Team ZRC

A New Mexico Native, Ryan grew up in southern NM. After graduating from NMSU in 2006 he decided to stay in Las Cruces and begin a career in the family business as well as grow his company with his brother. After a few short years it was time to say goodbye to the family business and continue with his own company. He and his brother created a clothing label which went on to see national recognition among its target demographics.

Soon enough personal struggles with addiction settled in. Ryan has experienced many modalities of the Addiction Treatment Industry. In 2015 he participated in a nationally accredited program which completely opened his eyes. He learned that serving others with what he had been blessed with was the only true way to gain meaning and purpose. Ryan latched on to every aspect of the program. He became well acquainted with the organization and its people, learned the ins and outs of the program structure, and gained permission to bring it to New Mexico and share it. To help others just like he was helped.

With his background in business development and organizational structure, he was able to merge his heart for recovery with a viable model and foundation so that others could have the same opportunity he had. Since 2017, ZRC has grown from a small Sober Living Home operation to a full-scale accredited multi-level Treatment Center.

Daniel received a bachelor’s degree in Hotel, Restaurant, Tourism Management from New Mexico State University. His professional background is in Sales and Marketing as well as the Hospitality Industry were a natural transition into the Substance Abuse Industry.

Daniel’s transition into the Substance Abuse industry is made clearer knowing that he has been involved in the local recovery community for over fourteen years. It is in part due to this intimate involvement that he realized the lack of professional substance abuse services in New Mexico. Daniel’s desire to bring sick and suffering addicts and alcoholics into recovery became his life’s mission long before the conception of ZRC. Zia Recovery Center has become the vehicle to serve many more individuals seeking recovery.

It seems that all paths have led Mr. Smead to his career with Zia Recovery Center. In 2015, Daniel met Ryan Brewer. The two realized very quickly that they held a similar desire to serve others in a meaningful way. Together they have laid the groundwork for a rapidly growing substance abuse treatment center in the Las Cruces area. The dream has become a reality.

Armando started working at Zia Recovery Center as a Group Facilitator in July of 2020.  Afterward, Armando was hired full time in March of 2021 as the Admission Coordinator and Primary therapist.  Three months later Armando was promoted to Program Director.  Armando has a passion for working in recovery and substance abuse. He recently became a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Profession to understand the complexities of treating addictions in clients.

Furthermore, Armando will continue to focus his studies on addiction to enhance his knowledge in the connection and interplay of addiction and trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and mental health.  Armando earned his master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2017. He finished his internship at Peak Behavioral Health Services where he worked as a licensed therapist from 2017 to 2021 full time.  Armando also holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology that he obtained in 2014 with a concentration in advanced studies and clinical assessments.

Armando has provided direct services through therapy to adults, adolescents, and families to overcome barriers of mental health, substance abuse, homelessness, domestic violence, and many other life obstacles.  Armando also has experience working with families in a group setting with focuses on populations including children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with a variety of disorders such as Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Cognitive Disorders and Borderline Personality Disorder.  Armando is passionate about providing people with the help they need to meet their goals and ambitions.

Diana been in the medical field for over 20 years.She completed her Associate’s degree and bachelors degree in nursing at New Mexico State University (NMSU) in 2006 and 2007. Her first graduate degree obtained was a master’s in Nursing with a specialty in Family Practice which was earned at University ofTexas El Paso (UTEP) in 2009.Diana’sDoctoral degree in Nursing with a specialty focusing on Family Practice was obtained at UTEP with a clinical focus in the forensic specialty field. In 2013, she collaborated with the University of New Mexico and La Clinica de Familia where she assisted with the implementation of Integrated Addictions and Psychiatry in Southern New Mexico. This endeavor included her participation in an intensive program training on addictions and psychiatry. In 2017, she completed the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program at NMSU. Other advanced training she has includes forensic nursing, trauma-informed care, renal care practice, advanced rheumatology practice, strangulation, pediatric abuse, maltreatment, and EMDR.

