Victoria Louca, LSW
Primary Therapist
Bio coming soon
Haydn Briggs LCSW, CGP, CET III
Specialty Group Facilitator
Bio coming soon
Mike Staurowsky
Assistant Program Director
Bio Coming Soon
Jimmy Hoban
Recovery Care Coordinator
Bio coming soon
The team at Synergy is dedicated to providing a safe environment that creates opportunities for connecting a healing. The Synergy team embraces values aligned with recovery to provide the support necessary for residents and their families. We know that recovery is not linear. We believe in the passion of our team and their ability to facilitate opportunities for change.
Primary Therapist
Bio coming soon
Specialty Group Facilitator
Bio coming soon
Assistant Program Director
Bio Coming Soon
Recovery Care Coordinator
Bio coming soon
Sophia, originally from Kemerovo, Russia, grew up in Collegeville, PA, and pursued Dental Occupations at a local tech school.
Formerly a resident at the Synergy Women’s Flagship Program, Sophia has since graduated from the program and joined the Synergy team as a staff member. As a Recovery Care Coordinator, she is responsible for the day-to-day activities of clients. She acts as a level of support as they navigate the early steps of recovery, which her own experience at Synergy gives her unique insight into. She brings a personal understanding and empathy to her role, having experienced the challenges of recovery firsthand.
Beyond her professional dedication to Synergy, Sophia loves making art, reading, and her dog, Patches.
Seth is a Synergy Support Coach driven by a passion for guiding individuals on their path to recovery and personal growth. A West Chester native, Seth pursued a degree in psychology at West Chester University and is currently seeking his master’s in clinical social work at Bryn Mawr College.
Working his own recovery program, Seth was introduced to Synergy through the local AA community in West Chester. As a Synergy Support Coach, he offers active support, sharing his experiences to connect with individuals in the Synergy community. Together with his clients, he is able to explore action-based strategies, working towards goals and enhancing life in sobriety. He believes that his personal journey serves as a foundation of trust for his clients.
Outside of work, he enjoys CrossFit, music, games, travel, and spending time with loved ones.
Kimberly, from Media, PA, with a background in entrepreneurship and business consulting, brings a wealth of industry experience and a passion for collaborative success to our team at Synergy.
As Office Manager, Kimberly oversees and coordinates various administrative tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of our office environment. She plays a crucial role in fostering a positive and collaborative work atmosphere and supporting various aspects of the organization with efficiency and passion.
Outside of work, Kimberly cherishes time with her family, stays active, and explores her love for nature through hiking.
Geoff began his career as a clinical assistant in an adolescent program. He was then promoted to the role of case manager where he was introduced to the Neuro Affective Relational Model (NARM) as a way of working with complex interpersonal dynamics in support of adolescents and their families struggling with addiction and underlying mental health conditions. He then further pursued his education and attended the University of Pennsylvania where he received a Master’s of Social Work.
Once Geoff received his Master’s, he served as a primary therapist at the residential level of care as well as the outpatient level of care working with a diverse range of clients by providing trauma focused care utilizing a mix of evidenced based modalities to address issues such as addiction, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and family strain. Geoff looks forward to joining the Synergy Team to draw from his personal and professional experience to help clients break through self-defeating patterns to achieve feelings of greater self worth and a sense of personal agency.
Outside of work, Geoff remains active in his own recovery. He enjoys playing golf, going to the gym, attending concerts and comedy shows, watching all Philadelphia sports, and spending time with family, friends, and his golden retriever Obi.
Lizzy Lopez, LPC found her passion for helping others through her own personal experience with healing and recovery. After receiving her Master’s in Clinical Counseling, she started her career working with adolescents struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. She then continued her career path working with young adults who had several treatment and recovery attempts. She became skilled at helping clients identify “the why” underneath their substance use. She strives to provide compassionate care that can lead to relational repair in order to help client’s cultivate meaning. Lizzy has developed Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) tracks at her previous employment, which included an adolescent dual-diagnosis program and a women’s trauma-informed substance abuse program.
