Mark is the Owner and Executive Director of Park Avenue Center. Having been in recovery since 1986, Mark is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who attended the addiction program at Minneapolis Community College (now MCTC), earned a BS in Marketing from St. Cloud State University, and earned his Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Starting with Park in 1994, Mark has had many roles including Counselor, Program Coordinator, Program Director, and eventually purchased Park in January of 2009. Mark is very active in the field of substance abuse and serves on the board of Minnesota’s largest substance abuse trade organization MARRCH where he has also served as President. He has also served on additional non-profit boards including EAGALA and Berkshire Horse Works. Mark regularly lobbies and educates state legislators in addition to working with MN DHS advocating for both clients and providers while implementing many evidence-based strategies. Mark’s passion is leading Park Avenue Center to continue to be “the solution to the broken system”.

Linda is responsible for the financial management of the company.  She began her career with Park Avenue Center by spending three years in the billing office where she was responsible for implementing the current financial management software. She then returned to her prior career in retail management where she served as a district manager for a major retailer before rejoining Park Avenue Center in January 2009 as the CFO.  She attended school at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and Metropolitan State University where she studied retail management and accounting.

Christine (Chris) earned her Master’s in Community Counseling and Chemical Dependency from St. Cloud State University. She began her career after accepting a Float Counselor role in 2011 following her internship at Park Avenue Center. Chris then transitioned to a Co-occurring Counselor in the Women’s Program, and then to a Clinical Supervisor role in the Men’s Program before assuming her current position. Chris is inspired to work in this field to help clients believe in themselves so they can reach their goals.

Dr. Josh is a Licensed Psychologist and serves as the Director of Mental Health Services responsible for our training programs as well as the mental health clinic. Prior to his current role, Dr. Josh was the Clinical Director of our Men’s Programs.  Dr. Josh obtained his Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and his Psychology Doctorate from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. His professional training includes College Counseling Centers, Psychological Assessment, and Co-Occurring Disorders. In addition to his administrative duties, Dr. Weiler enjoys working to find solutions in complex systems, conducting training seminars, and supervising staff.

Melissa has over 10 years of experience working in Human Resources. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and obtained her Senior Certified Professional certification from the Society of Human Resources Management in 2017. Melissa joined Park Avenue Center in 2017 after getting her start in the home healthcare field. She is passionate about working for an organization that makes a difference in their community and helps others to improve their lives. When she isn’t working, Melissa can be found reading a good book, gardening, or attending a concert.

Abby completed her MSN degree from St. Catherine University. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center, she worked as a Cardiac RN and Charge RN/Preceptor at North Memorial Hospital and was a 2018 Daisy Award Nominee-an International award for honoring exceptional nursing faculty and students. Abby has experience working with clients with SPMI, substance abuse disorders, and acute and chronic cardiovascular conditions. She feels that those suffering from mental illness and substance abuse are often under-represented and misunderstood and is passionate about helping people holistically improve their physical and mental health. Her professional goal is to continue her education and become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In her free time, Abby enjoys endurance sports, Pilates, and spending time with her family.

Chet obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Addictions Counseling from Argosy University. He began his career at Park Avenue Center in 2013 as an intern.  Upon completion of his internship he was hired as an Intake Counselor then moved to a Lead Counselor role in the Men’s Complex Co-occurring Program before landing in his current position as Clinical Supervisor. Chet has experience working with co-occurring clients with a full range of mental health conditions including personality disorders. Chet finds his job rewarding because he has the opportunity to assist others in their journey to recovery.

Tom earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from St. Cloud State University and his Diploma in Addiction Counseling from MCTC. Tom joined the Park Avenue Center team in 2016 as a Clinical Support Specialist before assuming the role of counselor. Tom stepped into the role of Lead Counselor in 2018 before transitioning to his current role of Clinical Supervisor in 2021. Tom is passionate about empowering clients to improve their lives.