Ginger Shannon is Zia Recovery Center’s Director of Case Management. In that role, she supports clients and families linking them to community resources which can assist them in recovery from substance use, mental or physical illness. She helps provide clients with access to services such as financial assistance, legal support, coordinating activities with courts, probation officers, housing, education, and employment. Ginger is a Certified Peer Support worker (CPSW), Comprehensive Community Support Specialist (CCSS), and Certified Crisis Counselor.

At Zia Recovery Center Ginger works closely with the clinical team, along with supervising the case management team and CPSW activities. She facilitates and supports clients in individual and group sessions to help them overcome and recover from illnesses, dependencies and overcoming barriers. Ginger also plans and helps implement follow-up or aftercare programs for clients to be discharged from treatment programs and adjust to life outside of Zia. She also establishes and maintains relationships with other agencies and organizations in the community to meet community needs and resources.

Ginger is also a Board Member of New Mexico Credentialing Board of Behavioral Health Professionals NMCBBHP; CEO of Angels with Broken Wings Ministry; Completed a biblical ordination course and is an Ordained Minister through End Time Ministries and Glory Bound Ministries.

Ginger has a real heart for the people,  always a helping hand.

Krista Miller is Zia Recovery Center’s Clinical Director and provides leadership and oversight to the clinical team to ensure that the highest levels of care are available and maintained. She oversees management of treatment programs, assessing strengths and needs of each client. Krista is responsible for clinical staff training, risk management, continuous program improvement, certification, regulatory requirements along with interfacing with external community partners and agencies.

She supervises treatment plans and assessments, and develops, coordinates, implements, and evaluates prevention and educational activities for both clinical staff and clients. Krista’s principal function is to lead a team of compassionate staff to care for individuals suffering from addiction and/or co-occurring disorders. She has more than a decade of experience working in both community counseling and substance abuse treatment centers, including outpatient, intensive in-home, and residential care for all age groups, She holds a master’s degree in community counseling and is dual licensed in both New Mexico and North Carolina. She is part of the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) review team in the Southwest.

Martin is a Mesilla Valley native and a graduate of Western New Mexico University (WNMU), holding a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. He is also trained in EMDR by EMDRIA. Martin has been with Zia from the start; he originally was contracted to assist with initial operation tasks, he later became one of the first rehab technicians, and within a year’s time Martin became a Lead Tech in a management position. Martin was then tasked to another leadership role as Admissions Coordinator with the organization. Martin assisted in the creation and implementation of a system in the admissions process that reflects the vision put forth by Zia Recovery Center. Today Martin is a part of the Clinical Team where he uses his personal experiences in recovery, his education in the Chemical Dependency field, and his time in military service to relate to clients and assist them in their journey to become the best versions of themselves. Martin is guided by the spiritual principles of love, integrity, patience, and compassion. He also relies on the amazing team that works alongside him to provide the best possible care for ZRC clients, with a knack for keeping things lively.

Martin states. “The work that I am privileged to do at ZRC is a direct result of a couple of guys in recovery that wanted to help people as we were once helped. Today it has turned into a thriving recovery community that I am proud to call Family. ZRC is a beacon of hope for addicts that are ready to change their lives and my favorite part is getting to watch people that were once hopeless regain control of their lives and develop the desire to pass it on to others in need.”

-Martin Medina LSAA, CPSW

 

Matthew began his career with Peak Behavioral Health in Santa Teresa, NM. Matthew came to us through contract work and his talents were noticed immediately. Mr. Bryan is now our most recent addition to our in-house FT Therapeutic team.

Background in Therapy for dual diagnosis, Mental Health and Chemical Dependency, and Crisis Intervention and Admissions. Matthew graduated from the University of Texas El Paso with his Bachelor’s of Social Work in 2018 and earned his Master’s of Social Work from the same college in 2019.

Rita started working at Zia Recovery Center in August of 2020. Before that she worked primarily in the retail field.  She was brought into the organization as an administrative assistant. Rita takes on new challenges as the organization grows and changes.  Rita’s devotion to the mission at Zia Recovery Center is showcased through her interactions the clients daily. Rita is a team player and admired by her colleagues and ZRC’s clients alike.

