We are providing in person and telehealth counseling services for substance use
Meet Our Operations and Clinical Team
Sahar Albaugh, Co-Founder Executive Director
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Sahar Albaugh, Co-Founder Executive Director
Sahar Albaugh is Executive Director and Co-Founder of Maryland Wellness & Recovery. Sahar oversees all programing, operations, billing and staffing needs. Sahar believes that all clients who enter our program deserve a chance and the ability to choose their individual pathway to recovery. Sahar brings true kindness, compassion, empathy an
Sahar Albaugh is Executive Director and Co-Founder of Maryland Wellness & Recovery. Sahar oversees all programing, operations, billing and staffing needs. Sahar believes that all clients who enter our program deserve a chance and the ability to choose their individual pathway to recovery. Sahar brings true kindness, compassion, empathy and love to Maryland Wellness.
Sahar is a problem solver by nature, when there are obstacles in the way she sees this as a challenge and will not stop until she finds a solution. Sahar saw that there were gaps in services in our area, specifically for individuals leaving higher levels of treatment, specifically regarding housing needs, stability and support. Sahar understands that having a strong foundation in early recovery includes having a stable place to live, food to eat and access to services for basic needs. Since there were very limited options available in our area, Sahars solution was to build a community housing program that offers a safe, sober and structured environment that incorporates peer support. Our community housing program has grown in the past year from 1 to 2 houses, and we are about to open a 3rd house in the coming months. Sahar is always looking for ways to improve our program and make it better overall.
Being that her passion is helping others in need, Sahar believes it is a gift to be able to help our clients. Sahars favorite part about working at Maryland Wellness is being able to see clients grow and succeed on their journey.
Sahar is a mother of two, a dog mom and loving wife. Sahar values family and is very close with her family. She enjoys spending time with family, hosting family gatherings and celebrating her Persian heritage.
Nick Albaugh, Co-Founder, Administrator
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Sahar Albaugh, Co-Founder Executive Director
As the administrator and co-founder of Maryland Wellness and Recovery, he has established himself as a pivotal figure in the field of behavioral health, thanks to a career that beautifully merges direct clinical experience with strategic leadership. His journey began with an enriching eight-year tenure as an addictions counselor, where h
As the administrator and co-founder of Maryland Wellness and Recovery, he has established himself as a pivotal figure in the field of behavioral health, thanks to a career that beautifully merges direct clinical experience with strategic leadership. His journey began with an enriching eight-year tenure as an addictions counselor, where he gained invaluable insights into addiction treatment and recovery, insights that later became foundational in his approach to compliance and operations. Expanding his scope, he stepped into roles focusing on behavioral health compliance, regulations, accreditation, licensing, and operations. His expertise didn't just benefit Maryland; he consulted for over 20 programs nationwide, showcasing his ability to tailor and implement best practices in varied settings, always upholding the highest standards of care. A key achievement in his distinguished career is his involvement in accrediting over 30 programs with CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) and The Joint Commission (TJC). This feat demonstrates his deep understanding and ability to meet stringent healthcare quality and safety standards. Beyond his role at Maryland Wellness and Recovery, he is also the owner of a consulting firm specializing in comprehensive audit systems and management consultancy. This venture is a testament to his comprehensive understanding of the industry and his capability to guide organizations through complex regulatory landscapes. His firm provides critical support to organizations striving for operational excellence and compliance in the dynamic field of behavioral health. In leading Maryland Wellness and Recovery, his focus extends to nurturing a team that embodies efficiency, compassion, and compliance. He is committed to staff development, ensuring that his team is not only well-versed in current practices but also prepared for the evolving challenges of behavioral health care. His leadership style promotes a culture of continuous learning and adherence to the highest standards, ensuring that Maryland Wellness and Recovery remains at the forefront of behavioral health services.