Michelle began working in the mental health field in 2001, obtained her Child Psychology degree in 2005, and earned her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Minnesota in 2010. She has worked for the past 9 years as a Social Worker and Mental Health Professional with North Memorial Health. Michelle considers her greatest strengths to be her strong knowledge base, ability to work with different populations, communication, and teaching. Her professional goals are to continue to strive toward a balance between providing therapy to clients, supervision and consultation to Social Work students, and to maintain a healthy work-life environment. Michelle was inspired to work in the field when a very close friend was diagnosed with a serious and persistent mental illness. She is passionate about learning, teaching, and giving back. She believes that providing supervision and training to students is an important obligation for social workers to give back to the field and community. In her free time she enjoys playing volleyball, spending time with family and friends, relaxing, and traveling.

Sarah Lundgren obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from Metropolitan State University. Sarah has over 15 years of experience in the social work field and has worked with clients who have co-occurring disorders, developmental disabilities, and the elderly population.  For four years, she was a Long-Term Care Social Worker at Providence Place prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2012. Sarah was the first social worker hired at Park Avenue Center and was integral in developing the Social Work Department and Social Work Internship program we have today.

Mary worked previously as a Medicare Billing Specialist with Healtheast and joined Park Avenue’s Billing Team in 2017. With nearly a decade of experience working with clients struggling with homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health, Mary is passionate about making sure clients are able to get the best possible care in order to secure their future. She enjoys helping others and is proud that she can make a difference through her work. She prides herself on her open-door policy and her willingness to pitch in wherever she is needed throughout the company. In her free time, Mary enjoys spending time with family, fishing, baking, and going to comedy shows.

John obtained his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Counseling from Crown College 2016. He began his first internship at Park Avenue Center in 2016 and completed 440 hours here before leaving to complete the remainder of his internship in St. Cloud at Recovery Plus, working with adolescents. John returned to Park Avenue Center as a full-time staff in August 2016 as an intake float counselor, transitioned to a counselor position, a lead counselor position, and then a clinical supervisor for the intake team. John left Park Avenue Center in 2020 to work as a chemical health support specialist, however returned to park to complete his second internship with us as a Marriage and Family Therapy student. He obtained a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella in 2021, and returned to Park Avenue Center in 2022 as a clinical supervisor.

Chet started at Park Avenue Center in 2015 as the IT Manager.  He has two Associates Degrees from Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College (WITC) in networking and web & software development. Chet is a Cisco certified networking technician and an advisory committee member of WITC’s Information Technology Council.  Chet’s passion lies in allowing technology to deliver the reliable tools necessary to our clients and staff so they can focus on delivering top client care.

Jon graduated with his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Addiction Counseling from Argosy University. Jon has been working in the chemical dependency field since 2012 when he began his internship with Park Avenue Center.  In 2013 he joined the team full time as a counselor and in 2017 he transitioned to his current role of Clinical Supervisor.  Jon leads different efforts at Park Avenue Center including the DWI One Day Program.

Kelley earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University and has completed licensures for both LP and LADC. Kelley began her career at Park Avenue Center as an Intake Counselor, before transitioning as a Complex Co-Occurring Counselor.  She then entered a leadership position as an Assistant Clinical Supervisor, before becoming a Clinical Supervisor in the Women’s program. Most recently, Kelley has transitioned to Mental Health Services as a Clinical Supervisor. Kelley was instrumental in developing the Complex Co-Occurring program’s curriculum and is passionate about working with under-served clients in the community. In her free time, Kelley enjoys fishing and camping with family and friends

Morgan earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls and attended Metropolitan State University to pursue her LADC. She worked as a Program Assistant at Meridian Behavioral Health and a Resource Counselor at Kenneidigh KCQ – Dakota Outreach before joining Park Avenue Center in 2015. Morgan started her career as an Intake Counselor then transitioned to a Co-occurring Opioid Counselor. Another opportunity for growth arose and Morgan became a counselor in the Complex Co-occurring Program before landing her current position as a Clinical Supervisor. In the future, she plans to return to graduate school to earn her LPCC. Morgan is passionate about providing quality client care and encouraging self-advocacy and personal growth amongst staff and clients.

