The Pointe Malibu Recovery Center Team

Jennell Maze is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received her MSW at the University of Southern California. Her professional career has granted her the chance to be involved in promoting wellbeing as it relates to individuals, families, and communities. She has provided more than 18 years of comprehensive outpatient, residential, and field based services. Her therapeutic practice has been focused on trauma, mood, anxiety, relationship dynamics, personality disorders, substance use, various addictions, as well as an extensive knowledge of co-occurring conditions. Her interventions are anchored in resilience and strengths based models, which foster hope and opportunity.

Her training and certifications include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Structural and Strategic Family Therapy, as well as Crisis-Oriented Services.

Jennell has also worked as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck for nearly ten years, teaching courses in Human Behavior and the Social Environment. Her approach to being of service is driven by ensuring one feels a sense of belonging and connection. This collective approach has led to countless opportunities to witness and support individuals and families on their path to recovery, acceptance, and change.

Mel Pohl, MD, DFASAM is the Senior Medical Consultant of the Pain Recovery Program at The Pointe Malibu. Dr. Mel was a major force in developing Las Vegas Recovery Center’s Chronic Pain Recovery Program. He is a Family Practitioner, certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM), and is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Nevada School of Medicine.

He is the author of A Day without Pain, revised edition (Central Recovery Press, 2011) and The Pain Antidote – Stop Suffering from Chronic Pain, Avoid Addiction to Painkillers, and Reclaim Your Life (DaCapo, 2015). Dr. Mel filmed a show for PBS on chronic pain which aired around the country in 2016.

Stacy Cohen, MD, is a double-board certified general and addiction psychiatrist, licensed in both New York and California and based in Los Angeles. She completed her residency training at the University of Chicago and Rush University and her fellowship at UCLA Medical Center.

Dr. Cohen has served as Medical Director of several large addiction treatment programs in the Los Angeles area, which included all levels of care: detox, residential treatment, and intensive outpatient treatment. In addition to her work in addiction and general psychiatry, Dr. Cohen specializes in working with peripartum/women’s issues and LGBTQ patients.

Dr. Cohen has and continues to be involved in community education regarding mental health treatment and has published medical literature on a variety of mental health topics including Addiction in the Older Patient and Managing Unipolar Depression During Pregnancy. Dr. Cohen serves as a Clinical Advisory Board Member of Backline, a mental health organization for musicians and was accoladed as a keynote speaker at the National Alliance on Mental Health.

Les Aria, Ph.D., a pain psychologist who has been practicing for the past 17 years with Kaiser Permanente Medical Group in Northern California and he served as the Lead Pain Psychologist for Kaiser Northern California to help redesign the chronic pain workshop curriculum to incorporate modern pain science, mindfulness and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). Les specializes in treating psychophysiological disorders/persistent pain and medically unexplained problems. He is also part of the Opioid Safety Program (OSP) at Kaiser to help patients, who struggle with opioid dependency and chronic pain, to compassionately taper off their opioids. His passion for mind-body interventions promotes a unique style to help patients relate differently to their suffering, and thereby shift them into pain recovery and wellness.

Michelle graduated with a BA in Science and double major in Policy Studies at UCLA in 2000. Although she was recruited through UCLA athletics, she focused on her studies and social works. It was through her Policy studies that she fell in love with social work and realized that working with people was her passion. From tutoring inner city Latino kids in a second language, to volunteering at MS clinics, to walking the streets of ground zero, she knew that being hands-on was her calling. These days, Michelle remains very active as being involved in health and wellness is what keeps her anchored.

Morgan Stiles earned her Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. Morgan has experience working with children and adults of all ages in private practice and has worked in residential treatment programs for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health issues for the past five years. Morgan uses her personal experiences with recovery to meet clients with compassion and provide a nuanced level of understanding that promotes an environment for change and a meaningful treatment experience.

Humanistic to the core, Morgan’s approach to clinical care centers around love and acceptance to promote a sense of safety within the therapeutic process. Morgan frequently utilizes interventions such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Therapy, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy for individuals facing various challenges such as sobriety, anxiety and other mood-related disorders, and chronic pain. Morgan enjoys spending time in nature and developed a weekly ecotherapy hiking group that promotes connection to self, others, and the natural environment; she also co-facilitates our weekly DBT Surf group with our primary surf therapist. In her free time, you can find Morgan spending time with her family and dogs Blue and Clyde.

