Meet the Team Behind Your Recovery Journey
Our experienced and compassionate team is dedicated to guiding you toward a life of balance and well-being. Together, we’ll help you unlock your full potential.

Experts in Care, Committed to You
At Costa Rica Recovery, our team is more than just a group of professionals. We are caregivers, mentors, and advocates for your transformation. With years of expertise and a shared passion for recovery, we provide personalized care that nurtures your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. From clinical specialists to support staff, every team member is here to ensure your journey is as smooth as it is life-changing.

Scott
Owner

Rachel
Managing Director

Morris
Facilities & Activities Manager

Mariana
Operations Supervisor / Occupational Therapist

Cristene
Global Business Development Director

Luz
Head Chef

Sharon
Clinical Director

Richard
Counselor

Andrea
Licensed Social Worker. COD.4631

Pilar
Recovery Counselor

Stephanie (Steph)
Clinical Psychologist

Cesar
Nurse Residential Coordinator

Silvia
Residential Nursing Supervisor

Indira
Nurse Residential Coordinator

Gaby
Nurse Residential Coordinator

Cecilia
Residential Coordinator

Girlannie
Details Missing

Nelita
Details Missing

Ivan
Details Missing

Cristene
Professional Details
Job Title: Global Business Development Director
Department: Business Development
Professional Experience
Over 15 years in Health and Human Services. I love helping folks find recovery from Substance Use Disorder. One at a time I have connected thousands of people to life-changing services.
Special Skills: Skilled at communicating with those suffering cognitive impairment—whether chemically induced or organic, like Alzheimer's or dementia.
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role: I take the calls from those seeking treatment for themselves or a loved one, respond to online inquiries, and follow each participant from first contact to arrival.
Inspiration: Having addiction and dual diagnosis in my family, I understand what many go through. Being able to listen and be of service to others is healing for me.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact: I love to paint and draw. My office walls are littered with my work.
Favorite Quote: Where there is life, there is hope.
Languages Spoken: English

Rachel
Personal Information
Job Title: Managing Director
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- BA from Concordia University
- Mental Health and Rehabilitation Diploma, Vancouver Island University
- Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Counseling Advanced Level Certification
- Internal Family Systems (Current Student)
- Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Certificate, Crisis Prevention Institute
- Counseling Education/Training, Nanaimo Family Life Association
Professional Experience:
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Rachel brings extensive experience in clinical mental health, addiction counseling, trauma counseling, and team leadership. She has supervised teams and managed residential programs, most notably managing a program for women and children leaving abusive situations, supervising a team of 15 multi-disciplinary counselors. She served as a substance use counselor in a pain clinic, and did case management for vulnerable populations with the Mental Health and Substance Use department in Vancouver Island’s public health authority.
Earlier in her career, Rachel worked as a conference producer, overseeing multi-day social change and environmental conferences in Vancouver and on a remote coastal island in British Columbia, Canada. This program management background equipped her to become a dynamic leader—adept at guiding staff and clients through recovery journeys while ensuring the highest standards of care.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Integrated Interpersonal & Relational Skills
- Inherent Empathy & Discernment
- Motivational Team Leadership
- Somatic Trauma Healing
- Motivational Interviewing
- Crisis Intervention
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
Rachel is dedicated to ensuring the smooth and effective operation of Costa Rica Recovery, prioritizing each client’s well-being. As the Managing Director, she fosters a supportive environment where individuals can heal through a structured treatment program, beginning with a team aligned in purpose and camaraderie.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
Rachel is inspired by the resilience of those she serves. Leading with kindness and care for both staff and clients, she combines a strategic mindset with a deep, experiential understanding of recovery challenges and rewards. Through this, Costa Rica Recovery provides a compassionate and effective treatment experience that starts with a healthy, inspired, and kind team.
Personal Touch
Favorite Quote or Motto: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” – Unknown