Lonnie joined Park Avenue Center with over 25 years of experience working in the maintenance field.  He most recently worked as a Maintenance Manager with the Mora Housing Authority.  He chose to work in the maintenance field because he is passionate about helping others and loves to do something different every day.  As a manager,  his goal is to grow his team and their skillset and to organize and maintain all of Park Avenue’s properties.  In his free time, Lonnie enjoys fishing, traveling, and building projects.

Joanne has worked at Park Avenue Center since 2004. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Minnesota and worked at Minneapolis Public Schools and Northwestern Bell before joining the team. Joanne grew the admissions department from one person to a team of four. She is focused on developing and maintaining positive relationships with the community and committed to helping clients begin treatment to pursue their journey towards recovery.

Anjela attended Century College where she completed her Alcohol and Drug Counseling certificate.  She is currently finishing up her Bachelor’s degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling at Metro State.  Anjela has been actively working in the substance abuse field since 2011 when she completed her internship at Tapestry Women’s Residential Treatment program and then worked as a Chemical Health Counselor Assistant for Region’s ADAP Men’s facility.  She considers her greatest strengths are her ability to be a good listener, be empathetic, and approachable.  Her professional goals are to complete her BA degree and eventually become a Licensed Social Worker.  She chose to work at Park Avenue because she believes strongly in our values and wants to help those that are underserved or turned away from other programs.  She takes a genuine interest in helping others and wants to do good with her life.  Anjela spends her free time with her family, enjoying music, fishing, and going to movies.

Suzannah attended Argosy University where she earned her MA in Clinical Psychology.  She completed an internship at Park Avenue Center and worked here as a Complex Co-occurring Counselor before leaving to gain further experience with Beauterre Recovery Institute.   Suzy has returned to Park Avenue in her current role and we are thrilled to have her back!  She has worked in the field in many capacities from CD Tech to Counselor since 2012 and considers her greatest strength to be her unconditional compassion.  She was inspired to work in this field because of her curiosity regarding the human mind and its capacity for healing and transformation. Her career goal is to increase awareness of mental illness and reduce the stigma related to mental illness and addiction.  In her free time she enjoys being with family and nature. She is passionate about soccer and spends much of her time on the sideline of a soccer field.

Michele received her BA degree from San Diego University and completed her Addiction Studies coursework at Metro State to obtain her LADC license.  After completing her internship at Nuway, Michele most recently worked as a Residential Counselor with River Ridge.  She has chosen to work in this field, and with Park Avenue Center, due to a passion for helping others take steps towards a better life.  Michele has had a life-long interest in the mental health field and plans to continue graduate school to earn her masters in Family Therapy.  In her free time, Michele enjoys motorcycle riding, crocheting, reading, and watching motorcycle and Formula 1 racing.    

Jessie attended Capella University where she earned her Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and worked at Park Avenue Center as a mental health intern before moving on to become a full-time Group Facilitator and Mental Health Professional. Jessie has also worked with Creative Psychopharmacology, Inc for the past 25 years and is currently the Clinic Manager. She is passionate about community involvement and has served as a Board Member at Paladin Career + Technical High School.

Angie earned her Bachelors’ degree in nursing at Western Governor’s University. She’s worked as a nurse since 2015 and in the direct care field since 2005. Most recently, Angie provided in-home nursing services to individuals with physical and mental health conditions. She considers her greatest strength to be her ability to connect with clients and understand their needs. She was inspired to work at Park Avenue Center because she wants to help clients struggling with alcohol and drug addiction recover and meet their goals physically and emotionally. Angie is passionate about being a part of the solution for substance abuse and overdose deaths. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors with family and listening to music.

