Our Staff

PROFESSOR EMERITA, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI MILLER SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENTS OF NEUROLOGY AND MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PHARMACOLOGY (NEUROSCIENCE)

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SCIENCE, CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY AT LONG BEACH, LONG BEACH, CA, USA
AWARENESS INTEGRATION INSTITUTE, SAN CLEMENTE, CA, USA
(Author of “Intentional Parenting,” Hardcover – July 1, 2022, with Nicole Jafari and Eileen Manookian)
Originator of Awareness Integration Therapy

Dr. Foojan Zeine is an international speaker, author, and psychotherapist. She holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. She obtained a graduate certificate in Human Behavior from the Harvard Extension School (HES). Dr. Zeine’s expertise lies in intimate relations and addictive behaviors, and she has extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and domestic violence.

Dr. Zeine presents internationally and is a leading expert in online therapy. She has published numerous research articles in psychology and human behavior. She is the originator and author of Awareness Integration Theory (AIT), a multi-modality psychology and educational approach aimed at minimizing depression and anxiety while improving self-esteem and self-confidence. She founded the International Awareness Integration Institute, which conducts training workshops to educate and certify psychotherapists, coaches, and teachers in this approach. Additionally, she co-founded the “Foojan” app, which offers AIT to the public globally.

Dr. Zeine teaches AIT as a lecturer/professor at California State University, Long Beach, and Université Paris Cité. She is the author and co-author of six books and ten peer-reviewed journal publications. She hosts the “Inner Voice – A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan” podcast and is a guest speaker at many universities, including Harvard, MIT, UCLA, USC, UC Santa Barbara, Chicago University, and Cal State Long Beach.

Radio/Television Podcast Host
Research Interests: Neuroplasticity and self-identity

Stephen “Stevie B.” Boyarsky has bachelor’s degree of science, in business, a certified Recovery Coach, a licensed Interventionist and has an extensive background in Biblical studies. Stevie B. is considered an expert in Faith-Based recovery and speaks internationally on this subject. Stevie B. is the Founder and Director of the Recovery Bible Study of Ft. Lauderdale. (recoverybiblestudy.org) and believes he is blessed to be the Ministry Leader of Celebrate Recovery, in Dania, Fl.

John Charos grew up in Queens, New York John struggled with drug addiction for many years. Now with over 20 years in the South Florida recovery community, John has devoted a large part of his life helping young men overcome the same addictions he struggled with for so long. John keeps recovery and his relationship with God first in his life and is eager to help patients reach a happy and joyous recovery.

CENTER FOR SPORTS, EXERCISE & MENTAL HEALTH, WESTERN UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES, POMONA, CALIFORNIA AND DEPARTMENT OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY, ADElSON SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, ARIEL UNIVERSITY, ARIEL, ISRAEL.
(Psychiatric Genetics & Pharmacogenomics – EIC Current Psychopharmacology and CRC Press -Editor – BODY RECOMPOSITION: A Comprehensive and Metabolic Alternative to Weight Loss)

Kenneth Blum is a well-known American scientist recognized for his work related to psychopharmacology and psychiatric genetics. He received a B.Sc. degree in Pharmaceutical Science from Columbia University (NYC); a master’s in medicine from New Jersey College of Medicine (Rutgers); and a Ph.D. in Neuropharmacology from New York Medical College. He completed a genetics fellowship at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

He is the recipient of many honors and awards, including the Marquis Who’s Who – Distinguished Top Professional featured in the Wall Street Journal. Dr. Blum has published over 740 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and meeting abstracts, along with 19 books that have garnered over 18,000 citations and 185,000 reads worldwide. He is credited with the first genetic association of the Dopamine D2 receptor gene with severe alcoholism, published in JAMA, 1990, and is considered by some to be the Father of Psychiatric Genetics.

In 1995, Dr. Blum coined the term “Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS)” and developed the USA and foreign-patented “Genetic Addiction Risk Severity” (GARS) test. He has also developed patented pro-dopamine regulators in the USA and Europe, and his overall patent portfolio consists of 100 patents worldwide.

