and experienced throughout his life navigating trauma and the powerful transformation of the healing journey. After becoming a Substance Use Certified Counselor, he went on to build upon this healing approach, by earning his Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in the Expressive Arts (EXA) from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) in San Francisco. While pursuing his education, he has also cultivated a spiritual practice and dedicated himself to exploring Buddhist psychology and mindfulness practices. These endeavors have helped him develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of mental health and human suffering, as well as creating self care routines.

Samuel is dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their struggles and build a foundation for long-term emotional wellness. At our facility, Samuel provides client-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed individual therapy for clients dealing with a range of behavioral health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use disorders. He infuses an expressive arts therapy approach into sessions, tailoring them to each client by pulling from additional therapeutic modalities, including to Buddhist psychology, family systems,relational-cultural, narrative therapy, along with intersectional feminist therapy. By using evidence-based techniques, Samuel empowers clients to gain insight into their behaviors and thought patterns, while also offering consistent support and encouragement as they work toward meaningful change. Samuel’s person-centered, empathetic, and holistic approach, helps clients build the resilience they need to navigate life’s challenges.

Outside of his work, Samuel is committed to being an agent of change through social justice, community activism, and being an ally to marginalized communities. Samuel is deeply committed to his own personal growth through recovery and self-care. He enjoys practicing mindfulness through meditation and his various arts practices, using art as a way to clear his mind, remain grounded, while expressing his authentic self. Samuel enjoys spending time with friends and family, attending community and cultural events, and being in nature.

Kyla Green, LMFT

Primary Therapist

Kyla D. Green, LMFT, is a trauma-informed mental health professional with extensive experience in both residential treatment and private practice. Rooted in depth-oriented and trauma-responsive care, and dedicated to supporting individuals facing complex mental health and substance use challenges, Kyla brings a compassionate, evidence-based approach to her clinical work.

Her clinical experience spans work with youth and adults across a variety of treatment settings, including her former role as a Primary Therapist at Serenity Knolls Residential Treatment and previous work at St. Vincent’s School for Boys. Kyla specializes in supporting emotionally dysregulated clients, facilitating trauma recovery, and guiding families through challenging transitions in care. An EMDR practitioner, she integrates trauma-focused modalities to help clients move through unresolved pain and toward more emotionally free, sustainable, and healthy lives.

In addition to her clinical work, Kyla maintains a private practice in San Rafael, California, where she offers individualized therapy rooted in empathy, collaboration, and depth-oriented care. Prior to entering the mental health field, she held leadership roles in both corporate and nonprofit sectors for over a decade. Kyla earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco and is dedicated to fostering meaningful, lasting growth in the lives of those she serves.

John Cromwell, AMFT

Primary Therapist

John is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with nearly a decade of experience in residential behavioral health and substance use recovery. He provides individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and psychoeducation, with a focus on trauma-informed, client-centered care. John is committed to creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients can engage meaningfully in their healing process.

John earned his Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Touro University and is actively accruing supervised hours toward full licensure in California. He began his clinical work as an evening counselor in a residential treatment setting and steadily advanced to the role of primary therapist, deepening his clinical expertise along the way. In addition to his training in motivational interviewing and CBT, John is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which he incorporates to support clients in processing trauma and building resilience.

Lauraleigh Hungerford, MA

Primary Therapist

Lauraleigh Hungerford, MA, is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Psychological Assistant. With a wealth of experience in mental health therapy, she has honed her skills in addiction recovery, equine therapy, and residential treatment, demonstrating a profound commitment to enhancing the well-being of her clients. Lauraleigh’s professional journey is marked by her adeptness at overseeing multi-disciplinary teams and ensuring program compliance with regulatory standards. Her passion for integrating traditional psychotherapeutic methods with innovative interventions allows her to deliver high-quality therapeutic services that lead to positive outcomes for individuals, families, and groups.  

