Statement of Interest: I would like to run as president elect for many reasons; however, really want to continue working with a great team of people, advocating for the addiction field on the public policy committee and  I would also like to continue supporting clinician wellbeing on the ethics committee.

Biography: Elena, is the passionate owner of HALO Educational Systems, a Behavioral Health Organization settled in the Upper Valley and specializing in addictions. She has been the Managing Director for 19 years and provides co-occurring therapy to residents across 16 towns within the Connecticut Valley Region. She operates in a wide range of milieus including government, military, business, education and communities. She has been a student assistant provider for the Lebanon school district for the past 23 years, provided trainings and an array of substance misuse services for 15 NH schools. She has served on the NHADACA  board for the past 6 years. Supported George Mason University’s School of Data Analytics Engineering Capstone Advisory panel and as member of Alfa8 MINDCUBE Washington DC integrated AI helped guide the National Mental Health Crisis into quantum computing and digital mapping. She has also served on the NH Certified Prevention Specialist Board and All Together Community Coalition.  She has presented at events such as; ASAM symposium, the NH Foster and Adoptive Parent (NH-FAPA) Conference and for New Hampshire School Nurses Association (NHSNA). She has also operated in a secure facility as a DOD trainer at NSWDG, worked with Veterans and has coordinated care at a residential Veterans Place. 

Biography: Kimberly is a Masters Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, with a degree from Plymouth State University and over 15 years of experience in the substance use disorder field. Among other awards, she’s received the NH Providers Association Provider of the year award in 2020. She has experience as a certified recovery support worker, a clinician, a program manager, and a director. Kim currently serves as the Clinical Director at the Plymouth House treatment center, where it’s been her mission to help individuals discover the gifts within a recovery life.

Kim began her career in the addiction field at NHADACA in 2008. After eight years with them she decided to move into direct services which was possible because of professional growth NHADACA gave her. Because of this, she has chosen to give back to NHADACA be being on the board of directors

Biography: Ivysue currently works at Rockingham County Department of Corrections as the Mental Health Supervisor. She has worked with individuals who have mental health issues as well as cooccurring issues. She has been a case manager, intern, clinician and supervisor/program director prior to her current role. In her former role she was the program director for a program which placed individuals who were incarcerated for dangerous crimes and had a mental health issue into the community for re-integration. Currently she is working on obtaining her MLADC credentials. She has a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a MSW from the University of Wyoming and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire and Washington state. She has worked in the mental health field for 14 years and believes in bringing a humanistic approach to her work. She has provided training in Motivational Interviewing and continues to use this experience as she works with individuals who are incarcerated. She is raising two of her grandchildren with her partner and recently moved back to New Hampshire from Washington.

Statement of Interest: I am interested in joining the NHADACA Board because I believe in advancing a strong, connected, and well-supported behavioral health workforce across New Hampshire. As a licensed clinician, behavioral health executive, and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, I bring experience in clinical leadership, workforce development, program design, and systems collaboration. My work has focused on expanding access to high-quality behavioral health services for veterans, first responders, individuals with substance use disorders, and underserved communities through strategic partnerships, education, and advocacy.

Serving on the NHADACA Board would provide an opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission by supporting professional development, strengthening the addiction and behavioral health workforce, and helping shape initiatives that improve outcomes for individuals, families, and communities throughout the state. I value collaborative leadership and look forward to contributing both strategic insight and practical experience to advance NHADACA's impact.

Biography: Sheena Bice, DMSC, LCMHC, MLADC, CCTP is a United States Marine Corps Veteran with strong family ties to the military, medical, and law enforcement communities. She has over 15 years of experience providing mental health and addiction treatment to Veterans, Service Members, First Responders, and their families.

Sheena holds a Doctorate of Medical Science from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from New England College. She is the Head of Veteran and First Responder Services for Forge VFR and the owner of Shield and Compass Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, a private practice dedicated to serving Veterans and First Responders.

Her career spans community mental health, crisis intervention, corrections, private practice, and managed care. She has developed gender-specific wellness programs for female offenders, led utilization management for specialty psychiatric care, and secured a first-of-its-kind VA contract to expand Veterans' access to mental health treatment outside of the VA system.

Sheena also served on national and state committees. She remains committed to increasing access to care, reducing stigma, and shaping policy initiatives to improve the mental health and wellness of those who serve.

Statement of Interest: I want to join the New Hampshire Drug Abuse Counselors Association to strengthen my impact in the recovery community, stay connected to evolving best practices, and collaborate with professionals who share a commitment to ethical, effective, and compassionate care. Membership will help me grow as a clinician while contributing to a statewide network focused on improving outcomes for individuals and families affected by substance use.