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Amie Kotz, LCPC Clinical Director
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Gage Theodore, BA, RPS Director of Operations
Amie has worked in behavioral health since 2005. She has extensive experience as a clinical supervisor and clinical director, working to develop strong behavioral health program curriculums and assisting in managing program operations. She enjoys working with patients who struggle with both substance use disorders and mental health diag
Amie has worked in behavioral health since 2005. She has extensive experience as a clinical supervisor and clinical director, working to develop strong behavioral health program curriculums and assisting in managing program operations. She enjoys working with patients who struggle with both substance use disorders and mental health diagnoses. Amie serves as the Clinical Director for the organization, managing the staff and clinical operations of the program, and works with patients providing individual and couples counseling. Prior to her time with Maryland Wellness and Recovery, Amie served as the Clinical Director and PRP Specialist at Compassionate Wellness Center and Clinical Supervisor and then Clinical Director for Wells House Inc. Amie graduated with her Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Frostburg State University in 2004. In addition, she was an adjunct faculty member at Frostburg State University instructing students in the psychology program while developing her career in substance use disorder treatment and co-occurring disorders. Amie is passionate about helping those with substance use and mental health disorders and is happy to be able to help individuals grow to their full potential.
Tammy Kinsey, CAC-AD-S, Clinical Supervisor
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Gabriella Doll, ADT, Program Manager/Counselor
With a passion for helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives, Tammy is a dedicated substance abuse counselor with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and effective support to those struggling with substance abuse disorders.
Tammy holds a bachelor's in addiction counseling from Indiana Wesleyan Universit
With a passion for helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives, Tammy is a dedicated substance abuse counselor with a wealth of experience in providing compassionate and effective support to those struggling with substance abuse disorders.
Tammy holds a bachelor's in addiction counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University and is currently in the master’s program for professional counseling at Ottawa University. Tammy is a Certified Associate Counselor- Alcohol and Drug with a supervision status. With 12 years of experience in the field, Tammy has honed expertise in assessment, treatment planning, individual and group counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.
Tammy is committed to empowering clients to achieve lasting recovery through a person-centered and evidence-based approach. By establishing a trusting and non-judgmental therapeutic alliance, Tammy creates a safe space for clients to explore the underlying issues contributing to their addiction and develop personalized strategies for sustainable sobriety. Tammy is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families
Gabriella Doll, ADT, Program Manager/Counselor
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Gabriella Doll, ADT, Program Manager/Counselor
I appreciate the opportunity to speak openly about why I chose to work in this field. When deciding on career fields, behavioral health/SUD was not something that I had ever considered. Although I grew up in a household with a parent with a SUD and eventually a sibling would experience this as well, the culture was not healing but purpo
I appreciate the opportunity to speak openly about why I chose to work in this field. When deciding on career fields, behavioral health/SUD was not something that I had ever considered. Although I grew up in a household with a parent with a SUD and eventually a sibling would experience this as well, the culture was not healing but purposeful ignorance or abstinence. I am child of the DARE/Just Say No generation.
I went to school to receive lab certifications and went on to work in that field. Eventually I decided to return to pursue a degree in nursing but had to leave my senior year. Sadly, my husband at the time was abusing alcohol severely and me as well. I had to leave one night with my kids in tow essentially dropping out of college at the same time.
Once I was living independently, I found a position at an integrated healthcare facility which offered counseling, and MAT for community members seeking help with potential SUDs. I felt encouraged that there is healing after addiction working with the patients there. I felt sadness and anger (not with the patient) when I was thanked for treating the patients like they "are a human being." Eventually I started feeling a bit of calling when I was able to see I had the empathy and experience needed to help people suffering with substance use disorders.
I chose to work for Maryland Wellness and Recovery because of their mission, values, commitment, and their ability to accommodate my transitional schedule after having my daughter, Isabel. I have stayed with MDWAR because their values and commitment to client outcomes closely align with mine and I appreciate the family-oriented work culture.
One of my heroes would be Dr. Jane Elliot for her groundbreaking studies in a time of turmoil and racial injustice.
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Kayla is driven to help others battling substance use disorders as she is a daughter, granddaughter, and friend of addicts. Growing up, Kayla always offered a shoulder to cry on and provided empathy to her peers. She knew she was passionate about uplifting others so she pursued a degree where she could do just that. Kayla holds an associa
Kayla is driven to help others battling substance use disorders as she is a daughter, granddaughter, and friend of addicts. Growing up, Kayla always offered a shoulder to cry on and provided empathy to her peers. She knew she was passionate about uplifting others so she pursued a degree where she could do just that. Kayla holds an associate degree labeled as a Human Services Technician, and a bachelor's degree in social work, which she was granted at Indiana Wesleyan University. She is also currently working toward completing her master's in social work where she strives to become an LCSW-C. "I watched my dad endlessly fight his addiction with alcohol and drugs, but he shielded me from most of its ugliness the best he could. It wasn't until I bore witness to addiction digging its unforgiving claws into my best friend that I grew to understand the demon it truly is. My best friend, Brooke Simmers, eventually lost her life at the age of 19 because of a heroin overdose. I promised her and myself that I would do my absolute best to release others from the evil spirit of addiction, who ruthlessly robbed her beautiful soul.
