Addiction Treatment Staff

Dr. McCormick is a native of Northeast Louisiana. He is a graduate of The University of Louisiana at Monroe and Louisiana State University Medical School in Shreveport. He completed his Family Medicine residency through the University of Arkansas in 1999. He found an interest in Addiction Medicine while in practice and became board certified through the American Board of Addiction Medicine in 2010.

Dr. McCormick has been in Family Medicine private practice in West Monroe, LA for 18 years treating a variety of general medical illnesses and addiction related medical issues. He has experience in preventative health maintenance, geriatrics, hypertension, diabetes, nutrition, and addiction medicine.

Dr. McCormick believes Palmetto offers the personal and clinical experience necessary to assist in a person’s unique spiritual, emotional and physical journey in recovery.

Dr. Jay Weiss is a board-certified psychiatrist with over four decades of experience in military and clinical practice. A graduate of the University of Arkansas College of Medicine, he completed his residency in Psychiatry while serving in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably for 30 years.

He holds board certifications in Psychiatry (1991), Geriatrics (1994), and Addiction Medicine (1995), and earned his ASAM certification in 2005. Dr. Weiss is a member of both the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Over the years, he has lectured nationally on topics including Aviation Psychiatry for the FAA, Combat Psychiatry for the U.S. Air Force, and Celestial Navigation.

Dr. Weiss was an integral part of the Palmetto team for over 20 years and now serves as a Legacy Team Member. Though no longer on full-time staff, he continues to support Palmetto through special projects and consultation. He believes that the strength of Palmetto lies in the meaningful relationships among staff and the shared commitment to compassionate, effective care.

Dr. Brandon Waits is a licensed psychologist specializing in psychological evaluations, including fitness-for-duty evaluations and the assessment of cognitive, affective, and behavioral factors relating to substance use. He has degrees from Auburn University (B.A., psychology), Reformed Theological Seminary (M.A., marriage and family therapy), and Louisiana Tech University (Ph.D., counseling psychology). He completed a doctoral internship in professional psychology at the University of Tennessee and has experience in residential substance use treatment and outpatient clinics. He also holds an academic position as a faculty member at Louisiana Tech University where he teaches in the doctoral program in counseling psychology and has research interests in trauma, substance use, and positive psychology.

Ryan joined Palmetto in May 2022 as a registered nurse with over 20 years of experience in psychiatric care. He has worked with various age groups, including adolescents, adults, and the elderly, in inpatient psychiatric units.

He is board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the lifespan by the ANCC and has an MSN from Northwestern State University specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

A few words from Ryan:

"As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my focus is on treating mental health conditions and substance abuse in a dual diagnosis setting. At Palmetto, I conduct psychiatric evaluations, provide medication consultations, and offer support for psychiatric emergencies. I collaborate with Dr. Weiss, Palmetto’s Psychiatrist,  to manage medication and create personalized recovery plans to help patients achieve lasting sobriety.

I am dedicated to serving by providing integrated care for mental illness and substance abuse. I am also passionate about increasing access to mental health services, particularly in areas where there is a shortage of mental health providers.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and four daughters. I am an avid outdoorsman, participating in activities such as boating, hunting, fishing, and riding ATVs. I also take pride in being a supportive father to my daughter's travel softball team, watching them grow and develop as athletes over time."

Jennifer became part of the team at Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center in October 2016 bringing 21 years of healthcare experience. She is a 2014 graduate of Northwestern State University with a Master’s Degree in Nursing with the role concentration of Family Nurse Practitioner. Jennifer also has bachelor’s degrees in Nursing from University of Louisiana at Monroe and Clinical Laboratory Science from Louisiana Tech University. Jennifer feels that patient centered treatment of physical, emotional, and mental needs in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment will assist patients in reaching their full potential for personal success.

Katie's bio coming soon!

Hollye Rogers began her career at Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center in 1994. She is a graduate of The University of Louisiana at Monroe and Louisiana State University with a Master's Degree in Social Work. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. In 2010, she became the director of the Professional Evaluation Program. Effective in 2016, Hollye was appointed as the Administrator and Chief Operations Officer of the facility. Hollye feels focusing on the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of recovery in coordination with family involvement is what sets Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center apart from other treatment facilities.

Bio coming soon!

A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Max brings nine years of experience in residential treatment and a deep commitment to helping individuals and families find lasting recovery. Before joining Palmetto, he held business development roles with two nationally recognized providers, where he built a strong foundation in outreach, admissions, and relationship-building across the nation.