Biography: 

Kevin J Donahue

Director of Client Services

Certified Substance Abuse Recovery Coach

Crossroads Recovery Center

Statement of Interest: I have always been appreciative of NHADACA's mission and what is offered through this organization. I would be very honored to serve on the board.

Biography: Cheri Bryer brings her extensive lived and professional experience into her role as the Senior Perinatal Peer Support Educator and Coordinator, currently serving and mentoring Peer Support workers in Maternal Health settings across New Hampshire and Nationwide.

For over a decade, Cheri worked in the treatment settings and specialized OB clinic at Lebanon’s Dartmouth Health supporting pregnant and parenting women navigating Substance Use Disorder (SUD). She has also provided direct outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness and instability in the Upper Valley region. She distributed over 3,000 doses of Naloxone (Narcan) and welcomed 300 new clients into harm reduction and case management services.

As a dedicated educator, Cheri delivers training locally and nationally on stigma, ethics, as well as other topics that relate to the complexities of navigating ones own recovery while working professionally in addiction settings. Her advocacy earned her an invitation from Maggie Hassan to attend the Presidential Inauguration, highlighting the critical role of Medicaid coverage in saving lives-including her own and making treatment accessible for millions struggling with SUD.

Cheri has been featured on national webinars, in documentaries, and at community and national events. She also serves on many boards, committees, and coalitions both statewide and nationally. She continues too speak on behalf of women and mothers affected by SUD. Inspired to reduce stigma and give a voice to the silenced, Cheri uses her personal story of addiction and long-term recovery to demonstrate that people with the right support can, and do change.

Statement of interest: Experienced second career LCSW with a long standing interest in AUD and SUD. My favorite counseling patients are individuals active in 12 step and also interested in improving their health and mental health. I would like to support my region and my fellows.

Biography: Experienced second career LCSW-S with a long standing interest in AUD and SUD. Clinical Social Work experienced in Neuro and Psych.

Biography: Sara received an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from PSU in 2008. She went on and completed her master’s in social work from UNH in 2015. Since completing her master’s degree she has spent the last 7 years working in several community hospitals specializing as a medical social worker. During her time in this field, she worked on many different floors including patients who had been hospitalized for severe persistent mental health concerns as well as patients who suffered from severed substance use disorders (SUD). Sara spent a large portion of her time working with patients who had medical complications from their SUD. She also worked with pregnant woman with SUD. She provided support assessment crisis intervention and referrals for those patients. Sara provided counseling education and assistance to mothers and family members of infants who were being monitored on the eat sleep and console program. Sara also spent several years working in community mental health as an emergency services clinician per diem while she was working as a medical social worker. In this position Sara assessed individuals for safety and would refer out for either inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations or outpatient appointments. For the past 2 years she has been building a small private practice that specializes in assisting adolescents and individuals who suffer from SUD. Sara has also worked or interned in the justice system, as well as with funding organizations. Sara lives in the lake’s region with her husband and two children.

Statement of Interest: I have benefited from NHADACA services since 2017.  I would be proud to support this well-run organization.

Biography: 

● Experienced clinical supervisor with 13 years in addiction treatment, recovery, and team leadership. 

● Skilled in overseeing care, staff training, case management, data analysis, and compliance. 

● Deep knowledge of SUDs, treatment standards, and administrative requirements.

● Focused on developing clinical knowledge, decision-making, and performance standards. 

Work Experience

● Current role as Area Clinical Supervisor and Consultant at CMG-New Season since 2019, overseeing multiple (5) treatment centers. 

● Managed staff performance, compliance with New Season Policy and Procedures, CARF Certification, federal and state regulations, and crisis response.

● Former Executive Director, Pantops Treatment Center, ARS, Charlottesville, VA

● Former Director at Colonial Management Group opened and led two clinics, expanded services, and maintained accreditation. 

● Recruited, trained, and supervised staff, developed policies, and built referral networks.

● Managed clinic operations, budgets, and regulatory applications, ensuring quality and compliance. 

● Previous roles include interim supervisor at Keene Metro Treatment, executive director at Addiction Recovery Systems, and various pastoral and educational positions.

Certifications and Education

● Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. IC&RC and NH

● Educational background includes degrees in philosophy, criminal justice, theology, and ethics/public.

Statement of Interest: I am honored to submit my statement of interest for continued service on the NHADACA Board of Directors in the available At-Large position. Over the past 18 months, I have appreciated the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated professionals who share a commitment to improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use disorder.

As a woman in long-term recovery with 37+ years of lived experience, I bring a unique perspective that combines personal recovery, professional leadership, advocacy, and a deep understanding of the importance of collaboration across the continuum of care. My life’s work has been dedicated to expanding access to quality treatment, recovery supports, and services that honor the dignity and strengths of every individual.