Lizzy is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. She is currently getting certified in RTR Sociometrics and is being trained on the foundations of psychodrama and sociometry. She believes in the importance of education within the community and is a speaker on topics such as boundaries, addiction, and navigating treatment. Lizzy utilizes her experience and training as the foundation for the creation of the treatment programming at Synergy. She strives to create a program that embodies the values of creativity, collaboration, transparency, and authenticity to drive a culture of wellness for the employees and the clients at Synergy.
In her free time, Lizzy enjoys spending time with her husband and making forts with their two young children. She also likes to adventure in the outdoors, exercise, and be spontaneous.
From Baltimore, Maryland, Westley is a Maryland Institute College of Art alum with a background in painting and performance art. Formerly a freelance muralist, art teacher, and screen printer, Westley graduated from the Synergy Men’s Program in May of 2023.
Empathizing with the difficulties of recovery, Westley is a dedicated support system for residents. As a Recovery Care Coordinator, his job is to connect with residents and support them on their journey to recovery. Drawing from his own experiences, Westley acts as a reliable presence and brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to his role.
Beyond his commitment to recovery and Synergy, Westley is a creative force. He loves to paint, design clothing, board games, and spend time with his friends and cat, Bucket.
Philadelphia native, Barry is a seasoned chef, actively working his own recovery program for nearly a decade. A graduate of the Restaurant School of Philadelphia, Barry honed his culinary skills throughout the years in both the States and internationally. He spent 3 years managing a recovery house as well as fulfilling his role as a chef.
Celebrating nearly 10 years of continuous sobriety, Barry’s dedication earned him the Caron Foundation Alumni of the Year service award for the Philadelphia region in 2018. In his role as Chef at the Men’s Flagship Program, Barry blends culinary expertise with a compassionate spirit.
Beyond his professional experience, Barry enjoys playing the guitar, singing, and spending time with his two dogs. He is also a die-hard Philadelphia sports fan.
Doug grew up in the Philadelphia area and attended LaSalle University. As an all-American basketball player and with 12 years in the NBA, he has shown the dedication and supportive characteristics that are a necessary component of the Synergy community. After his own experience in addiction and recovery, Doug has found success in his sobriety and inspiration in wanting to give back to others through that achievement.
As Assistant Program Director, Doug seeks to give the utmost support to the residents at Synergy in many ways. He assists with the steps and programming that are necessary for a successful early recovery: meeting attendance, step work, counseling, and general advice. He is committed to being a role model for residents in order to help them achieve their goals in both life and recovery. Doug is inspired to help others by the help that he received throughout his own treatment, which is why he continues to give back to the recovery community today.
In his free time, Doug enjoys playing golf, going out to eat, and going to the movies.
Jess is originally from West Chester, PA, and has been interested in getting involved in the recovery field since beginning her own sobriety journey. With experience in sales and real estate, Jess has combined her love of helping others and skills in program directing into her role at Synergy as Program Director of the Women’s Program.
Jess originally found inspiration from others early in her recovery journey when she saw their willingness to help her face the hard truths that come along with early sobriety, a testament to how she approaches her role at Synergy. In the house, Jess is in charge of the daily operations: motivating the women through the steps, showing them what a sober lifestyle can look like, and creating programming in order to approach sobriety with a positive mindset. Her role is foundational in developing routine and healthy resident life changes.
Jess enjoys practicing yoga and spending time with her son in her free time.
Jane is originally from Delaware County and recently retired from education after 25 years of working in the classroom, consulting, and administration. She has a Master’s degree in Education and is certified in Applied Behavior Analysis, which advanced her career as a schoolwide facilitator for over 20 public schools in Chester County, PA.
As an individual working through her recovery program, Jane has found stability in her sobriety through helping others with theirs. As Director of Case Management at the Men’s Flagship Program, Jane works individually with residents on issues related to job searches, budgeting, education, and general life goals that arise in the recovery process. With her background in behavioral analysis, Jane is well-equipped to understand that much of early recovery is about changing unproductive behaviors into productive ones, making her role at Synergy fundamental to the early success of residents.
In her free time, Jane enjoys kayaking, yoga, cooking, and connecting with family and friends.
Syd, from Schuylkill County, PA, is currently studying at Delaware Valley University and joined the team in October 2023 after finishing her residency at the Women’s Flagship Program.