Rita states, “Although this is a very different pace than the retail space, I truly enjoy working with the clients and staff. The clients bring a lot of diversity into the program, each with their own struggles in life.  It is a pleasure to grow alongside them.  The rewards of working at Zia Recovery Center are many and priceless.”

Yasmin is a local from Las Cruces, born and raised. She has been with Zia Recovery Center since August 2022. Her time at ZRC began in the Withdrawal Management facility as a full time Rehabilitation Technician. Yasmin did obtain her CNA and has a great passion for showing empathy towards all the clients while they are getting well again. Yasmin has seen the “LIGHT” come back into many people’s eyes during her time at ZRC. In December 2023, Yasmin became Office Administrator at ZRC. She engages with each client daily, making them the priority and maintaining a good relationship with each client. She has experience in Salon management, so the fast pace of managing Zia and the clients is second nature to her. Yasmin enjoys seeing the client’s growth from the first day they arrive at Zia, until then graduating the program. She shared that sobriety is something so many people want but just don’t know how to begin. Working at Zia she has seen that there is a safe and effective place in her community to get clean and sober.

Yasmin states, “Instantly, I fell in love with the culture that Mental, Physical and even Spiritual Health matters to everyone who works at Zia. Seeing that the 12 steps and traditions are set in place to maintain the motivation to stay clean and sober. What an amazing tool for each client to have. Every day at Zia Recovery Center, I feel like I am living out my purpose in my hometown.”

Sarah started her career as a billing specialist after nearly three decades in the food service industry in Las Cruces, NM.  She attended Vista College Career Center where she studied to be a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist and Office Administrator. Sarah graduated with honors in 2019. After graduation in the winter of 2019 Sarah was hired as the front office receptionist here at Zia Recovery Center.  Two months later she began using her coding and billing knowledge to help Zia Recovery Center build a robust in-house billing system that has helped the organization grow into the amazing organization it is today.

Sarah has been married to her best friend for over 23 years now and is a mother to three wonderful boys. Sarah is also a grandmother to a wonderful baby girl. Sarah’s faith and family continue to make her grateful for her life today.

Sarah states, “Zia Recovery Center has not only given me the job of my dreams but also a family of people who understand recovery from addiction.”

Stephanie has been serving in the medical field since 2013. Stephanie’s skill set allowed her to be part of building out a successful billing and coding system for two other organizations in Albuquerque before relocating to Las Cruces.  Stephanie joined the Zia Recovery Center Family in the summer of 2020.  She has assisted in refining the billing processes that ZRC currently utilizes to adhere to ethical billing and reimbursement.

Stephanie’s education includes an associate of applied science in Health Information Technology as well as many years of experience in the billing and coding space.  As a billing specialist, she enjoys working with individuals who are suffering from addiction and ensuring those individuals can receive services.

Tacy Perkins has worked as a counselor in the substance abuse treatment field since 2015. She has worked with adults involved in federal and state criminal justice systems, as well as with clients who were not mandated to seek treatment. Tacy joined the Team at Zia Recovery Center as a full-time Primary Therapist in 2021. She is responsible for crisis intervention, assessment and diagnosis, treatment planning, individual counseling, and group therapy facilitation.

As a IFS Level 1 Trained Therapist, Tacy’s primary treatment approach is Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Tacy has also completed Basic Training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and is in the process of becoming an EMDR Certified Therapist through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). She has also completed EMDRIA-approved training for the use of EMDR with the IFS PARTS Protocol to treat clients with PTSD and Complex-PTSD. Tacy’s clinical interests include evidence-based and trauma-informed practices for the treatment of trauma and complex/relational trauma; neurobiology of trauma, substance use disorders, and other mental health disorders; and the effects of substance use disorders and other types of dysfunction on family systems.

Tacy earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She became an independent Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas in 2018. In 2021, Tacy became an independent Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New Mexico. She is pursuing independent licensure for mental health counseling in New Mexico and Texas.

Bill started with the Zia Recovery Center in the summer of 2017.  Originally hired to cut down trees in the backyard, he continues to prove his value to the organization day after day.  Bill possesses the unique ability to relate to clients on a recovery level.  His unquestionable skills and service to the company and clients have put him in a position not many others could manage.  Responsible for every operational dynamic at our three different locations.  Bill leads an amazing Staff.  Bill also facilitates our 12-step curriculum.