Currently, Lauraleigh serves as a Primary Therapist at Rosebay Behavioral Health, where she applies evidence-based techniques to support individuals in their mental health journeys. Her role involves conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments and crafting individualized treatment and discharge plans. Lauraleigh’s expertise extends to facilitating individual, group, couples, and family therapy sessions, ensuring that each patient’s unique needs are met. Her collaborative approach with treatment teams ensures comprehensive care, while her commitment to case management and aftercare planning helps to secure continued patient success post-treatment.  

Lauraleigh’s previous roles have showcased her leadership and program management capabilities, particularly during her tenure as Associate Division Director at Catholic Charities. She effectively managed multiple programs, including a short-term residential treatment program and an equine therapy program, adapting services to meet the needs of diverse populations. Her innovative spirit was also evident during her time as Therapeutic Equestrian Director at St. Vincent’s School for Boys, where she spearheaded the development of a comprehensive equine therapy program. Lauraleigh’s educational background, including her ongoing PsyD in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Somatic Psychology, complements her extensive experience and certifications, such as EMDR and Hakomi, making her a well-rounded and insightful practitioner in the field of mental health therapy.

Meghan Maloney, RN

Nurse

Meghan Maloney, R.N., is a skilled and compassionate registered nurse with over a decade of experience in healthcare and direct patient support. Her background includes providing in-home care, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, and working in mental health settings, where she combines clinical knowledge with a strong commitment to individualized care. Meghan has taken on a range of roles—from hands-on nursing and medication management to leadership and facilitation—demonstrating versatility, empathy, and a deep understanding of patient needs across diverse populations.

Currently pursuing advanced education in mental health, Meghan is focused on expanding her expertise in psychiatric and behavioral health care. Her approach to nursing is rooted in respect, dignity, and a genuine dedication to improving the lives of those she serves. With a strong foundation in both medical and community-based care, she brings thoughtful communication, practical skill, and a calm, grounded presence to every aspect of her work.

Jonathan Granucci, LMFT

Primary Therapist

Jonathan Granucci is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from Golden Gate University and a Bachelor’s degree from Sonoma State University.

Jonathan brings over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. His professional background includes 12.5 years at Serenity Knolls, where he worked extensively with clients navigating addiction and recovery, as well as 3 years with the Family Service Agency in San Rafael. He has also served youth and families through his work at the Community Youth Center
in San Francisco.

Before becoming a therapist, Jonathan spent several years in education—as a middle school physical education teacher and later as a high school principal at a charter school in Oakland, California. This diverse background informs his compassionate, well-rounded approach to therapy, especially when working with adolescents, families, and individuals facing major life transitions.

Originally from San Anselmo, Jonathan enjoys staying active and connected to his community. Outside of work, he can often be found playing basketball, tossing bocce balls, cooking for loved ones, or spending quality time with family and friends.

Max Strohl

Primary Therapist

Max is an intern therapist with a deep passion for supporting individuals navigating trauma, addiction, and emotional healing through an integrative and compassionate approach. He has extensive experience working in the field of substance use disorders (SUD), with a focus on clients managing co-occurring mental health challenges. Max’s clinical framework is rooted in a trauma-informed perspective, and he is particularly drawn to Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. He supports clients in exploring and building relationships with their internal parts, fostering greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and long-term healing.

In addition to his clinical training, Max is a certified trauma-informed yoga teacher and has been leading classes in community settings for over three years. He strongly believes in the therapeutic connection between mind and body, integrating somatic practices such as mindful movement and breathwork to support nervous system regulation and emotional resilience. Maxblends evidence-based therapy with yoga, mindfulness, and parts work, offering a warm, collaborative space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and grow.

Caitlin Harty

Operations Manager

Caitlin is a woman in recovery with a deep passion for helping others navigate their own healing journeys. With experience working at multiple treatment centers, she has supported both teens and adults in overcoming challenges and building resilience. As an advocate for holistic wellness, she integrates mental, physical, and emotional health into her approach. Her dedication stems from her own personal journey, which inspires her commitment to empowering others. In her work, she strives to create safe, nurturing environments where individuals can thrive and grow.