Dr. Blum is the Editor-in-Chief of several academic journals, including Current Psychopharmacology, Addiction Psychiatry, and Theranostic and Pharmacological Sciences. He also serves as Associate Editor for Frontiers in Psychiatry and Frontiers in Public Health, specifically in sections on Substance Use Disorder and Genes, Protein & Disease. He is a guest Editor-in-Chief on a collective for Psychology & Psychological Management and Cellular Molecular Neurobiology. Dr. Blum serves on the editorial boards of 23 peer-reviewed journals and is a regional editor for Current Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology.

Dr. Blum is also the founding President of the United Scientific Group, an academic publishing house. His work has been featured in major media outlets worldwide, and in 1990, his work on genetics was listed among the top 25 most important discoveries in science by Discovery Magazine. He is the recipient of NIH grants and has been awarded Lifetime Achievement Awards, distinguished Honorary Doctorates of Humane Letters, Life-time Honorary Professorship at ELTE Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary, and Distinguished Honorary Professorship at the Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Israel.

Currently, besides faculty positions as an adjunct professor (Western University, University of Vermont, Wright School of Medicine), he is the Executive Chairman and CEO of TranspliceGen Therapeutics, Inc. Stanford University recognized him as one of the top 2% of scientists worldwide in 2023. Dr. Blum also serves on several scientific boards, including the Center for Advanced Spine Care of Southern Arizona, Cross-Cultural Research and Educational Institute, Awareness Integration Institute, Quiet Mind Foundation, and Sunder Foundation. Additionally, he serves as a scientific advisor for Electronic Waveform Lab, Victory Nutrition International, and Peak Logic.

Dr. Blum is a member of the Society of Brain Mapping & Therapeutics (SMBMT). Most recently, the International Research Awards on Neurology and Neuro Disorders recognized him with the “Best Researcher Award 2023.” Dr. Blum has been nominated for the KEIO Medical & Science Prize (the Japanese equivalent to the Nobel Prize) in 2024.

Dr. John Giordano is an expert in the treatment of addiction, mental health, and the founder of The National Institute For Holistic Addiction Studies (NIFHAS). He is the author of “Proven Holistic Treatment For Addiction & Chronic Relapse”, “How To Beat Your Addictions And Live A Quality Life”, and his most recent book is the acclaimed: “The Kid From The South Bronx Who Never Gave Up,” and is the co-author of “Molecular Neurobiology of Addiction Recovery: The 12 Steps Program and Fellowship.”

Over twenty years ago Giordano founded the prestigious G & G Holistic Addiction Treatment Center in North Miami Beach, Florida — a 62 bed in-patient/out-patient JCAHO accredited addiction treatment facility which he started for $300 and then sold in 2012 for $45,000,000.

Prof. Dr. Bowirrat Abdalla is a Full Professor at the Adelson School of Medicine and the Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Israel. He attained his M.D. from Rome University, “La Sapienza,” with excellence, and completed his residency in Clinical Neurology at Queen Square – National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, London University, UK.

He received his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Tel-Aviv University, Israel, also with excellence, and completed his postdoctoral studies in Human Genetics at Boston University School of Medicine, USA.

Prof. Bowirrat received his professorship in Psychiatry (Behavioral Neuroscience Department) from Boston University. He has published more than 180 manuscripts and 10 books and chapters in reputed journals and serves as an editorial board member of several prominent medical journals. He has received numerous international awards, including the Bruce S. Schoenberg International Award in Neuroepidemiology of Alzheimer’s Disease from the American Academy of Neurology, and in 2019, he was selected as “Professor of the Year” by the Venus International Foundation, India. In 2022, he received a certificate of Honorary Faculty Position from the Institute of Integrative OMICS and Applied Biotechnology, India.