Bill states, “I’m a Texan thru and thru, I’m in recovery myself and love sharing it with others.  I’m a CPSW along with every other hat I wear for the organization.  A real company man!  I helped and continue to help in designing several of the locations, the operations at the locations, roles for techs, maintenance, and anyone else that has needed help growing with the organization.”

Elliott Birkman was a previous client turned employee at Zia Recovery Center.  He came through the program when it was in its infancy.  The only service provided at that time was Sober Living.  Elliott does not say much, but what he doesn’t say, he does!  Action is the key word for Mr. Birkman.  Elliott went on after his treatment at ZRC to work in the community and anchor himself in the recovery community.  Elliott came aboard with ZRC as a rehabilitation technician and has gained a certificate as a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW).  He is now one of three Lead Techs for the organization.

Elliott states, “As a current employee of Zia I have been given the opportunity to grow in a life of recovery and service. As a lead tech and CPSW I strive to provide our clients with the help they need to reach their goals

Jocelyn is originally from Silver City, NM, although she has lived in Las Cruces, NM most of her life. She has an associates degree in general curriculum along with being a Certified Life Coach. While in the midst of making plans for her future, life happened. Jocelyn discovered and started working at Zia Recovery Center in 2021. Through her trials and tribulations, she has been able to use her own life experiences to be an asset here at Zia. While working at Zia she has also become a Certified Peer Support Worker and has aspiring dreams and goals to continue helping people in recovery.

Orenzo Daniels III has worked in the Recovery Field since 2017 and is currently the Lead Rehabilitation Tech of the Intensive Outpatient residence At Zia Recovery Center. Driven by many of his own experiences, he strives to become the best version of himself mind, body, and spirit. In addition to his primary duties, he is also a certified personal trainer. He uses his knowledge and expertise in fitness to facilitate groups focused on the importance of physical activity and nutrition.

Orenzo states. “If you are persistent, you will get it.  If you are consistent, you will keep it.”

“They said find a job you love and you will never work a day in your life! Today I am living that! I love working for a company that cares about and believes in every person who not only comes through the program but who also works here.”

Four years ago, Dave began his journey with Zia Recovery Center as a client. We had the pleasure of welcoming Dave and his service dog Zachary Taylor as they entered into recovery, together they are part of the wonderful culture of change here at Zia Recovery.

Davis aCPSW/CCSS.He currently serves as one of the case managers for Zia Recovery Center where it is his job to be an advocate for the clients and present them with viable resources to help them in their recovery journey. Dave is a local to Las Cruces and claims this as his hometown. He was part of a military family that traveled and lived in many different places. This has contributed greatly to his cultural humility. In1994Dave joined theUS Air Force where he attended their ForceAcademyandgraduatedwith his Bachelor of Science in Biology. He was a medical professional in the Air Force for 15 years. Dave also attained his degree from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in San Antonio in 2000 as a medical doctor. Dave is currently pursuing his master’s degree in counseling from Western New MexicoUniversityto even further grow his ability to serve the clients at Zia Recovery Center and beyond.

Dave States, “Zia Recovery Center has changed my life and it continues to positively affect my personal and professional life.”

Andy has the distinction of being one of the very first clients to go through the Zia program, while it was still sober living. Through this he was given the opportunity for a new life in recovery, including a family he loves dearly and co-workers that he considers to be a part of that family. He started his employee journey as a sober living tech, has since become a Certified Peer Support Worker and gained a certificate in Comprehensive Community Support Services. He now serves the clients by running the Peer Support Café and being of service as one of the case managers.

“Alcoholics and addicts, whether in active addiction or recovery, are my favorite people. I love being of service to a community, in a community, of people who are desperately trying to change their lives for the better, and because the employees at Zia have gone through these struggles, we have the ability to help effect that change.”

Ruth Started her journey with Zia Recovery Center in March of 2017 as a client. Initially Ruth had her own plans about her future, however, she became sold on the ideas being presented to her at the recovery center.  She states, “My life today is so much better than the one I had planned for myself.”