Amanda is a seasoned professional at The Pointe Malibu, brings with her over 25 years of clinical expertise and a profound understanding of resources available to individuals grappling with mental and behavioral health challenges. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work from Case Western Reserve University and a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Mercyhurst University.

Throughout her career, Amanda has ventured into diverse clinical settings, where her expertise has made a significant impact. She played a pivotal role in designing curriculums for disaster mental health preparedness and response, demonstrating her commitment to addressing mental health needs during critical events. Amanda’s dedication also led her to develop and deliver mental health training programs for clinicians, further enhancing the competence of professionals in the field.

Amanda’s expertise extends to counseling adolescents and families, and she has done so in both residential and community settings. Her therapeutic support has been instrumental in helping individuals navigate complex challenges. Amanda’s career path also includes serving as the Mental Health Content Specialist for Region II Head Start Programs, underscoring her commitment to early intervention and child well-being.

Her career journey took her into roles in Clinical Outreach and Business Development, where she applied her marketing and clinical skills to organizations such as PCH Treatment Center, CRC Health, Constellations Behavioral Health, and Ellenhorn. In these positions, Amanda contributed to the growth and success of these institutions while continuing to champion the cause of mental health.

Amanda’s guiding philosophy revolves around the advocacy of individuals facing mental health and substance abuse issues. She firmly believes in fostering a partnership between clients and professionals throughout the recovery journey. Amanda’s attraction to The Pointe Malibu stems from her belief that “not all who wander are lost.” She emphasizes the importance of considering the full picture of an individual’s life and struggles, recognizing that every experience contributes to their current state.
A passionate activist and advocate for the voiceless, Amanda carries her commitment not only into her professional life but also shares this energy and enthusiasm with her four children.

In her clinical practice, Amanda’s approach is rooted in psychodynamic and relational therapy. She places paramount importance on the therapist-client relationship as the cornerstone of psychotherapy. She views life experiences as shaping an individual’s present, working from a strength-based perspective through a trauma-informed lens.

Her expertise spans a wide spectrum, including LGBTQIA issues, substance misuse, and families experiencing psychological and related behavioral concerns, among other areas.

Amanda Lehrer’s extensive clinical background, profound empathy, and dedication to advocating for those in need make her an invaluable asset to The Pointe Malibu and the broader community.

Judy Ho, Ph. D., ABPP, ABPdN is a triple board-certified and licensed Clinical and Forensic Neuropsychologist, a tenured Associate Professor at Pepperdine University, and published author, most recently penning “Stop Self-Sabotage,” published by HarperCollins in August 2019; a book detailing a scientifically-driven six-step program which has been translated into 7 additional languages around the world. Dr. Judy maintains a private practice in Manhattan Beach, CA where she specializes in comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and expert witness work. She regularly appears as an expert psychologist on television, podcasts, radio, and contributes to other media including print and electronic periodicals. She is a co-host on the syndicated daytime television talk show “The Doctors,” co-host of CBS’s Face the Truth, and host of The SuperCharged Life podcast produced by Stage 29 Podcast Productions.

Dr. Judy Ho is an avid researcher and is a two-time recipient of the National Institute of Mental Health Services Research Award. She hosts an active research program to improve mental health care for high-need populations and is the chair of the Institutional Review Board at Pepperdine University. Her treatment approaches integrate the scientific principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She often speaks at national and local events including research, clinical, and corporate conferences and workshops for organizations and schools.

Dr. Judy received her bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Business Administration from UC Berkeley and her masters and doctorate from SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology. She completed a National Institute of Mental Health sponsored fellowship at UCLA’s Semel Institute.

Whitney Nuhn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 9 years experience partnering with adults, families, and couples facing mental health struggles relating to trauma, addiction, and spiritual issues. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Wheaton College, IL and received her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller in Pasadena, California. Her experience in addiction spans the spectrum from working with the incarcerated and homeless populations to holistic concierge rehab facilities.

She has a special interest in the clinical treatment of Personality Disorders within the addiction treatment context, utilizing the science of attachment. She focuses on forming a strong therapeutic relationship with patients through the psychodynamic therapeutic approach. Together they explore patients’ core conflictual relationship themes and how this impacts their addictive behaviors.

Additionally, Whitney is an EMDR practitioner and a Level II Certified practitioner in Restoration Therapy. Traumatic events can create harsh and unsafe core messages about the self. In session, Whitney works with patients to identify their “Pain Cycle”. In dismantling unhelpful core messages, client’s have the opportunity to internalize new, more adaptive messages about themselves and create a “Peace Cycle”.