Morris
Personal Information
Job Title: Facilities & Activities Manager
Department: Operations
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Certified Human Development Specialist
- SMART Recovery International: SMART Recovery Facilitator
- Certified Life Coach (John Maxwell Leadership Foundation)
- Advanced Leadership Specialty (HAGGAI Institute)
- Bachelor of Theology (Emphasis on Pastoral Counseling, ESEPA Institute)
- Executive Speaker (Harvard Extension School / Universidad Latina de Costa Rica)
Professional Experience:
Human development professional with over 25 years of experience empowering individuals to become the best version of themselves. As a speaker and motivator for more than 15 years, Morris has developed addiction prevention talks at schools, colleges, universities, and churches across Costa Rica. For 12 years, he served as the Director of “La Montaña Christian Camps,” the largest youth camp in Latin America focused on addiction prevention and values promotion.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- As a graduate of the “Teen Challenge Addiction Restoration Center” (1994), Morris deeply and empathetically understands the recovery process, motivating clients practically, honestly, and spiritually (not religiously).
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
Morris oversees facility supervision and improvement, coordinating the kitchen, maintenance, and cleaning teams, managing supplies, recreational outings, and airport pick-ups.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: I love playing and watching soccer and spending time with my family and friends.
Favorite Quote or Motto: “When we change the way we see things, the things we see change.”
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English

Mariana Guevara Morales
Personal Information
Full Name: Mariana Guevara Morales
Job Title: Operations Supervisor / Occupational Therapist
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Participation in addictions specialization, Ludus, Peru, 2023
- Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, Santa Paula University, Costa Rica (September 2021 – August 2023)
- Comprehensive Approach to Individuals with Substance Use Disorders, Institute of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Costa Rica, 2024
Professional Experience:
Since high school, I've been passionate about working with vulnerable populations. My volunteering in private and public institutions, plus a university internship focused on these groups, shaped my experience. I’ve organized activities aimed at promoting individuals’ well-being, and my time at CCR has further developed my professional skills, allowing me to thrive in various settings.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Work and task organization
- Problem solving
- Willingness to learn
- Teamwork
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
Operations Supervisor (OP): I supervise the Residential Coordinators team and oversee the daily operations of the clinical program. I also provide direct support to the director by managing strategic operations, optimizing resources, and enhancing program effectiveness to meet organizational goals.
Occupational Therapist (OT): I help create an occupational balance by guiding individuals to explore and develop skills and habits necessary for daily living and functioning. I identify activities that align with a person’s interests and beliefs, while addressing the demands of different occupational areas.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
I'm inspired by the love and dedication of the team members here and how deeply committed everyone is to helping individuals move forward in their recovery. Seeing users regain hope, set goals, and believe in their ability to overcome drives me to do my best every day.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: I enjoy outdoor sports like hiking, cycling, and swimming.
Favorite Quote or Motto: "Don't limit yourself to what you think is possible. The road is open, and so are the possibilities." – Unknown
Languages Spoken: Spanish and English

Sharon
Personal Information
Job Title: Clinical Director
Department: Clinical
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Master's Degree in Psychopedagogy, Ulacit, Costa Rica, 2022
- Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Ucacis, Costa Rica, 2014
- Certification in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Centro de Terapias Contextuales, Perú, 2023
- SMART Recovery Facilitator, SMART Recovery International, 2022
- Comprehensive Approach to Individuals with Substance Use Disorders, Institute of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Costa Rica, 2020
- Certification in Emotional Healing Techniques, Institute of Emotional Management & Mindfulness, 2020
Professional Experience:
With over 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in providing therapy using a variety of therapeutic modalities. My expertise includes Gestalt Therapy, to help clients navigate challenges such as grief, relationships, depression, and anxiety. I have also led educational programs and group therapy for managing emotional dysregulation. Over the last few years, I have focused on supporting individuals with substance use disorders, helping them address underlying trauma, depression, and anxiety. I take a holistic approach to therapy, ensuring that each client receives comprehensive care—addressing the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions of their well-being—supporting them through their healing and personal growth journey. I believe strongly in the power of facing and working through intense emotions with a gentle approach to facilitate lasting change. My commitment to fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental space ensures that clients can work toward greater emotional resilience and sustainable healing.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Humanistic approach with a specialization in Gestalt Therapy to help individuals achieve personal growth
- Expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to foster meaningful action and emotional acceptance
- Mindfulness techniques to enhance life skills
- Knowledgeable in REBT, CBT, and DBT, effectively addressing unique needs
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
Ensure and supervise that treatment is expertly coordinated in collaboration with the clinical team, for clients to receive personalized plans tailored to their unique needs and life experiences. Through a deep understanding of each individual’s personal history and circumstances, I support those in treatment with psychological sessions to overcome challenges and foster personal growth and fulfillment.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
Witnessing the progress and growth of individuals brings meaning and purpose to my own journey. I get inspired by the courage and strength of each one of them.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: I'm passionate about nature. I enjoy hiking in the mountains and seize every opportunity to go scuba diving to explore the wonders of underwater life.
Favorite Quote or Motto: "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are" – Carl Jung
Languages Spoken: Spanish and English