At Palmetto, Max works closely with the admissions and clinical teams to expand access to care and ensure a smooth, supportive transition into treatment. He takes pride in guiding families through the recovery process while cultivating partnerships that extend Palmetto’s reach nationwide.

Known for his professionalism, integrity, and genuine approach, Max plays a key role in connecting people to meaningful care and building trusted connections throughout the treatment community.

Mary Ann began her career at Palmetto as the Receptionist in 2002. Due to Palmetto's success and Mary Ann’s professional growth, she was promoted to Accounts Receivable Manager in 2008, allowing her to utilize her prior accounting experience.

As Accounts Receivable Manager, she works closely with the admission staff to coordinate the financial needs of patients and families. Mary Ann’s supportive nature and her great attention to detail allows her to provide a smooth transition for clients to Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center.

Teen Mosley began her career with Palmetto in 2002. Teen Mosley is a graduate of University of Louisiana-Monroe, with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice.  

As Palmetto's Admission Coordinator, she works closely with families and their loved ones to provide an atmosphere of support for families and residents throughout the admission process. In addition to working with families, the admissions process includes insurance eligibility screening, admissions authorization, and patient accounting. An efficient and effective admission process allows families to focus their attention on our program and their loved one. Teen’s passion for the treatment industry is rooted in her capability to help families in crisis.

Lela is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University with a Bachelor of General Studies. She earned her Master's Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling at the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Lela is a Licensed Professional Counselor (Lic #3562) and serves as the Director of the Professional Evaluation Program. She has been an integral part of the Palmetto Staff since 2004.

Chelsey O’Neal began her career at Palmetto in 2017 as an Administrative Assistant. Due to Palmetto’s success and Chelsey’s professional growth, she was promoted to Intensive Outpatient Program Intake Coordinator in 2018.    As Intake Coordinator, she is responsible for inquiry calls, insurance verification, payment collections and scheduling admissions. Chelsey works with utilization review staff, business office staff, and clinical staff to ensure continuity of communication. When she’s away from Palmetto, she is busy raising her daughter, laughing with her husband, spending time with her family and friends, or camping and traveling. 

David has been dedicated to the field of recovery since 2007, bringing years of hands-on experience, compassion, and insight to every person he meets. A graduate of Palmetto himself, David understands the power of connection and the importance of a strong start in the recovery journey.

Since joining the Palmetto team, David has held several roles across the organization, gaining valuable perspective on the treatment process from multiple angles. In 2023, he transitioned into the admissions department, where he now assists individuals and families in taking their first steps toward treatment. Drawing from both professional experience and personal insight, he offers each person a sense of calm, clarity, and compassion during what can be an uncertain time.

Outside of work, David is deeply family-oriented and enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, especially at his son’s sporting events. His grounded, approachable nature makes him a valued member of the Palmetto team and a trusted resource for those seeking help and hope.

A native of Gonzales, Louisiana, Tyler began his journey with Palmetto as a resident in 2019 and returned in 2022 as a behavioral health technician. Since then, he has served in several roles across the organization, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the treatment process. In 2023, he joined the admissions team as Admissions Coordinator, where he now helps individuals and families take their first steps toward recovery.

Tyler brings a calm, easygoing presence to his work, drawing on both personal experience and professional growth to support clients with empathy and care. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Game Design, balancing his academic goals with a deep passion for helping others.

Outside of work, Tyler enjoys spending time with family, gaming, reading, cooking, exercising, and exploring different forms of art. A self-proclaimed glass-half-full type, he’s also a proud middle child and pet dad to two cats and a pup. He often returns to his favorite quote as a reminder of growth through experience: “The difference between the master and the novice is that the master has failed more times than the novice has tried.”

Courtney joined Palmetto’s team in August 2020. She brings 10 years of experience in the Medical Field, most recently working at Northeast Louisiana Health Center for 3.5 years. Courtney graduated from Louisiana Technical College for Computer Specialist-Applications in 2005. She graduated from Louisiana Technical College with a degree in (PCT) Patient Care Technician in 2012. Her daily tasks include utilization review for Intensive Outpatient Therapy, updating/maintaining accurate medical records, assist in professional care follow-ups and set up one-day evaluations. Courtney is a newlywed who married in January 2021. She enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and stepson.  She enjoys watching her children play sports and taking them fishing.