Prof. Bowirrat’s research focuses on enhancing health outcomes and finding novel treatments for neurological, psychiatric, and neuroinflammatory diseases, addiction, and various genetic disorders. He is actively involved in academic research and teaching across different medical fields. He has been invited as a speaker at various national and international conferences and has received several awards, including the Best Lecturer in Neuroepidemiology from the American Academy of Neurology and the Second Boston Scientific Poster Award from Boston University School of Medicine. Prof. Bowirrat received a significant grant from the NIH – USA, totaling $1.2 million, to study and research neurodegeneration (1996-2002). He has also collaborated extensively with Prof. Kenneth Blum’s lab in California, USA, particularly on the underlying etiology of addiction, substance abuse, and genetic tests for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of addiction.

Contact Information:

• Affiliation: Adelson School of Medicine & Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
• Residency: 28 Meir Rutberg Street, Haifa, Israel
• Mobile: +972 54 6693763
• Fax: +972 4 6356133
• Email: bowirrat@gmail.com, abdallab@ariel.ac.il
• Website: Ariel University Bio
• ORCID: 0000-0001-8185-0688

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY – HARVARD UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, CAMBRIDGE, MA., USA (Neuroscience & Pain Management – EIC-Journal Psychology Research & Behavioral Management)

Dr. Igor Elman, MD, is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a subspecialty certification in Addiction Psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from Ben-Gurion University. Following residency and fellowship training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, the National Institute of Mental Health, and Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr. Elman has been on the faculty of Harvard Medical School for 20 years.

He has held two Professor and Chair positions in the Department of Psychiatry at the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine and Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. Dr. Elman serves as the Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of Psychology Research and Behavior Management and as the Special Issues Editor for Psychiatry Research.

Dr. Elman’s broad research interests focus on understanding the interplay between stress, reward, and metabolic systems and their impact on neuropsychiatric and medical disorders, including addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, obesity, and pain.

DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF PHARMACY, HOUSTON, TX, USA (Microbiome Research and CRC Press – Editor – BODY RECOMPOSITION: A Comprehensive and Metabolic Alternative to Weight Loss)

Dr. Debasis Bagchi received his Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry in 1982. He is the Director of Innovation & Clinical Affairs at Dr. Herbs LLC, Concord, CA; an Adjunct Professor in the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences at Texas Southern University, Houston, TX; an Adjunct Faculty member in the Department of Biology at Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, where he is the Course Director of Neurotoxicology (BIO 585); and an Adjunct Faculty member in the Department of Psychology at the Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, where he is the Course Co-Director of the Integrative Neuroscience Seminar (PIA395-001).

Dr. Bagchi is a former Professor in the Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX. He served as the Chief Scientific Officer at Cepham Inc., Belmont, NJ, from June 2013 to December 2018, and as the Director of Scientific Affairs at VNI Inc., Bonita Springs, FL, from January 2019 to January 2023. He was the Senior Vice President of Research & Development at InterHealth Nutraceuticals Inc., Benicia, CA, from 1998 to February 2011, and the Director of Innovation and Clinical Affairs at Iovate Health Sciences, Oakville, ON, until June 2013.

Dr. Bagchi received the Master of American College of Nutrition Award in October 2010, became a Fellow of ISNFF in 2021, and was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Society of Medicine (FRSM) in 2022. He is the past Chairman of the International Society of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (ISNFF), past President of the American College of Nutrition, Clearwater, FL, and past Chair of the Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods Division of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Chicago, IL. He is serving as a Distinguished Advisor at the Japanese Institute for Health Food Standards (JIHFS), Tokyo, Japan. Dr. Bagchi is a member of the Study Section and Peer Review Committee of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD.

Dr. Bagchi has published 448 papers in peer-reviewed journals, authored 48 books, and holds 20 patents. He is a member of various professional societies, including the Society of Toxicology, the New York Academy of Sciences, the Nutrition Research Academy, and the TCE Stakeholder Committee of the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH. He serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Functional Foods, the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, and the Archives of Medical and Biomedical Research, and is on the editorial boards of numerous peer-reviewed journals, including Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, Cancer Letters, Food & Nutrition Research, Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, and The Original Internist.

