Meet The Team

Crystal Ahles

LCSW, LAC, CNP

  • I began my early career in corporate America after obtaining my B.S. in Finance, and in 2008 changed direction with a desire to serve others and make a difference in the community by pursuing my MSW at the University of Denver. Through internship, I entered the field of residential substance use disorder treatment and have been working with this population (adults, primarily indigent) ever since.

    I began work at Sobriety House in 2012. Originally a full-time counselor, I had the honor and privilege of becoming Deputy Director and succession planning with former Executive Director, Bill Dolan, who served Sobriety House for 40 years. He retired in the spring of 2021. I am learning and growing as a leader every day and feel immense gratitude for the team that makes Sobriety House such a quality provider of SUD services.

    I am a native Coloradan, and I enjoy reading, hiking, camping, traveling, and spending time with my family. I am also a proud alumnus of Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, MO, which is now closed but has an exceptional museum in the town of Lexington.

  • Program alumni, class of 2009. I am passionate about helping individuals conceptualize and establish lasting change, with a focus on marginalized communities. I’m currently pursuing a formal degree in social work at MSU, and I intend to focus on nonprofit management as a means to ensure the integrity of the Sobriety House mission statement. Family is my purpose, music is my medicine, weight lifting is my outlet, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are my religion. Cultivating quality life experience and human connection is what compels me.

Jacob Frye

CAS, NCAC I

Amber Walter

BFA

  • I bring to Sobriety House a strong background in nonprofit management. Having attended New York University and holding a degree from the University of Arizona, my educational foundation includes a BFA.

    My career journey has been marked by a consistent dedication to the nonprofit sector. My experience spans a diverse range of roles, including event planning, administration, travel coordination, theater production, and caregiving.

    Originating from Austin, Texas, my leadership flourished as the Artistic Director of SilverStar Theater. Relocating to Colorado in 2016, I contributed my expertise to institutions such as STEM School Highlands Ranch and Anastasis Academy.

    In 2022, I became an integral part of Sobriety House, where I currently serve, bringing my passion and commitment to the organization's mission with a focus on both finance and human resources.

    Outside of my professional endeavors, I find balance through interests such as mountain biking, a shared activity with my husband and two teenage sons. I also channel my energy into planning social events, volunteering, and exploring new destinations through travel.

Bethany Kammerer

LCSW, MSW

  • I joined Sobriety House as a counselor in June of 2021. I earned my B.S in biology from Dallas Baptist University and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver.

    Before joining the team at Sobriety House, I worked directly with populations across the life span including children and older adults. I also worked on health policy research including how states address the opioid epidemic.

    My therapeutic approach is rooted in CBT, IFS, and narrative therapy but I often pull from many modalities in order to meet the unique needs of clients. It is important to empower individuals to connect with themselves through understanding and compassion so they may connect with others and build fulfilling, meaningful lives in recovery. I believe improving access to resources increases opportunities for individuals to thrive.

    I strive to see the whole individual in order to help them find their truth and live a life of connection and authenticity. I think it's a privilege to witness the transformative journey that takes place when an individual enters treatment and begins to do the work to create a new life of freedom.

Andrew Brown

CAT, CPT

  • I am the Operations Manager at Sobriety House, as well as a group counselor. I am certified as an Addiction Technician and as a Personal Trainer. In my time at Sobriety House I have grown passionate about physical fitness and recovery. My goal at Sobriety House is to help share the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in recovery.

    Originally from California, I’ve lived in Colorado since I was 8 years old. In my free time, I enjoy video games, snowboarding, and hiking.

Megan Ritenour

MSW

  • I was born in Georgia and lived there most of my life. My bachelor's degree is in Sociology from the University of Georgia, and then I attended Valdosta State University for my Master of Social Work (MSW).

    In 2016, my husband and I moved to Colorado because we were ready for a new adventure. I started as the Outreach Coordinator for Sobriety House and stayed in that position for three years. We ended up moving back to Georgia in 2019 for some family concerns. However, we missed Colorado so much that in 2021 we moved back, and I rejoined the Sobriety House team as the Executive Assistant.

    My job allows me to help the whole staff, work on special projects, and experience a little of everything that happens at SoHo. I feel passionately about the work that we do and the clients that we serve! I feel so lucky to have found a workplace and team I love as much as I do!

    In my free time, I enjoy baking and decorating cakes and cupcakes, traveling, taking care of my plants, paddleboarding, biking, and exploring Colorado!

Erin Malman

CAS

  • I joined Sobriety House in February 2022. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and am a Certified Addictions Counselor.

