Meet The Team

Brittany began working at Cirque Lodge in 1999 and by 2008 was working as a member of the management team, overseeing different aspects of the functional operations side of our facilities. Over the next 12 years she continued in this capacity, working side by side with our then Executive Director. In 2020 she began overseeing the revenue side of the organization being chiefly responsible for admissions and marketing, as well as being intimately involved in the 80,000 square foot expansion of the studio location. She was named Executive Director in March 2022. Brittany is the mother of six children and besides her passion for her family and her field, she is deeply involved in volunteerism for the local school system and her church. Brit enjoys spending time with her husband Rob, working out, skiing, travel, and she considers herself an avid gardener!

Nic began working at Cirque Lodge in 2013 as an executive assistant. During his tenure Nic has worked with nearly every department in the organization. He currently manages the day to day functional aspects of our operation, providing administrative oversight for a number of departments in coordination with the other members of the Executive Committee. Nic is dedicated to the work we do here and values the opportunity to help others along their own journey to wellness.

Bev is originally from New York City where she studied at the State University of New York at New Paltz and Stony Brook. She relocated to Utah and completed her graduate work at the University of Utah earning her Master of Social Work. Bev has worked in the substance use treatment field for over 30 years. She often expresses her passion and fervor for chemical dependency treatment and residential care. She believes, when done well, there is nothing more transformative and powerful than residential treatment for both the chemically dependent and their families. Bev has family who have suffered from substance use that have been profoundly helped by residential care and are now in sustained recovery. She enjoys being a mentor for fledgling therapists and has taught at the University of Utah, College of Social Work for more than 15 years. As clinical director she helms the entirety of the clinical program at Cirque Lodge and has been a guiding light within the program for more than 20 years and in 2014 was the recipient of the Cirque Lodge Lifetime Service award.

Dave’s greatest pleasure comes from his family and his passion to have adventure in his life. This sense of adventure launched him into a lifelong career with Cirque Lodge. He has been here from the beginning and deems it a great honor to have witnessed the vision of Cirque become a powerful reality. Prior to his time here, Dave was involved with an organization that facilitated life changes in people. This background helped form the experiential part of the Cirque Lodge program. He believes that it has been and continues to be a great learning experience to work with the residents that come to Cirque. Standing alongside them and watching as they work through the disease of addiction and reclaim that part of their soul that was lost is one of his greatest blessings. As experiential director, Dave leads his team through the process of crafting and creating opportunities for our residents to engage in that spiritual journey.

Nathan began working at Cirque Lodge in the summer of 2008 and has over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Nathan earned his Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science & Psychology with a Minor in Geology, graduating Cum Laude and went on to earn his Master of Social Work degree at Utah Valley University. He directs the overall facilitation of the program at Cirque Lodge and oversees the front line and medical departments in coordination with the clinical and experiential teams. He also oversees several operational departments, as well as the quality performance improvement and licensing team. As a licensed clinical social worker, he is also a member of the clinical team and carries a small case load. Nathan has adopted an existential orientation in his therapeutic work, often weaving mindfulness based skills and Gestalt techniques into his sessions and groups. He also has extensive training in crisis intervention, experiential therapy, suicide prevention, and EMDR trauma work. Nathan is also a member of the faculty at Utah Valley University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Social Work. Nathan was named the 2012 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year. Originally from Utah, he loves spending time in the local mountains and deserts, is an avid reader, and loves to collect rock and mineral specimens.

Rich began working with Cirque Lodge in 2001 and is one of the longest term members of the organization. He has worked in a variety of departments here, with an especially long tenure as a member of the experiential team where he focused on self-esteem developed, fitness, and self-defense. As IT Director, Rich manages and works with the IT and multimedia teams to support the clinical and programmatic mission of the organization, both internally and externally via our virtual service component of the program. He holds licensure as a substance use disorder counselor and facilitates groups here on site and virtually as a part of our aftercare program.

Starla has been working at Cirque Lodge for more than 20 years, first starting here in the summer of 2000 and initially held the role of program coordinator at the lodge. She is currently the Executive Assistant to the Founder and CEO, and she has a broad range of executive, operational, financial, and general administrative responsibilities. She is also intimately involved with licensing and quality performance improvement. Starla has loved working in this field, seeing the miracles that happen through working the 12 Step, and seeing the lives of those who suffer from the disease change, and their relationships heal. In her free time, she most enjoys being with her husband, six children, grandchildren, and being in the sunshine.

Gary has been involved in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years, having been a board member for the Utah Council for Crime Prevention, the Recovery Management Alliance, and the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, a past chair for the NAATP Leadership Convention, and President of the Cirque Lodge Foundation. He has worked tirelessly in our industry to weave the threads of collegial good nature between facilities, always giving of his time, energy, and experience to help those organizations and individuals in need and in 2010 received the Promises Foundation Award for Distinguished Service in the field of recovery. Gary served as Executive Director of Cirque Lodge for most of its existence, guiding and developing the program into what it is today. In the spring of 2022, Gary announced his intention to step back from daily operations at Cirque, becoming an Emeritus Director. His ever present energy and zeal, laughter and love, and steadfast dedication was and continues to be an inspiration to the team here. Most importantly, he has and continues to serve in his local 12 step community, carrying the message of hope to the addict and alcoholic who still suffers.

Aaron has been with Cirque Lodge since 2009 and has more than 25 years of experience working in the behavioral health field, including time working with the juvenile justice system, inpatient psychiatry, and community mental health. He has specialized in substance use issues and has worked in the residential, outpatient, and intensive outpatient levels of care. Aaron utilizes an eclectic approach to treatment with a strong foundation in rational emotive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and contextual therapy. He has a significant interest in understanding the impact of transgenerational trauma on families and has lectured around the country on this topic. As the clinical coordinator for the lodge, Aaron oversees the overall clinical experience of residents while carrying a caseload and supervising the other clinical staff. Aaron is a member of the faculty at the University of Utah, College of Social Work, teaching in the Substance Abuse Counseling Program.

Kelly has worked in behavioral health for nearly 20 years and began working at Cirque Lodge in 2008. He is clinical coordinator for the studio clinicians and maintains a therapeutic case load as well. Kelly comfortably adjusts his therapeutic approach to best meet the needs of his clients, often utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, and mindfulness interventions. His client-centered and strength based approach is successful in helping others increase personal awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptomology, and increase personal accountability. He loves seeing the positive changes that can take place in a person’s life when they choose recovery and the path of healing, and when they learn how to actualize their potential through increased awareness, hard work and rebuilding trust in their relationships. Kelly holds undergraduate degrees in computer animation, behavioral science-psychology, and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Kelly was named the 2013 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and in his free time, he enjoys hiking, traveling, and watching movies.

LeeAnn began her tenure with Cirque Lodge in 2007, though she has worked in the field since 1994. As clinical lead for the women’s program at the studio, LeeAnn teams with the rest of the clinical staff in delivering the key components of our program, including daily group therapy, twice weekly individual counseling and the intensive family program which is offered every three weeks. LeeAnn has a specialty in art therapy and codependency, having earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Utah and her Master of Arts Expressive Therapy degree from the University of Louisville. She has additional specialty training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Brain Spotting, and domestic violence. LeeAnn loves to focus on the universal issues all those in recovery share while still being able to root out the unique facets of each individual’s personal journey in life. Being witness to the moment when hope and self-love are rediscovered is especially meaningful to her. Originally from Provo, Utah, LeeAnn lived in Louisville, Kentucky for 12 years before returning to Utah in 2007. She loves to ride her Harley, garden, volunteer, and pursue her own artistic endeavors in a variety of media.

Mikey is a counselor in the men’s program at the studio and has been a part of the Cirque Lodge family since 2008. Mikey first came to Cirque as a member of the front line team and rose to become a long time leader in the department, helping to guide and develop many generations of staff. He earned his Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate from the University of Utah and is currently a licensed SUDC and is well on his way to completing his degree in social work. Mikey brings his years of knowledge and experience with the 12 steps to the clinical team, and continually refocuses the resident’s energy into that work, concentrating on redevelopment of affirming belief systems, accountability, structure, integrity, spirituality, and most importantly consistency in all these areas. He hopes by doing this work, he can help others stem the course of their addictions and not end up in the same place he did through his own use. He loves to see their hearts come alive and to see families heal. Mikey is a motorcycle enthusiast, an avid and passionate photographer, and loves the arts and dance. Originally from Holladay, Utah and currently living in Provo he loves Utah and all it’s amazing landscapes.

Francine has over 25 years of experience in family systems and codependency recovery. Francine brings this experience, as well as her broad knowledge concerning one’s connection to true self, issues of abuse, family dysfunction, neglect, and trauma to the clinical team. She has a personal understanding of addiction and brings the perspective of a daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend of those who suffer from the disease to bear in her work. Originally from California, she has lived in Utah since 2005 and began working with Cirque Lodge in 2011. She is a published author, a motivational speaker, a former educator, and a yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practitioner. After completing her graduate work in mental health, Francine went on to become a certified Gottman Marriage Specialist, and is additionally trained in brain spotting and psychodrama. She most likes to focus on healing through mindful based recovery and exudes an effervescent energy of love and positive regard for all people.