Member of the Editorial Boards:

• Journal of the American College of Nutrition (Associate Editor)
• Journal of Functional Foods (Past Associate Editor)
• American Journal of Biopharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (Associate Editor)
• Food & Nutrition Research
• Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods
• Antioxidants & Redox Signaling

Fellow/Member of Professional Societies:

• Master of the American College of Nutrition
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine
• American College of Nutrition
• International Society of Nutraceutical and Functional Foods (ISNFF)
• Society of Toxicology
• New York Academy of Sciences
• American Institute of Chemical Engineers

List of Publications/Patents/Books:

• Peer-Reviewed Publications: 448
  Google Scholar (Citation 35334; h-index 89; i10-index 279)
  ResearchGate
• Patents: 20
  Justia Patents
• Books Edited: 46 (Elsevier/Academic Press; CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; Wiley-Interscience)

Brandon Hammer is an individual who has found purpose in helping those who are struggling with addiction. He’s a unique blend of passion, expertise, and compassion that has helped countless individuals overcome their obstacles and achieve lasting recovery.

As the Admissions Director of JC’s Recovery Center, an interventionist and a certified spiritual, recovery, and relationship coach, Brandon is devoted to helping individuals build a fulfilling life beyond addiction. His approach is grounded in spirituality, but he also understands the practical steps necessary for long-term sobriety.

Brandon’s dedication to helping others is evident in his mentoring and coaching methods. He uses a faith based and holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. He firmly believes that a combination of spiritual and practical solutions is necessary for individuals to achieve lasting recovery.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Brandon is a family man who finds joy in spending time with his wife, Nicole and three children. He believes that family is an integral part of the recovery process, and he encourages his clients to establish meaningful connections with their loved ones.

In all aspects of his life, Brandon is a compassionate and committed individual who genuinely cares about the well-being of others. He has made it his life’s work to help those who are struggling with addiction to find their way back to a life of purpose, joy, and sobriety.

With many years of sobriety and experience, Brandon is aware that addiction is not a one-size-fits-all problem. He tailors his approach to meet the specific needs of each individual. Whether it’s connecting them with resources for housing, employment, addressing underlying mental health issues, or advocating through the court system, Brandon is committed to helping his mentees build the tools they need to achieve lasting recovery.

In all his work, Brandon encourages others and helps individuals to see the value they possess. Brandon seeks to embody and promote the principles of faith, love, service, and humility. He believes that living these principles is necessary for building a successful and fulfilling life beyond addiction.

Overall, Brandon Hammer’s commitment to helping others is inspiring, and his unique approach to recovery is making a real difference in the lives of countless individuals and their families. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or looking for ways to support someone who is, our mentoring program provides a safe and supportive community that can help individuals achieve greater success in their recovery journey.

JC’s Recovery Center focuses on building a community of support and accountability. Through group sessions and one-on-one therapy, individuals are encouraged to share their struggles and experiences openly. This creates a sense of connection and helps individuals develop a support system that is essential for successful recovery.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY, CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, CLEVELAND, OH, USA

Dr. Rajendra D. Badgaiyan is a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Texas Health San Antonio. After completing his psychiatry residency training at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Badgaiyan joined the faculties of Harvard Medical School, the State University of New York at Buffalo, and the University of Minnesota. He also served as Professor of Psychiatry and Chairman of the Department at the hospital affiliated with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Chief of Psychiatry at the South Texas Healthcare System in San Antonio, TX; and Chairman of the Psychiatry Department at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland.

Dr. Badgaiyan developed a novel neurotransmitter imaging technique for the detection, mapping, and quantification of neurotransmitters released in the live human brain during mental activities. Using this technique, he studies the dopaminergic control of conscious and nonconscious cognition and behavior and seeks to understand the neuropathology of psychiatric conditions.

He has received several prizes and awards for his research, including the prestigious Solomon Prize from Harvard Medical School and the BK Anand National Research Prize in India. His research is funded by the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the Dana Foundation, and other agencies. Dr. Badgaiyan has published over 300 research papers and book chapters. He is also the author of the book titled Neuroscience of the Nonconscious Mind (Elsevier/Academic Press).