With a steady amount of sobriety under her belt and active participation in the 12 step program, Syd has experienced a profound transformation, embodying the resilience and perseverance that a journey through recovery requires. Her role is to lead by example as a member of the community and a Recovery Care Coordinator, which is a testament to her dedication to the well-being and success of Synergy’s community. As a Synergy alum, Syd empathizes with the challenges that emerge in recovery and offers personalized guidance based on each individual’s journey.
Beyond work, Syd loves horseback riding, art, yoga, and gaming.
Born and raised in Morgantown, West Virginia, and a previous resident at the Men’s Flagship program, Mike is the Collegiate House Manager at Synergy. Mike’s decision to embrace recovery led him to Synergy, where his role is to provide support and foster accountability.
He emphasizes the importance of mutual assistance and personal development among residents. He is passionate about providing the best environment where residents can thrive, lean on each other, and hold each other accountable in recovery.
Outside of work, Mike loves hosting a weekly game night, watching football and basketball, and reading.
Heather, a Recovery Care Coordinator at Synergy, is from Berwyn, PA. With a solid amount of time in recovery under her belt, Heather’s personal experience in the program has been transformative, giving her a deep understanding of both the challenges and joys of the recovery journey.
In her role at Synergy, Heather ensures the well-being of our residents and provides a supportive environment. Heather’s own recovery journey allows her to connect with residents on a meaningful level.
Beyond her work, Heather loves hiking, spending quality time with friends and family, and nurturing the connections that empower her and the residents she assists on their recovery journeys.
Greg, originally from Linwood, NJ, began his path to recovery in April 2022. He entered into the Synergy Men’s Program in July of 2022, where he progressed to become the Men’s Flagship House Manager and now the Director of Operations.
Greg plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and supportive environment. He manages night shifts, property upkeep, and program coordination throughout the Men’s Flagship Program. His deep gratitude for his recovery journey drives his commitment to giving back to residents at Synergy and the community overall.
In his free time, Greg prioritizes his health by regularly going to the gym and 12-step meetings. He values family time, especially with his nieces and nephews. Coaching wrestling and working with collegiate wrestlers remains a passion for him.
Joyce is originally from Augusta, Georgia, and settled in Norristown, PA, where she attended Immaculata University. Compelled by her personal experience with the loss of a family member to addiction, Joyce was drawn to Synergy’s mission to make a difference.
As Office Manager, Joyce is dedicated to maintaining organized operations and ensuring that all key components run smoothly. She is in charge of facilitating the efficient functioning of our organization.
Outside of work, Joyce enjoys staying active through exercise, outdoor activities, and spending quality time with her family.
Jenn’s roots trace back to the outskirts of Annville, PA. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Millersville University, followed by a Master’s degree in psychology from Rosemont College.
With an illustrious career spanning over 20 years in the addiction and substance abuse field, Jenn brings her passion and experience to the team and skills in program development, clinical management, and business development.
As our Chief Development Officer, Jenn will cultivate significant and strategic partnerships, both on a national scale and within our local communities. Furthermore, she will play a vital role in nurturing and advancing various departments within Synergy.
Beyond her professional commitments, Jenn is a huge Philadelphia sports fan, loves going to the beach, and watching her son’s baseball and basketball games.
Billy is the Director of Admissions at Synergy, bringing three years of experience from the RCA Admissions Department to his role. A graduate of West Chester University, he has a deep connection to the community, having lived and achieved sobriety here.
Billy’s journey to Synergy is driven by his belief in the brand’s growth and its impact. His mission is to assist families and clients in navigating the admissions process, building trust and loyalty along the way.
Having overcome addiction as a young adult, Billy’s personal experience shaped his role at Synergy. He understands the challenges of recovery and uses his insight to ensure a smooth transition for clients and families.
Outside of work, Billy enjoys travel, dining out, spending time with friends, and watching sports. His dedication and personal journey make him an invaluable part of the Synergy team, offering hope and support to those seeking recovery.
Carina was born and raised in Berkeley, California. With a BA in Psychology from American University, a Master’s in Education from the University of Pennsylvania, and ongoing studies in Social Services at Bryn Mawr College, she’s committed to personal and professional growth. She is the founding member of a public charter school in Souderton, PA, and she has served as a board member for the past two decades. Her journey thus far has led her to pursue her desire to help others find serenity through sobriety and recovery.
