Meet the 1st Step Family

Gus Crocco is the owner and founder of 1st Step Behavioral Health. He has over 25 years of direct clinical experience in the substance abuse and mental health fields. Gus has worked with diverse populations including prisoners in department of corrections, adolescents, and those met through school social work and his work at various psychiatric facilities. He also worked as an adjunct professor teaching group therapy to college students. He has extensive training in Jungian Psychology, Rational Emotive, behavioral modification and Gestalt therapies. He is versed in experiential therapy, drama therapy and performs family sculpting and role reintegration with recovering families. A number of Gus’s specializations include obsessive-compulsive disorders, eating disorders, acute and general anxiety disorders, bipolar and clinical depressions.

With over 23 years of human resources experience, Patty is a wealth of knowledge at 1st Step. Patty oversees all facets of Human Resources at the facility. She says she most enjoys working for a company whose staff always puts clients’ needs above all other factors. Patty not only has experience in human resources but is also the staff baker, always prepared to come in with birthday cakes and different deserts for other staff members.

Bio coming soon

Marge joined the 1st Step Behavioral Health family in 2005 as an administrative assistant and has since become the executive administrator. With a degree in science and as a Certified Medical Professional with over 25 years’ experience in the medical and administrative fields, Marge is a leader for the entire staff. She is chiefly responsible for all financial operations and her fiscal management and budgetary knowledge allows 1st Step to provide all clients the best possible care. In addition, Marge is a hands-on administrator, committed to her staff and an active member of the day-to-day operations.

Naz Andekian joined 1st Step in 2014 as Director of Program Development. After working 4 years as director of admissions in steps to recovery, Naz brought his expertise and knowledge to First Step Behavioral Health. Naz was a client in 2010 and says he knew this place had the ability to save and change many lives.

“I am grateful to have been given this opportunity to work for the very place that saved my life, and now work with humility as part of a team that helps others to save their own on a daily basis.” Naz is convinced that he works for the best treatment center in the nation, and is proud to be part of such a caring team of individuals who always put the needs of our clients first.

Shawn Hunsberger, RN is a senior member of the staff and has been with 1st Step family for over 15 years. Shawn came to 1st Step as a client in 2005 and started her journey of recovery. She knew that she was in a special place and wanted to be a part of helping others change their life just as she did. Over time, Shawn has become one of the pillars in our treatment community. She quickly progressed in the company, starting as a Behavioral Health Tech and is now our Director of Nursing. Her continued education, passion and personal experience is what makes her such an integral part of 1st Step. Shawn is responsible for overseeing the nursing staff, collaborating with MDs and APRNS, and ensuring all clients get the proper care to assist in their recovery. Shawn not only takes care of our clients at 1st Step but also takes her care-taking skills home; between her dogs, cats, chickens, and alligators it’s safe to say Shawn is a true caretaker at heart.

Dr. Castellon obtained his undergraduate degree in Psychology at The University of Miami. He later attended Escuela Autonoma de Ciencias Medicas in Costa Rica where he received his Doctorate in Medicine. He then returned to the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he completed his Residency in Psychiatry working in veterans affairs for 4 years. Dr. Castellon has worked as an attending physician at Memorial Regional Hospital, Broward Health Medical Center and Broward Health Imperial Point as well as managing a successful outpatient practice. Dr. Castellon specialized in emergency psychiatry, psychiatric consultation liaison, and inpatient psychiatry and addiction medicine. He held the position as Chairman for the Department of Psychiatry at Broward Health Medical Center from 2008 – 2014. Dr. Castellon joined the 1st Step family in 2017 and has served as Medical Director. Dr Castellon is an active member of the American Psychiatric Association, American Medical Association, American Association of Psychiatric Medicine, Association for Convulsive Therapy and American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Janice Watson joined the 1st Step team in 2012 as a primary clinician with 30 years experience in the field, as a highly educated, experienced and skilled clinician. Her accomplishments include winning the 2005 Counselor of The Year Award from the New Hampshire Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors Association, for her many years of dedication to quality treatment. Janice has made a phenomenal impact in the lives of many individuals and families, and as the senior member of our clinical staff, with her years of experience, work ethic and passion, she is continues to create a rare bond with her clients. Janice has made a great name for herself battling on the front lines of addiction as well as specializing in treating perinatal addiction for over 9 years.