Brian prides himself on bringing a straightforward and passionate approach to his work in the field of substance use. He has been a member of the clinical team here at Cirque Lodge since August of 2016. He is particularly adept at weaving his years of experience in community mental health and community based therapeutic alliance building into his work here. Brian has a strong foundation in advocacy, especially on behalf of the homeless, incarcerated individuals, and those struggling with substance use concerns exacerbated by underlying psychiatric issues. His efforts have drawn local and national attention and he was a finalist for the Jasper G Chen-See National Volunteer of the Year award. Brian earned his Master of Social Work and his Substance Use Disorder Counselor Degrees from the University of Utah. He has also served as faculty at the University of Utah, College of Social Work and additionally serves on the Utah State Board of Pardons. Brian was named the 2017 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for his care and dedication to the team. He is married and loves to spend time with his wife Shirlynn, and their golden doodle. He also loves to ride motorcycles.

Wendy has over 15 years of experience in substance use treatment and the behavioral health field, a decade of which was spent working with adolescents. She has a passion for empowering others in finding the truest version of themselves. In her clinical work, she relies heavily on mindfulness based techniques and has extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy given her love for those who struggle with emotional dysregulation and underdeveloped life skills. Wendy completed her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2015 and joined the Cirque Lodge team in 2016. She is originally from Wisconsin but has called Utah home for more than 20 years. She loves spending time with her family and dogs.

Candice was born and raised in Littleton, Colorado until the age of 12 when her family moved to Lindon, Utah. She is a kind and compassionate individual whose desire to help is demonstrated through her genuine concern and dedication to her clients. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than a decade of clinical experience, having received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Utah State University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah. Candice is EMDR certified and has been EMDR Child Specialist Intensive trained. She most utilizes CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic and Sand Tray in her clinical work and has specializations in working with veterans with military trauma, depression, anxiety, and physical and sexual abuse. Candice loves to encourage change that motivates and empowers her clients to be the best version of themselves, find their potential, and discover the ability to heal. She is currently enrolled at Walden University where she is working towards her Doctorate’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in addictions. Candice enjoys spending time with her 15 nieces and nephews and is quite the Disney nerd who can duel anyone in a Disney Trivia challenge!

Darran is a member of the Cirque Lodge clinical team, coming on board in 2022. He most enjoys seeing residents recognize within themselves the strength, resilience, and potential that others see within them. He has expressed many times that helping residents work through core issues and seeing how they flourish as they do so is truly rewarding. Darran completed his undergraduate degree at Utah State University in 2004, majoring in Psychology, and completed his graduate degree in Social Work at the University of Utah in 2015. He first began to work with substance use issues in graduate school and has stayed in the field ever since. He has a broad interest in trauma and inner child work. Darran loves to fish and hunt and enjoys the outdoors in general. He also loves to try new and different foods, but most loves to spend time with his wife and children.

Drew is originally from Atlanta, Georgia and transitioned to Salt Lake City, Utah in the summer of 2021. He began working professionally in the field in 2018 and began his tenure with Cirque Lodge in October 2022. As a member of the clinical team, he focuses on individual and group psychotherapy, and has a special passion for sound therapy meditation. Drew most appreciates the opportunity to help others heal from old wounds and traumas, assisting in the process of getting in touch with their higher self along their psychological and spiritual journey. Drew completed his undergraduate studies at Georgia State University, majoring in philosophy and minoring in psychology, and earned his master’s degree in clinical social work from Kennesaw State University. His area of specialization is mindfulness/meditation and existentialism. In his free time, he loves to meditate, play music, and enjoys listening to everything from heavy metal to the native American flute. He also enjoys rock climbing, cooking, and going to the movies.

Heather has worked in the behavioral health field since 2016 and joined Cirque Lodge in the fall of 2022. She currently lives in Vineyard, Utah but has lived all over the western united states and has also lived in Germany. As a member of the clinical team, Heather most loves working one on one with our residents. She notes how important it is to see each resident as a mother, father, sister, brother, son, or daughter who is deserving of love, support, and help. Her compassionate nature is seen and felt by both the residents and staff alike and is motivated by her own experience as a daughter of an alcoholic who passed away because of his disease. She holds undergraduate degrees in early childhood education, K-12 teaching, and a master’s degree in counseling and student affairs, and is also a licensed cosmetologist, barber, and aesthetician having previously worked in that field. She is EMDR, CBT and ACT certified and has extensive training as a trauma informed yoga specialist.

Jill is originally from Los Angeles, California but has lived in Utah most of her adult life. She comes to Cirque Lodge with almost ten years of behavioral health experience. In 2017, she left Utah for New England to complete her graduate studies, returning in 2023 whereupon she joined the clinical team here. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Utah Valley University and a Master of Social Work degree with an emphasis in Trauma and Violence from Boston University. She places significant value in helping her clients discover their own passion for what is possible. She believes that through authentic human connection and structured work, everyone can increase their capacity for change, and engage in the hard work that is necessary to do so. She has additional training in whole family wellness and parenting education, as well as trauma response parenting, attachment theory practice techniques, and polyvagal theory practice techniques. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her children and grandchildren, gardening, music, theater, and dance.

Alex has been a licensed Physician Assistant since 2021, having previously worked as an EMT and Firefighter. Originally from Pleasant Grove, Utah, he has lived here in Utah most of his adult life, moving for a brief time to pursue his graduate studies. Joining the medical team in 2023, he helps to oversee residents physical and mental health while they are here in treatment. In particular, he is grateful that he gets to spend most of his time ensuring a safe and welcoming admission and detox process for our clients when they are at their most vulnerable, both emotionally and physically. He enjoys being able to help others see and take advantage of the opportunities provided in recovery and was drawn to the field after seeing the pain and damage caused by addiction in individuals and families close to him. Alex hold a Bachelors of Science degree in Emergency Management from Utah Valley University and a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies from Idaho State University. When not at work, he loves to spend time with his family, being outdoors, hiking, and going to the gym.

Dr. Watkins is the attending physician and medical director here at Cirque Lodge and has been with us since 2017. In this role, he oversees the care of our residents, from the moment they admit, through their transition to continuing care. He leads the medical team with the utmost professionalism, care, concern, and compassion and Cirque Lodge counts itself lucky to have him. Dr. Watkins is originally from Texas but has spent most of his life split between California and Utah. He completed his undergraduate studies with a double major in Economics and Biology at Brigham Young University after which he went on to medical school at The Ohio State University, graduating with his MD in Allopathic Medicine in 2011. He spent his early career in Emergency Medicine. Dr. Watkins has said that he got into medicine thinking he was most interested in the science, not the people, but that it turns out that he most loves the people. He believes that addiction medicine gives him a chance to genuinely know his patients on the realest of levels. He stays in this field because, as he says, “substance abuse treatment is where my people are, both coworkers and residents.” Dr. Watkins was named the 2020 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for his tireless efforts. His favorite leisure activities include live music, poetry, theater, film, and woodworking.

Dr. Miller is the consulting psychiatrist at Cirque Lodge and was in fact the first psychiatrist here back in 1999 when he was still early in his career. He consults with the medical team and is always available to meet with and assess our residents for their co-occurring psychiatric needs. Cirque Lodge was excited to welcome him back to the team in 2018. Originally from Oklahoma, he completed his undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering in 1985 and went on to earn his MD at the University of Oklahoma in 1989. Dr. Miller has worked in the field of psychiatry since graduating medical school and in addiction medicine since 1994. Dr. Miller loves the work, and loves seeing people get better and get back to being themselves free of the chains of addiction. He continues to work in this field primarily as he is in recovery himself and personally knows the value of the work to those he is treating. In his free time, he can often be found paragliding and is always excited to share a story about one of his adventures in the air.

Originally from Mississippi, Adrianne is a board certified nurse practitioner and came to Cirque Lodge in 2018. She began her nursing career over 20 years ago and initially focused on labor and delivery and emergency medicine. She also worked in her grandfather and uncle’s family practice clinic during this time, specializing in addiction medicine. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree and Master of Science in Nursing Degree at the University of Alabama and holds a national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as an Adult Nurse Practitioner. For the 10 years prior to coming to Cirque Lodge, Adrianne’s focus was on hospital based cardiology and internal medicine, with significant experience in managing detox patients. She was named the 2020 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for her care and dedication to the team. Adrianne and her husband have four wonderful children, an amazing daughter in law and two grandchildren and counting. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, reading, camping, and hiking.