Marina Tashkaplyan

Residential Program Manager

Marina is a woman in long-term recovery who brings both lived experience and clinical expertise to her work in behavioral health and co-occurring disorders. Since 2019, she has worked across all levels of care—from residential to outpatient—and has grown from entry-level support roles into leadership as a Lead SUD Counselor and Recovery Coach. Marina has provided counseling to adults and young adults of all genders, supporting diverse populations with compassion and adaptability. She has trained and supervised staff, contributed to program development, and led curriculum design across multiple treatment settings.

Born into an Armenian immigrant family and not even a first-generation American, Marina understands the complexities of identity, intergenerational trauma, and the cultural stigma often tied to mental health. This background fuels her passion for creating inclusive,
empowering spaces where people feel seen and supported in their healing.

Marina is known for her grounded, relatable presence and her ability to meet people where they are. She integrates trauma-informed care, positive psychology, and evidence-based practices to help individuals rebuild trust, develop life skills, and reconnect with their values. Whether she’s coaching families or facilitating groups, her work is centered on helping people build lives they’re proud of.

Aziz Majid

Behavioral Health Technician

Aziz has spent the past few years working on and leading mobile crisis units in the region, bringing over five years of experience in mental health and substance abuse. He holds degrees in sociology, business, and social and behavioral sciences and is also a licensed EMT. Aziz is passionate about helping and connecting with people, which drives his work in providing critical support to those in need. Outside of work, he loves sports and has trained in MMA and other martial arts throughout his life.

Lou Rodriguez

Behavioral Health Technician

I’m Lou. I’ve been working in the behavioral health field for over seven years. I was given the opportunity to work with challenging clients. One of the rewards is to be able to take clients to AA Meetings. At the meetings they can hear and see the connection of people who have behavioral issues and addiction. I strive to help show them that a solution is available to help them cope.

Varonica Hattix

Behavioral Health Technician

Varonica Hattix is a skilled Behavioral Health Technician, Group Facilitator, and Art & Wellness Coach with over 15 years of experience supporting youth, families, and communities through trauma-informed care, education, and creative wellness practices. Her background includes case management, motivational counseling, and program coordination across nonprofit, court-affiliated, and educational settings. She brings a culturally responsive and client-centered approach to every role, with a proven ability to build trust, lead engaging group sessions, and develop effective, individualized support plans. As an art and mindfulness instructor, she seamlessly integrates creative expression with evidence-based coping strategies to promote emotional regulation, resilience, and personal growth.

Varonica’s diverse certifications and training—including Juvenile and Mental Health First Aid, CANS/SANS assessments, and Change Management—complement her strong communication skills and strategic mindset. She has led programs focused on employment readiness, parenting education, mental wellness, and youth development, while also achieving measurable outcomes in case closures, fundraising, and program impact. Passionate about equity, community-building, and lifelong learning, Varonica continues to be a dedicated advocate for personal transformation and social change.

Jeremy Hagar

Behavioral Health Technician

I learned that this is not only what I want to do but also what I get to do. My passion for helping people started back when I was a wildland firefighter as well as an a lieutenant in a volunteer fire department until a hiccup and a few bad choices in my life lead me into recovery and a second chance at life and the opportunity to be able to help people once again. My hobbies include fishing, camping, and spending time with my girlfriend.

Andrew Hoff

Behavioral Health Technician

Andrew is a compassionate and client-centered mental health professional with a strong drive for connection, humor, and service. He brings authenticity and empathy to his work, creating meaningful rapport with clients from all walks of life. A dedicated advocate for holistic wellness, he integrates mind-body practices like yoga and writing into his daily life and therapeutic approach. His passion for mental health is matched by his genuine curiosity and commitment to supporting others on their journey toward healing.