Bio coming soon

Bio coming soon

Bio coming soon

Martin Waddington has been a part of the 1st Step family since 2011, first as a client and now as a well-respected staff member. Martin’s personal recovery fuels his drive and passion to help clients who are in need. In his first position as a Case Manager at 1st Step Behavioral Health, Martin proved to be a great asset to the team and while continuing his education, he has now taken on the position of Outpatient Clinician. His education and years of recovery experience have given him the opportunity to become a great clinician for our clients in the early stages of recovery. As a transplant from Pennsylvania to Florida in 2011, Martin now calls Palm Beach County home and considers the 1st Step family a part of his own.

“After arriving at 1st Step as a client I immediately understood what a special place it was and am eternally grateful to be able to carry 1st Step’s mission to other recovering addicts in an effort to help them with the same levels of care and compassion that were shown to me.”

Bio coming soon

Brittany has been working in the field of addiction and mental health since 2012. Brittany holds a master’s degree in social work and has experience with chemical dependency and co-occurring mental health diagnoses. She is experienced with various therapeutic techniques, including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and experiential therapy that she individualizes for her clientele. Brittany is passionate about treating all clients with dignity and respect while providing a safe environment where clients can begin their healing journey in recovery. Brittany’s role as the Assistant Clinical Director has allowed her to integrate the philosophies of 1st Step into her daily practice and continue to grow both professionally and personally. She enjoys practicing yoga and spending time with two of 1st Step’s furry mascots, her dogs Maya and Cairo.

Bio coming soon

Bio coming soon

Jerry Barbarino joined the 1st Step Behavioral Health team in 2015 as a Primary Clinician. What has attracted Jerry to work at 1st Step is the philosophy of teamwork and the opportunity to put caring for the clients first. Jerry takes a client centered and individualized approach with every client. He enjoys the challenge of working with business-professional clients, treating each person with the highest regard and really focusing on the underlying issues of their addiction. Jerry is a big Bob Dylan fan and stands by the quote, “When you ain’t got nothing, you got nothing to lose.”

Debra Edwards brings 25 years of experience in the fields of addiction and mental health to her role as a Clinician at First Step Behavioral Health. Debra holds a Master’s Degree of Arts from Bellevue University, Bachelor Degree of Science from Bellevue University, and Associate Degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling from Metro Community College in her home state of Nebraska. During Debra’s career, she has managed transitional housing programs, worked as a certified evaluator/DUI instructor, provided prevention and intervention education for the 15 Judicial Circuit Courts diversion program, and has been a sober coach for over 15 years. Debra’s personal philosophy is that being spiritually connected, having a positive attitude, and serving others is key to a purposeful, successful life. Debra’s passion for her work and the depth and wealth of her experience, is an asset to our clinical team, clients and families she serves.

Jeff Caparros has been a counselor in mental health and addictions for the past 28 years. He earned his Bachelor’s of Science (BS) degree in the field of psychology and his Certification as an Addictions Professional (CAP). Jeff has practiced counseling in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He has many years of training and experience counseling individuals, couples, families and groups in these therapeutic settings.

Dana Latheef joined 1st Step as a clinician at Detox treatment services. Dana has worked in the field of addiction and mental health since 2012. Dana holds a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling and is currently a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.

Dr. Craig Vrablic holds a doctoral degree in Clinical Sexology from The American Academy of Clinical Sexologists and a Master of Science in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from Florida International University. As an undergraduate, he studied at the University of Miami and Northwestern University. He is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Board Certified Sex Therapist. He is a member of The National Honors Society, The Honor Society of Nursing, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, Neuroscience Education Institute, and Diplomat of the American Board of Sexology. Dr. Vrablic has worked in health care since 1978 and in the past 20+ years of his professional career, he has focused in the field of Psychiatry and Addiction. Dr. Vrablic blends the Rogerian Client-Centered approach with Rational Emotive Therapy, building on client’s strengths and integrating harm reduction. He incorporates appropriate psychopharmacology when necessary to achieve optimal mental health and functioning. Dr. Vrablic is available to address psychopharmacology needs, sexual issues, brief psychotherapy, individual, relationship and family therapy, as well as addictions and co-dependency issues.

Claudia joined the 1st Step team in 2011 as a recent nursing graduate. Claudia’s knowledge, passion, and work ethic makes her a major asset to the 1st Step medical staff. Claudia enjoys helping clients and seeing their transformation from detox to discharge. She is continuing her education, and looks forward to becoming a Registered Nurse.