Stuart joined the Palmetto team in 2019. As someone in recovery himself, he brings a personal understanding and deep compassion to his work. He is driven by a mission to ensure that individuals struggling with addiction and mental health have the opportunity to find healing, connection, and hope.

In his role, Stuart builds meaningful relationships with referring professionals, treatment partners, and community organizations across the region. He also works closely with Palmetto’s alumni, helping foster long-term engagement and connection through aftercare planning and recovery-centered events. Whether through discharge coordination, alumni programming, or outreach efforts, Stuart sees every interaction as a chance to inspire change and deepen community support for sustained recovery.

He believes that recovery isn’t a destination—it’s a journey best walked together.

Jody's extensive career at Palmetto began in July 2002. Over two decades, he has cultivated an impressive trajectory of progressive leadership and an unwavering commitment to quality. Before joining Palmetto, Jody attended Northeast Louisiana University, providing him with a strong educational foundation. He further honed his operational and patient care expertise through various roles at Palmetto, including Resident Manager/Tech, Head Resident Manager, and Safety Officer.

A pivotal moment for both Jody and Palmetto was his deep involvement in the CARF certification process, which began in 2016. He was a driving force behind the successful initial three-year accreditation, showcasing his ability to lead complex initiatives and drive organizational excellence. Now, as Compliance Officer, Jody holds a critical position in upholding Palmetto's high standards. He is directly responsible for the strategic oversight of the CARF program, ensuring Palmetto consistently meets or exceeds the stringent requirements set by CARF International, as well as all applicable state and federal regulations governing patient care. His dedication was recently reaffirmed with Palmetto's successful recertification for another three years in 2024, a testament to his ongoing leadership and the positive impact he has on the organization's reputation for exceptional care. Beyond his professional achievements, Jody is also a published author, demonstrating his diverse talents and intellectual curiosity.

A native of Northwest Louisiana, Christopher brings both professional expertise and personal passion to his role. He earned a B.S. in Accounting from Louisiana State University and an M.S. in Accounting with a concentration in Taxation from the University of Notre Dame. He went on to work as a CPA in California for five years before shifting his focus to the field of addiction recovery.

Driven by a desire to make a more personal impact, Christopher joined the Palmetto team to help individuals build a foundation for lasting sobriety. As a member of the recovery community himself, he is deeply committed to supporting others as they begin their journey.

In his role, Christopher works with each client at the time of discharge to ensure they have the structure and support needed for the next phase of recovery. Whether that includes sober living, outpatient programming, or community-based support, his goal is to help every individual maintain momentum and feel confident in their path forward.

Jerry earned his B. A. in psychology as well as his M. A. in Substance Abuse Counseling from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He is registered as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-4550) with the Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners. He is a Certified Trauma Therapist. Jerry has experience in working with addicts with co-occurring psychological disorders, and experience in working with clients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. His theoretical approach is the use of experiential therapy to process emotional issues surrounding traumatic events, coupled with cognitive behavioral therapy to help facilitate the lifestyle changes necessary for a solid recovery. His empathic approach is driven by personal experience. Jerry has been sober for 19 years.

Stewart has Masters degrees both in Pastoral Ministry, Luther Rice Theological Seminary, Atlanta, GA, and Professional Counseling, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA. Stewart is a Licensed Professional Counselor (#5232) registered with the Louisiana State Board of Examiners, and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). He is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which deals with trauma and negative memories. EMDR is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as an effective treatment for acute and chronic PTSD. EMDR has also been found effective in dealing with an array of issues such as: anxiety, fears, phobias, grief, OCD, and debilitating family of origin issues where a person may just feel “stuck” about events that they have experienced in their life. Stewart is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). As the Spiritual Counselor Stewart offers insight and assistance with understanding spirituality, the spirituality of recovery, prayer and meditation, grief, guilt and shame, forgiveness and self-forgiveness. He is also trained in Theophostic Prayer which facilitates spiritual and emotional healing for negative memories. Using a combination of sound spiritual and psychological approaches Stewart seeks to help individuals reach their full potential through a spiritual approach to life

Sean graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a B.A. in Psychology in 2003 and a M.A. in Substance Abuse Counseling in 2005. He received his licensure as an LPC on December 14, 2007 (License #3610). Since graduating in 2005, he has been privileged to work in a variety of fields, including: inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, inpatient and outpatient mental health, survivors of domestic violence, and survivors of sexual assault. He also spent a great deal of time working with war veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder during his internship.