Lynne Kline, CAC-AD Counselor
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Kayla Kinsey, BSW, ADT Counselor
Lynne became an substance abuse counselor to make an positive impact on individuals in need of healing and are struggling with addictions. Lynne pursues a path to reflect compassion, dedication and commitment to helping others overcome their challenges to start the healing process. Lynne holds a bachelor in arts in psychology from Argos
Lynne became an substance abuse counselor to make an positive impact on individuals in need of healing and are struggling with addictions. Lynne pursues a path to reflect compassion, dedication and commitment to helping others overcome their challenges to start the healing process. Lynne holds a bachelor in arts in psychology from Argosy University. With 10 years of experience in the field, with the commitment of empowering to achieve lasting recovery through healing and non -judgmental person centered evidence based approach.
Gerald Tasker, ADT Counselor
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
Gerald has over a decade of experience in the counseling field. He has worked in juvenile placements, family-based home therapy, outpatient therapy, rehabs, and methadone clinics. Gerald is a military veteran, ex-con, and a recovering addict. He uses his life experiences, spirituality, CBT, DBT, and a Person-Centered Approach to help hi
Gerald has over a decade of experience in the counseling field. He has worked in juvenile placements, family-based home therapy, outpatient therapy, rehabs, and methadone clinics. Gerald is a military veteran, ex-con, and a recovering addict. He uses his life experiences, spirituality, CBT, DBT, and a Person-Centered Approach to help his clients deal with the obstacles they face in their everyday lives. He believes in meeting his clients where they are and helping them get to where they can succeed in life. Gerald believes that with faith in your higher power, self-accountability, a strong support system, and a lot of hard work, success will find you.
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
I have been working the substance use treatment field for about 7 years now. I have a passion for substance use treatment and mental health advocacy. I come from a family of addiction and I use this experience in my personal work with patients. I have my undergraduate degree in psychology and I am obtaining my masters in social work. I a
I have been working the substance use treatment field for about 7 years now. I have a passion for substance use treatment and mental health advocacy. I come from a family of addiction and I use this experience in my personal work with patients. I have my undergraduate degree in psychology and I am obtaining my masters in social work. I am excited for this new journey with helping patients have the life they truly deserve.
Carl Fletcher , ADT Counselor
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
Carl Fletcher , ADT Counselor
Danny Gorsky, BHT
Celisa Carver , ADT Counselor
Carl Fletcher , ADT Counselor
Zachari Leazier, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Anntana Brown , LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Zach has a sincere way of connecting with his patients and providing a true understanding of their mental health needs. He is a compassionate board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through AANP. He has experience as a PMHNP in both In-patient and Out-patient mental health settings with extensive involvement managing
Zach has a sincere way of connecting with his patients and providing a true understanding of their mental health needs. He is a compassionate board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through AANP. He has experience as a PMHNP in both In-patient and Out-patient mental health settings with extensive involvement managing acute and chronic substance use. He was born and raised locally to Hagerstown, MD and understands the importance of bringing mental health needs and awareness to the community. He has a Masters of Nurse Practice (MSN) from Walden University, a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Towson University, and a Bachelors of Science in Exercise and Sports Science (BS) from Coastal Carolina University.
Anntana Brown , LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Anntana Brown , LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Florence Odubayo, CRNP
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Florence Odubayo, FNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Florence provides compassionate care for clients suffering with addiction issues and primary care patients in both Washington DC and Maryland. Florence also has experience with addiction medicine, family medicine
Florence Odubayo, FNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Florence provides compassionate care for clients suffering with addiction issues and primary care patients in both Washington DC and Maryland. Florence also has experience with addiction medicine, family medicine, and women’s health services. Florence’s passion for healthcare extends to the classroom as a clinical instructor for aspiring nurses and nurse practitioners. Mrs. Odubayo has lived in Montgomery County, MD for over 20 years and takes great pride in working at a program meant to serve the community she loves. Florence believes that every patient/client is very important and should be treated individually as such. Therefore, she is committed to providing 100% patient satisfaction to each patient.