Jaime is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, Certified Addiction Counselor, Master’s Level Addiction Counselor, and a Certified Human Trafficking Provider. Jaime is a graduate of Trinity International University and currently is a doctoral student with a specialization in trauma at Liberty University. Jaime has over 10 years’ experience working with the addiction population starting as a Behavioral Health Tech and working her way up to a Primary Therapist. Jaime has worked with diverse populations starting with at risk youth, juvenile delinquents, and sex trafficking victims (teens and adults). Jaime has worked as a Primary Therapist and Case Manager at various treatment and community mental health centers. Jaime was recently certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) as another way to treat trauma and addiction.

Jaime uses motivational interviewing, solution focused, and person-centered approach when working with clients. Jaime utilizes personal knowledge from being in recovery herself to connect with clients. Jaime’s passion is to work with her client’s past trauma experiences.

Jaime credits her survival to her spiritual path which enables her to help those that God has called in her path . To date, Jaime is encouraged by the success stories of the men and women that she helps.

Dr. Dolin was born and raised in Chicago with artist mom and United States Air Force dentist dad and 2 younger sisters. Dr. Dolin attended Chicago Medical School, Internal Medicine Residency at Weiss Memorial Hospital on Lake Michigan in Chicago. After Dr. Dolin’s residency she moved to South Florida to be near her parents.

Dr. Dolin has worked at three hospitals doing Internal Medicine then veered into the Psych and Substance world doing Internal Medicine as consultant and not Primary Care. All of Dr. Dolin’s patients have psychiatric, substance abuse, and/or eating disorders.

Dr. Dolin loves what she does, and it shows!

Elizabeth is a compassionate and dedicated mental health counselor with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity International University – Florida, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, Minor in Psychology from Hunter College – New York City, New York.

She recently joined the team at JC’s Recovery Center as a therapist after completing her internship. Elizabeth has a special interest in addiction and childhood trauma (Adult Survivors) and works with individuals with various mental health symptoms.

She is passionate about improving the quality of life for individuals struggling with addiction, childhood trauma, and mental illness and provides a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients. Elizabeth utilizes various modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing to help her clients overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.

Elizabeth is driven by her Christian faith and desire to help those who want to be helped, to make a difference in the lives of those who need God’s love, grace, and biblical hope to facilitate healing and transformation.

DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, BALTIMORE, MD, USA
Former Chief, Medical Consequences Branch, NIDA (Retired)

Currently, Dr. Jag Khalsa serves as an Adjunct Professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and the Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland. He is also a Special Volunteer at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), NIH. Dr. Khalsa retired on October 31, 2017, after 30 years as the Chief of the Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse and Infections Branch, NIDA, NIH, DHHS.

With over 50 years of experience in drug research, Dr. Khalsa was responsible for developing and administering a national and international program of clinical research on the medical and health consequences of drug abuse and co-occurring infections (HIV, HCV, and others). Prior to joining NIDA in 1987, he served for approximately 10 years as a pharmacologist/toxicologist assessing the safety (carcinogenic/teratogenic) of chemicals [INDs/NDAs] and food additives, and as a clinical evaluator at the FDA.

Dr. Khalsa has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and serves as a reviewer for many journals, including JAMA, CJAM, Virology, and others. He is also on the editorial boards of Journals of Addiction Medicine, Current Psychopharmacology, Research on HIV/AIDS and Palliative Care, and Frontiers of Neuroscience. He has served on numerous Federal and NIH-level committees, including the HHS Viral Hepatitis Implementation Group (VHIG), the National Commission on Digestive Diseases and its two sub-committees (Liver Research, Diabetes Research), the Federal Task Force on TB, the NIH Steering Committee on Centers for AIDS Research, and the Human Microbiome Workgroup.

Dr. Khalsa has received distinguished service awards from the FDA Commissioner, the Directors of NIH and NIDA, the Society of Neuro-Immune-Pharmacology (SNIP), Lifetime Achievement Awards from SNIP and the International Conference on Molecular Medicine (India) and MIT, India; a commendation from U.S. Congressman Elijah Cummings, Awards of Merit and Honorary Membership in the International Society of Addiction Medicine (ISAM), Distinguished Fellow (DFISAM), Honorary Membership in the Iceland Society of Addiction Medicine, recognition from the President of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), a Certificate of Appreciation from the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (Drs. Howard Koh and Ron Valdiserri), DHHS, and a Lifetime Service Award from the Society of Nanotechnology and Personalized Medicine.