Sean's chosen approach to counseling is Gestalt Therapy, viewing the human condition as a constant struggle to maintain equilibrium. This equilibrium can be thrown off by “Unfinished Business” from our past or from unhealthy thought processes and beliefs about the world in which one lives. Many times, addicts and alcoholics use mood altering substances to create illusions of control and equilibrium when their lives are actually anything but stable. Through counseling, he hopes to assist the patient in: accepting emotions regarding the past and moving forward, developing more rational worldviews, and setting goals to ensure a healthy life in recovery. Sean also employs aspects of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Therapy, and education on the principles of the Alcoholics Anonymous program.

Shirley Jones is a Registered Addiction Counselor. She is licensed by the State of Louisiana Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority.

Shirley began her career 31 years ago working outpatient and inpatient substance abuse. She received her certification in 2007. Shirley's chosen counseling approach is cognitive behavioral therapy and client center therapy. Focusing on behavioral changes, twelve step ideology and tools for recovery to achieve and maintain abstinence from addictive chemicals and behaviors to recover from the damage the addiction has done to the client's life. Shirley practices this along with developing the necessary psychological skills and spiritual development to continue in recovery.

Frank is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Arts in Substance Abuse Counseling. Frank is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Board-Certified Counselor with 22 years of experience counseling the addicted population within the Louisiana Criminal Justice System. He has also provided counseling for combat veterans with dual diagnosis of Substance Dependence and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Frank's counseling methodology is based on a combination of Gestalt, Existential, and Rogerian therapy, with special interest in the holistic connection of emotions, cognitions, and spirituality.

Alec Hummel began his career at Palmetto in 2020, initially working as a Resident Manager while obtaining his Counselor in Training credentials and completing school. He has since completed an Associate of Arts from Louisiana Delta Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and a Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University.

Alec is credentialed through both the Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners and the Louisiana Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority. He holds the following certifications:

• Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC #5067)
• Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS #5066)
• Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor (CCGC #5026)
• Certified Social Worker (CSW #19075)

Alec utilizes a person-first approach, ensuring unique and individualized treatment for each client. He encourages autonomy and individuality throughout the treatment process, aiming to empower clients as they work toward a better life.

Alec enjoys seeing the positive changes in his clients’ attitudes and thought processes throughout their treatment and says this is his favorite part of being a counselor. When not at work, he spends time with his wife and daughter, training his dogs, cheering on the Tigers, or in the woods hunting with his father and dogs, Cali, Bodie, and Paris.

Kimberly Bradshaw, MSW, LCSW joined the Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center (PARC) team in July 2023, bringing with her over a decade of expertise in behavioral health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Kimberly plays a pivotal role at PARC, serving as a residential treatment and professional program counselor. Her experience is particularly notable in working with individuals who have dual diagnoses.

In her therapeutic approach, Kimberly skillfully employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, strengths-based strategies, and trauma-focused methods. She is deeply committed to a holistic treatment philosophy, emphasizing the integration of mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual elements to achieve balanced and comprehensive healing for her clients. Her dedication and multifaceted approach make her an asset to the PARC team and the individuals she serves.

Paulette graduated from Northeast Louisiana University in May 1999 after completing the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Most of her nursing career has been focused on mental health where she worked with clients who were diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and dementia. Paulette has been employed at Palmetto since 2012, and she takes pride in helping patients and family members utilize their insurance for treatment through her skills in managed care. Paulette feels that her own recovery and understanding of addiction has improved her ability to be a patient advocate.

Becky is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) with over 25 years of experience in mental health and addiction recovery. She specializes in helping individuals work through trauma, substance use, and emotional challenges using a client-centered, integrative approach.

Her clinical work is informed by extensive training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Image Transformation Therapy (IMTT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Brainspotting, Somatic Therapy, Psychodrama, and a range of experiential modalities. These methods enable her to guide clients through profound emotional healing and lasting behavioral evolution.

Known for her compassionate and grounded presence, Becky creates a safe, supportive space for individuals seeking to reclaim their lives and move forward in recovery.