    Before joining the team at Sobriety House, I worked in a multitude of environments with various populations including children and adolescents with mental health conditions that were particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, stigma and educational difficulties. It was working with these populations where I found my passion for helping others.

    As the Intake Coordinator at Sobriety House, I have really enjoyed helping clients and families understand the steps to seeking treatment for themselves or their loved ones. I place extreme importance on comforting the client and family through the intake and treatment process.

    I believe that every human being is worthy of love and can thrive when they are surrounded by others who support and encourage them to be authentic and true to themselves. I have tremendous respect and compassion for those who have the courage, motivation and drive to step into their own recovery. I am so grateful to be able to work with and alongside those who choose the path of recovery.

Colby Smith

M.Ed, CMHC, LPCC

  • I earned my Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) from Lamar University in Beaumont, TX, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC). Originally from California and raised in Louisiana, I moved to Colorado in 2017 to serve with City Year at a charter middle school in southwest Denver while completing my master’s degree internship. During my time with City Year, I served as a behavior coordinator, providing social-emotional and academic support to students, coaching on behavior and attendance, and facilitating skills-based programs, including peer mediation. Later, as the Mental Health and Wellness Director, I improved the organization's wellness factor by implementing initiatives that enhanced mental health support, created a culture of belonging, and fostered cross-site collaboration as a consultant for other City Year locations.

    I joined Sobriety House in September 2023 as a dance teacher, leading classes twice per month on Saturdays. The supportive and enriching environment inspired me to become a full-time team member. I am now grateful to be growing in my clinical career with the Admissions team, where I continue to learn and develop as a professional.

    Prior to joining Sobriety House full-time, I worked as a self-employed dance teacher in the greater Denver area, specializing in Afro-Latino dance styles. I continue to teach weekly at La Rumba, annually at events such as the Festival Del Sol in Boulder, CO, and currently lead private lessons, group sessions, and occasional workshops.

    When I’m not teaching or dancing socially, I enjoy traveling for dance events, spending time with family and friends, and going on walks with my dog.

Kristen Sanders

  • I joined Sobriety House as a student volunteer in February 2023, and was later asked to stay on and be a part of the team. Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Social Work from Metropolitan State University of Denver, and I plan to become an addiction counselor as well.

    The mission of Sobriety House is very close to my heart because I myself am in recovery. It is my dream to help others overcome substance abuse and go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives. I truly believe Sobriety House is a very special place, and it is an honor to be a part of the incredible work we do here.

Ashley Dickerson

  • I am Texas-born, Florida-raised, and have called Colorado home since the summer of 2015. My nonprofit journey started early, fueled by a love for volunteering and community betterment.

    I joined Sobriety House in January of 2024 with nearly a decade of hands-on and strategic consulting experience in the nonprofit world. In my role, I aim to share the life-changing work of SoHo with the community and foster a deeper understanding and support of those in need.

    Outside of work you will find me adventuring with my cat, creating art, or getting lost in a movie.

Mark Noonan

MSW Candidate

  • I am currently pursuing my Social Work education at MSU Denver, where I am also earning additional education in experiential modalities while completing a clinical internship. My journey in the field of social work began with volunteering at Sobriety House in 2022, where I discovered a deep passion for our mission to create and expand access to high-quality care for addiction recovery.

    In my role, I am excited to utilize data to effectively tell the story of our programs. Sobriety House profoundly changes the lives of clients that come through our continuum of care, and I am honored to play a key role in ensuring the growth and continual improvement of our agency.

    What I love most about this work is that we are at the intersection of Behavioral Health, Social Justice, Economic Justice, and Macro systems change in our community, all while making a meaningful impact on individuals' lives. It is my dream that every human being who desires to recover from the disease of addiction has the opportunity to do so.

    Originally from New Mexico, I made the move to Colorado in 2012 to pursue my love for the outdoors and adventure. As a lifelong learner, exploration excites me. In my free time, you can find me reading new books, exploring the outdoors, and seeking new ways of being in the world.

Jolene Richeal

CAS

  • I am a certified addictions counselor and a current student at MSU. I serve as a counselor at Sobriety House.

    I have been practicing in the field of addiction since 2015. As a graduate of Stout Street Foundation, I found my passion for working with others through my own journey in recovery. I specialize in DBT therapy and have a client centered approach to the recovery process. I am pursuing formal education in social work and hope to branch out and serve a wider community.

    I have two sons, and when not working, I am learning, relaxing and enjoying time with my small family.

Joe Rountree

CPFS

  • I was born in Big Spring, Texas, and grew up in San Diego, California. Since 2017, I have been residing in Denver, Colorado. I proudly identify as part Native American and am affiliated with the Chickasaw Nation. I am also a proud alumni and a success story of the Sobriety House program.