Dr. Khalsa holds a Ph.D. in Neuropsychopharmacology, a master’s degree in pharmacology/pharmacognosy (herbal pharmacology), bachelor’s degrees in chemistry/botany and pharmacy, and post-doctoral training in CNS/cardiovascular pharmacology at SK&F and environmental toxicology at Stanford Research Institute International.

Contact Information:

• Email: jag.khalsa@nih.gov
• Personal Email: jkhalsa@yahoo.com

You are a person of faith, accomplished and socially connected, yet here you are feeling lost and unsure. You keep adding to your to-do list, but hardly anything gets crossed out. Wonder why you miss out on such wisdom? My favorite proverb (Prov. 4:6 – 7 NIV) starts with “Do not forsake wisdom.”, and I am here to help you find yours.My name is Deborah Valverde. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with clients who have goals in specific areas in their lives, or are interested in working on themselves. Depending on your needs, we determine whether therapy or coaching is the best course of action for you.

I believe in connecting with clients through my experiences. I enriched my experiences through living in different countries including my home country Brazil as well as UK, Wales and Canada. I deepened my knowledge in Christian Counseling and CBT and Psychoanalysis practices over the years. My clients describe me as non-judgmental, very understanding.

I feel most accomplished when I witness my clients start using the guidance achieving their career and financial goals. I believe you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive. Please visit my website to get more information about my services, or give me a call for a free consultation today to let us start working on relieving the burden.

Donna a dedicated Case Manager with over five years of experience in the dual diagnosis field.I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in vulnerable situations. My background as a Behavioral Health Technician, Medication Technician and my passion for helping others have equipped me with the skills necessary to provide compassionate and effective support.

Chris is our dedicated and talented Operations Manager. Chris has fought and overcome addiction himself through finding God and working the steps. Just as faith has guided Chris, Chris guides and leads our amazing team of Behavioral Health Technicians. Chris has an extensive history in the medical field and strong organizational and leadership skills. Chris believes in direction, discipline, and structure.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY, CURRY COLLEGE, MILTON, MA, USA
(Specialized in ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder – Research Interest: Neuroscience)

Dr. Edward Justin Modestino is a neuroscientist, professor, and licensed mental health counselor. He completed two postdoctoral fellowships in neuroimaging: one in psychiatry at the University of Virginia and one in neurology at Boston University. He is currently a Senior Lecturer of Psychology and Co-director of the EEG Lab at Curry College in Milton, MA. Additionally, he serves as a therapist in private practice at Stoughton Counseling, Inc. in Stoughton, MA.

Dr. Modestino’s research focuses on ADHD and related components, including addiction and Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS).

Professional Roles:

• Neuroscientist and Mental Health Counselor
• Senior Lecturer of Psychology and Co-director of EEG Lab at Curry College
  Curry College Profile
• Director of Brain & Behavior Lab
  Brain & Behavior Lab
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Stoughton Counseling, Inc.
  Stoughton Counseling Profile
• Associate Editor for the Journal of Addiction Science
• Editorial Board Member for Current Psychopharmacology
• Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Personalized Medicine
• Editorial Board Member of INNOSC Theranostics and Pharmacological Sciences (ITPS)

FOUNDER/PRESIDENT, GLOBAL GROWTH INSTITUTE, INC.; THE CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY; EMERITUS PROFESSOR AT CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, LONG BEACH
(Author of “Intentional Parenting,” Hardcover – July 1, 2022, with Foojan Zeine and Eileen Manookian)
Research Interest: Neuroscience of Addiction & Psychology

Dr. Nicole Jafari holds a doctorate in education specializing in behavioral and developmental psychology. For the past twenty-one years, Dr. Jafari has taught various psychology and human development courses encompassing multidisciplinary and cross-cultural contexts. She is an Associate Professor at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles campus, teaching doctoral students in the Applied Clinical Psychology department. Her research interests include cross-cultural and multidisciplinary emphasis, lifespan developmental challenges, parenting strategies, and the association between scientific and spiritual growth. Dr. Jafari has published and co-authored many research articles on children and adolescents and lifespan developmental topics in various highly regarded scientific and academic journals.