Whitney identified herself as an insatiable learner, keeping up to date on academic psychology. She is currently involved in research publishing with professors at Pepperdine University.

In her free time, Whitney enjoys time with her church community, backpacking with her husband and dog, and running half marathons.

Art is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and SMART Recovery Facilitator. He began his education at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where he earned a bachelor’s degree with a double major in Sociology and Economics. Art earned his Juris Doctor degree from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University in New York City. He graduated from law school cum laude and was employed as a commercial litigator at the New York office of a large international law firm. After moving to Malibu, Art earned a Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling, which was awarded with distinction by the University of California in Los Angeles. Art leads 12 Step and SMART Recovery groups at The Pointe Malibu and works closely with clients to develop holistic continuing care plans that help ensure long-term freedom from addiction.

Patrick holds a BA in Psychology from Cal State University, Channel Islands, and an MA degree in Clinical Counseling from Concordia University in Irvine. Patrick is currently credentialed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II, CATC-III). Patrick’s approach focuses on identifying and uprooting the narrative, or story, that underlies dysfunctional thinking and behavior. Because these painful stories have a traumatic origin, he uses interventions aimed at helping clients to finish processing these deep wounds, allowing them to find their best possible story as a result. Patrick is trained as an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, which is a powerful tool in the treatment of trauma.

Because of his own history with depression and substance abuse, he is well-acquainted with the mindsets that accompany them, as well as what is necessary to fully vanquish them. Patrick takes great pleasure in helping people find the inspiration to “reinvent” themselves so that things like depression, anxiety, regret, and addiction no longer belong in their story and are replaced instead by gratitude, peace of mind, and abiding joy.

Sam holds a BA in Psychology from University of Santa Cruz and completed his Masters of Social Work from University of Southern California with a specialization in adult mental-health and wellness. He is currently credentialed as an Associate Clinical Social Worker and trained in EMDR and trauma-informed care.

Sam draws from existential, behavioral, and psychodynamic approaches in treatment to foster a safe and trusting relationship where clients can explore new ways of thinking and being in the world through recovery. His work focuses on identifying maladaptive beliefs, resolving unconscious conflicts, and is anchored in the belief that all people deserve and are capable of living meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Sam has experience working with children and adults of all ages, as a primary therapist in crisis residential programs, intensive outpatient treatment centers, and private practice.

Ben is an Associate Clinical Social Worker and received his MSW degree from Arizona State University. He is proud to have worked in the mental health field for over seven years where he has partnered with individuals, families and communities. Ben’s therapeutic approach is informed by various interventions which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Crisis-Oriented Therapy, Wellness Centered Care, Ecotherapy and Internal Family Systems. Ben provides client centered and strength based therapy to ensure that everyone’s route to wellness is both dynamic and unique to the individual. He is passionate about surfing, hiking and meditation and integrates elements of ecotherapy and mindfulness throughout his care.

Jeff is a certified addiction counselor, who specializes in working with individuals and families coping with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. Jeffreceived a BA from Arizona State University and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADAC) from Sober College School of Addiction Studies in Los Angeles. Jeff holds a graduate certificate in systemic family counseling, and he is working on a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. Jeff has worked as a case manager in residential treatment and intensive outpatient throughout the Los Angeles area. He has a passion for helping others and devotes time to working with the Los Angeles homeless population and the recovery community at large. He utilizes a compassionate and comprehensive mind-body-spirit perspective with an emphasis on evidence-based practices. Jeff graduated from The Pointe in 2020 and blends his own personal experience in treatment and recovery with his wide range of clinical skills. His hobbies include fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness practices.

Christiana is currently a primary therapist at the Pointe Malibu Recovery Centers after initially working at our Intensive Outpatient Program. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Antioch University with a dual major in Addiction Studies and Psychology and a minor in Urban Communities and Environments. Christiana is a master’s candidate at the University of Southern California School of Social Work studying Adult Mental Health and Wellness.

Christiana was formerly a youth pastor and the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at Brentwood Presbyterian Church and was in charge of programming. She led weekly groups and frequently incorporated surf groups into her work with the teenagers. Though she loved the job, Christiana felt that she was called to work in the field of addiction treatment after working alongside students and families who were struggling with chemical dependency and entered the addiction treatment field in 2015.

Christiana utilizes evidence-based practices to inform her work with clients, and frequently incorporates solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, strength-based practices, and psychoeducation in individual therapy sessions, case management, and groups she facilitates. She even incorporates these approaches into surf/ocean therapy groups.