As a Recovery Care Coordinator at Synergy, Carina acts as a source of hope and inspiration for women in early recovery. She actively engages in the 12-step program, as well as others like Al-Anon and CoDA. As a dedicated mother and individual in recovery, Carina brings a wealth of experience working with youth across ages, an approach to life that is based on curiosity and compassion, and a grounding presence.
In her free time, Carina likes to spend time with family and friends, travel often, practice yoga and meditation, garden, cook, and take walks with her dog, Sophie.
Perry, originally from Villanova, PA, is the Chief of Staff at Synergy. She graduated from the University of Richmond in 2023 with a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Studies and Psychology.
With her time at Synergy beginning in 2021 as an intern, her role has developed into facilitating communication across departments, supporting growth initiatives, and driving resources and assistance within different departments. She acts as a dependable support layer for Synergy’s leadership with various projects. In addition to operational efficiency, Perry plays a role in overseeing and providing support to Synergy’s team members. She is dedicated to ensuring Synergy continues its mission of providing exceptional care to its clients and families.
Outside of work, Perry enjoys going to concerts, spending time with friends and family, and going to Philadelphia sports games.
Mike’s roots trace back to Chester County, and for the past decade, he has called West Chester his home. His journey toward recovery began at Synergy, where he was connected to a supportive recovery network and provided the accountability he needed to lead a sober and fulfilling life. Today, with demonstrated time in sobriety under his belt, Mike resides in West Chester alongside fellow Synergy alumni.
After graduating from the Synergy program, he served as a Recovery Care Coordinator at the Synergy Men’s Flagship program and now works as a Case Manager. In his role, he collaborates with residents to identify areas of growth in their recovery, setting goals related to education, budgeting, recovery, family, and more. Mike brings a unique perspective to his role, as he is a graduate of the Synergy program himself. Residents know that he is here to support and guide them because he has walked a similar path to recovery.
In his free time, Mike enjoys reading, working out, and board games. He is currently a student at West Chester University studying psychology.
John has been proud to be a member of the Synergy team since January 2022. He currently serves as a part-time case manager and Synergy Support coordinator. John is an adjunct professor and student services coordinator at the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research of Bryn Mawr College, where he is also a Ph.D. candidate.
Born in Buffalo, NY, John grew up in the Philadelphia area. He received his A.B. from the University of Chicago, J.D. (cum laude) from Howard University School of Law, and M.S.S. (Master of Social Service, equivalent to M.S.W.) from Bryn Mawr College. He has been a practicing attorney, in addition to working for several years in social services. John works from a strengths-based perspective, recognizing that each resident has skills and attributes that will allow them to achieve their personal goals. He understands from personal experience the pain of addiction to both the individual and family but remains convinced that recovery is indeed possible.
In his limited free time, John enjoys supporting the arts and providing service to the recovery community.
Ari is originally from Chicago and joined the team after his graduation from the Synergy Men’s Program in 2023. As a Recovery Care Coordinator, Ari takes on a vital role in ensuring that clients fulfill their responsibilities, such as attending meetings, completing stepwork, and maintaining sponsorships.
A trusted source for advice and solutions, Ari’s favorite part of being an RCC is witnessing the remarkable transformations within the community. His own personal growth within the Synergy program prior to his joining the team has allowed him the tools to provide the necessary support and guidance to residents.
Beyond Synergy, Ari is an ardent soccer player, is in school studying software engineering, and loves to watch sports with his friends.
At Synergy, Lauren is a Case Manager, allowing her to work closely with residents in order to provide them with emotional support, take them to meetings, and impart a perspective from somebody who has been through recovery, found sobriety, and eventually, great success. She emphasizes the importance of the ability to help others and, in turn, see positive outcomes in your own recovery.
In her free time, Lauren loves to read, be outdoors, and go to church.
Therese facilitates yoga sessions at both the Men’s and Women’s Flagship programs twice a week, followed by a group walk or run. She integrates yoga and mindfulness techniques to empower residents and create a safe space for growth through the recovery process.