Liz first started working here at Cirque Lodge in 2015 and stayed here through 2017. In that brief two year stretch she quickly became a vital part of the medical team and assumed the position of Nursing Coordinator. She took a two year hiatus from Cirque Lodge to pursue another opportunity, returning in 2019 and returning to her former position as coordinator. She is originally from Provo, Utah and has lived here her entire life. Liz oversees the nursing and detox team, working with the staff to offer safe, caring, and compassionate care during what can be a very uncomfortable time in the treatment process. Liz has shared that being able to watch the growth and progression from detox through treatment warms her heart. Liz came to the substance use treatment field given her own family’s history of addiction and the difference she knows treatment can make. Liz was also named the Cirque Lodge 2022 Angel of the Year for her service and dedication to the team. In her leisure time, she loves to travel, read, work in her garden, and spend time with her family.

Hailey began working at Cirque Lodge in 2014. This was her first introduction to the field, and she was drawn to the work as she has family who have had their own struggles with addiction. Hailey first began in the front line department here at Cirque. She eventually been a coordinator within the department, helping to oversee the staff and the overall delivery of the program in coordination with the clinical and operational departments. In her current role as Medical Coordinator, she supports the providers and greater medical team in offering attentive, compassionate, and focused medical care to our residents and coordinates these services with the nursing, front line, clinical, experiential, and operational teams. She also oversees medical records including documentation and transfer of records. She continues to stay with Cirque because she loves to witness the amazing transformations our residents get to move through. Hailey loves to travel, and most importantly, spend time with her two beautiful daughters.

Jake was born in Idaho, grew up in Salt Lake City, UT and lived in New York City for about five years. He began working in the field when he came to Cirque Lodge in 2015 working as a front line staff. He quickly advanced in the department before transitioning to work with the experiential team, where he currently coordinates and manages the departments activities at the lodge. Jake came to work in the field of recovery as he believes it is where he can do the most good, helping residents grow to believe in themselves and recognize what they are truly capable of. Jake was a personal trainer for more than ten years and a functional fitness coach for more than five. He is working toward his black belt in jiu jitsu and has been pursing this since 2016. He loves spending time with this family, friends, and is proud to be pursuing his education. He earned his Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2022 and is on course to complete his Master of Social Work degree in 2023, both of which he completed at Utah Valley University. Jake was named the 2016 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for his care, concern, and dedication to the staff team.

Randy is our mainstay in the experiential department, having been with Cirque Lodge since 2003. He coordinates and manages the experiential program for the studio, and brings his love of climbing, hiking, gardening, and photography to bear within the program. Randy has hiked thousands of miles during his tenure, exposing residents to the healing powers of nature, and offering them unique opportunities to connect to their spiritual self through these experiences. Randy was named the 2014 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for his unfailing dedication to this work.

Janice is a specialist within the experiential department, managing the horse work we offer here, and overseeing the stables. Originally from Owen, Wisconsin she currently lives in Salem, Utah having moved here in 1970 for college. She brings more than 40 years of experience to bear in her work here, having previously been an equestrian trainer, competitor, and coach. She also previously managed a 50-75 horse boarding facility. Janice talks about having grown up with horses and was lucky to begin her training at a very young age and being able to work with Olympic level trainers in numerous disciplines. Janice says how rewarding it is to witness the residents connect with horses and recognize how their work with the animals emulates how they behave in their own relationships and life issues, and in the process find the motivation to change. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor’s in Veterinary Science and is currently a member of the faculty at Utah Valley University where she teaches anatomy. In her free time, she loves reading, hiking, and going to horse competitions with her daughter and granddaughters.

Cheryl has been with Cirque Lodge since 2010. She came to Utah from California in 2004, and previously lived in Hawaii where she earned her Bachelors in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University Hawaii. She is a member of our experiential team and has a fitness specialty focusing on strength and conditioning. She loves working in a field where she gets to help others develop trust, challenge themselves through the hands on activities they participate in, and break down old beliefs about what they could and couldn’t do. Seeing people go from zero to ten on a physical level, while healing and becoming whole through sobriety is why she continues to work in this field. In her free time, Cheryl loves engaging in horse work, muay Thai, coaching at a local MMA gym, and spending time with her children and grandkids. She also loves to hike and walk her dog.

David began working at Cirque Lodge in 2017, just after moving to Utah. He is originally from Manorville in Long Island, New York. As a member of the experiential team here, David gets to take the residents through the rigors of reestablishing a baseline physical state while engaging in fun activities. He most enjoys showing how this work relates to growth in recovery and learning to overcome one’s own challenges. He was drawn to this as he is in recovery himself, and treatment helped to change his life. David studied at Touro College in New York where he completed his degree to become a Physician’s Assistant. However due to his use and time in treatment, he was unable to a receive his degree. David chose to walk forward focusing on his recovery and is proud of the work he now gets to do. He is a certified ocean lifeguard, wilderness fist responder, phlebotomist, medical assistant, EKG technician, and CrossFit Level 1 & 2 instructor. In his free time, he loves to hike, ski, snowboard, lift, climb and engage in basically any physical activity you could think of. He also dedicates time to meditation, service work, and playing chess.

Aimee is a member of our experiential team and primarily works with the residents and the horses. She helps promote self-awareness and mindfulness through energy awareness, body language, and breath while doing work with the horses. She loves to facilitate connection, which many express is the opposite of addiction. She began working at Cirque Lodge in 2022 and has worked in educational and therapeutic environments with people and horses since 2011. Aimee chose to work in substance use treatment as it is an area that touches her own life experience. She knows of the healing power of nature and animals in her own life and is passionate about integrating them into a recovery program for others. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, she currently lives here in Orem, Utah. She attended the University of Denver where she majored in cognitive neuroscience and minored in art. She is also a certified therapeutic riding instructor. In her free time, she enjoys snowboarding, climbing, music and art. She also loves getting into the mountains as much as possible.

Hewy is originally from Oahu, Hawaii and was raised on the island of Kauai. His family moved to American Fork, Utah when he was in high school, after which he went on to live in Arizona for 12 years where he began his piloting career. He currently lives in Pleasant Grove, Utah with his wife and has been back in Utah for more than 20 years. Hewy is the Pilot here at Cirque Lodge, joining the team in 2010, but has been flying professionally for more than 20 years. Hewy has the awesome opportunity to fly our residents on the company helicopter, taking them through the beautiful Wasatch Mountains which the lodge sits in, and the studio sits at the base of. Each flight lands in the heart of the Wasatch where the residents get to experience the majesty of the mountains. Hewy appreciates witnessing the little miracles that take place on each flight and the quiet moments on the mountain. He holds a Bachelor’s in Operations Management and is a rated helicopter ATP and designated helicopter pilot examiner for the FAA. When he’s not working, he enjoys outdoor activities, fitness, riding motorcycles and spending time with his family.

Tammy has been with Cirque Lodge since 2014. She facilitates the experiential art program here and loves experiencing the joy and happiness the residents discover when challenging themselves artistically, grasping new concepts, and tapping into their own creativity. Her main medium in her own work is clay, primarily throwing pottery on the wheel, and specializing in alternative style firing processes. Tammy is originally from Provo, Utah, and she holds a Bachelor’s in Fine Art from Utah Valley University.

Meghan is the Alumni Services & Foundation Director here at Cirque Lodge. In these roles she oversees ongoing alumni events, activities, and outreach services, which are a vital part of our ongoing support for all residents who pass through our doors, as well as the philanthropic arm of the organization which supports treatment opportunities for those in need. She has worked in the field since 2013 and joined Cirque in 2017. Originally from Massachusetts, she came west to follow the snow which ultimately led her to find her own healing and recovery in the mountains of Utah. She often remarks about how significant it is for her to be able to help others here at Cirque Lodge, given the fact that she herself is an alum of the program. She has a great love for assisting others in establishing and maintaining long term sobriety and wellness, just as others once helped her. As a young adult, she traveled the world competing in alpine ski racing and was an NCAA Cum Laude student athlete. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire and is a Certified Peer Support Specialist. In her free time, she can be found spending time with her family, most especially her son Tripp.

Libby first began working at Cirque Lodge in 2013, joining the team after having completed her own treatment here. Libby first started as a receptionist and moved on to join the front line team, working directly with the residents as a mentor and program facilitator. In 2015 she took a four year hiatus, returning in 2019 to join the admissions department, and eventually moved on to become associate foundation director. Libby often speaks about how she loves being able to share her experience of going through Cirque Lodge as a resident and her own journey in recovery. She chose to work in substance use treatment because she wants to be of service to those that continue to suffer from the disease of addiction. In her free time, she loves hiking with her dog, traveling the world, and spending time with loved ones.

Julie has been with Cirque Lodge since 2004 and as one of the longest tenured members of the team, has worked in a variety of positions through the years. She has mostly dedicated her time to new resident program orientation, assessment, and treatment planning. Given this experience within the program it was no surprise when she joined the management team as resident services coordinator. In this role, Julie oversees the salon and massage and housekeeping departments, and coordinates multiple departments to ensure that residents here are comfortable, feel welcomed, and overall have a positive experience with the program and facility. Julie most enjoys watching our clients return to good health, both physically and mentally while here and finds great personal joy in helping them re-establish positive self-esteem. Julie was named the 2007 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year and the 2018 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and is the only member of the team to be distinguished with both awards in the history of the organization. She is originally from Cambridge, Nebraska and moved to Utah in 1998. In her free time, she enjoys walks, hiking and being out with her partner Brad.