After leaving ZRC for a short time to pursue a career in Food Service Management Ruth returned to ZRC to share her natural abilities in customer service as a rehabilitation technician in our Inpatient Treatment Center. She gained certification as a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) in 2021 and Comprehensive Community Support Services (CCSS) in 2022. Ruth has earned her way from an entry level position in 2020 to a Lead Rehabilitation Technician in 2022 and now is the Admissions Coordinator for the organization. Again, Ruth is a natural at helping people over the initial fears of entering treatment.  She harnesses her spirit to guide prospective clients into the fold of Zia Recovery Center.  We are truly honored to have her in this crucial role in the organization. You will know when you have met Ruth, no one outshines her “cheery disposition.”

“More than anything I love the individuality of each one of the clients. I love watching the growth as they begin participating and doing service in the community. Above all else, I love to see family relationships mended. We all make mistakes, but recovery is possible.”

-Ruth Rice, CPSW, CCSS

Liana Medina, a proud native of Las Cruces, New Mexico, discovered her passion for recovery through her own transformative journey, which began on November 28, 2022. While she initially planned to pursue a career as a Radiology Technician, her path shifted when she felt called to apply at Zia Recovery Center.

In February 2023, Liana began her career at Zia as a Detox Rehabilitation Technician. From the very start, her dedication and empathy for others in recovery stood out. Her passion quickly grew, and she worked her way up to Lead Technician at one of Zia’s newest houses, helping guide others with compassion and purpose.

Now serving as Vocational Manager, Liana continues to make a meaningful impact, both within the program and the wider recovery community. Her journey has inspired a new professional goal: to become a licensed therapist specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, as well as Drug and Alcohol Counseling. She plans to begin her educational journey while continuing to grow and serve at Zia Recovery Center.

“From the very beginning, God and Zia helped me realize that the journey I once felt ashamed of was actually something beautiful—meant to be shared with those who feel hopeless. I’m truly blessed to be surrounded by such a supportive and loving family, one that I was fortunate to gain through both recovery and my place of employment.”

Although Nick is not from New Mexico, he has spent more time here than anywhere else he has lived and has planted roots in the recovery community and this town and now considers it home. Nick began his relationship with Zia Recovery Center as a client in 2020. After spending some time away from the program and gaining more experience in recovery and connecting with the community, he began working for Zia Recovery Center in March of 2022 as a rehabilitation technician. Nick spent some time working this position until becoming one of the Lead Techs. He uses the growth he taken from his time in recovery to encourage the people that come through the program to grow in the areas they came to work on in order to create a better life for themselves.

“This journey of recovery that began with Zia Recovery Center has been the most enriching thing to happen to me and I can’t express how much this program means to me. The fact I get to give back to this and help others to discover what I have is such a blessing. Seeing people grow out of their addictions and into the lives they deserve is one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had in life.”

Colleen Duran, Lead Rehabilitation Technician at Zia Recovery Center, was born and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico. She is passionate about giving back to the community that shaped her and strongly believes in the mission of Zia Recovery Center.

Through working at ZRC, Colleen has witnessed the impact recovery has on individuals and their families. She is dedicated to supporting those struggling with substance use and believes everyone deserves compassion, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

“Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens in community. I’m proud to serve the community that raised me and watch people reclaim the lives they deserve.”

Before joining Zia Recovery Center, Samantha had a strong interest in working in the recovery field and witnessing the resilience individuals demonstrate when prioritizing their recovery. Having never been an addict herself, Samantha did not fully appreciate the challenges many people face until she began working at Zia Recovery Center. Observing clients persevere through the program has been deeply rewarding and continually reinforces Samantha’s belief that recovery is possible.

“I came here not knowing what recovery truly looked like. Now I see it every day in the people who walk through these doors, and it reminds me why this work matters.”

In their role as Case Manager at Zia Recovery Center, Brodie is passionate about supporting individuals on their individual recovery journeys. As an Alumni of the ZRC program, Brodie brings both lived experience and deep empathy to their work, offering hope and understanding to those navigating recovery. With two years in personal recovery, Brodie is committed to helping others build stability, resilience, and meaningful change in their lives.