Richard
Personal Information
Job Title: Counselor
Department: Clinical
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- SMART Recovery Facilitator (SMART Recovery International)
- Certified Recovery Specialist
- Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor
Professional Experience:
Richard’s experience includes notable positions helping individuals navigate various stages of recovery. (Expand with relevant details as you see fit.)
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Skilled at guiding individuals through diverse therapeutic approaches
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
As a counselor, Richard provides individual and group sessions, helping clients build strategies for lasting recovery.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
Richard finds inspiration in seeing clients make profound positive changes in their lives and being part of their journey.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: Enjoys outdoor adventures and traveling.
Favorite Quote or Motto: "Recovery is a journey, not a destination."
Languages Spoken: English and Spanish

Andrea
Personal Information
Job Title: Licensed Social Worker. COD.4631
Department: Clinical
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- University of Costa Rica: Master's Degree in Social Work (Mar 2016–Jun 2022)
- National University of Costa Rica: Diploma in English as a Second Language (Feb 2012–Nov 2013)
- Institute of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence: Comprehensive Approach to Individuals with Substance Use Disorders
- SMART Recovery International: SMART Recovery Facilitator
- Professional College of Social Workers, Costa Rica: Therapeutic Groups and Social Work
Professional Experience:
My experience with different vulnerable populations and communities has given me the ability to understand individual and systemic challenges, and promote supportive environments that foster clients' recovery and personal growth. I’ve acquired the skills to support people in recovery as they develop new tools for self-reliance and integration into society.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Socio-Educational Facilitation
- Adaptability when working with diverse individuals
- Ability to set, monitor, and achieve goals
- Group management and interpersonal skills
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
I handle social and family assessments, generate treatment plans for individuals recovering from substance abuse, and conduct individual, group, and family sessions. I monitor and evaluate the objectives of the treatment plan.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
Witnessing how people rebuild their lives, regain independence, and reconnect with their loved ones. Being part of a team that provides them with tools to overcome challenges and fosters supportive reintegration environments is truly inspiring.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: Reading, gym, cat lover
Favorite Quote or Motto: “Worthiness doesn't have prerequisites.” — Brené Brown
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English

Pilar
Personal Information
Job Title: Recovery Counselor
Department:
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Psychologist & Recovery Counselor
Professional Experience:
Pilar is an Addiction Counselor with experience creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and find their voice in recovery. Through active listening and personalized goal-setting, she helps clients navigate their journey and build motivation for lasting change. Being in recovery herself, she understands firsthand the strength it takes and is committed to supporting others on their path to healing.
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
As a Recovery Counselor, Pilar helps guide individuals through their treatment process, focusing on holistic well-being, empowerment, and personalized goal achievement.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
“I’m inspired by CRR's commitment to comprehensive, compassionate treatment that addresses the individual as a whole. As someone in recovery, I know how transformative this support can be. What drives me most is the opportunity to help others navigate their journey and empower them to make lasting changes. Being part of this process allows me to make a meaningful impact, and that’s incredibly fulfilling.”
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: “I’m a huge music lover and can spend hours creating playlists for every mood and occasion—energizing morning vibes, calming evening tunes, or anything in between!”
Favorite Quote or Motto: “Tell the truth and tell it fast.”
Languages Spoken: Native Spanish speaker, with 95% proficiency in English (written and spoken).