Therese loves spending time with animals, gardening, and photography in her free time.
At Synergy, Brian’s role as Director of Business Development comprises maintaining referral relations with Synergy’s sober living programs, various treatment centers, and Synergy Family Services.
In his free time, Brian loves to spend time outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and going to concerts.
In his free time, Andrew plays golf, likes to exercise, and spends time with his family.
In her free time, Madeleine loves to spend time with her family and husband, Timmy, and daughter, Blakely, playing tennis, and going to the beach.
As an individual working through her recovery program, Jane has found stability in her sobriety through helping others with theirs. As Case Manager at the Men’s Flagship Program, Jane works individually with residents on issues related to job searches, budgeting, education, and general life goals that arise in the recovery process. With her background in behavioral analysis, Jane is well equipped to understand that much of early recovery is about changing unproductive behaviors into productive ones, making her role at Synergy fundamental to the early success of residents.
In her free time, Jane enjoys kayaking, yoga, cooking, and connecting with family and friends.
As a Recovery Care Coordinator at Synergy, Devon acts as a role model to the residents, leading by example in order to show them that recovery is more than possible. She helps residents work a healthy program, gets them to meetings, provides personalized support, and helps foster a sense of confidence in themselves to achieve their goals both in recovery and in other aspects of life.
Devon enjoys being outdoors, watersports, and spending time with her pets in her free time.
In her free time, Melissa enjoys being outdoors.
As an individual in recovery herself, Jean believes that physical wellness is extremely important for recovery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle connects to conserving mental wellness, which is crucial, especially in early recovery. At Synergy, Jean is both a Recovery Care Coordinator and a Yoga/Functional Fitness Instructor at the Women’s Flagship Program. She connects with residents throughout their early recovery journeys, supporting them through her dedication to well-being in recovery.
In her free time, Jean is the co-captain of the River Goddesses Dragon Boat team in Philadelphia, and loves to teach and practice yoga and CrossFit.
Sean, from Springfield, Pennsylvania has been working in the behavioral health space for over nine years. As a professional and person in long-term recovery, his passion for helping others mold his approach.
With his focus primarily on helping families recover, Sean is an ARISE trained interventionist and recovery coach.
As the Director of Synergy Family Services, Sean oversees all family services operations, provides interventions for both adults and adolescents, sober transportation, family coaching, and sober companionship, and maintains relationships with the greater recovery community.
In his free time, Sean loves to golf, play hockey, travel, and spend time with family.
At Synergy, Meg is the Executive Director of Women’s Services where she implements the fundamental aspects of Synergy’s 12-step-based structured sober living, fine-tuned specifically to the female experience. She seeks to build a community of women who are like-minded about recovery, on a trajectory for success, and building their lives back. Her experience as both a woman and an individual in recovery has given her the ability to tap into her role on a deeper level.
In her free time, Meg is very active in running big book workshops, reading, and spending time outdoors with her partner and dog, Scout.
Bevin has been a champion of recovery for many years, demonstrating a deep understanding of the process throughout recovery. She attributes her success to attendance at AA meetings, step work, sponsorship, and therapy, which have proven to be fundamental to her continuing sobriety and healthy lifestyle.
At Synergy, Bevin acts as the “House Mom”. With her own children and experience in recovery, she is able to draw from her own past in order to assist residents throughout their recovery processes. Bevin has been a certified yoga instructor since 2017 and offers yoga sessions for residents regularly throughout the week. She supports residents with their transition, encourages regular meeting attendance, and is a role model for an active lifestyle.
In her free time, Bevin enjoys running, baking and yoga.
After pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Chicago and a law degree from Howard University, John practiced law for a number of years before he decided to seek a Master’s in social work from Bryn Mawr College. Currently, he is a PhD candidate in social work at Bryn Mawr College and is also an adjunct professor there.
As an individual in recovery, his experience thus far has led him to be a meaningful addition to the Synergy team. As case manager, John works individually with residents on issues related to job searches, budgeting, education, and general life issues that arise in the recovery process. He believes that recovery is difficult but definitely achievable with the right people by your side, which he has seen in the development of relationships throughout the Synergy program.
John enjoys the theater, long walks, and reading in his free time.