Bri is originally from Northern California and made the move to Utah in 2016 when the opportunity to work at Cirque Lodge become a possibility. She first began to work in the substance use disorder field in 2013, having developed the desire to give back given her own journey through recovery. She has worked in almost every facet of the industry including admissions, sober living facilities, intensive outpatient, and inpatient programs. She began her career at Cirque Lodge in admissions department and is now the alumni coordinator where she facilities daily calls to check in on our clients as they navigate their first year of sobriety post treatment. Being a Cirque Lodge alumnus herself, she feels this brings a special and unique connection to every conversation she has with other alumni. Letting them know they are always supported, even after leaving our care, brings her joy and fulfillment. She also conducts the alumni zoom meetings and guesting services that Cirque Lodge offers all our past residents. Bri enjoys spending time with her husband, hiking, traveling, exploring national parks, and playing softball in the All Sober League. She is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in sociology with a focus on social and racial justice.

Kim began working at Cirque in the summer of 2016. She is a member of the front line team and rose through the leadership ranks to become program coordinator for the studio. In this role, Kim oversees the front line staff and shift leads, working with them to ensure the day to day facilitation of the program runs smoothly. She works closely with the clinical and experiential teams. As department head, she gets to focus more closely on the development of the staff and support them in their work, creating a productive and safe environment. Her favorite part of working with the clients is being able to help develop community and connection. She loves watching the light come back into someone’s eyes and being witness to their efforts in repairing relationships with their loved one’s but most importantly themselves. She has often been heard to say, “they inspire me”. Kim began working in the field as she saw how AA and the 12 Steps saved her brother’s life 10 years ago. She has incredible gratitude for the program and what it can do for the struggling addict and alcohol, and their family. Kim was named the 2022 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for steadfast, earnest, and dedicated work within the organization. When not at work, Kim loves live music, photography, yoga, biking, and travel.

Shawn was born in American Fork, Utah but was raised here in Orem, just five blocks west of Cirque Lodge’s studio location. He is an alum of the program, having been a resident here in early 2015. On his first year sobriety anniversary, Shawn joined the front line team and quickly moved to join the experiential department where he stayed for a little over six years. Shawn was able to move to admissions and outreach for a brief time before transitioning to become program coordinator for the lodge. In this role he helms the facilitation of the program at the lodge and supervises the front line team there. Shawn has deep appreciation for each new position he has had here and the opportunity they have given him to help as many people as possible in the same way he was helped when he was in treatment. He is grateful to pass on the miracle that was given so generously to him. Shawn was named the 2017 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and is a high energy individual that pours himself into physical activities, the gym, all water sports, the outdoors in general, and loves a good practical joke.

Courtney leads the admission department at Cirque Lodge. She considers the opportunity to work with residents and helping families in finding hope and healing a true gift. Originally from Indiana, Courtney graduated from Ball State University where she received her Bachelor’s in Psychology and upon graduating, she moved to Salt Lake City, Utah and to work with adolescents struggling with substance use and other co-occurring issues. Courtney then moved to California where she lived for 16 years. While in California she began working for the Betty Ford Center where she became the Director of Admissions. Given her love for health care and desire to help others, she went on to complete her Master’s in Health Services Administration at Regis University. Courtney and her husband, John, are the proud parents of two children. In her downtime, she enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, reading, painting, and sculpting.

Sean began working at Cirque Lodge in 2022 and is a member of our admissions team. Sean quickly became a strong and valued member of the department given his high level of willingness and genuine caring attitude. Sean loves being a part of helping future residents and their families navigate getting here and considers it an honor to be a part of their journey to recovery. Sean made the decision to work in the field as he knows firsthand how life changing treatment can be and how amazing it can be to move from a place of darkness to discovering purpose and meaning again. Originally from Sandy, Utah, he loves playing guitar and writing songs, and can often be found playing at his desk when not on the phone with future residents and families. He adores his three daughters and loves spending time with them.

Christa began working at Cirque Lodge in 2021. Originally from Manti, Utah and currently living in Orem, she is new to the field of substance use treatment after having had a long career as a stylist. She is a member of the admissions team and has also been our in house stylist and hairdresser. Christa loves connecting with the residents and values the unspoken bond she’s come to know between addicts and alcoholics in recovery. She is continually reminded about the importance of love, understanding, empathy, and authenticity through engaging in this work. She attended Snow College and is a licensed Cosmetologist and Barber. In her down time Christa loves kayaking, hiking, traveling, and just being lazy!

Natalia is originally from Sammamish, Washington and moved to Utah in the summer of 2018. She has worked at Cirque Lodge since August 2020 and is currently a member of the admissions department wherein she assists potential new residents and their families through the process of learning about our program, making the best decision for themselves regarding treatment, through getting settled and integrated into the program once here. Natalia is currently attending Utah Valley University, pursuing her Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration. Natalia feels inspired by the work people do here and recognizes how much courage and strength it takes to choose into treatment and into wellness. In her free time, she loves music, reading, and running.

Stephanie has worked in the behavioral health field for more than 20 years and is current the senior director for our outreach department, manages the day to day of our referral, family and public relations activities. She began her career after she had a family member move through the struggles of addiction, the process of treatment and healing, and into the joys of sustained recovery. For her part, helping other family members along their own journey into recovery became a passion for her. Prior to her current career, Stephanie taught special education and found her way into developing a preschool program for Temple Emanu-El Synagogue where she was named Director. She is originally from Birmingham, Alabama. She and her husband relocated to Provo, Utah in 2010 to join the Cirque Lodge family.

Daryl has been working in the field of substance use treatment since 1988 and got his start by working as a clinical assistant at Pine Grove Recovery Center. After his first year in the field, Daryl attended his first physician’s health conference where he immediately realized that working with professionals in the field of substance use treatment was to be his calling. He has since helped scores of physicians into treatment and ultimately into recovery. Over the years his titles have changed, but not his passion. Before taking his position with Cirque Lodge, he was the Executive Director of Business Development at the Betty Ford Center. His experience, strength, and hope has continued to serve as a beacon to those looking to build a life full of joy and fulfillment. Daryl is originally from Hattiesburg, Mississippi where he continues to live with his wife Lisa and their children Tyler, Corey, Mary Alice, and Logan, along with his beloved bulldog Sam.

Keith came to Cirque Lodge after years in the field as one of the country’s leading interventionists. He sits on the Board of Directors for the Association of Intervention Specialists and the Board of Directors for the Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors. He is a Certified ADAC and board registered interventionist. After referring many, many clients to Cirque Lodge through the years, Keith retired from being an active interventionist. He joined the team here in a position to offer his vast experience in working with families to our current clients, their families, and to the public at large. Keith expressed when coming on board, that he “wanted to work for a center where every employee believes they can make a difference.” He speaks nationally and internationally about the importance of a healthy treatment experience and the role of family support in that process and longer term personal recovery.

Gabe began working with Cirque Lodge in 2019. Prior to joining the team, he worked as VP Director of Outreach for Ascendant Detox in New York. He also held the position of Senior Treatment Placement Specialist with Acadia Healthcare. In these roles, he was tasked with helping individuals find treatment solutions that met their therapeutic and financial needs. He has been able to help countless individuals with treatment placement and has become a valued resource to the clinical community in New York City. He resides in upstate New York with his wife Sinead. Gabe’s love for helping others is fueled by his own personal experiences with drugs and alcohol. He currently serves as a board member for Big Vision, a non-profit located in New York City that provides sober fun events for young adults in sobriety.

David has worked in the substance use treatment field since 1990. He has served in NAADAC as an area and state President in Tennessee and has also served as Southeast Regional Vice President. He has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Henry A. She Professional of the Year Award, the State Professional of the Year Award in Tennessee, the Tim Kerin Red Ribbon Award for Community Achievement with Child and Family Services, and most recently, the Tennessee State Lifetime Achievement Award. He has also been made an honorary member of the Clean & Sober in the Wind Motorcycle Club of Portland, Oregon. David’s experience has included program development, supervision, counseling, intervention services, Equine Therapy, consulting, and organizational training. He is a passionate mentor to those entering the field, and an advocate for those continuing to suffer from substance use. David says that of all his accomplishments, his personal recovery and his family are among his greatest assets. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, fishing, landscaping, a good movie, and time with his wife Melissa and their four children

Jay has worked with Cirque Lodge since the fall of 2011. During most of that time, he worked in the front line department as program coordinator for the lodge. Jay has recently shifted to the outreach department, focusing on the Intermountain West. We are excited at the opportunity to have Jay in this position to better develop our professional relationships with colleagues and other programs close to home. Jay was born in Hawthorne, CA and moved to Utah at an early age. Jay has a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration, but often speaks about how his own recovery has been an education unto itself. He continues to do this work as he loves to help others beat their worst challenges, to see their countenance grow, and their light shine brighter. Jay was named the 2013 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for his love and dedication to the entire team. In his free time Jay loves all things water, even starting and chairing the local AA Paddle Board Meetings. He also enjoys live music, volleyball, and simply being in nature.