    In 2018, I embarked on a transformative journey by enrolling in the Sobriety House program, where I learned a new way of living a happy, healthy life in recovery. Since 2019, I have had the privilege of working at Sobriety House, initially as a House Manager. Currently, I am working towards obtaining a CPFS certification as a Peer Coach.

    What I cherish most about my job is the opportunity to help others by sharing my experience, strength, and hope with them. In addition to my role at Sobriety House, I serve as the Property Manager for the Gaylord Sober Living apartments, which are offered to Phase 2 graduates.

    I owe a debt of gratitude to Sobriety House and its dedicated staff for helping me regain control of my life. Today, I find joy in various interests, including calligraphy, hip hop music, street art, and skateboarding. Above all, I cherish the ability to be present in the lives of my friends and family.

Sam Noiman

MSW, LCSW

  • I received my Master of Social Work, along with a Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies certification, from Florida Atlantic University. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Meditation and Mindfulness training. My greatest passion is to bring healing into people's lives. Working with Sobriety House Inc. has provided me with the opportunity to bring this healing to our community and to touch the lives of those who are struggling with addiction.

    Throughout my life, I have witnessed the impact of addiction on loved ones, which has deepened my gratitude for being able to offer support to others in their recovery journey.

    I was born and raised in South Florida, where I received my formal education. The call of the Colorado mountains led me here, and I now have the extraordinary privilege of enjoying hiking, camping, and painting in this breathtaking state!

Maryam Ali

MSC, CAS, NLC

  • I joined Sobriety House in June 2023. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health and the substance use field. I have worked in various non-for-profit agencies and with community partners throughout my career. I have worked with a range of behavioral health diagnoses, including mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, substance use disorders, and complex mental health conditions. My area of expertise is in trauma, grief/loss, CPS case and legal issues. I work individually with adult clients and run groups that focus on coping skills, wellness recovery plans, and executive functioning training. I believe effective therapy starts with a creative partnership and uses motivational interview techniques to help clients access their untapped internal resources and meet their wellness goals. I offer concrete tools to help clients create a clear recovery path, supporting them to discover their assets and purpose, increase independence, and disrupt limiting personal narratives. My approach starts with client strengths and values. I believe in creating a solid foundation and a safe space to build trust and rapport with my clients. I make it a priority to meet clients where they are at, while gently encouraging positive change. I believe in treating every client with respect and dignity in a nonjudgmental environment. I am grateful to work for a company that offers everyone, staff and clients alike respect, inclusivity, and a safe environment in which to thrive.

Jaymie Reichman

LPC, LPCC

  • I graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2009 with a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics. I received my Master of Science degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver in Clinical Behavioral Health with an emphasis in Addiction Studies in 2023.

    Before working at Sobriety House, I spent thirteen years working in various healthcare sectors, including hospice/palliative care, mental health, and addiction positions. My primary therapeutic approach is person-centered. However, I am consistently researching and educating myself on different modalities of therapy to create individualized care for those I help.

    In my free time, you can catch me people-watching at the park, hanging out with my cat, Grey Poupon, or going down YouTube and Wikipedia rabbit holes.

Erin Resnick

  • Originally born and raised in Golden, CO I spent almost two decades on the west coast, mostly in Southern California and the Pacific North West before returning back to Denver in 2016. In 2020 I started my journey as an aspiring therapist in a Master’s Program for Clinical and Behavioral Health at Metro State University Denver. I am set to graduate in August of 2024 with my LAC, followed by my LPC.

    I believe that self-redemption through hard work towards a purpose-driven life is one of the core principles in sustained recovery and overall growth in general. My theoretical orientation is eclectic and caters to each client’s specific and unique needs, although I often utilize Psychoanalytic, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory, and DBT practices. My passion is working with clients that have been undervalued, underserved, and othered as well as those that have experienced trauma. Happiness to me is being true to myself and my values and being ok with the outcome, regardless of what that looks like. I feel it is my responsibility to leave something behind that matters, and I want my purpose to entail things changed in the name of humanity.

    Some of my favorite things include learning, adventuring, true crime podcasts, words, music, art, dogs, coloring outside the lines, and malted milkshakes.

Celeste Neusch

MSW

  • I joined Sobriety House in June of 2023 after Graduating from the University of Denver with my Master of Social Work, and am currently pursuing certifications as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. I am originally from Austin, Texas and moved to Colorado in order to pursue my graduate education with a focus in mental health and human-environment connection.