Kendall is a recovery care coordinator at Synergy and also provides assistance to individuals through the Synergy Support program. She has maintained her sobriety in active recovery for many years, which has allowed her to utilize her experience for her true passion: helping others.
Her role at Synergy is to help propel individuals through the program with the use of maintaining stability through the 12 steps in order to achieve both life and recovery goals. She encourages regular meeting attendance, provides crisis control, is actively involved in supporting individuals through sponsorship, and is an overall supportive presence through the recovery process.
In her free time, Kendall enjoys playing golf and she is a student at Delaware County Community College.
River is an alumni of the Synergy Flagship program and now works as a House Manager at the Collegiate program. He is currently a student-athlete at Cabrini University studying biology and playing lacrosse. River has been sober for over a year and his experience both as a resident in the program and now as an employee has given him the unique tools in order to assist residents through successful early recovery.
In the Collegiate program, River is in charge of house programming, community building, providing support and direction for residents, and overseeing the management of the house. He is a very involved alumni member of the Synergy community and actively seeks to aid those that are entering structured sober living.
In his free time, River enjoys playing and coaching youth in lacrosse, volunteering, fishing, and walking his dog.
Additionally, Ben supports the community with day to day programming. His experience in recovery and success as a Synergy alumni makes him perfect for this dual role.
Sean emphasizes the importance of utilizing the staff as well as plugging into the community in the house throughout the recovery process. He has remained close with other alumni of the Synergy program and still attends weekly meetings in the house which has helped maintain his dedication to sobriety and recovery.
In his free time, Sean enjoys running, spending time with his family at the beach, and is a student at Villanova University.
Jared is pursuing his college degree and likes to play chess.
After growing up in Lower Merion Township, Erik pursued an education at the Art Institute of Philadelphia for the culinary arts. With his own experience in addiction and recovery, Erik has become a positive influence at Synergy as an individual that maintains his recovery which has proved him to be a meaningful role model for residents at Synergy.
At Synergy, Erik has day to day operation of The Wentworth and most often may be found having deep conversations with a few guys in a comfortable nook.
Erik has been happily married for 14 years to his wife, Erica, and loves to watch his son play baseball.
Timmy created Synergy following his graduation from Cabrini University, motivated by his own experience in addiction and recovery. He built Synergy on the values that he lives by: community, process, and accountability. Aiming to instill these principles in the framework of Synergy, Timmy has emphasized the importance of action throughout the recovery process in order to prepare residents for life after Synergy.
On top of Synergy, Timmy continues to spread his message and personal experience all over the country speaking to schools, teams, and other communities. His story is one that highlights strength and hope, the foundations for what Synergy has become.
In his free time, Timmy is a dedicated family man, participates in his own 12 step recovery program, and continues to pursue competitive sports.
Taylor has been motivated by his own experience in recovery to be a part of the mission of Synergy. With over 12 years of sobriety, Taylor has emphasized the significance of helping others through the recovery process while he is still active in his own.
In his free time, Taylor enjoys fishing, sailing, and skiing.
With over 28 years of sobriety, Clint believes in the power of the 12 steps, which have proven to be fundamental to his success in life. He continues to thrive and be active in the recovery community through sponsorship and attendance at AA meetings.
Clint continues to be passionate about volunteer work, helping others get sober through the 12 steps and other organizations, while he also enjoys golfing, kiteboarding, and skiing.
With over six years of sobriety and his own unique experience with the recovery process, Todd is enthusiastic about Synergy’s focus on changing outcomes for residents in recovery.
Todd primarily enjoys his time playing golf with his wife and 3 sons as well as working out.
Andy has demonstrated over 23 years of sobriety and is actively involved in recovery. He emphasizes that one of the primary objectives of sobriety is to give back, which is why he is so motivated to be a part of Synergy’s success in helping individuals stay sober.
In his free time, Andy enjoys golf, travel, and spending time with his kids at the beach.
With over 19 years of established sobriety, Bill has highlighted the importance of his own experience with addiction and recovery in order to show others the skills and tools that are useful in finding success in sobriety.
Bill is an avid golfer, enjoys spending time with his family on his property in suburban Philadelphia, and is passionate about charity work.