Meghan Chomiuk is a Co-Occurring Counselor for the Men’s Program at Park Avenue Center. Prior to her role as a Co-Occurring Counselor, Meghan completed her internship at Park Avenue and worked with our Intake Team while earning her associate degree from Minneapolis Community and Technical College. Meghan is dedicated to helping our clients achieve their goals while attending programing at Park Avenue Center. Meghan’s own goals are to earn her LADC and expand her knowledge of treatment practices to better serve Park Avenues client population. Outside of Park Avenue Center Meghan enjoys spending time with her family, hanging out with her pet cats, and reading a good book.

Allison attended the University of Minnesota where she earned a BA degree and her Master’s in Integrated Behavioral Health. She completed her internship at Park Avenue Center and joined our Intake Team. Allison comes to us with 13 years of experience working as a program supervisor with individuals with mental, chemical, and behavioral health concerns. She was inspired to work in this field after seeing the lack of adequate services for individuals in her care and is striving towards being part of the solution. Her professional goal is to continue her education and become licensed as an LPCC. In her free time, Allison enjoys spending time with her partner and pets, reading a good book filled with mystery and suspense, and discovering new experiences through travel.

Micaela attended Metropolitan State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. Prior to working at Park Avenue Micale completed her internship with Park Avenue in 2023. Micale is passionate about helping our clients achieve their goals while at Park Avenue Center and she has goals of expanding in her career by earning her LADC Licensure and continuing her career in counseling. Outside of Park Avenue Micaela enjoys taking care of her children and spending time with friends and family.

Samantha Gerdes is a Registered Dietitian at Park Avenue Center. Prior to working for Park Avenue Center Samantha earned her master’s degree in nutrition from Concordia University. Samantha sees her most important contribution to our clients is being able to create a unique nutrition curriculum and run interesting groups that serve our clients’ nutritional needs. Samantha is inspired to work with our clients because she wants to empower those searching for a healthier lifestyle and make a difference in others’ lives. In Samantha’s free time she enjoys spoiling her two pet cats, hiking outdoors and spending time with family.

Kyle attended the University of North Dakota where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Social Work. Prior to working at Park Avenue Center Kyle worked for Phoenix Service Corporation as a Wavier Case Manager. Kyle chooses to work in this field because he is passionate about helping individuals that want to make a change in their lives. Kyle has experience working with SPMI, developmentally disabled and youth. He is motivated by being client first orientated and empathetic with clients’ stories while owning a passion to improve client’s lives. Outside of work Kyle enjoys watching sports, cooking and Spending time with his friends and family.

Ava Gondeck is an Co-Occurring Counselor at the Women’s program. Ava Attended the University of Minnesota where she achieved her Master’s in Integrative Behavioral Health. Previously Ava was an MICD Intern with Park Avenue and was hired in current role after completing her internship. Ava enjoys being able to help our clients through treatment and working towards helping clients achieve their goals. Ava is excited to work as an LADC and gain more experience in the field and enjoys working with our other counselors every day. Outside of Park Avenue Center Ava enjoys traveling, and visiting friends and family.

Adia Granberg is a Culturally Specific Counselor in the Men’s program. Adia attended Minnesota State University, Mankato where she received her bachelor’s degree in Alcohol and Drug Studies. Adia completed her internship at the men’s program at Park Avenue where she gained experience working on both complex and drug court caseloads. Soon after completing her internship, she assumed the role as the culturally specific counselor in the men’s program at Park Avenue Center. Adia was inspired to join the field after recognizing the gap in treatment and quality care for individuals dealing with substance abuse. Adia hopes to eventually return to school to continue her education, while still working as a counselor, providing clients with quality care and support through a client-first approach. In her free time Adia enjoys travelling and spending time outdoors with her dogs.

Dean is a dedicated and compassionate professional in the field of psychology. He currently attends Augsburg University as he works towards completing his Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology. He currently holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Dean’s passion for helping others led him to spend five impactful years as a Psychiatric Assistant for MHealth Fairview, where he skillfully led groups and provided exceptional care to patients in an inpatient psychiatric unit. During this time, Dean honed his strengths in empathy, non-judgment, and collaboration, which he now channels into his practice at Park Avenue as a Mental Health Float. What truly inspires Dean is witnessing the transformative journey of his clients, as they enhance their well-being and build fulfilling lives beyond the walls of Park Avenue. Outside of his professional endeavors, Dean finds joy in various activities including watching football, lifting weights and spending time with his family.