Additionally, she has authored several scholarly books with a global, cultural, and multidisciplinary perspective on human development. As an international public speaker, she addresses subjects related to human development (from prenatal to late adulthood), children, youths, and families in today’s multicultural and multi-contextual environment, covering issues such as mass media, globalization, cultural integration, and effective parenting. In her spare time, Dr. Jafari co-hosts several weekly radio, TV, and media broadcast programs on developmental, social, and psychological topics, including parenting, family, children, and adolescents.

In other capacities, Dr. Jafari has worked or is currently working with several prestigious organizations, including:

• Scientific Conference Co-chair & Researcher: Society of Brain Mapping and Therapeutics, a worldwide scientific entity instrumental in the global collaboration of high-caliber scientists in various scientific fields. SBMT
• Advisory Board Member: TREAT California, promoting safe, responsible, and ethical strategies for psychedelic medicine research and innovations. TREAT California
• Scientific Advisory Board Member: TRANSPLICEGEN, LLC, a leading organization in genetic testing and pre-addiction assessment.
• Founder and President: Cross-Cultural Research and Educational Institute (CREI), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that conducts global research, assessments, and educational seminars/workshops.
• Co-founder and CEO: Global Growth Institute, an organization dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations through counseling, consulting, and coaching with a multicultural, multidisciplinary, and global perspective.

Dr. Hyla Cass is one of the nation’s foremost experts, authors, and speakers in the field of integrative medicine and psychiatry. Known as “the non-drug psychiatrist,” she is recognized for helping individuals withdraw from both psychiatric medication and substances of abuse using natural means, including hemp oil/CBD and other natural supplements.

Dr. Cass frequently appears as a guest on podcasts, summits, radio, television, and in national print media. She is also the author of several popular books, including: Natural Highs, 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health, Supplement Your Prescription: What Your Doctor Doesn’t Know About Nutrition, The Addicted Brain and How to Break Free, and Your Amazing Itty Bitty Guide to Cannabis.

A native of Toronto, Dr. Cass graduated from the University of Toronto School of Medicine, interned at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, and completed a psychiatric residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center/UCLA School of Medicine. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine (ABIHM). Based in Southern California, she has a limited virtual practice.

CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH CENTER, SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, GUILAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES, RASHT, IRAN

Dr. Alireza Sharafshah is a board member at the Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran. His research interest is in pharmacogenomics.

My name is Ziona Weiss, and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have over 20 years of experience working as a mental health therapist in various settings and diverse populations, including dual-diagnosed individuals and addiction issues. I also provide clinical intervention to reduce suffering and struggles and enable growth and progress. I use various evidence-based and empathetic approaches while simultaneously building my clients up.

SENIOR RESEARCH SCIENTIST AT UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO, THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY, JACOBS SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO
HONORARY PROFESSOR, ARIEL UNIVERSITY, ISRAEL

Dr. P. Anayotis K. Thanos is a Senior Research Scientist at the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, and an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology at the Jacobs School of Medicine, University at Buffalo. He also holds an honorary professorship at Ariel University, Israel.

Dr. Thanos performed the first-ever gene therapy with the DRD2 gene, demonstrating an extraordinary reduction in alcohol and cocaine intake in animals. He is the Director of the Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions at the Clinical Research Institute on Addictions.

Research Interests:

• Glucose Metabolism
• Behavioral Neuroscience
• Dopamine
• Neuropsychopharmacology
• Brain Mapping
• Functional Neuroimaging
• Neurobiology
• Genetics
• Exercise

Caitlin Moody, a dedicated counseling graduate from Pembroke Pines, FL, is on a mission to bring empathy and understanding to those in need. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, she combines faith-based principles with a strong psychology background. With a commitment to personal and spiritual growth, some of her personal interests include reading, working with her church’s youth ministry, and growing in her faith as a Christian.