Jennifer has worked in the field of recovery for nearly 20 years and joined the Cirque Lodge family in 2008. For the first 13 years of her tenure Jennifer worked with the front line, eventually becoming the most senior lead at the studio location, responsible for program facilitation, staff training, and staff development before transitioning to the outreach team as the continuing care coordinator. In this role Jennifer directs the process for connecting residents to recovery resources back home or in the area they are choosing to relocate to after primary care. Being in recovery herself, she knows the importance of solid systems of support in early recovery and how they benefit the overall chance for long term success. In doing this work she is constantly reminded why she stays here, as she gets to watch others grow in hope and love for themselves. Jennifer is originally from Spanish Fork, Utah and continues to live there with her family and menagerie of animals. She is currently pursuing a degree in Family Science at Utah Valley University and in her free time loves sponsoring women as a part of 12 step programs, music, collecting oddities, and most especially guiding her children through life. Jennifer was named the 2019 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for her outstanding work with our residents, with the staff, and for the organization as a whole.

Emma has been a party of the Cirque Lodge team since the summer of 2019. She was drawn to Cirque Lodge after recognizing the generational impact of addiction in her own life, and after recognizing her desire to part of the solution. Throughout her tenure Emma has been intricately involved with the day to day operations of the organization across multiple departments. Emma assumed the role of outreach coordinator in 2021, allowing her to assist in synchronizing departmental, community, and family relations here. She is honored to be involved in supporting individuals and their families through such healing and transformative work.

Leslee is the Financial & Human Resource Director here at Cirque Lodge. In this capacity she directly oversees all the accounting and HR processes for the organization, including payroll and insurance billing, new staff on boarding, annual performance evaluation and staff improvement processes. She also assists with coordination of HR related trainings, departmental, and companywide staff meetings. Leslee came to Cirque in 2011 but has worked in the field since 2009. She holds certificates in accounting, human resource management, and in substance use disorder counseling. She chooses to work in this field given her personal knowledge of the importance of treatment for long term recovery success. She knows how important it is for treatment to serve as a safe place to look at and process through trauma, shame, and guilt, and deeply values being a part of a program that does such vital work. Seeing residents find their voice and take their power back is truly a gift to her. Leslee was named the 2015 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and in her free time, she loves being outdoors hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and paddle boarding. She is an avid reader and loves to spend time with her daughters and grandson.

Hillary began at Cirque Lodge in July of 2016 working directly with the residents as a front line staff. In October 2018 she transitioned to work in the HR & Finance Departments here. In this role, Hillary helps to take care of the Cirque employees by managing the onboarding process, personnel files, employee insurance, and assisting with payroll. She also helps with resident ancillary billing and collections. She is excited to be on her way to obtaining her SHRM certification to further her knowledge and skills in HR. While she does not have a day to day hand in the resident experience any longer, Hillary still considers it a privilege to watch the residents come through the door, often beaten and downtrodden, and to witness their growth and progress. Being in recovery herself, working in substance use treatment has given her the opportunity to help guide others through their own recovery, to be a part of the solution, and to advocate for a new and better life for others. Hillary was named the 2021 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year. She loves to play in the sober softball league each year, to read, paint, draw and make jewelry. She also loves to camp and paddleboard, and spending time with her family.

Brittany began working at Cirque Lodge in 1999 and by 2008 was working as a member of the management team, overseeing different aspects of the functional operations side of our facilities. Over the next 12 years she continued in this capacity, working side by side with our then Executive Director. In 2020 she began overseeing the revenue side of the organization being chiefly responsible for admissions and marketing, as well as being intimately involved in the 80,000 square foot expansion of the studio location. She was named Executive Director in March 2022. Brittany is the mother of six children and besides her passion for her family and her field, she is deeply involved in volunteerism for the local school system and her church. Brit enjoys spending time with her husband Rob, working out, skiing, travel, and she considers herself an avid gardener!

Nic began working at Cirque Lodge in 2013 as an executive assistant. During his tenure Nic has worked with nearly every department in the organization. He currently manages the day to day functional aspects of our operation, providing administrative oversight for a number of departments in coordination with the other members of the Executive Committee. Nic is dedicated to the work we do here and values the opportunity to help others along their own journey to wellness.

Bev is originally from New York City where she studied at the State University of New York at New Paltz and Stony Brook. She relocated to Utah and completed her graduate work at the University of Utah earning her Master of Social Work. Bev has worked in the substance use treatment field for over 30 years. She often expresses her passion and fervor for chemical dependency treatment and residential care. She believes, when done well, there is nothing more transformative and powerful than residential treatment for both the chemically dependent and their families. Bev has family who have suffered from substance use that have been profoundly helped by residential care and are now in sustained recovery. She enjoys being a mentor for fledgling therapists and has taught at the University of Utah, College of Social Work for more than 15 years. As clinical director she helms the entirety of the clinical program at Cirque Lodge and has been a guiding light within the program for more than 20 years and in 2014 was the recipient of the Cirque Lodge Lifetime Service award.

Dave’s greatest pleasure comes from his family and his passion to have adventure in his life. This sense of adventure launched him into a lifelong career with Cirque Lodge. He has been here from the beginning and deems it a great honor to have witnessed the vision of Cirque become a powerful reality. Prior to his time here, Dave was involved with an organization that facilitated life changes in people. This background helped form the experiential part of the Cirque Lodge program. He believes that it has been and continues to be a great learning experience to work with the residents that come to Cirque. Standing alongside them and watching as they work through the disease of addiction and reclaim that part of their soul that was lost is one of his greatest blessings. As experiential director, Dave leads his team through the process of crafting and creating opportunities for our residents to engage in that spiritual journey.

Nathan began working at Cirque Lodge in the summer of 2008 and has over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Nathan earned his Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science & Psychology with a Minor in Geology, graduating Cum Laude and went on to earn his Master of Social Work degree at Utah Valley University. He directs the overall facilitation of the program at Cirque Lodge and oversees the front line and medical departments in coordination with the clinical and experiential teams. He also oversees several operational departments, as well as the quality performance improvement and licensing team. As a licensed clinical social worker, he is also a member of the clinical team and carries a small case load. Nathan has adopted an existential orientation in his therapeutic work, often weaving mindfulness based skills and Gestalt techniques into his sessions and groups. He also has extensive training in crisis intervention, experiential therapy, suicide prevention, and EMDR trauma work. Nathan is also a member of the faculty at Utah Valley University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Social Work. Nathan was named the 2012 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year. Originally from Utah, he loves spending time in the local mountains and deserts, is an avid reader, and loves to collect rock and mineral specimens.

Rich began working with Cirque Lodge in 2001 and is one of the longest term members of the organization. He has worked in a variety of departments here, with an especially long tenure as a member of the experiential team where he focused on self-esteem developed, fitness, and self-defense. As IT Director, Rich manages and works with the IT and multimedia teams to support the clinical and programmatic mission of the organization, both internally and externally via our virtual service component of the program. He holds licensure as a substance use disorder counselor and facilitates groups here on site and virtually as a part of our aftercare program.

Starla has been working at Cirque Lodge for more than 20 years, first starting here in the summer of 2000 and initially held the role of program coordinator at the lodge. She is currently the Executive Assistant to the Founder and CEO, and she has a broad range of executive, operational, financial, and general administrative responsibilities. She is also intimately involved with licensing and quality performance improvement. Starla has loved working in this field, seeing the miracles that happen through working the 12 Step, and seeing the lives of those who suffer from the disease change, and their relationships heal. In her free time, she most enjoys being with her husband, six children, grandchildren, and being in the sunshine.

Gary has been involved in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years, having been a board member for the Utah Council for Crime Prevention, the Recovery Management Alliance, and the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, a past chair for the NAATP Leadership Convention, and President of the Cirque Lodge Foundation. He has worked tirelessly in our industry to weave the threads of collegial good nature between facilities, always giving of his time, energy, and experience to help those organizations and individuals in need and in 2010 received the Promises Foundation Award for Distinguished Service in the field of recovery. Gary served as Executive Director of Cirque Lodge for most of its existence, guiding and developing the program into what it is today. In the spring of 2022, Gary announced his intention to step back from daily operations at Cirque, becoming an Emeritus Director. His ever present energy and zeal, laughter and love, and steadfast dedication was and continues to be an inspiration to the team here. Most importantly, he has and continues to serve in his local 12 step community, carrying the message of hope to the addict and alcoholic who still suffers.

Bev is originally from New York City where she studied at the State University of New York at New Paltz and Stony Brook. She relocated to Utah and completed her graduate work at the University of Utah earning her Master of Social Work. Bev has worked in the substance use treatment field for over 30 years. She often expresses her passion and fervor for chemical dependency treatment and residential care. She believes, when done well, there is nothing more transformative and powerful than residential treatment for both the chemically dependent and their families. Bev has family who have suffered from substance use that have been profoundly helped by residential care and are now in sustained recovery. She enjoys being a mentor for fledgling therapists and has taught at the University of Utah, College of Social Work for more than 15 years. As clinical director she helms the entirety of the clinical program at Cirque Lodge and has been a guiding light within the program for more than 20 years and in 2014 was the recipient of the Cirque Lodge Lifetime Service award.