Stephanie
Personal Information
Preferred Name: Steph
Job Title: Clinical Psychologist
Department: Clinical
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, UCR, Costa Rica, 2015
- Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate, The Embody Lab, 2024
- The Path to Healing Trauma with Peter A. Levine, The Embody Lab, 2024
- Psychedelic Integration Certificate, ICEERS, 2024
- The Wisdom of Trauma In-Person Healing Immersion with Dr. Gabor Maté, Dr. Peter Levine, Bessel van der Kolk & Dr. Scott Lyons, The Embody Lab, Massachusetts, 2024
- Facilitator of the Pacagua Healing Model (Leadership & Personal Development Assisted by Horses), Pacagua, Costa Rica, 2024
-
Compassionate Inquiry
- One year internship, October 23 & 24 Cohort
- Mentorship, May 24 Cohort
- Focus group facilitator, 2023–Present
- One-year training (240 hours), Sept 21 Cohort
- Healing Trauma, Illness, and Addiction through Connection, 2021
- Compassionate Inquiry Meets Internal Family System, Sounds True, 2023
- Traumatic Stress Studies Certificate, Trauma Research Foundation, 2023
- The Art of Accompanying a Good Death, Transpersonal Center of Buenos Aires & Paliar Foundation (20 hours), 2022
- Foundations of Peer Support Group Leadership, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA Boston), 9 hours, 2021
- Systemic Therapy, University of Business & Social Sciences (UCES), 110 hours, 2021
-
Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- CBT for Depression, 2020
- CBT for Weight Loss & Maintenance, 2020
- Introduction to CBT, 2017
- Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Albert Ellis Institute, Advanced, 2016
Professional Experience:
Special Skills or Expertise:
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
As a Clinical Psychologist, I offer therapeutic support to clients, integrating various modalities, including Compassionate Inquiry and CBT, to address mental health and recovery needs.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
I’m inspired by the holistic, person-centered approach at CRR. Helping others transform their lives and discover healthier ways of living resonates deeply with my personal philosophy and training.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: I love to float in a sensory deprivation tank.
Favorite Quote or Motto: “Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul.” —C.G. Jung
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English, German

Cesar
Personal Information
Job Title: Nurse Residential Coordinator
Department: Nursing
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Universidad Santa Lucia, Bachelor’s Nursing Degree (2017–2020)
- American Heart Association, Basic Life Support
- American Heart Association, Advanced Cardiac Life Support
Professional Experience:
Registered Nurse in Intensive Care Unit, 2020–2024
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Withdrawal Syndrome Management: Experienced in managing withdrawal symptoms, administering medications, and monitoring for complications like seizures or delirium tremens.
- Substance Use Education & Support: Skilled in providing education on the effects of alcohol and drugs, plus relapse prevention strategies.
- Comprehensive Health Assessment: Proficient in assessing physical and mental health, identifying co-morbidities, and providing care to support long-term recovery.
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
I provide healthcare services, and also bring emotional support when clients need someone to listen to them.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
My inspiration is to bring my best to everyone who needs help. I’m glad when I meet a patient and see them leave with dreams, motivation, and the desire to live. Yes to life!
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: Running and technology.
Favorite Quote or Motto: Every sunrise means a new opportunity.
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English

Silvia
Personal Information
Job Title: Nurse Residencial Coordinator
Department: Nursing
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Licentiate in Physical Therapy, Universidad Americana (June 2009)
- Incorporated into the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Costa Rica, Professional Code P 3731-2009
- Licentiate in Nursing, Universidad Latina de Costa Rica (August 2018)
- Incorporated into the College of Nurses of Costa Rica, License 18137
- First Year of Business Administration (Emphasis on Foreign Trade), Universidad Metropolitana Castro Carazo (2003–2004)
Professional Experience:
ICE (Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad): Customer Service & Sales Executive (2007–2016), Sales Executive (2016–Oct 2024)
Physical Therapy: Personalized care based on user requirements, pathology-specific adaptations, lifestyle modifications, rehabilitation, aesthetics, home and corporate programs, corporate education talks.
Nursing: Direct user care, nursing care plans adapted to client needs, primary care, corporate program adaptations, continuous nursing education for families and corporations, newborn care.
Homewatch Caregivers Latin America: Nursing and physical therapy services tailored to specific user requirements.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Ability to build trusting, compassionate relationships with patients
- Massage techniques for relaxation, pain relief, and overall well-being
- Effective intervention in panic attack crises (emotional support, relaxation)
- Listening and problem-solving skills
- Team collaboration and adaptability
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
I provide direct care to clients, assess their physical and emotional health, and offer continuous education. I also serve as the medical liaison with the clinical team and manage the nursing station, ensuring holistic support and care.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
As a nurse, I’m inspired to provide holistic guidance during recovery, always hoping clients can improve with quality and hope.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: I love picnics with my two young daughters.
Favorite Quote or Motto: “It's not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get up.” — Paulo Coelho
Languages Spoken: Spanish and English