Throughout my career, I have helped build and strengthen recovery-oriented systems of care. Most recently, I served as the Project Director for Peer Recovery Support Services – Facilitating Organization at Harbor Care, where I led efforts to develop and sustain 20 Recovery Community Centers throughout New Hampshire. Prior to that, my leadership roles with the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) included developing recovery community centers, recovery housing, recovery coaching programs, and workforce development initiatives.

I believe my continued service on the NHADACA Board will allow me to contribute valuable experience in peer recovery, advocacy, workforce development, recovery housing, and systems transformation. I have trained more than 1,000 recovery coaches, served as a Peer Recovery Innovation Network (PRIN) Subject Matter Expert and External Advisory Board member, and was honored with the NHADACA Legislative Advocacy Award in 2024.

As our field continues to evolve, I remain committed to strengthening partnerships, supporting evidence-informed practices, and ensuring that the voices of people with lived experience continue to inform policy and practice. I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue serving NHADACA  and contributing to its mission as an At-Large Board Member. 

Biography: Cheryle Pacapelli is a woman in long-term recovery from alcohol and other drugs with 37+ years of lived experience in recovery. Her personal journey has shaped a lifelong commitment to creating pathways of hope, healing, and opportunity for individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use disorder.

After more than two decades of dedicated service advancing recovery support systems, Cheryle retired in June 2026 from her role as Project Director for Peer Recovery Support Services – Facilitating Organization at Harbor Care in Nashua, New Hampshire. During her tenure, she led the development, implementation, and sustainability of Peer Recovery Support Services across the state, building and strengthening a network of 20 Recovery Community Centers throughout New Hampshire.

Under her leadership, Peer Recovery Support Services expanded access to recovery supports and strengthened recovery-oriented systems of care throughout New Hampshire. In 2023, these services provided support to more than 100,000 individuals impacted by substance use disorder, with over 8,600 direct engagements with individuals seeking peer recovery support services.

Prior to joining Harbor Care, Cheryle spent nearly a decade with the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR), where she served in multiple leadership roles, including Program Manager for Recovery Housing, Director of Operations, and Director of Recovery Services from 2004–2012. During her time at CCAR, she managed and expanded several nationally recognized recovery initiatives, including three Recovery Community Centers, Telephone Recovery Support, Recovery Housing Programs, Volunteer Services, Recovery Coach Training, Recovery Training Series, and Recovery Walks.

Cheryle is the founder of Stepping Stone House, a transitional living program created to support men in recovery as they transition from treatment and incarceration back into the community. Since 2001, she has dedicated her professional life to developing, implementing, and expanding recovery support services that empower individuals to build meaningful lives in recovery.

A nationally recognized recovery leader, trainer, and advocate, Cheryle has trained more than 1,000 recovery coaches and has contributed to the growth and professionalization of the peer recovery workforce. She has served as a Peer Recovery Innovation Network (PRIN) Subject Matter Expert (SME) and as a member of the PRIN External Advisory Board, providing expertise on the advancement of peer recovery support services.

Cheryle has also served on the NHADACA Board of Directors and was honored with the NHADACA Legislative Advocacy Award in 2024 for her commitment to advocacy, policy advancement, and strengthening the voice of people with lived experience.

Throughout her career, Cheryle has served as a trainer in The Art and Science of Peer Support, Peer Assisted Recovery (PAR), Peer Ethics, Suicide Prevention, HIV/Hepatitis C Awareness, and Co-occurring Disorders. Her work has helped prepare thousands of recovery professionals and volunteers to provide compassionate, ethical, and effective peer support.

With more than 37 years in recovery and over 25 years dedicated to building recovery support services, Cheryle’s legacy is one of leadership, advocacy, innovation, and unwavering belief that recovery is possible. Her life and work continue to demonstrate that when people with lived experience are empowered to lead, communities are transformed.

Statement of Interest: I am seeking nomination to serve on the NHADACA Board because I am passionate about supporting addiction professionals and continuing to improve quality of care across New Hampshire. In my work, I have experience in both clinical care and leadership roles, and I understand some of the obstacles our workforce faces. I want to be an advocate for our profession.

Throughout my career I have continued to seek out new learning opportunities and would love to use my experience to collaborate with other professionals across the state. I am excited about helping to support initiatives that will empower the addiction counseling profession. Serving on the Board is a way I can give back to a field I find deeply meaningful, while helping to promote ethical practice, continued professional development, and recovery.

Biography: I am a Master’ level clinician (MLADC) who has provided substance use and co-occurring mental health disorder treatment in outpatient, intensive outpatient (IOP), PHP, residential, and community-based environments. During my time in the field, I have held clinical and leadership positions and have found joy in offering clients compassionate evidence based trauma informed care.

I am finishing up my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Walden University. Throughout my education and professional experiences I have continued to gain knowledge in trauma, co-occurring disorders, and holistic methods of healing. I am passionate about working with people in recovery and supporting the behavioral health workforce through coalition, education, and advocacy.