Katrina obtained her Bachelors’ degree from Metropolitan State University and is currently an ADC-T working towards full-licensure as an LADC.  She came to Park Avenue Center from Transformation where she worked as a counselor for the past 5 years and previously completed her internship with Catholic Charities.

Stephanie graduated from the University of South Dakota with a BS in Addiction Studies. Stephanie began her career in drug and alcohol treatment 10 years ago, obtaining her certification- CADC-II in California in 2010. She has worn many different hats in her career- working as a case manager, client care coordinator, and leading an experiential outdoor adventure program. Stephanie was inspired to work in this field to show clients that recovery is possible. She is passionate about being part of their journey to cultivate the life that they deserve. Stephanie enjoys working at Park Avenue Center because of the values that they stand for and live every day. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys local restaurants and spending time with friends and family.

Cat earned her Master of Professional Studies in Integrative Behavioral Health from the University of Minnesota. Cat is continuing her education to receive a second Master of Professional Studies in Sexual Health with a focus on Sex Therapy. Cat began as a Mental Health Intern at Park Avenue Center before continuing to become a float Co-occurring Counselor at both the Men’s and Women’s Programs. Cat enjoys working with clients of varying backgrounds and being a part of their journey. Cat spends her free time reading a good book, trying out a new recipe, or cuddling with her dogs.

Julie Madsen is a Mental Health Float Counselor in the Women’s Program. Julie received her Master’s degree in Integrated Behavioral Health at the University of Minnesota, and she completed an internship for chemical dependency counseling before interning at Park Avenue Center for mental health counseling. In her previous job she assisted with neuroscience research, and she carries this curiosity and passion for science, as well as the personal aspects of addiction and mental health, into her work as a therapist. At Park Avenue Center Julie enjoys listening to the diverse experiences of clients and working with each person’s unique challenges. In her free time she enjoys travel, nature, music, movies, and reading. Julie is currently pursuing her LPCC.

Vanessa attended Minnesota State University where she earned her Bachelor of Social Work. She has worked in the field since 2013, most recently as a Family Advocate with Solid Ground and as a Resource Counselor with Wellcome Manor Family Services. Her professional goal is to continue to work towards her Master’s degree. She considers her greatest strengths to be her ability to collaborate with other agencies and resources to build networks for her clients, to value the individual’s choice in their care, and to think creatively when resources are scarce to fill the gap. Vanessa is passionate about working in the chemical dependency/mental health field because she finds it inspiring to watch the resiliency of individuals working towards recovery and reconnecting to who they are and who they want to become. In her free time, she enjoys doing a variety of crafts/projects, cooking, and playing with her dog Gryffindor.

Elliot earned his bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from the University of Madison Wisconsin and begin working in the nutrition and dietetic field in 2014. Before joining Park Avenue Elliot was a Dietary Supervisor at Good Samaritan Society specializing in care for patients in transitional care, huntington’s disease and advanced dementia. Elliot began working for Park Avenue Center in 2023 as a Registered Dietitian, his goals are to continue building a foundation of nutritional knowledge and help our clients be successful through treatment. In Elliots free time he enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing disc golf and using his nutrition knowledge to cook new and interesting meals every week.