David Patch

Behavioral Health Technician

David Patch is an accomplished creative leader with over two decades of experience in game development, art direction, UX/UI design, and team management. Known for his innovative approach and diplomatic leadership style, David has led creative efforts on major titles for studios such as Zynga, Ubisoft, and Disney Interactive, contributing to iconic franchises like The Sims, SimCity, and TRON: Evolution. With a foundation in fine arts and early academic roots in molecular biology, David blends artistic intuition with analytical precision, driving innovative outcomes at the intersection of design and technology.

Most recently, David is using his experiences of art, mentoring, and coaching to develop and lead behavioral insight groups at Serenity Knolls, and now at Rosebay.

Matt Ford

Behavioral Health Technician

Matt Ford is a dedicated Behavioral Health Technician at Rosebay Behavioral Health, where he leverages his extensive experience and personal journey to support individuals on their path to recovery. Certified by the California Association of DUI Treatment Programs (CADTP), Matt has honed his skills in providing compassionate care and facilitating group therapy sessions. His career in behavioral health began at Bayside Marin, a substance use disorder treatment center, where he played a vital role in running therapeutic groups and offering direct care to those grappling with addiction. Prior to his current role, Matt also made significant contributions at Serenity Knolls Treatment Center, further solidifying his expertise and commitment to the field.

Drawing from his own experiences of overcoming substance addiction, Matt brings a unique blend of empathy and insight to his work. He understands the challenges and triumphs of the recovery journey firsthand, which fuels his passion for helping others navigate their healing process. Matt is deeply committed to fostering an environment of growth and understanding, where clients feel supported and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. His dedication to personal and professional development is evident in his approach, as he continually seeks to expand his knowledge and skills to better serve those in need.

Diana Tep

Lead Chef

After years of working in a health facility and witnessing the recovery journey firsthand, I’ve come to appreciate how small, thoughtful gestures can brighten someone’s day. My experience in a different field made me realize that my true calling lies in supporting others during their healing process.

Being part of Rosebay Behavioral Health is more than just a job—it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact. Cooking here isn’t just about preparing meals; it’s about offering comfort and helping clients discover the best in themselves. I’m grateful to contribute to their journey and honored to play a role in making their days a little brighter.

Nikki Bell, RN

Nurse

Kodjo Ayisi

Behavioral Health Technician

Ellory Rayne

Behavioral Health Technician

Brandon Kwok

Behavioral Health Tech

Rita Vazquez

Behavioral Health Technician

Our Story

After a wildfire, the rosebay willow herb, commonly known as fireweed, is one of the first plants to rejuvenate the scorched landscape. This resilient flora enriches the devastated earth, paving the way for the forest’s revival. At Rosebay Behavioral Health, we emulate the fireweed’s role, fostering growth and renewal for our people by nurturing a foundation where healing can flourish.

Our Story

Patients and therapists sitting around the fire pit talking about the success of Rosebay mental health.

A Dream Realized by Our Founders

Starting Rosebay Behavioral Health has been the culmination of a long-held dream for founders Vicki Lucas and Chris Hammett. With extensive experience in mental health care, they recognized a significant need for a dedicated, long-term, high-acuity mental health treatment facility in Northern California. Confident in their vision and expertise, the founders began assembling the ideal team. Their collaboration with Kristina Wandzilak marked a pivotal moment, further solidified by joining forces with Charlie Litchfield to complete the founding team. Together, we have assembled a team of passionate and experienced professionals, ready to serve the community right in the heart of Marin County.

The Expertise Behind
Rosebay Behavioral Health

At Rosebay Behavioral Health, we believe that the quality of care begins with the quality of people. Our dedicated team brings together decades of experience, compassion, and specialized knowledge to offer exceptional mental health and recovery support. Every member of our team contributes a unique skill set, working together to provide comprehensive, individualized care designed to support lasting well-being.

Explore our team’s individual stories and learn how their dedication, expertise, and personal commitment to recovery guide the exceptional care we provide at Rosebay Behavioral Health.