Brodie holds a Certified Community Support Specialist (CCSS) credential and is currently in the second semester of a master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Eastern New Mexico University. Originally from Bellingham, Washington, Brodie now lives in Las Cruces, New Mexico, with her son and two cats. Outside of work and school, they enjoy spending time in nature, collecting crystals, and sharing laughter with others.

“I know what it feels like to sit where our clients sit. That experience doesn’t leave you — it drives you to show up fully for others the way people showed up for you.”

Selina is a native of Las Cruces, NM. She came to Zia Recovery Center as a client in 2023 and began her own journey in recovery. She continues to utilize the support and tools received while at ZRC. After building a strong foundation in recovery, she returned in 2024 in an entry level position as a Rehabilitation Technician and later advanced into her current role as a Lead Rehabilitation Technician. Because of her personal experience in recovery, Selina offers a compassionate and relatable perspective in her work with clients. Her passion for helping others comes from her own journey and the second chance she was given. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Community Counseling, furthering her commitment to supporting individuals in recovery and mental health. Today, she is a dedicated parent to her two boys and is committed to helping others rediscover hope and begin rebuilding their lives in recovery

“I know what it’s like to sit where our clients sit, because I’ve been there. Getting a second chance changed my life, and now I get to help others find theirs. Being a part of someone’s recovery is the greatest gift I’ve ever been given.”

Christopher came down to Las Cruces in 2021 from Albuquerque, NM, seeking recovery, and was a client at Zia Recovery Center. After many attempts at recovery, multiple hospitals, institutions, and treatment facilities, he has been sober and clean since July 2023 and has worked for ZRC since Sept 2024. Christopher knows about the “gift of desperation” and shares his experience in addiction and recovery, and carries a message of hope to those who still struggle. Christopher brings caring, compassion, and relatability to clients as well as attention to detail, structure, and organization to the withdrawal management property, where he is Lead Tech.

“I had been to my fair share of treatment centers and institutions, and I had to learn the hard way that there is a difference between relief and recovery. ZRC really made a difference for me and helped direct me towards lasting recovery and a happier way of life. I’m there for the ones I love today, my passions for art have returned, my son has his father, and my parents have their son. Life is better today, and I can manage whatever comes up without the need to drink or drug.”

James is a Case Manager at Zia Recovery Center, passionate about helping others find hope and strength in their recovery journey. James holds a Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. He is currently pursuing a second Master’s degree in Social Work, blending both academic knowledge and a deep personal commitment to supporting others.

As a Certified Community Support Specialist (CCSS) and Licensed Substance Abuse Associate (LSAA), James provides compassionate guidance and practical tools to clients. Having once been a client himself, he understands firsthand that recovery is not always easy—but it is always worth it. James’ mission is to walk alongside each person, offering encouragement, resources, and support as they work toward healing in all its forms.

“If you could erase all of the mistakes of your past, you would also erase the wisdom of your present. Remember the lesson, not the disappointment.”

Diana Hart grew up in a rural New Mexico town, where she first discovered her passion for helping others through her high school’s peer support program for mental health. She went on to study psychology at Western New Mexico University and is currently pursuing her degree to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through an online program. Diana enjoys working with Zia Recovery Center, where she is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to healing and growth.

“I could not have asked for a better team to work with and I really enjoy getting to watch people get their hope back and rediscover themselves.”

Robert is honored to serve as a therapist at Zia Recovery Center. A native of Albuquerque, he has been active in the recovery community since 2018. His career began as a children’s and youth pastor, where he also volunteered as a mentor in his men’s recovery group. Those experiences sparked his passion for walking alongside others in their healing journeys and led him to pursue a degree in mental health counseling at New Mexico Highlands University.

In 2024, Robert and his wife relocated to Las Cruces, and he joined Zia Recovery Center as an intern in May 2025. After earning his LSAA, he was invited to stay on as a primary therapist. Robert finds deep fulfillment in facilitating group discussions and working one-on-one with clients, helping them build resilience, pursue their goals, and live in alignment with their values.