Statement of Interest: I am excited for the opportunity to rejoin the NHADACA Board of Directors after previously serving as Student Representative, At-Large Representative, and Treasurer. My time on the board played a significant role in my personal and professional growth, and stepping away after completing my term 2021 was bittersweet.

Joining the board as a student in 2017 gave me invaluable guidance, mentorship, and support as I began my career in the substance use counseling field. It also connected me with a network of dedicated professionals who helped shape the clinician and leader I am today.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching NHADACA grow from a small organization into a thriving and respected professional community. I am incredibly proud of what the organization has accomplished and of the individuals whose commitment has made that growth possible.

Now, after spending time further developing my clinical experience and launching my own practice, I feel ready to give back once again. I would be honored to contribute my experience, perspective, and passion to the Board as NHADACA continues to grow and support the counseling profession throughout New Hampshire..

Biography: I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and the owner of Precision Emotional Wellness, LLC, an independent counseling practice that I founded in September 2025. Building my own practice has been both exciting and rewarding, allowing me to provide compassionate, individualized care while continuing to grow as a clinician.

Although I officially entered the behavioral health field in 2012, my passion for psychology and addiction counseling began much earlier. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2010 before completing my Master's degree in Substance Abuse Counseling and Education at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 2014. Since then, I have gained experience across multiple settings, including group practice, PHP, IOP, MAT, IDCMP, and DOC. I am proud to say that at no point have I questioned my decision to pursue this profession as walking alongside individuals as they navigate recovery and emotional wellness continues to be both an honor and a privilege.

My commitment to the field extends beyond my clinical work. During my career, I have had the privilege of serving on the NHADACA Board of Directors as Student Representative, At-Large Representative, and Treasurer. These experiences have allowed me to develop meaningful professional relationships while giving back to a profession that has provided me with so much purpose and fulfillment.

Outside of my work, I am a proud single mother of three wonderful children. When I'm not catching up on my documentation or chasing kids around, you'll likely find me baking custom cakes, designing projects with my 3D printer, or planning my return to the CrossFit community once my back has fully healed. I value creativity, resilience, and lifelong learning—qualities that influence both my personal life and the care I provide to my clients.

Statement of Interest: I am interested in serving on the NHADACA Board because I believe strongly in supporting the addiction and recovery workforce in New Hampshire. Through my work in recovery support services, I have seen firsthand the value of collaboration, advocacy, and professional development in improving outcomes for individuals and families. I hope to contribute both my frontline and program coordination experience while helping NHADACA continue to strengthen the field and expand access to recovery support across our state.

Biography: Michael Whitehouse, CRSW, is a Program Coordinator working in peer recovery support services in New Hampshire. His experience includes outreach, recovery coaching, care coordination, program administration, and community engagement, and lived experience. As a Certified Recovery Support Worker, Michael is committed to expanding access to recovery resources and supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. He is passionate about strengthening recovery-oriented services and advancing the recovery profession throughout New Hampshire.

Statement of Interest: I believe meaningful change happens when we connect the right people around a shared mission. Throughout my career, I’ve led initiatives that have expanded clinician education, developed national partnership strategies, strengthened referral networks, and convened stakeholders across healthcare, higher education, employers, payers, and community organizations. I’ve focused on creating sustainable pathways that improve access to care while increasing awareness of emerging behavioral health challenges and fostering cross-sector collaboration.

I’m interested in serving on the NHADACA Board because I believe lasting impact comes from connecting people, ideas, and resources to strengthen systems of care. As a Member-at-Large, I would bring a collaborative, solutions-oriented perspective and a commitment to advancing initiatives that support New Hampshire’s addiction workforce, elevate professional development, strengthen recovery-oriented systems of care, and improve outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve.

Biography: Olivier ("Liv") Williams, JM, LSSGB, is the Director of Business Development at Kindbridge Behavioral Health, where she leads strategic partnerships that expand access to behavioral health services, clinician education, and workforce development initiatives. Her work focuses on bringing together healthcare organizations, employers, higher education, payers, professional associations, and community partners to strengthen the continuum of care and address emerging behavioral health challenges.

Throughout her career, Liv has led initiatives that expand professional education, develop innovative referral pathways, and foster cross-sector collaboration to improve access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services. She has developed national partnership strategies, presented educational programs for clinicians and community stakeholders, and helped launch initiatives that connect individuals and organizations with meaningful resources and support.

Liv earned her Juris Master from Emory University School of Law and holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB) certification. She is passionate about building relationships that create lasting impact and believes meaningful progress happens when organizations work together toward a shared purpose. She is committed to advancing the behavioral health field through collaboration, innovation, and practical solutions that strengthen both the workforce and the communities it serves.