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
Loretta Collins Begg, LCPC Mental Health Therapist
My name is Loretta Collins Begg, and I live in Bethesda, Maryland, outside Washington, D.C. After a 25-year sales career, I returned to school and got my Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC). My theoretical orientation is a mix of cognitive-behavioral and pe
My name is Loretta Collins Begg, and I live in Bethesda, Maryland, outside Washington, D.C. After a 25-year sales career, I returned to school and got my Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC). My theoretical orientation is a mix of cognitive-behavioral and person-centered therapy.
I started my career as a therapist at Maryland Wellness & Recovery. The foundation of my career centered around people suffering with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Running groups in partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and residential rehabilitation laid the groundwork for my profession in behavioral health. Therapy is not one-sided but a partnership. Currently, I work with clients suffering with PTSD, major depressive disorder (MDD), eating disorders (EDs), bipolar disorder, and anxiety, to name a few. I loathe the term “mental illness” because it is pejorative, keeps people from seeking help, and treats brain diseases separately from physical illness. Until we stop referring to psychological health in a “less than” manner, society will continue to perpetuate its’ stigma.
I have three dogs. Murphy’s Law, Murphy for short, is a Golden Retriever who still acts like a puppy at eleven years old. He ate my couch and had the audacity to look at me as if to say, “I know. I was as surprised as you when it exploded.” Adding to my brood is my beagle, Lucy, for a year and adopted after their human mom died. Lastly is Paul, my Chihuahua, who I adopted from Texas. I told my husband he was a political refugee, and we had to keep him.
For self-care, I enjoy dancing and taking tennis lessons. At one point, I was over 200 pounds and had to start exercising and eating healthily. Knowing I would never go to a gym, I chose International Latin Ballroom and competed with my teacher. I lost the weight and ended up on the cover of People in their “Half Their Size Issue.” In a previous life, I also performed as a stand-up comic.
Meet Our Office Team
Angela Ely, Billing/HR Manager
I started working at MDWAR because I wanted to help people. I had been working in the schools for DHHS doing hearing and vision screening, then Covid made its debut. When covid hit I volunteered to work in the testing clinics, rather than staying home and doing nothing on paid administrative leave. Once all the covid craziness had passed
I started working at MDWAR because I wanted to help people. I had been working in the schools for DHHS doing hearing and vision screening, then Covid made its debut. When covid hit I volunteered to work in the testing clinics, rather than staying home and doing nothing on paid administrative leave. Once all the covid craziness had passed I was asked to go work in a school health room. I began to realize that this was not for me, something was missing. I felt like my soul was happier when I was serving my community. That is when I decided to come to MDWAR.
Shyanne Newby Office Administrator
I chose to work in this field not only to start a new career but to open my heart to others and opportunities. I chose MDWAR because of the relationship I had with staff prior to joining the team. I saw how the clients loved the environment and how they were almost like one big family.... now I love it even more and I would never let the clients go without!
Sanam Geramifar Admissions Coordinator
Sanam Geramifar Admissions Coordinator
I have always had a fascination with this field and a passion to learn more about it. I graduated from UMD with a bachelor's in criminology/ criminal justice and over the years, my interest in substance abuse treatment & recovery has grown substantially. It wasn’t until learning and watching my sister (and brother-in-law) do what they d
I have always had a fascination with this field and a passion to learn more about it. I graduated from UMD with a bachelor's in criminology/ criminal justice and over the years, my interest in substance abuse treatment & recovery has grown substantially. It wasn’t until learning and watching my sister (and brother-in-law) do what they do best ;) that I finally made the jump to switch careers. Although I have only been learning the inner workings of the business for a couple weeks now, I have such a passion to help others in recovery. It truly matters to me. I know how strong the disease of addiction can be and how fast it can take a hold of one's life, so I am motivated now more than ever to make sure our clients have the resources and assistance to continue their path to recovery. Can't wait to see MDWAR continue to grow and do great things!
More About Us
Erin Marks, CPRS-S, CSC-AD
Yvette Jackson, Office Administrator, Hagerstown Office
David Alvarado-Diaz, Director of Community Housing
Erin Marks has been with Maryland Wellness for several years, working part-time as our community outreach
coordinator and a peer, supporting our Community Housing program. Erin created the peer support program
for our houses. Erin also assists with planning community events and making connections for client resources
within the community.