Meet Aaron Neumann: Mental Health Float Counselor at Park Avenue Center
Aaron Neumann is a dedicated Mental Health Float Counselor at Park Avenue Center, driven by an unwavering passion for helping clients not only succeed through the program but also in their lives beyond. He is working diligently towards becoming a fully Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
As a counselor, Aaron firmly believes in implementing an integrative approach that combines the power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, and psychoeducation, utilizing a Psychodynamic framework to provide effective support and guidance to clients, allowing them to address their presenting concerns and embrace their authentic selves.
Education has been a cornerstone of Aaron’s journey, and he holds a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the esteemed University of Northwestern-Illinois. Prior to his master’s program, Aaron also earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Having started his professional journey with Park Avenue Center as a mental health intern, Aaron has consistently proven his commitment and dedication. He has grown to become an invaluable member of the team, seamlessly transitioning to his current role as a Mental Health Float Counselor.
Outside of his work, Aaron finds joy in spending quality time with his family and friends, often bonding over their shared love for sports and movies. As an avid gardener, he also finds tranquility in nurturing plants and creating beautiful outdoor spaces.
With an inspiring dedication to his clients’ well-being and a genuine passion for his profession, Aaron Neumann continues to make a significant impact at Park Avenue Center. His integrative approach and profound understanding of mental health make him a beacon of hope for those seeking support and guidance on their journey to personal growth and healing.

Becky has over 20 years of experience in the chemical dependency treatment field. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Human Services from Metro State University and later earned her Master’s in Human Development from St. Mary’s University.  She started her career at Hazelden working in a variety of roles with the most recent being a Primary Unit Supervisor before transitioning to the Program Director at Maple Lake Recover Center for two years. Becky then made a career change working at Heartfelt Homes Inc. as the HR & Training Manager for eight years before coming to Park Avenue Center in 2011. Becky promotes a holistic view of wellness with clients. Becky has a busy life filled with dancing, singing, cooking, reading, and maintaining her entrepreneurial spirit with two small businesses.

Sheba Reed is a Client Access Counselor at Park Avenue Center. Prior to working for Park Avenue Center, Sheba earned her associate degree in addiction counseling from Minneapolis Community and Technical college. Sheba’s favorite part about serving our clients is seeing them achieve their goals knowing her work is creating better lifestyles for our clients. Sheba has goals of obtaining her bachelor’s degree and continuing her career conducting assessments for Park Avenue Center. Sheba is driven to support the needs of all our clients at Park Avenue Center and believes anyone can achieve their goals if they come to Park Avenue Center for treatment. In Sheba’s free time she enjoys kayaking with her two sons and traveling with friends and family.

Zachary Schmidt is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) and is incredibly honored to work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder at Park Avenue
Center. As a person in long term recovery, Zach is passionate about bringing empathy and hope into people’s lives through all pathways to wellness.
In his spare time, Zach enjoys spending time with his cat Kylo, at the ballpark watching his beloved Minnesota Twins or behind the drums reliving his younger years as a professional musician.

Jason Smith is a Client Access Counselor at Park Avenue Center. Jason attended Adler Graduate School where he received his Masters in Counseling, Co-Occurring Disorders and Addiction Counseling. While in graduate school, Jason completed his practicum and internship at Park Avenue Center. Jason began his career in the mental health and chemical dependency field as a chemical dependency technician and has filled various other recovery related roles such as: Sober Companion and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. In addition, Jason also served in the United States Navy and has served various roles in the defense, intelligence, and business sectors before finding a passion for mental health and recovery. Jason is passionate about working with underserved clients and believes that everybody deserves dignity and respect. In his free time, Jason enjoys cycling, working out, and spending time with his friends and family.

Prince obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree from Metropolitan University and completed his internship with Park Avenue Center. Upon completing his internship, Prince came to work for Park Avenue as a Group Facilitator and has been promoted to a full-time position working hands-on with the clients. Prince considers his greatest strength to be his ability to communicate and collaborate with individuals from all backgrounds, communities, and cultures. He is passionate about helping people grow and recognize that everyone is special with special gifts to contribute. In his spare time, he operates Prince Catering and has volunteered with the food-shelf to offer food support to other students in need. He enjoys spending time with his family, gardening/landscaping, and viewing documentaries.