Sarah began her journey with Zia in 2024 as a curious student. Over time she realized she had found a home. She has since grown into her role as a full-time therapist, grateful to be a part of Zia’s supportive team. Her approach centers on meeting clients where they are while helping them uncover and articulate their personal goals as they navigate the recovery process.

As a Las Cruces native with years of international living experience, Sarah brings a unique cultural perspective to her clinical work that contributes to the collaborative strength of the team. Her compassionate nature, active listening skills, and genuine interest in others make her both approachable and effective in fostering therapeutic relationships. She is deeply committed to supporting each client’s path to healing and growth.

Life began again for Scott in 1992 as he faced 22 years in a federal penitentiary for something done in a black out and he does not remember to this day. But that started his journey. Scott had a great 20 year long journey in sales finishing up with 12 years in the solar power industry when divorce wrecked his life and his idea of himself. Returning to what he foundationally knew, the 12 steps, he rebuilt his life doing what he loved all along, working with alcoholics and addicts.

He obtained his Masters of Social Work from NMSU and went to work as a therapist. He has worked with homeless veterans and at risk youth in the legal system as well as with addictions. His greatest asset is having lived through all the ways to screw up. “No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experiences can benefit others” P84, Big Book of AA.

Brooke Peña is a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) who embodies resilience, compassion, and dedication to the recovery community. With over four years of strong sobriety, Brooke’s personal journey has shaped the foundation of her work and her passion for helping others. Once a client herself, she experienced firsthand the transformative power of peer support, hope, and accountability. It was during this season of healing that she dreamed of one day giving back in the same way—walking alongside others as they discovered their own strength and capacity for change.

Today, Brooke proudly serves at Zia Recovery Center, where she channels her story into purpose. She creates a supportive environment for clients by listening without judgment, sharing her lived experiences, and encouraging others to believe in themselves even when the road feels uncertain. Brooke views her work not simply as a career, but as a calling. She believes that lived experience carries an unmatched power to inspire, empower, and connect, and she sees it as her responsibility to be the same source of hope for others that she once needed.

Brooke’s role goes beyond guiding clients through difficult moments; she models perseverance, personal growth, and the importance of community in recovery. She is deeply committed to breaking the stigma around addiction and showing others that long-term recovery is not only possible but can be full of joy and fulfillment.

Recovery has brought many gifts into Brooke’s life, the most cherished being her family. She is a devoted mother and wife who treasures being present for every milestone and everyday moment alike. Outside of her professional role, Brooke enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and creating lasting memories with her loved ones. These experiences continue to remind her of the richness of life that sobriety has made possible.

Brooke Peña’s journey stands as a testament to the power of hope, courage, and giving back. She remains dedicated to uplifting others, one person at a time, with the simple but profound belief that recovery is worth it—and that no one has to walk the path alone.

Stephanie began her healing journey at Zia Recovery Center in November 2021. Inspired by the ZRC’s supportive environment, she pursued further involvement after completing the program. She worked in retail, became a rehabilitation technician for Zia, attended college, and earned a degree in health information technology and medical billing. She now applies her skills in Zia Recovery Center’s billing department, continuing her commitment to helping others.

Recovery is not just about healing yourself—it’s about using your strength to help others find hope and purpose. Joining Zia Recovery Center’s billing department has brought exciting challenges and growth. I’m inspired to use my skills to support Zia’s mission and be part of a team making a real difference.

Anjelica began her journey at Zia Recovery Center as a Case Manager, bringing her passion for supporting others in recovery to the Las Cruces community. She is a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) and Community Support Specialist (CCSS) and recently achieved her Licensed Substance Abuse Associate (LSAA) credential. These roles allow her to combine lived experience, professional training, and compassion to walk alongside clients on their path to recovery.

Outside of her professional life, Anjelica brings the same energy and positivity to her family, friends, and community. She is passionate about uplifting others, creating connections, and celebrating growth in all its forms.

“Being part of Zia Recovery Center means more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to give back, grow, and be surrounded by people who truly believe in recovery.”