Er
Erin Marks has been with Maryland Wellness for several years, working part-time as our community outreach
coordinator and a peer, supporting our Community Housing program. Erin created the peer support program
for our houses. Erin also assists with planning community events and making connections for client resources
within the community.
Erin is a Certified Addiction Counselor, a Certified Peer, & Registered Peer Supervisor. Erin has a master’s
degree in management from University of Maryland, University College, and a bachelor’s degree in special
education from Townson University. Prior to entering the substance abuse and mental health field, Erin was a
Special Education Teacher for 10 years.
Over the past 6 years, Erin has worked in many different roles within the substance abuse & mental health
field. Prior to their closing, she worked at Serenity Acres Inpatient Treatment center both as an outreach
specialist and discharge coordinator. Erin worked at Pathways to Housing in Montgomery County for 5 years
as both a peer and addictions counselor. At Pathways Erin assisted Montgomery County’s chronically homeless
individuals who struggle with substance abuse and mental health.
Erin’s favorite thing about being a peer is seeing the light come back in a client’s eyes and then watching them
succeed on their journey to recovery. Erin believes there is no greater feeling than knowing she played a role in
helping someone find their way.
In her personal time, Erin enjoys traveling, maintaining her rock garden, art/graphic design projects,
decorating/designing homes, and party planning.
David Alvarado-Diaz, Director of Community Housing
Yvette Jackson, Office Administrator, Hagerstown Office
David Alvarado-Diaz, Director of Community Housing
David Alvarado Diaz is a peer for our community housing program. He has worked at Maryland Wellness for 2
years. He assists our community housing clients and house managers in leading our housing program. David
has been known to pop in at the houses to keep clients on their toes. David assists in connecting clients to
community resources to
David Alvarado Diaz is a peer for our community housing program. He has worked at Maryland Wellness for 2
years. He assists our community housing clients and house managers in leading our housing program. David
has been known to pop in at the houses to keep clients on their toes. David assists in connecting clients to
community resources to set them up for success. David also helps in maintaining our houses to keep them in
good shape.
David works full time as a Case Manager for Pathways to housing in Montgomery County assisting homeless
individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health. David speaks fluent Spanish and is strong in
connecting to individuals who speak Spanish, gaining their trust and building relationships to assist in
connecting them to services. David thrives at building community connections and obtaining resources for his
clients.
In his spare time David enjoys working on projects around the house, watching Tik Tok videos, researching on
the internet, and watching movies.
Yvette Jackson, Office Administrator, Hagerstown Office
Yvette Jackson, Office Administrator, Hagerstown Office
Yvette Jackson, Office Administrator, Hagerstown Office
I've worked with the developmentally challenged most of my career. This experience taught me to model patience, understanding, and compassion while rendering support.
One of my greatest passions is to provide excellent customer service while treating people respectfully and emphatically.
In the last few years, I have become very interest
I've worked with the developmentally challenged most of my career. This experience taught me to model patience, understanding, and compassion while rendering support.
One of my greatest passions is to provide excellent customer service while treating people respectfully and emphatically.
In the last few years, I have become very interested in assisting clients with their wellness and Recovery path in an administrative capacity and as a welcoming voice at the start of their journey.
My educational background includes an AA in Business Administration from Kaplan University. I am also fluent in Spanish.
Ryan Redmond, BHT
Jake Adams, BHT
Yvette Jackson, Office Administrator, Hagerstown Office
Jake Adams, BHT
Jake Adams, BHT
Jake Adams, BHT
Mary Seal, Peer Coach
Jake Adams, BHT
Jake Adams, BHT
Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to be joining the Maryland Wellness and Recovery team as a Peer Recovery Coach. My journey to recovery has been a powerful and transformative experience, and I'm deeply passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to wellness. With empathy, understanding, and a commitment to supporting your recove
Hello, everyone! I'm thrilled to be joining the Maryland Wellness and Recovery team as a Peer Recovery Coach. My journey to recovery has been a powerful and transformative experience, and I'm deeply passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to wellness. With empathy, understanding, and a commitment to supporting your recovery, I look forward to being a steadfast ally in your journey to a healthier, happier life. Together, we can overcome the challenges ahead and build a brighter future. Let's embark on this recovery journey as a team!