Nathan began working at Cirque Lodge in the summer of 2008 and has over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Nathan earned his Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science & Psychology with a Minor in Geology, graduating Cum Laude and went on to earn his Master of Social Work degree at Utah Valley University. He directs the overall facilitation of the program at Cirque Lodge and oversees the front line and medical departments in coordination with the clinical and experiential teams. He also oversees several operational departments, as well as the quality performance improvement and licensing team. As a licensed clinical social worker, he is also a member of the clinical team and carries a small case load. Nathan has adopted an existential orientation in his therapeutic work, often weaving mindfulness based skills and Gestalt techniques into his sessions and groups. He also has extensive training in crisis intervention, experiential therapy, suicide prevention, and EMDR trauma work. Nathan is also a member of the faculty at Utah Valley University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Social Work. Nathan was named the 2012 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year. Originally from Utah, he loves spending time in the local mountains and deserts, is an avid reader, and loves to collect rock and mineral specimens.

Aaron has been with Cirque Lodge since 2009 and has more than 25 years of experience working in the behavioral health field, including time working with the juvenile justice system, inpatient psychiatry, and community mental health. He has specialized in substance use issues and has worked in the residential, outpatient, and intensive outpatient levels of care. Aaron utilizes an eclectic approach to treatment with a strong foundation in rational emotive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and contextual therapy. He has a significant interest in understanding the impact of transgenerational trauma on families and has lectured around the country on this topic. As the clinical coordinator for the lodge, Aaron oversees the overall clinical experience of residents while carrying a caseload and supervising the other clinical staff. Aaron is a member of the faculty at the University of Utah, College of Social Work, teaching in the Substance Abuse Counseling Program.

Kelly has worked in behavioral health for nearly 20 years and began working at Cirque Lodge in 2008. He is clinical coordinator for the studio clinicians and maintains a therapeutic case load as well. Kelly comfortably adjusts his therapeutic approach to best meet the needs of his clients, often utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, and mindfulness interventions. His client-centered and strength based approach is successful in helping others increase personal awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptomology, and increase personal accountability. He loves seeing the positive changes that can take place in a person’s life when they choose recovery and the path of healing, and when they learn how to actualize their potential through increased awareness, hard work and rebuilding trust in their relationships. Kelly holds undergraduate degrees in computer animation, behavioral science-psychology, and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Kelly was named the 2013 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and in his free time, he enjoys hiking, traveling, and watching movies.

LeeAnn began her tenure with Cirque Lodge in 2007, though she has worked in the field since 1994. As clinical lead for the women’s program at the studio, LeeAnn teams with the rest of the clinical staff in delivering the key components of our program, including daily group therapy, twice weekly individual counseling and the intensive family program which is offered every three weeks. LeeAnn has a specialty in art therapy and codependency, having earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Utah and her Master of Arts Expressive Therapy degree from the University of Louisville. She has additional specialty training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Brain Spotting, and domestic violence. LeeAnn loves to focus on the universal issues all those in recovery share while still being able to root out the unique facets of each individual’s personal journey in life. Being witness to the moment when hope and self-love are rediscovered is especially meaningful to her. Originally from Provo, Utah, LeeAnn lived in Louisville, Kentucky for 12 years before returning to Utah in 2007. She loves to ride her Harley, garden, volunteer, and pursue her own artistic endeavors in a variety of media.

Mikey is a counselor in the men’s program at the studio and has been a part of the Cirque Lodge family since 2008. Mikey first came to Cirque as a member of the front line team and rose to become a long time leader in the department, helping to guide and develop many generations of staff. He earned his Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate from the University of Utah and is currently a licensed SUDC and is well on his way to completing his degree in social work. Mikey brings his years of knowledge and experience with the 12 steps to the clinical team, and continually refocuses the resident’s energy into that work, concentrating on redevelopment of affirming belief systems, accountability, structure, integrity, spirituality, and most importantly consistency in all these areas. He hopes by doing this work, he can help others stem the course of their addictions and not end up in the same place he did through his own use. He loves to see their hearts come alive and to see families heal. Mikey is a motorcycle enthusiast, an avid and passionate photographer, and loves the arts and dance. Originally from Holladay, Utah and currently living in Provo he loves Utah and all it’s amazing landscapes.

Francine has over 25 years of experience in family systems and codependency recovery. Francine brings this experience, as well as her broad knowledge concerning one’s connection to true self, issues of abuse, family dysfunction, neglect, and trauma to the clinical team. She has a personal understanding of addiction and brings the perspective of a daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend of those who suffer from the disease to bear in her work. Originally from California, she has lived in Utah since 2005 and began working with Cirque Lodge in 2011. She is a published author, a motivational speaker, a former educator, and a yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practitioner. After completing her graduate work in mental health, Francine went on to become a certified Gottman Marriage Specialist, and is additionally trained in brain spotting and psychodrama. She most likes to focus on healing through mindful based recovery and exudes an effervescent energy of love and positive regard for all people.

Brian prides himself on bringing a straightforward and passionate approach to his work in the field of substance use. He has been a member of the clinical team here at Cirque Lodge since August of 2016. He is particularly adept at weaving his years of experience in community mental health and community based therapeutic alliance building into his work here. Brian has a strong foundation in advocacy, especially on behalf of the homeless, incarcerated individuals, and those struggling with substance use concerns exacerbated by underlying psychiatric issues. His efforts have drawn local and national attention and he was a finalist for the Jasper G Chen-See National Volunteer of the Year award. Brian earned his Master of Social Work and his Substance Use Disorder Counselor Degrees from the University of Utah. He has also served as faculty at the University of Utah, College of Social Work and additionally serves on the Utah State Board of Pardons. Brian was named the 2017 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for his care and dedication to the team. He is married and loves to spend time with his wife Shirlynn, and their golden doodle. He also loves to ride motorcycles.

Wendy has over 15 years of experience in substance use treatment and the behavioral health field, a decade of which was spent working with adolescents. She has a passion for empowering others in finding the truest version of themselves. In her clinical work, she relies heavily on mindfulness based techniques and has extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy given her love for those who struggle with emotional dysregulation and underdeveloped life skills. Wendy completed her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2015 and joined the Cirque Lodge team in 2016. She is originally from Wisconsin but has called Utah home for more than 20 years. She loves spending time with her family and dogs.

Candice was born and raised in Littleton, Colorado until the age of 12 when her family moved to Lindon, Utah. She is a kind and compassionate individual whose desire to help is demonstrated through her genuine concern and dedication to her clients. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than a decade of clinical experience, having received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Utah State University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah. Candice is EMDR certified and has been EMDR Child Specialist Intensive trained. She most utilizes CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic and Sand Tray in her clinical work and has specializations in working with veterans with military trauma, depression, anxiety, and physical and sexual abuse. Candice loves to encourage change that motivates and empowers her clients to be the best version of themselves, find their potential, and discover the ability to heal. She is currently enrolled at Walden University where she is working towards her Doctorate’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in addictions. Candice enjoys spending time with her 15 nieces and nephews and is quite the Disney nerd who can duel anyone in a Disney Trivia challenge!

Darran is a member of the Cirque Lodge clinical team, coming on board in 2022. He most enjoys seeing residents recognize within themselves the strength, resilience, and potential that others see within them. He has expressed many times that helping residents work through core issues and seeing how they flourish as they do so is truly rewarding. Darran completed his undergraduate degree at Utah State University in 2004, majoring in Psychology, and completed his graduate degree in Social Work at the University of Utah in 2015. He first began to work with substance use issues in graduate school and has stayed in the field ever since. He has a broad interest in trauma and inner child work. Darran loves to fish and hunt and enjoys the outdoors in general. He also loves to try new and different foods, but most loves to spend time with his wife and children.

Drew is originally from Atlanta, Georgia and transitioned to Salt Lake City, Utah in the summer of 2021. He began working professionally in the field in 2018 and began his tenure with Cirque Lodge in October 2022. As a member of the clinical team, he focuses on individual and group psychotherapy, and has a special passion for sound therapy meditation. Drew most appreciates the opportunity to help others heal from old wounds and traumas, assisting in the process of getting in touch with their higher self along their psychological and spiritual journey. Drew completed his undergraduate studies at Georgia State University, majoring in philosophy and minoring in psychology, and earned his master’s degree in clinical social work from Kennesaw State University. His area of specialization is mindfulness/meditation and existentialism. In his free time, he loves to meditate, play music, and enjoys listening to everything from heavy metal to the native American flute. He also enjoys rock climbing, cooking, and going to the movies.