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Ashleigh manages the dynamic holistic program The Pointe Malibu offers, and passionately brings together a team of world-class specialists and instructors. The diversity of holistic offerings creates a safe space to facilitate healing, growth, and recovery. This includes meditation, yoga, movement, energy healing, sound healing, equine therapy, art therapy, and beyond. Ashleigh is a 500 hour Certified Yoga Instructor, has Sound Healing training certification, 20 years of meditation and yoga practice, and is currently in pursuit of an MA degree in psychology. She is dedicated to guiding clients to integrate holistic practices into their treatment experience. This includes creating space for meditation, creative expression, self-care, retreat, and movement. She works with individuals seeking to cultivate and nourish these practices in their lives, using practical methods and steps to integrate spirituality in day-to-day living.

Christiana facilitates our weekly group and individual surf therapy sessions to aid clients in their recovery from chemical dependency and mental health symptom reduction. She has created a DBT Surf Therapy program with a curriculum that focuses on supporting clients with therapeutic skills integration while teaching clients to surf.

Bat El is a certified massage therapist who’s trained in a variety of modalities. Qualified Massage therapist in Oncology massage, Burn & scar massage, and compassionate healing touch. All approved by the National Certification Board Of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork(NCBTMB). She values people who bring integrity, professionalism, and compassion to all aspects of care. Bat El is compassionate about healing and believes in respect, dignity, and quality care at all times.

She wants her clients to feel better! It sounds simple, and for some, it may be. Massage therapy may be needed to relieve the stress and tension that day-to-day life brings. Strain and pressure can bring havoc on a body’s muscles and structure. Bat El’s goals are to help each client form an individualized and balanced treatment plan, based on particular needs.

Bridget serves as our Admissions Coordinator here at The Pointe Malibu. She is driven by a passion for helping people battling addiction and mental health issues. She is truly dedicated to assisting others discover their path to recovery.

Bridget brings with her a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and wisdom. She uses her personal experiences in recovery to connect with clients and their loved ones seeking support throughout the treatment process.

Renai has worked in the health and wellness industry since 2009, and has been at The Pointe Malibu since 2017, where she now functions as the Program Manager. Renai works closely with the clinical team and assists with administrative needs to ensure a positive and productive programming experience for each client. Always looking to bolster her educational prowess, Renai has received education in Insurance Utilization Administration and Clinical Documentation Compliance since joining The Pointe. A Malibu native, Renai is proud to serve her community while working in the wellness and recovery field.

Elliot Bokman is a seasoned substance abuse recovery specialist, case manager, program director, alumni director/admissions coordinator and sober companion with nearly 12 years of experience. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Elliot has dedicated his career to helping individuals overcome addiction and navigate the path to recovery. He is passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives and has a proven track record of success in his field.

When he’s not working, Elliot loves spending time with his amazing wife and son. He enjoys boxing and stays active to maintain his physical and mental health. Elliot has a keen interest in music, video games, and reading, and he often enjoys relaxing by the pool or beach with a good book. With a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, Elliot is a valuable asset to any team or organization he works with.

Salvatore Savo is Resident Advisor at The Pointe Malibu, providing logistical and emotional support for clients as they progress through recovery. Sal received his Bachelor’s Degree from Boston College in Economics and Philosophy before earning his Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University. Sal has served as a writer for USA Network’s Emmy-Award winning show “Monk” and received an Emmy nomination for his work on the Discovery TV game show “Cash Cab”. He has also written for Fox’s hit game shows “Spin the Wheel” and “Mental Samurai.”

Shardonaye is currently studying for her Bachelor’s Degree at Arizona State University. She has studied abroad at the University of London, Birkbeck and has an Associate’s Degree from Moorpark College. Her positive energy is pivotal to creating safe, welcoming spaces for clients throughout their treatment experience. In her free time, you can find her reading on the beach, watching spooky movies with her dog, or writing her next novel.

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Miles is a dedicated and compassionate resident advisor. He brings a deep commitment to helping individuals on their journey of self discovery. Having overcome personal challenges related to addiction, Miles understands the struggles that residents face and offers unwavering support, empathy, and guidance.

As a resident advisor, Miles plays a pivotal role in the healing process, providing support and being a beacon of hope for those on the path to recovery. His dedication to helping individuals rediscover their potential and build a brighter future is truly inspiring. Miles is well versed in the principles of recovery. Outside of work, Miles is a creative soul. Delving into the arts, he spends his time creating art through mixed media and writing music.