    Before joining the Sobriety House team, I spent time working in collegiate recovery at Baylor University with young adults exploring sobriety. I also have experience working as a school-based social worker here in Denver, primarily with LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing a multitude of different mental health needs.

    My therapeutic approach is based in motivational interviewing, mindfulness practice, human connection with the natural world, and holistic healing. My greatest goal working in recovery is to help individuals identify personal strengths and areas of passion in life. Through facilitating a safe and supportive environment, I hope to create meaningful relationships in order to empower growth and personal exploration.

    Outside of Sobriety House, my hobbies include spending time hiking and paddle boarding, reading fantasy novels, watching horror movies, creating art, and surrounding myself with community.

Molly Tierson

LSW

  • I joined Sobriety House shortly after moving to Colorado from the East Coast in the summer of 2024. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Management from Philadelphia University in 2016, and I have been a registered yoga teacher since 2020. In 2024 I received my Masters in Social Work from West Chester University in Pennsylvania.

    My pursuit and passion in Social Work is to provide others with the tools to find their authentic selves and freedom within the human experience. My therapeutic approach is based in Somatic Awareness, Motivational Interviewing, and CBT. I have years of experience in mindfulness practices and I strongly believe in empowering the individual to be a part of their own recovery journey.

    In therapeutic settings, I encourage individuals to connect to their mind, body, and spirit so they are able to understand themselves and better advocate for what will work best for them on their unique healing journey. My focus is to provide a safe space to explore the limiting beliefs, old stories, and patterns that may not be serving them in hopes that they are able to ultimately return back to their inner light within.

    In my time outside of work I enjoy connecting with nature, spending time with my pup, traveling, and creating art in non-traditional ways.

Joshua Wilde

LAC, LSW

  • I joined Sobriety House as a licensed addiction therapist and a licensed social worker in January of 2024. In addition to a Master of Social Work degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver, I bring 15+ years of experience working with those facing intimacy disorders and sex-related addictions. I also worked in organizational administration, community advocacy, chemical addiction treatment, and behavioral therapy for elder, marginalized, and neurodivergent populations.

    My therapeutic approach revolves around Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. Having navigated addiction and recovery myself, I am driven to build dignity and empowerment in the narratives and identities of clients in under-privileged populations. My dream job as a therapist at Sobriety House enables me to equip clients in using their cultural, social, and individual paradigms to build a unique path of sobriety. Our clients are architects of their addiction recovery, and it is a privilege to build with them.

Karey Riemersman

RN, BSN

  • I joined Sobriety House in 2023 as an intern completing my Masters in Social Work at MSU Denver. I returned for a second year in 2024 because of my alignment with Sobriety House’s mission and the positive culture that it fosters. I am a Registered Nurse and have a Bachelor of Arts in Literature and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. My previous careers include a private practice as a Certified Massage Therapist in San Francisco and fifteen years as a Public Health Nurse in Jefferson County Colorado.

    I am passionate about addiction treatment, have 12 years of sobriety, and remain active in my own recovery. I also love to push myself to do things I am a little bit scared of like camping, hiking and traveling to foreign places on my own.

Loretta Dewey

  • Hi, I'm Loretta! My journey started at another treatment center. I was then recommended to go to Stepping Stone in 2002. I intended to only stay for a year, but I was approached about a position, and I have been with Sobriety House since! Although, I have done some clinical work, I have mostly been in house management and client-focused, which is what led me to my specialized position as SoHo's Milieu Supervisor. I'm 12 Step based, but love helping clients find the best modality for their needs. The best parts of the job to me are seeing the growth of clients as the blossom in sobriety. In my free time, I love animals, nature, and arts and crafts.

Ian Arnold

  • I came to Sobriety House in late October 2015 as a way to gain control over my addiction to alcohol. I later moved into the Gaylord Apartments in the summer of 2016 and started working for Sobriety House in early November 2016.

    Since I first walked through the doors of Sobriety House in late 2015 I have not spent more than a week away from any of our organization’s facilities. I've found that working for Sobriety House has been an enormous help in me maintaining my own sobriety by sharing my own experience, strength, and hope with those entering early recovery.

    I was born in Denver in 1984 and my family has been here for several generations. I love to spend time at my family's land up in North Park, and I'm also a huge fan of Lego. I have a senior kitty cat named Boosie who is the love of my life and my best friend.

Zaq Chamberlin

CAT

  • Hey, Zaq here. I'm a Littleton-raised Colorado native. I was a client in 2022, and became a House Manager after completing the program. I found a sense of purpose in helping others, and when I'm not working I'm taking classes to become certified in addiction counseling.