Indira Aguilar Fallas
Personal Information
Full Name: Indira Aguilar Fallas
Preferred Name: Indira
Job Title: Nurse Residential Coordinator
Department: Nursing
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- ICU Nursing Experience
Professional Experience:
Skilled in closely monitoring health conditions while providing compassion and gentleness throughout the recovery process.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- ICU Nursing Experience
- Proficient in health monitoring during rehabilitation
- Gentle, supportive, and compassionate patient care
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
I am one of the nursing residential coordinators at Costa Rica Recovery. With my ICU background, I monitor your medical condition while providing compassion and gentleness throughout your rehabilitation.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
“We are not put on this earth for ourselves, but are placed here for each other. If you are always there for others, then in times of need, someone will be there for you.” – Jeff Warner
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby:
Favorite Quote or Motto: “We are not put on this earth for ourselves, but are placed here for each other...”
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English

Luz
Personal Information
Job Title: Head Chef
Department: Operations / Kitchen
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Diplomado en Gastronomía, Escuela Gourmet ARCAM
- Diplomado en Barista, ICAFE Instituto Costarricense del Café
Professional Experience:
- Panamerican School, Cafeteria Manager
- Liberty Christian School, Cafeteria Manager
- Light House International School, Head Chef
- CRCS Costa Rica Christian School, Cafeteria Manager
- La Montaña Christian Camps, Head Chef
- Costa Rica Treatment Center, Chef
Special Skills or Expertise:
I have extensive experience in the culinary field, especially in the administration of institutional and commercial canteens. I graduated from the ARCAM Gourmet School. I'm highly committed to patient recovery, providing a balanced, nutritious, high-quality diet—with good service and a smile.
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization: Head Chef
Food preparation, purchases, inventories, kitchen budgets, menus, ensuring quality standards and food handling.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
My passion for service, knowing it can benefit the recovery of each person. Contributing in this way helps me leave a small, positive mark on their lives.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: Reading, crafts, listening to music
Favorite Quote or Motto: “He who is not fit to serve, is not fit to live”
Languages Spoken: Spanish

Cecilia
Personal Information
Job Title: Residential Coordinator
Department: Residential Coordinator
Professional Background
Educational Qualifications:
- Certification in Psychological First Aid, University of Barcelona, 2024
- Bachelor's Degree in Sociology, University of Costa Rica, 2023
- Degree in Public Administration, University of Costa Rica
- Certification in Support in the educational process of adolescents and young adults, AFS, 2020
- Certification in Support Coordination, AFS, 2020
Professional Experience:
I have experience in volunteering and organizing groups. I have participated in projects on issues such as migration and educational cultural adaptations. I have worked with people and social groups in vulnerable situations and in different socioeconomic contexts. Also, I’ve worked from the administrative side, from creating content for educational programs aimed at national and foreign youth, to planning and logistical development of activities for public and private institutions.
Special Skills or Expertise:
- Time management and organization
- Reasoning and conflict resolution
- Working adaptability with different social groups
Role at Costa Rica Recovery
Your Role in the Organization:
In charge of monitoring patients’ adherence to rules, regulations, and privileges according to their current level. Also, oversee special permission requests, money funds, and duties. Report any physical or behavioral changes to the clinical staff.
What Inspires You About Working at CRR?:
Each patient's life story teaches something different about how to see life and oneself. I believe you can learn a lot from them both personally and professionally. Seeing the progress of each patient for their personal growth and how they adopt tools for life inspires me to keep working and helping in whatever way I can. It is a joy to work in a place that seeks the well-being of its patients.
Personal Touch
Fun Fact or Hobby: Yoga, swimming, and reading
Favorite Quote or Motto: “Do something today that your future self will thank you for”
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English