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FOUNDER | ICGC-II, CPGC
Rick Benson
Rick founded Algamus Recovery Centers in 1992 and has directed gambling specific, Algamus residential facilities in Florida, South Carolina, Quebec, and Arizona.
A Cornell University graduate, Rick is an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II) and a Canadian Problem Gambling Counselor (CPGC).
For more than 30 years he has been both a student and a facilitator in Bonding Psychotherapy, Holiotropic Breathwork, Primal Therapy, and the Enneagram. He is presently a member of both the Arizona Enneagram Association and the International Enneagram Association and was deeply involved in the Enneagram Prison Project. He is an executive board member of the International Primal Association.
Rick now provides a variety of consulting services including admissions and network/marketing to Algamus. Contact Rick at 888-527-2213.
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Bryan Hullihen
For over 14 years, Bryan Hullihen has been a noteworthy leader in the addiction treatment space. Bryan is the author of "Destructing Self," founder of both High Standards Recovery and Paramount Recovery Center. Bryan initially became the Program Director at Algamus Gambling Treatment Services in 2010. He has served as Managing Director since 2020.
Bryan holds an Applied Science degree in chemical dependency, a level one and level two certificate in substance use disorders, and a national certification for peer support.
Bryan specializes in creating and managing teams of professionals to deliver unparalleled treatment outcomes for those who suffer from gambling disorders. He is significantly focused on the further national expansion of Algamus.
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CO-FOUNDER & CEO | ICGC-II
Jody Pegram
Jody is an International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II) and, in 2007, he co-founded the Algamus Recovery Center of Arizona after serving as the program director of Algamus of North Palm Beach, Florida. Jody entered into the addiction recovery field in the late nineties. Beginning in Palm Beach, FL, he was integral in the development of C.A.R.E. in southern Florida and was appointed associate director/founder in 1999.
His insight and creative ability have also earned
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | MS, LCADC, ICGC-II, CCTP, DRCC, IGDC
Ken Litwak
Ken Litwak is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-II), and holds trauma (CCTP) and psychological first aid (DRCC) certifications. Ken was the first person internationally awarded the International Gaming Disorder Certification (IGDC). Ken holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management from City University of Seattle, a Master of Science in Professional Counseling specializing in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology from Northcentral University in California.
Ken has presented workshops and trainings at a variety of gambling recovery events and conferences throughout the United States. Ken is a U.S. Navy Veteran who has circumnavigated the Earth twice.
While working as the Executive Director for Gambling, Education, and Community Relations at John Brooks Recovery Center, Ken founded the only residential and outpatient gambling treatment program in the Atlantic City, NJ area. Ken also previously held several positions with the New Jersey Council on Compulsive Gambling.
CLINICAL DIRECTOR | BOARD CERTIFIED PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER
Sandra DeGroat
Sandra DeGroat, MSN, MA, MPhil, APRN, PMHNP-BC, CCTP, CAIMHP, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 30 years’ experience working in both chemical and behavioral addictions, inpatient and outpatient settings, correctional facilities, schools, and crisis centers, Sandra holds three master’s degrees and is pursuing a PhD in Forensic Psychology specializing in victimology.
Sandra is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Certified Addiction Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). Throughout her career, Sandra has won numerous awards and held a variety of leadership positions with professional organizations. Sandra is a Certified Human Rights Consultant and Certified Anti-Human Trafficking Consultant.
Sandra has recently relocated to Arizona from New Jersey with her Certified Therapy Dog named Alaska.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Scott Melissa
Scott holds a BA from the University of Massachusetts. Prior to joining Algamus, he was an expert trainer in MA with the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling where he focused on problem gambling in the criminal justice, mental health
Scott was also part of the leadership committee which managed the operation of the state-wide helpline as well as coordination of supportive referrals and resources. Scott’s dedication has led to the capacity building that has enabled more clinicians throughout the state to identify, screen, assess and treat disordered gambling.
As Algamus’ Business Development Director, Scott’s mandate is to establish a network of resources for Algamus clients. He brings positive energy and is held in the highest regard by those who have encountered him in the problem gambling community. The MA Council on Compulsive Gambling has a long tradition of being proactive, innovative and is a leader in the area of problem gambling support, advocacy and education. Part of their success is attributable to Scott’s hard work and dedication. He is warm-hearted, caring and empathic.
CONSULTING PSYCHIATRIST, AVAILABLE FOR REFERRAL
Dr. Mona Amini, MD, MBA
Mona Amini, MD, MBA is a highly esteemed adult board-certified psychiatrist renowned for her extensive expertise in the field of mental health and behavioral addiction. With a remarkable track record of diverse administrative and c-suite roles throughout her career, Dr. Amini has positioned herself as a prominent national leader in the realm of mental health advocacy and awareness.
Motivated by an unwavering commitment to effect meaningful change in the field of mental health, Dr. Amini has devoted her entire professional journey to delivering exceptional care to her patients. Her dedication to providing outstanding services has earned her immense respect and admiration.