Donna Grizzle joined the 1st Step family originally in 2010 as a client and has since become an integral part to our daily operation. With many years experience working in a private practice as an RN, Donna is the physician coordinator, and most recently became the outpatient supervisor at 1st Step Behavioral Health. Donna’s responsibilities range from working hand in hand with our team of physicians, to being a willing listener for struggling clients. Her education combined with her passion to help those in need has been her greatest asset at 1st Step. As a result of overcoming her own battle with addiction, Donna is now known as a mother figure to many of the clients at 1st Step, and is a wealth of knowledge and comfort for clients in need.

Tim Anderson, MD, MPH, FASAM is a highly experienced physician in the field of addiction medicine. He graduated from Washington University with a BA in Biology in 1973 and went on to earn his MD from St. Louis University School of Medicine in 1977. Dr. Anderson's first ten years of medical career were spent as a Flight Surgeon and Emergency Medicine physician in the Air Force, which he enjoyed. He then spent the next fifteen years as a private practice hospital-based general internist. In 2000, Dr. Anderson returned to the University to pursue a residency in Public Health and earned his Master's degree in Public Health (MPH). Since then, he has practiced in all phases of substance abuse, including detox, residential, PHP, OP, and maintenance. Dr. Anderson is Board Certified in Addiction Medicine and has recently been named a Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. His extensive experience and expertise in addiction medicine make him a valuable asset to any treatment team. Despite his busy schedule, Dr. Anderson enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf. He is driven to work in the field of addiction medicine by a desire to help individuals and families struggling with addiction and to make a positive impact in their lives.

James Stankes joined the 1st Step Behavioral Health team first in 2012 as a patient from New York looking to better his life and start his recovery. Two years later, James jumped on an opportunity for the role of Behavioral Health Technician at 1st Step. Since that time, James has grown not only in his recovery, but also in his role at 1st Step. Promoted to Case Manager in 2014, he takes on responsibilities of managing all clients’ legal, family, and employment issues, or any additional things that may prevent a client from solely focusing on their recovery. James is continuing his education to become a Certified Addiction Counselor in hopes to one day become a therapist and assist clients in their journey to recovery.

Ron Chapman joined 1st Step Behavioral Health in 2017 and plans to stay indefinitely after starting his journey to recovery in December of 2015 as a patient. Becoming sober is one of his greatest accomplishments to date and is why he continues to help current patients at 1st Step with the opportunities he was given. In his spare time, Ron enjoys taking his Australian Shepherd to the park or the beach.

Bio coming soon

Bio coming soon

Gail has been an important member of the treatment team since 2004. As Case Management Supervisor at 1st Step, Gail serves as a liaison between the clients and their employers, attorneys and EAP. She provides documentation for clients with a leave-of-absence from work, a disabled status, or those involved with the criminal justice system. She works closely with attorneys and the court liaison. Gail is also skilled in helping clients who are applying for assistance, both for vocational and financial needs. Her role on the clinical team is significant, in that she assists our clients with the numerous resources available in the community. Gail helps each client with compassion, support and dignity as she guides them through complex matters. It is of extreme importance to her to make certain our clients are able to accomplish their goal of returning to the workplace after treatment.

Annette originally joined 1st Step in 2008 as a Chemical Dependency Technician and has since risen through the ranks to Residential Supervisor. Annette’s responsibilities are to oversee the Behavioral Health Tech staff and to ensure all daily tasks at the residences are managed effectively. Having been in recovery for over 11 years, Annette is always available to our clients and willing to assist in getting them through any situation. Annette decided to stay at 1st Step after being “enamored by the owner’s big heart and the actual care for the clients.”

Vandy Brisbon joined the 1st Step Behavioral Health team in 2009 as a Behavioral Health Technician and has since became the evening Residential Supervisor. Vandy takes pride in his work and personal contact with each client that walks through the door. He has become an unwavering staple of the 1st Step staff, always willing and ready to assist clients in any way possible. With 11 years in recovery under his belt, Vandy has an innate ability to connect with clients and be a part of their early recovery process. He believes in the principles of 1st Step Behavioral Health and enjoys the sense of family and community he finds while helping clients get introduced to the recovery process.