Heather has worked in the behavioral health field since 2016 and joined Cirque Lodge in the fall of 2022. She currently lives in Vineyard, Utah but has lived all over the western united states and has also lived in Germany. As a member of the clinical team, Heather most loves working one on one with our residents. She notes how important it is to see each resident as a mother, father, sister, brother, son, or daughter who is deserving of love, support, and help. Her compassionate nature is seen and felt by both the residents and staff alike and is motivated by her own experience as a daughter of an alcoholic who passed away because of his disease. She holds undergraduate degrees in early childhood education, K-12 teaching, and a master’s degree in counseling and student affairs, and is also a licensed cosmetologist, barber, and aesthetician having previously worked in that field. She is EMDR, CBT and ACT certified and has extensive training as a trauma informed yoga specialist.

Jill is originally from Los Angeles, California but has lived in Utah most of her adult life. She comes to Cirque Lodge with almost ten years of behavioral health experience. In 2017, she left Utah for New England to complete her graduate studies, returning in 2023 whereupon she joined the clinical team here. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Utah Valley University and a Master of Social Work degree with an emphasis in Trauma and Violence from Boston University. She places significant value in helping her clients discover their own passion for what is possible. She believes that through authentic human connection and structured work, everyone can increase their capacity for change, and engage in the hard work that is necessary to do so. She has additional training in whole family wellness and parenting education, as well as trauma response parenting, attachment theory practice techniques, and polyvagal theory practice techniques. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her children and grandchildren, gardening, music, theater, and dance.

Alex has been a licensed Physician Assistant since 2021, having previously worked as an EMT and Firefighter. Originally from Pleasant Grove, Utah, he has lived here in Utah most of his adult life, moving for a brief time to pursue his graduate studies. Joining the medical team in 2023, he helps to oversee residents physical and mental health while they are here in treatment. In particular, he is grateful that he gets to spend most of his time ensuring a safe and welcoming admission and detox process for our clients when they are at their most vulnerable, both emotionally and physically. He enjoys being able to help others see and take advantage of the opportunities provided in recovery and was drawn to the field after seeing the pain and damage caused by addiction in individuals and families close to him. Alex hold a Bachelors of Science degree in Emergency Management from Utah Valley University and a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies from Idaho State University. When not at work, he loves to spend time with his family, being outdoors, hiking, and going to the gym.

Dr. Watkins is the attending physician and medical director here at Cirque Lodge and has been with us since 2017. In this role, he oversees the care of our residents, from the moment they admit, through their transition to continuing care. He leads the medical team with the utmost professionalism, care, concern, and compassion and Cirque Lodge counts itself lucky to have him. Dr. Watkins is originally from Texas but has spent most of his life split between California and Utah. He completed his undergraduate studies with a double major in Economics and Biology at Brigham Young University after which he went on to medical school at The Ohio State University, graduating with his MD in Allopathic Medicine in 2011. He spent his early career in Emergency Medicine. Dr. Watkins has said that he got into medicine thinking he was most interested in the science, not the people, but that it turns out that he most loves the people. He believes that addiction medicine gives him a chance to genuinely know his patients on the realest of levels. He stays in this field because, as he says, “substance abuse treatment is where my people are, both coworkers and residents.” Dr. Watkins was named the 2020 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for his tireless efforts. His favorite leisure activities include live music, poetry, theater, film, and woodworking.

Dr. Miller is the consulting psychiatrist at Cirque Lodge and was in fact the first psychiatrist here back in 1999 when he was still early in his career. He consults with the medical team and is always available to meet with and assess our residents for their co-occurring psychiatric needs. Cirque Lodge was excited to welcome him back to the team in 2018. Originally from Oklahoma, he completed his undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering in 1985 and went on to earn his MD at the University of Oklahoma in 1989. Dr. Miller has worked in the field of psychiatry since graduating medical school and in addiction medicine since 1994. Dr. Miller loves the work, and loves seeing people get better and get back to being themselves free of the chains of addiction. He continues to work in this field primarily as he is in recovery himself and personally knows the value of the work to those he is treating. In his free time, he can often be found paragliding and is always excited to share a story about one of his adventures in the air.

Originally from Mississippi, Adrianne is a board certified nurse practitioner and came to Cirque Lodge in 2018. She began her nursing career over 20 years ago and initially focused on labor and delivery and emergency medicine. She also worked in her grandfather and uncle’s family practice clinic during this time, specializing in addiction medicine. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree and Master of Science in Nursing Degree at the University of Alabama and holds a national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as an Adult Nurse Practitioner. For the 10 years prior to coming to Cirque Lodge, Adrianne’s focus was on hospital based cardiology and internal medicine, with significant experience in managing detox patients. She was named the 2020 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for her care and dedication to the team. Adrianne and her husband have four wonderful children, an amazing daughter in law and two grandchildren and counting. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, reading, camping, and hiking.

Liz first started working here at Cirque Lodge in 2015 and stayed here through 2017. In that brief two year stretch she quickly became a vital part of the medical team and assumed the position of Nursing Coordinator. She took a two year hiatus from Cirque Lodge to pursue another opportunity, returning in 2019 and returning to her former position as coordinator. She is originally from Provo, Utah and has lived here her entire life. Liz oversees the nursing and detox team, working with the staff to offer safe, caring, and compassionate care during what can be a very uncomfortable time in the treatment process. Liz has shared that being able to watch the growth and progression from detox through treatment warms her heart. Liz came to the substance use treatment field given her own family’s history of addiction and the difference she knows treatment can make. Liz was also named the Cirque Lodge 2022 Angel of the Year for her service and dedication to the team. In her leisure time, she loves to travel, read, work in her garden, and spend time with her family.

Hailey began working at Cirque Lodge in 2014. This was her first introduction to the field, and she was drawn to the work as she has family who have had their own struggles with addiction. Hailey first began in the front line department here at Cirque. She eventually been a coordinator within the department, helping to oversee the staff and the overall delivery of the program in coordination with the clinical and operational departments. In her current role as Medical Coordinator, she supports the providers and greater medical team in offering attentive, compassionate, and focused medical care to our residents and coordinates these services with the nursing, front line, clinical, experiential, and operational teams. She also oversees medical records including documentation and transfer of records. She continues to stay with Cirque because she loves to witness the amazing transformations our residents get to move through. Hailey loves to travel, and most importantly, spend time with her two beautiful daughters.

Jake was born in Idaho, grew up in Salt Lake City, UT and lived in New York City for about five years. He began working in the field when he came to Cirque Lodge in 2015 working as a front line staff. He quickly advanced in the department before transitioning to work with the experiential team, where he currently coordinates and manages the departments activities at the lodge. Jake came to work in the field of recovery as he believes it is where he can do the most good, helping residents grow to believe in themselves and recognize what they are truly capable of. Jake was a personal trainer for more than ten years and a functional fitness coach for more than five. He is working toward his black belt in jiu jitsu and has been pursing this since 2016. He loves spending time with this family, friends, and is proud to be pursuing his education. He earned his Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2022 and is on course to complete his Master of Social Work degree in 2023, both of which he completed at Utah Valley University. Jake was named the 2016 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year for his care, concern, and dedication to the staff team.

Randy is our mainstay in the experiential department, having been with Cirque Lodge since 2003. He coordinates and manages the experiential program for the studio, and brings his love of climbing, hiking, gardening, and photography to bear within the program. Randy has hiked thousands of miles during his tenure, exposing residents to the healing powers of nature, and offering them unique opportunities to connect to their spiritual self through these experiences. Randy was named the 2014 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for his unfailing dedication to this work.

Janice is a specialist within the experiential department, managing the horse work we offer here, and overseeing the stables. Originally from Owen, Wisconsin she currently lives in Salem, Utah having moved here in 1970 for college. She brings more than 40 years of experience to bear in her work here, having previously been an equestrian trainer, competitor, and coach. She also previously managed a 50-75 horse boarding facility. Janice talks about having grown up with horses and was lucky to begin her training at a very young age and being able to work with Olympic level trainers in numerous disciplines. Janice says how rewarding it is to witness the residents connect with horses and recognize how their work with the animals emulates how they behave in their own relationships and life issues, and in the process find the motivation to change. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor’s in Veterinary Science and is currently a member of the faculty at Utah Valley University where she teaches anatomy. In her free time, she loves reading, hiking, and going to horse competitions with her daughter and granddaughters.

Cheryl has been with Cirque Lodge since 2010. She came to Utah from California in 2004, and previously lived in Hawaii where she earned her Bachelors in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University Hawaii. She is a member of our experiential team and has a fitness specialty focusing on strength and conditioning. She loves working in a field where she gets to help others develop trust, challenge themselves through the hands on activities they participate in, and break down old beliefs about what they could and couldn’t do. Seeing people go from zero to ten on a physical level, while healing and becoming whole through sobriety is why she continues to work in this field. In her free time, Cheryl loves engaging in horse work, muay Thai, coaching at a local MMA gym, and spending time with her children and grandkids. She also loves to hike and walk her dog.

