Our Team

Joanne Hartmann Villegas, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Joanne specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health and addiction conditions in both children and adults through medication management. With a collaborative approach, Joanne works closely with therapists and counselors to ensure holistic, comprehensive care for each individual.

A licensed registered nurse since 1983, Joanne completed advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner training at Case Western Reserve University in 2014. Unlike Family or Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, Joanne does not treat general medical conditions, focusing exclusively on psychiatric evaluation and treatment.

Recognizing the important connection between mental and physical health, Joanne may recommend additional medical evaluations or lab work by a primary care provider to rule out physical conditions that can mimic mental health symptoms.

Anna Thomas

CDCA

Anna Thomas, CDCA, is a dedicated behavioral health professional with over 5 years of experience working with individuals facing Substance Use Disorders and co-occurring Mental Health conditions. She has supported diverse populations in a variety of clinical settings and is passionate about helping others overcome barriers to personal growth and stability. Motivated by a strong desire to make a meaningful impact, Anna is currently working toward licensure to deepen her clinical expertise and expand her ability to serve. Her approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a belief in every person’s potential to recreate healthier lives.

Mark Sturdivant

OCPRS Supervisor

Mark is an OCPRS Supervisor with three years of experience in peer support and four years of personal sobriety. With a deep commitment to helping others navigate their recovery journeys, Mark brings both professional expertise and personal insight to his role. His compassionate approach fosters a supportive environment, empowering individuals to make lasting changes in their lives. Mark’s dedication to recovery and his understanding of the challenges it presents make him a valuable resource for those seeking guidance and encouragement.

Shelly Pfeil

LCDC II | program Director

With five years of experience in the field, Shelly holds an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services with a concentration in Chemical Dependency. Currently certified as an LCDC II, Shelly is also pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Cleveland State University. Passionate about supporting individuals affected by addiction, Shelly brings empathy, commitment, and a strong desire to help others achieve meaningful transformation in their lives.

Shaya Fishman, LISW-S

Clinical Director | Tal Behavioral Health

Shaya Fishman, LISW-S, serves as the Clinical Director at Tal Behavioral Health, where he brings extensive experience in mental health and addiction recovery services. Beginning his career as a counselor, Shaya quickly emerged as a trusted leader known for his clinical expertise and dedication to client-centered care.

Under his leadership, Tal Behavioral Health maintains a high standard of excellence, integrating evidence-based practices with a compassionate, individualized approach to treatment. Shaya is deeply committed to fostering an environment where clients feel safe, supported, and empowered in their recovery journey.

In addition to his clinical leadership, Shaya actively advocates for mental health awareness and addiction recovery within the broader community, working to reduce stigma and promote access to quality care.

James Howell, LCDC II

PHP Counselor | Tal Behavioral Health

James Howell serves as a PHP Counselor at Tal Behavioral Health, where he brings insight, dedication, and clinical expertise to individuals navigating the early stages of addiction recovery. As a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor II (LCDC II), James is skilled in providing structured group and individual counseling within our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP).

With a compassionate and direct approach, James helps clients unpack the root causes of addiction, develop healthy coping strategies, and build the emotional resilience necessary for sustained recovery. His sessions emphasize personal accountability, community support, and practical tools that empower individuals to reclaim control of their lives.

James is deeply committed to creating a safe, respectful environment where clients feel heard, understood, and motivated to make lasting change. His work is guided by the belief that recovery is not only possible—it’s a journey worth fighting for.

Nicole Bennett, CDCA

Case Manager | Tal Behavioral Health

Nicole Bennett is a dedicated Case Manager at Tal Behavioral Health, bringing compassion, structure, and a client-centered approach to her role. As a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA), Nicole supports individuals through every stage of their recovery journey with empathy and accountability.

With a deep understanding of the challenges that come with addiction, Nicole works closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, coordinate care, and connect them with essential resources—from housing and employment to community support systems. Her goal is to empower each person to build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

Known for her approachable demeanor and consistent follow-through, Nicole plays a vital role in helping clients regain control of their lives and rediscover their sense of purpose.

Lawrence Drozin

Residential Coordinator / House Manager

With over four years of experience working in the recovery field, Lawrence knows what it takes to create safe, supportive homes where people can truly begin to heal. As Residential Coordinator, he’s opened and run seven recovery residences—each one built with care, structure, and the belief that everyone deserves a fresh start.

Lawrence is trained in Ohio Recovery Housing Standards and brings a solid mix of compassion, personal recovery experience, and education to his role. From day-to-day operations to building a sense of community in each home, he’s all about making sure residents feel respected, supported, and set up for success. Lawrence is a graduate of Miami University with a degree in Business-Marketing.

Eric Hodentt

Eric Hodentt, CDCA – Peer Supporter

Eric Hodentt brings a wealth of experience and compassion to his role as a Peer Supporter at Tal Behavioral Health. With a background as a Teacher Associate, Eric has developed a strong ability to connect with individuals and guide them in building essential life skills. His work has focused on facilitating mental health groups and helping others grow in areas such as self-regulation, behavior skills, and study skills.

Drawing on both his professional training and his dedication to supporting recovery, Eric empowers clients to take meaningful steps forward. His approachable style and commitment to fostering growth make him an invaluable part of the Tal team.

Rebecca Lombardo

In 2013, I began my journey as a recovering addict, a turning point that reshaped my life and purpose. After years of personal growth and healing, I discovered a deep passion for helping others find their own path to recovery. In 2020, this passion became my mission, and I committed myself to supporting others through their own transformative journeys.

In 2021, I earned my Associate of Arts degree from Cuyahoga Community College, further equipping me with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful impact. Today, I work in the field of counseling, guiding individuals as they navigate their challenges, build resilience, and take steps toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. My lived experience, combined with my education and compassion, allows me to connect deeply with those I serve—proving that recovery for anyone is possible and success is always within reach.

Dana Beitler

Dana Beitler is a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) counselor with 2.5 years of experience in the field. She facilitates groups, provides individual counseling, and offers case management support. Dana’s empathy and compassion are at the heart of her work, and her personal experience gives her a unique ability to connect with clients and walk alongside them in their recovery journey. She is passionate about helping others build healthier, more fulfilling lives. Dana holds an Associate’s degree from Lorain County Community College, is pursuing her Bachelor’s in Social Work at Youngstown State University, and is credentialed as a CDCA.

JaQwan "Kat" Cummings

As a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Kat brings a compassionate and empathetic approach to guiding others on their recovery journey. Having navigated his own path to wellness, Kat connects with peers through lived experience to foster trust and create a safe space for open discussion. He is dedicated to helping individuals build self-advocacy skills, combat stigma, and connect with community resources.