Aleda has over 20 years of experience in the chemical dependency treatment field. She obtained a certification in Chemical Dependency Family Treatment from St. Catherine University and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Counseling from Metro State University. Aleda’s previous experience includes working at RS Eden and African American Family Services.  In 2007, Aleda was recognized as the MAARCH Counselor of the Year. Aleda’s personal experiences are an important contribution to Park Avenue Center because she is an alumnus of its treatment program and can attest to clients that treatment does in fact work!

Rita Stephenson is a Registered Dietitian at Park Avenue Center. Rita achieved her Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Minnesota and recently became a registered dietitian after previous roles working in public health. Rita’s goals are to gain experience in working with people in recovery and learning more about skills in nutrition and counseling. At Park Avenue Rita enjoys working with our clients and helping them achieve their goals and making a difference in someone else’s life. Outside of Park Avenue Center Rita enjoys gardening,hiking,spending time with her two cats and trying new recipes.

Andrew is Group Facilitator and Mental Health Therapist at Park Avenue Center. He began working in the Chemical Dependency field in 2021 and is driven to help Park Avenue’s clients overcome addiction and mental health struggles. His professional goals are to earn licensure as an LPCC and continue working with clients seeking mental health treatment. Before working at Park Avenue Center, Andrew earned his master’s degree in counseling at Crown College and began working as a therapist for Threads of Hope before assuming his role at Park Avenue. Outside of Park Avenue Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, playing board games, and reading a good book.

Victoria attended the MN School of Business where she received her Associates in Business Management and has also obtained her Certificate in Medical Administrative Assistance and her Certified Nursing Assistant Certificate. She worked at Abbott Hospital as the HR Manager for Housekeeping and Dietary Aide before joining PAC as a Receptionist and went on to become the Lead Receptionist. Victoria identifies her strengths as reliability, communication, and the ability to work under pressure and she is passionate about helping people and learning how to better understand what others are going through. In her free time, Victoria enjoys sitting by the lakes and writing her novels.

Talia Thompson is a Client Access Counselor at Park Avenue Center working with our Assessment team. Prior to working at Park, Talia attended the University of Minnesota where she earned her MPS in Integrated Health and Behavioral Science. Talia came to Park Avenue with previous experience working for Integrative Health and Radius Health as a Therapist and a Case Manager. Talia is passionate about working with Co-Occuring clients and helping them find the right treatment programs by having an Analytical, Creative and empathetic approach to our clients. Outside of Park Avenue, Talia enjoys spending time with her friends and family, and her pet cat.

Coreen attended St. Mary’s University completing MA in counseling & Psych Services with Addiction Studies Certification. Previously Coreen worked for Nystrom & Associates as an LACD providing counseling to male and female clients with co-occurring substance use disorders in person and via telehealth. Coreen has been working in the field since 2019 while continuing her education goals soon to complete her master’s in Psychology and Counseling with a certificate in Addiction Studies at St. Mary’s. Coreen is passionate about assisting clients in successfully completing the program at Park Avenue and seeing them regain their lives and health. In her free time, she enjoys art, traveling, hiking at national parks and spending time with friends and family.

Ashley obtained her Associates of Science in Addiction Counseling from MCTC and her BA from Metro State University. She began working at Park Avenue Center in 2015 as an intern where she transitioned to a Group Facilitator prior to her most recent role as a Counselor. Ashley was inspired to work in the field after being in recovery herself. She has compassion towards clients and displays this in her client first mentality helping others change their lives.

Mohamed attended school at Anoka Ramsey and Anoka Technical College where he earned his AA degree in Community Health and completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling at Metro State University. Mohamed completed his internship at Park Avenue Center and was offered a position as a Group Facilitator upon graduation. He was then promoted to the role of Co-occurring Counselor in the Men’s Program. Prior to starting at Park Avenue Center, Mohamed worked in the healthcare field as Community Outreach with Midwest Quality Home Care where he assisted in communicating information between patients and healthcare professionals. He is passionate about working with MICD clients and it is his goal to provide an integrated approach that can be effective mentally, physically, and spiritually. In his free time, he likes to re-charge by working out and spending time outdoors with his children.