David began working at Cirque Lodge in 2017, just after moving to Utah. He is originally from Manorville in Long Island, New York. As a member of the experiential team here, David gets to take the residents through the rigors of reestablishing a baseline physical state while engaging in fun activities. He most enjoys showing how this work relates to growth in recovery and learning to overcome one’s own challenges. He was drawn to this as he is in recovery himself, and treatment helped to change his life. David studied at Touro College in New York where he completed his degree to become a Physician’s Assistant. However due to his use and time in treatment, he was unable to a receive his degree. David chose to walk forward focusing on his recovery and is proud of the work he now gets to do. He is a certified ocean lifeguard, wilderness fist responder, phlebotomist, medical assistant, EKG technician, and CrossFit Level 1 & 2 instructor. In his free time, he loves to hike, ski, snowboard, lift, climb and engage in basically any physical activity you could think of. He also dedicates time to meditation, service work, and playing chess.

Aimee is a member of our experiential team and primarily works with the residents and the horses. She helps promote self-awareness and mindfulness through energy awareness, body language, and breath while doing work with the horses. She loves to facilitate connection, which many express is the opposite of addiction. She began working at Cirque Lodge in 2022 and has worked in educational and therapeutic environments with people and horses since 2011. Aimee chose to work in substance use treatment as it is an area that touches her own life experience. She knows of the healing power of nature and animals in her own life and is passionate about integrating them into a recovery program for others. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, she currently lives here in Orem, Utah. She attended the University of Denver where she majored in cognitive neuroscience and minored in art. She is also a certified therapeutic riding instructor. In her free time, she enjoys snowboarding, climbing, music and art. She also loves getting into the mountains as much as possible.

Hewy is originally from Oahu, Hawaii and was raised on the island of Kauai. His family moved to American Fork, Utah when he was in high school, after which he went on to live in Arizona for 12 years where he began his piloting career. He currently lives in Pleasant Grove, Utah with his wife and has been back in Utah for more than 20 years. Hewy is the Pilot here at Cirque Lodge, joining the team in 2010, but has been flying professionally for more than 20 years. Hewy has the awesome opportunity to fly our residents on the company helicopter, taking them through the beautiful Wasatch Mountains which the lodge sits in, and the studio sits at the base of. Each flight lands in the heart of the Wasatch where the residents get to experience the majesty of the mountains. Hewy appreciates witnessing the little miracles that take place on each flight and the quiet moments on the mountain. He holds a Bachelor’s in Operations Management and is a rated helicopter ATP and designated helicopter pilot examiner for the FAA. When he’s not working, he enjoys outdoor activities, fitness, riding motorcycles and spending time with his family.

Tammy has been with Cirque Lodge since 2014. She facilitates the experiential art program here and loves experiencing the joy and happiness the residents discover when challenging themselves artistically, grasping new concepts, and tapping into their own creativity. Her main medium in her own work is clay, primarily throwing pottery on the wheel, and specializing in alternative style firing processes. Tammy is originally from Provo, Utah, and she holds a Bachelor’s in Fine Art from Utah Valley University.

Meghan is the Alumni Services & Foundation Director here at Cirque Lodge. In these roles she oversees ongoing alumni events, activities, and outreach services, which are a vital part of our ongoing support for all residents who pass through our doors, as well as the philanthropic arm of the organization which supports treatment opportunities for those in need. She has worked in the field since 2013 and joined Cirque in 2017. Originally from Massachusetts, she came west to follow the snow which ultimately led her to find her own healing and recovery in the mountains of Utah. She often remarks about how significant it is for her to be able to help others here at Cirque Lodge, given the fact that she herself is an alum of the program. She has a great love for assisting others in establishing and maintaining long term sobriety and wellness, just as others once helped her. As a young adult, she traveled the world competing in alpine ski racing and was an NCAA Cum Laude student athlete. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire and is a Certified Peer Support Specialist. In her free time, she can be found spending time with her family, most especially her son Tripp.

Libby first began working at Cirque Lodge in 2013, joining the team after having completed her own treatment here. Libby first started as a receptionist and moved on to join the front line team, working directly with the residents as a mentor and program facilitator. In 2015 she took a four year hiatus, returning in 2019 to join the admissions department, and eventually moved on to become associate foundation director. Libby often speaks about how she loves being able to share her experience of going through Cirque Lodge as a resident and her own journey in recovery. She chose to work in substance use treatment because she wants to be of service to those that continue to suffer from the disease of addiction. In her free time, she loves hiking with her dog, traveling the world, and spending time with loved ones.

Julie has been with Cirque Lodge since 2004 and as one of the longest tenured members of the team, has worked in a variety of positions through the years. She has mostly dedicated her time to new resident program orientation, assessment, and treatment planning. Given this experience within the program it was no surprise when she joined the management team as resident services coordinator. In this role, Julie oversees the salon and massage and housekeeping departments, and coordinates multiple departments to ensure that residents here are comfortable, feel welcomed, and overall have a positive experience with the program and facility. Julie most enjoys watching our clients return to good health, both physically and mentally while here and finds great personal joy in helping them re-establish positive self-esteem. Julie was named the 2007 Cirque Lodge Angel of the Year and the 2018 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and is the only member of the team to be distinguished with both awards in the history of the organization. She is originally from Cambridge, Nebraska and moved to Utah in 1998. In her free time, she enjoys walks, hiking and being out with her partner Brad.

Bri is originally from Northern California and made the move to Utah in 2016 when the opportunity to work at Cirque Lodge become a possibility. She first began to work in the substance use disorder field in 2013, having developed the desire to give back given her own journey through recovery. She has worked in almost every facet of the industry including admissions, sober living facilities, intensive outpatient, and inpatient programs. She began her career at Cirque Lodge in admissions department and is now the alumni coordinator where she facilities daily calls to check in on our clients as they navigate their first year of sobriety post treatment. Being a Cirque Lodge alumnus herself, she feels this brings a special and unique connection to every conversation she has with other alumni. Letting them know they are always supported, even after leaving our care, brings her joy and fulfillment. She also conducts the alumni zoom meetings and guesting services that Cirque Lodge offers all our past residents. Bri enjoys spending time with her husband, hiking, traveling, exploring national parks, and playing softball in the All Sober League. She is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in sociology with a focus on social and racial justice.

Kim began working at Cirque in the summer of 2016. She is a member of the front line team and rose through the leadership ranks to become program coordinator for the studio. In this role, Kim oversees the front line staff and shift leads, working with them to ensure the day to day facilitation of the program runs smoothly. She works closely with the clinical and experiential teams. As department head, she gets to focus more closely on the development of the staff and support them in their work, creating a productive and safe environment. Her favorite part of working with the clients is being able to help develop community and connection. She loves watching the light come back into someone’s eyes and being witness to their efforts in repairing relationships with their loved one’s but most importantly themselves. She has often been heard to say, “they inspire me”. Kim began working in the field as she saw how AA and the 12 Steps saved her brother’s life 10 years ago. She has incredible gratitude for the program and what it can do for the struggling addict and alcohol, and their family. Kim was named the 2022 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year for steadfast, earnest, and dedicated work within the organization. When not at work, Kim loves live music, photography, yoga, biking, and travel.

Shawn was born in American Fork, Utah but was raised here in Orem, just five blocks west of Cirque Lodge’s studio location. He is an alum of the program, having been a resident here in early 2015. On his first year sobriety anniversary, Shawn joined the front line team and quickly moved to join the experiential department where he stayed for a little over six years. Shawn was able to move to admissions and outreach for a brief time before transitioning to become program coordinator for the lodge. In this role he helms the facilitation of the program at the lodge and supervises the front line team there. Shawn has deep appreciation for each new position he has had here and the opportunity they have given him to help as many people as possible in the same way he was helped when he was in treatment. He is grateful to pass on the miracle that was given so generously to him. Shawn was named the 2017 Cirque Lodge Employee of the Year and is a high energy individual that pours himself into physical activities, the gym, all water sports, the outdoors in general, and loves a good practical joke.

Courtney leads the admission department at Cirque Lodge. She considers the opportunity to work with residents and helping families in finding hope and healing a true gift. Originally from Indiana, Courtney graduated from Ball State University where she received her Bachelor’s in Psychology and upon graduating, she moved to Salt Lake City, Utah and to work with adolescents struggling with substance use and other co-occurring issues. Courtney then moved to California where she lived for 16 years. While in California she began working for the Betty Ford Center where she became the Director of Admissions. Given her love for health care and desire to help others, she went on to complete her Master’s in Health Services Administration at Regis University. Courtney and her husband, John, are the proud parents of two children. In her downtime, she enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, reading, painting, and sculpting.

Sean began working at Cirque Lodge in 2022 and is a member of our admissions team. Sean quickly became a strong and valued member of the department given his high level of willingness and genuine caring attitude. Sean loves being a part of helping future residents and their families navigate getting here and considers it an honor to be a part of their journey to recovery. Sean made the decision to work in the field as he knows firsthand how life changing treatment can be and how amazing it can be to move from a place of darkness to discovering purpose and meaning again. Originally from Sandy, Utah, he loves playing guitar and writing songs, and can often be found playing at his desk when not on the phone with future residents and families. He adores his three daughters and loves spending time with them.