Sarah Hatch Carlisi joined the 1st step team in 2017 as an administrative assistant and client account coordinator for the detox. She works closely with the admissions and case management departments to ensure the clients’ financial needs are taken care of sometimes before they even arrive and up until their transition out of the detox level of care. Sarah became interested in the treatment field in 2012 when she entered into rehab for her own battle with addiction, and has since celebrated over 5 years of sobriety. She is currently a student at Florida Atlantic University, working towards becoming a licensed mental health counselor. Outside of work and school, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband and two beautiful daughters.

Amanda recently graduated top of her class for Medical Billing and Coding. She works with the COO of First Step to ensure all insurance is billed correctly. Amanda handles any audits, discrepancies and updates with the policies, as well as marketing tools. She works closely with the administrative team and coordinators.

Susi Ferguson is a long time employee and member of the 1st Step family. Susi started her career here as a bus driver in March 2007. Over the years, she has worked up the ladder, receiving several promotions and is now a Supervisor overseeing all residential operations including transportation, support staff, housing operations and client activities. Susi works in direct contact with clients and their families. She makes sure to come to work each day with a positive attitude in hopes to affect each clients’ life in a positive way.

Elliott Stewart has worked in behavioral health for 9 years, 5 of which have been at 1st Step, dedicating his career to helping others overcome their struggles with addiction and mental health. Elliott is also in recovery himself and has been clean and sober for an impressive 12 years. This personal journey has given him a unique perspective and the ability to empathize with those he works with on a daily basis. One of Elliott's greatest accomplishments has been learning to accept life on life's terms, while balancing work, family, and personal growth. Elliott leads with loyalty and a strong work ethic so you always see him going above and beyond to support his colleagues and clients alike. During his free time, Elliott enjoys eating fruit, working out, and playing sports.

As our Director of Strategic Development, Hunter’s primary goal is to create innovative ways to assist individuals and their families to access appropriate methods of treatment. With a decade of experience, he has held roles such as National Director of Business Development, VP of Marketing, and Director of Community Outreach. Hunter’s creativity and experience are pivotal in optimizing our admission processes, data management, alumni coordination, and community outreach programming. He prides himself in being involved in numerous community coalitions, advocacy projects, and supporting at-risk teens. Hunter has emersed his heart and soul into ending the stigma behind mental health and substance abuse and supports creative ways to help the still sick and suffering addict and their families daily.

Lamont has been working at 1st Step since March 2021 and has worked in the industry for over 15 years, starting with working with youth at shelters in 2006, and later with adults in 2013. Lamont is also in recovery himself, having been sober since October 2019, which he considers his biggest obstacle to overcome. Lamont's greatest accomplishment is being the first in his family to graduate from college, but his inspiration to work in this field comes from his grandfather, who recovered from heroin addiction after 30 years and graduated with his Masters in Substance Abuse/Mental Health. In his free time, Lamont enjoys working out at the gym, watching his favorite sports teams, and spending time with his dog Jersey Blu. Lamont is passionate about his work and dedication to helping others. A fun fact about Lamont is that he loves traveling the world and was a groomsman in a wedding in Sierra Leone, Africa.

Bio coming soon

Jason became a part of First Step as a client in 2014. After successfully completing his treatment, he became a member of the staff in 2015 as a behavioral health technician. By the end of 2016, Jason was promoted to the admissions team where he then was able to utilize the tools he learned while under the care of First Steps’ devoted staff. He is now able to impart the things that he learned to other prospective clients and their families giving them hope for a better future through his own experience. Throughout the time Jason has worked at First Step, he has also been a valuable member of the recovering community in South Florida. Coming from Philadelphia, Jason has adopted Florida as his new home and enjoys playing golf, relaxing on the beach, and spending time with his new family and friends.

Nickolette Moore is an Admissions Coordinator at 1st Step Behavioral Health with over two years of experience in the substance and behavioral health industry. Nickolette has been in recovery for five years and understands firsthand the challenges that individuals and families face when seeking treatment for addiction and mental health issues. Her greatest accomplishment is giving herself another chance after almost giving up, and she brings this resilience and determination to her work every day. She is driven to work in the field of substance abuse and behavioral health to help others who are struggling and to remind herself of where she came from. In her free time, Nickolette enjoys reading and photography. One fun fact that not many people know about Nickolette is that she is not Irish. However, her greatest asset as a valued team member at 1st Step is her unique perspective and experience. Having been both a client and staff member, Nickolette has been a part of the 1st Step community for almost seven years and brings a deep understanding of the facility's culture and values to her role as an Admissions Coordinator.

Bio coming soon