    I originally started college in 2010 for Philosophy and Psychology, and figured it'd be a good time to pick that back up! I really love talking with new residents and making recovery as fun as possible while also maintaining the serious message behind why we recover.

    On the side, I love playing videogames with friends, and also playing Dungeons and Dragons. If you see bright clothes, colored hair, and hear some really bad puns, chances are I'm nearby!

Simon Sealey

  • I started working at SoHo as a House Manager in March of 2023 after coming in as a client in May of 2022. Sobriety House saved my life and gave me a life worth living. House Management kept me in the program when I was struggling. Having the opportunity to do the same for clients now is why I'm passionate about working here as a House Manager.

    I love to interact with clients and watch them grow. Being sober can be fun, and I want to show clients that. Recovery is a massive part of my life, whether attending 12-step meetings or coaching at The Phoenix.

    When I'm not doing something recovery, I'm taking classes at MSU, majoring in Computer Science. If I ever get some free time, you can always bet I'm playing some scary video games or watching horror movies.

Jeff Madson

  • I came to Sobriety House as a client in August of 2022, thinking I was only giving it 28 days (Phase 1), and I would be fine to go back out into the world. I ended up listening to the staff and other clients and stayed for Phase 2.

    I tried getting sober back in 2012 by attending a 30 day treatment facility, but realized I needed a much more structured environment for an extended amount of time. Fast forward to today, I have a full time job as a House Manager at Sobriety House, my own place to live, relationships mended, and a great place to call WORK.

Heaven Lee

  • I came to Sobriety House as a client in December 2022. I graduated the program and because a House Manager in September 2023. Sobriety House saved my life. I came into this program at rock bottom. With the help of the 12 steps, program structure and support from staff, I have turned my life around completely. I now have my own home, a family who wants me around, strong relationships and a desire to continue to better my life. I find my role as a House Manager to be the most rewarding job I have ever had. Having the privilege to watch and help clients heal and grow in their sobriety is why I love it here.

Maria Newkirk

  • Bio to come

Ronnie Chavez

  • I came to Sobriety House in October of 2024, as a House Manager. Prior to working at Sobriety House, I was a police officer for 26 years, retiring in 2016. After retiring from law enforcement, I dabbled in a few other fields to include owning a car wash, case management at a halfway house, and security. My life's work has always been serving and helping people. Coming to Sobriety House continues my passion for helping my fellow human. In with my personal life I have seen family and friends struggle with addiction, who have used the 12 steps to lead them to recovery. As a House Manager at Sobriety house, I enjoy seeing clients blossom in their own Sobriety journeys. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my wife, cooking, cheering on the Denver Broncos, and playing with my cats.

Trish Barcomb

Cara Curwen

AA, BS, BS

  • I joined the SoHo team June 2024. I have 17+ years of experience in the service industry. I graduated from MSU Denver in 2015 where I completed a double major in hospitality management and dietetics. I also have my AA in culinary arts classically trained in French cuisine. I have worked all over the Denver Metro Area. I also have my own restaurant in Sturgis during the motorcycle rally.

    Sobriety House is a mission I am truly passionate about. Being a person who has lost people to addiction, I feel like this is a way I can give back to the community while supporting my family and doing the things I love.

    When I’m not working at Sobriety House, I’m spending time with my three children, boyfriend, and our two dogs.

Stacy

Kevin Hubbard

Lewis Ritenour

  • I am the Computer Systems Technician at Sobriety House. If your computer is broken, have you tried turning it off and on again?

    I grew up in Atlanta, GA and went to school for Astronomy and Physics. When that didn't work out, I worked at Kohl’s for 10 years before finding a passion for technology. In 2020, I took a coding bootcamp and learned to create websites and applications. This eventually brought me to the IT field and finding a great place to work.

    I have a big passion for Pinball. I play professionally around Denver and want to travel more often to play. I grew up playing on the three machines my Dad owned.

    I also like to play video games with friends and to go out and chill with them as well.

    I moved to Colorado in 2016 after visiting family. I loved the mountains and weather of Denver so much I just had to move out here.

Dandelion and Hazel

  • Hazel and Dandelion are Sobriety House’s therapy bunnies, registered through Pet Partners. They love to eat and hop around in their enclosure in the Executive Director’s office when they visit, and the clients as well as staff enjoy their company at least once each month. They otherwise live with Crystal and her family as pets.

    Hazel loves to groom his friend Dandelion, look “swole,” and plot to take over the world.

    Dandelion loves being groomed by her friend Hazel, attacking her neck fur, and snuggling.