Certified in First Aid and on the path to a Professional Counseling License, Caitlin blends creativity, empathy, and connection to make a meaningful impact as an intern. Her focus on mental health is evident in her experiences, showcasing her dedication to helping others navigate challenges and achieve emotional well-being.

Some of Caitlin’s interests include reading, working with her church’s youth ministry and growing her faith as a Christian.

MIDWEST SPINE AND BRAIN INSTITUTE AND HYPERCHARGE CLINICS

Dr. Daniel Sipple’s interests include medical-legal services, leading-edge research, innovative entrepreneurship, and national and global neuroscience policy. He founded Acies Medical and invented a life-saving needle.

Research Interests:

• Pain
• Addiction Liability
• Exercise with Oxygen Therapy
• Class IV Laser
• NanoVi Structured Water Therapy
• Photobiomodulation
• NuCalm

With an illustrious career spanning three decades in the public school system, Mrs. Machado has been a beacon of inspiration for both gifted and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students. A seasoned educator, Machado dedicated years to nurturing the intellectual and social emotional potential of diverse learners, leaving an indelible mark on countless young minds.

As Myriam “China” Machado transitioned into a new chapter, she emerged as a compassionate life coach specializing in supporting families grappling with mental health conditions, drug, and alcohol abuse. Leveraging her wealth of experience and understanding, China provides invaluable guidance to family members navigating the complexities of these challenging situations.

Machado has become a driving force in professional development, sharing her expertise in healing families affected by mental health issues and substance abuse. Through workshops and coaching sessions, she empowers individuals with practical tools and strategies to navigate these hardships, fostering resilience and unity within families.

With a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others, China continues to inspire and uplift, seamlessly transitioning from the classroom to the broader realm of family support and healing. She stands as a testament to the enduring power of education and compassion in transforming lives.

FULL PROFESSOR AND FORMER VICE PRESIDENT AND PROVOST, WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES, POMONA, CALIFORNIA

Dr. David Baron is a Full Professor and former Vice President and Provost at Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California. He has also served in various roles at the Keck School of Medicine, including Vice Dean for Global Health, Professor of Psychiatry and Neurosurgery, Vice Chair of the Department of Psychiatry, and Chief of Service at Keck-USC Hospital. Additionally, he is the former Deputy Clinical Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and a former President of the American College of Neuropsychiatry. A former Olympian in swimming, Dr. Baron is now a member of the Olympic Committee Global.

Dr. Baron was named a National Fulbright Scholar in 2017-18 and conducted his research as Distinguished Chair in Brain Research at the University of Calgary. He is also the recipient of a Fulbright Specialist Award.

Research Interests:

• Sports Psychiatry and Addiction Liability
• Neurobiology
• Genetics
• Recovery Science

In conjunction with Dr. Kenneth Blum, Dr. Baron has published 103 articles listed on PubMed.

DEPARTMENT OF ORTHOPAEDICS, FUNDACIÓN UNIVERSITARIA SANITAS, BOGOTÁ, DC, COLOMBIA; DEPARTMENT OF ORTHOPEDICS, HOSPITAL UNIVERSITÁRIO GAFFRÉ E GUINLE, UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO ESTADO DO RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL; CENTER FOR ADVANCED SPINAL SURGERY OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA, TUCSON, UNITED STATES

Dr. Kai-Uwe Lewandrowski is a distinguished member of the National Academy of Medicine in both Colombia and Brazil. He is affiliated with several prestigious institutions, including the Department of Orthopaedics at Fundación Universitaria Sanitas in Bogotá, DC, Colombia; the Department of Orthopedics at Hospital Universitário Gaffré e Guinle, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and the Center for Advanced Spinal Surgery of Southern Arizona, Tucson, United States.

Dr. Lewandrowski’s research interests focus on pain and pharmacogenomics.