Dr. Amini's extensive leadership experience extends to prestigious organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, where she has held influential positions. Additionally, she served as the past president of the Arizona Psychiatric Society, leaving an indelible mark on the organization. Recognizing the importance of fostering inclusivity and empowerment, Dr. Amini co-founded the AZ Psychiatric Society's Women's Group, further solidifying her commitment to supporting and advancing women in the field.
Dr. Mona Amini stands as an authoritative figure in the field of Psychiatry, commanding respect and admiration for her vast knowledge and unwavering commitment to enhancing mental health. Through her exceptional leadership, compassionate care, and dedication to education, she continues to shape the landscape of mental health and inspire others to prioritize their well-being.
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Renee Siegel, LISAC, MAC, HHP, CPIC, PCC
Renée Siegel, MA is a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) and International Coaching Federation Coach (ICF), Certified Enneagram Teacher, and International Enneagram Association (IEA) accredited professional. Renée has been working with individuals, couples, and families impacted by gambling disorders, and trauma for over 40 years. She has been treating disordered gamblers in Arizona since 1994 while teaching and training globally. Renée is particularly recognized for her progressive treatment of the families of disordered gamblers.
She has served on the Board of Directors for the National Council for Problem Gambling and has been ICGC-II and BACC credentialed while supervising the certification of ICGCs. Her passion is to integrate the Enneagram into her counseling and coaching work. Renée has authored/co-authored Recovering Together Against All Odds, Lost and Found, Considering the Enneagram, and Reclaiming YOU.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Anthony Williams
Anthony Williams is an Arizona native and dedicated professional in the field of addiction treatment, bringing his compassionate curiosity and mindfulness practices to help individuals on their path to recovery. With over six years of experience working with individuals with diverse backgrounds, Anthony has made a lasting impact on countless lives.
Since 2017, Anthony has been unwavering in his commitment to providing support and guidance to those struggling with addiction. His approach is grounded in the belief that a life lived authentically is a life well lived. Anthony finds purpose in helping individuals rediscover their passions and who they were meant to be.
Anthony is dedicated to creating, maintaining, and improving operational systems that maximize the use of a client's time in care. Integrity and efficiency are deeply engrained in his management style of both staff and clients. He believes that when you walk your talk, others are inspired to do the same.
YOGA INSTRUCTOR & BREATHWORK FACILITATOR
Nicole Warren
Nicole Warren has been practicing yoga for 16 years. She was born in California and comes from a military family. She studied art history and early childhood education in Santa Barbara, CA. She is 500 YTT certified and teaches Bikram yoga, Pilates, HIIT, Barre, meditation, breathwork, power & vinyasa yoga, restorative yoga, and sound vibrational therapy through drumming.
She left her career in the corporate industry to follow her passion to teach full-time in February 2020. She has dedicated her teaching career to helping serve others, donating her time to give back to multiple communities. She teaches at The Foundry Yoga and started teaching yoga & meditation to the airmen at Luke AFB in 2020. She continues to bring movement and mindset to many. She leads weekly yoga sessions with young baseball players in California looking to take their game to the next level. She helped launch the wellness program at Wigwam Resort and teaches both a weekly class and teaches for groups and conference attendees at the resort. She recently became the newest yoga ambassador for Lululemon and will be bringing more movement to more communities. She has taught at local and international yoga retreats and will lead her first yoga retreat in Bali in August 2023.
Her philanthropy extends to different communities around her and she believes in helping others through breath & connecting the mind and body. She is an incredibly proud and grateful mom of 2 sons.
She left her career in the corporate industry to follow her passion to teach full-time in February 2020. She has dedicated her teaching career to helping serve others, donating her time to give back to multiple communities. She teaches at The Foundry Yoga and started teaching yoga & meditation to the airmen at Luke AFB in 2020. She continues to bring movement and mindset to many. She leads weekly yoga sessions with young baseball players in California looking to take their game to the next level. She helped launch the wellness program at Wigwam Resort and teaches both a weekly class and teaches for groups and conference attendees at the resort. She recently became the newest yoga ambassador for Lululemon and will be bringing more movement to more communities. She has taught at local and international yoga retreats and will lead her first yoga retreat in Bali in August 2023.
Her philanthropy extends to different communities around her and she believes in helping others through breath & connecting the mind and body. She is an incredibly proud and grateful mom of 2 sons.
Peer Certified Recovery Coach (PCRC) and Accredited Gambling Counselor
Doug Martin
As a Peer Certified Recovery Coach (PCRC) and accredited Gambling Counselor, Doug has undergone training and possesses first hand knowledge of the challenges individuals face in overcoming gambling addiction. His multiple years of successful recovery following his own lifelong struggle with gambling addiction gives him a deep understanding and empathy for those going through similar experiences.
Prior to joining Algamus, Doug gained valuable experience interning under Ken at the John Brooks Recovery Center outside of Atlantic City.
Doug attended the University of Delaware majoring in business. Doug was not only dedicated to his studies but also excelled as a pivotal member of the football team, demonstrating his strong work ethic, leadership abilities, and team collaboration skills.
Doug Martin brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to his role as Residence Director and Case Manager at Algamus making him an invaluable asset to the organization.
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