Albertha Adcock is a Licensed Addiction Counselor providing Intensive Outpatient group treatment on a part-time basis at our Lake Charles Office for almost 2 years. She currently works for Imperial Calcasieu Human Service Authority, Office of Behavioral Health during the day and also provides services for the Louisiana Board of Nursing. “Alberta” is a native of Lake Charles, La and graduate of Marion High School. She attended McNeese State University where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. She is also a graduate of Louisiana State University(LSU) where she received her Master’s degree in Social Work.   Alberta has also been a member of the recovery community for over 21 years and has been a practicing clinician in the addiction field for over 12 years. She loves and is very passionate about her blessing as a counselor. She is the mother of 2 children and comes from a large loving family of 13 brothers and sisters. She’s a member of the Hillcrest Baptist church and enjoys praising God for his many blessings in her life.

IOP Address: 117 Williamsburg St, Lake Charles, LA 70605
Phone: 318-728-2970

Marla Lapeyronnie is a Registered Addiction Counselor and a Certified Grief Specialist. She is licensed by the State of Louisiana Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority. Marla began her career 8 years ago working inpatient and outpatient substance abuse. She has had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, including working for the Lafayette Parish Sheriff Office where she worked with the incarcerated population in a Rehabilitation Diversion Program.  Interventionist, including individual and family interventions, and grief therapy. Marla holds a seat on the Board of Directors for the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling where she currently serves as Secretary. Marla has done volunteer work at Maison De Mere, a home for teenage runaway girls. She is also a mentor for the Louisiana Youth Challenge Program. She has provided workshops at treatment centers and conferences. Marla utilizes a cognitive behavioral approach focusing on the here and now. She helps clients to see that what they are currently doing is either bringing them closer to or farther away from lasting changes needed for a successful recovery. Marla incorporates grief therapy as well as her experiences in personal recovery to help clients walk out of the darkness of addiction and be set free from the bondages of self. She believes that every addict and alcoholic that sits in front of her deserves an opportunity to recover and live a different life.

IOP Address: 345 Doucet Rd., Ste 218  Lafayette, LA 70503
Phone: 318-728-2970

Phillip is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) with a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Professional Counseling. A Licensed Professional Counselor (#253) with 38 years’ experience, he has worked with individuals, couples and families suffering addiction, codependency, chronic illness and depression. Phillip's counseling is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy: challenging the irrational beliefs and poor choices that make us unhealthy. Phillip serves as the Family Counselor for Palmetto’s Rayville campus: any family member with questions or concerns may reach him at 318-728-2970 or personal cell number 318-805-8685.

IOP Address: 1822 Tower Dr., Monroe, LA 71201
318-728-2970

Shirley Ryland graduated in 1980 from Louisiana College with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and graduated from Louisiana State University in 1982 with a master’s degree in Social Work. Shirley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (La#1995) since 1984 working with substance abuse and psychiatric patients from adolescence to geriatric. She has been in fulltime private practice since 1990. She has specialized in adolescents and adults with a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma and substance abuse. She uses a cognitive behavioral approach to address underlying belief systems that facilitate both mood/decisions and behavior. She teaches anxiety reduction skills incorporating a wide array of relaxation strategies. She has worked with chemical dependency since 1990.

IOP Address: 3636 Government St., Alexandria, LA 71302
Phone: 318-728-2970

Taylar is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University New Orleans as well as her Bachelor’s degree from Dillard University. Originally from Oakland, California, Taylar is committed to supporting individuals, couples, and families in prioritizing their needs and creating a space where they can be at ease and truly authentic.

In her counseling practice, Taylar incorporates techniques from various theoretical frameworks, including person-centered, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy. She strives to ensure that clients leave each session feeling heard, understood, and equipped with the tools to aid in their own healing.

In addition to her role as a practicing clinician, Taylar serves as the Behavioral Health Case Manager for Tulane University Athletics. In this role, she provides Division I student-athletes with innovative mental health and sports performance skills. Taylar looks forward to being an essential part of your journey and is ready to guide you on the path of self-enlightenment and mindfulness.

IOP Address: 2955 Ridgeland Dr., Ste 105, Metairie, LA 70001
Phone: 318-728-2970

James Truax brings a wealth of experience to our team. He graduated from the Navy Drug and Alcohol Counselor School in 1991 and has since accumulated over three decades of experience in addiction counseling and program management. His previous roles include Director of Addiction Services at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, where he developed best-practice detox programs and oversaw multiple intensive outpatient programs. He also played a key role in the start-up and growth of the 21st JDC Drug Court and led the Substance Abuse Counselor Center at the Marine Corps Base in Oahu. James is an active member of professional affiliations such as the Louisiana Association of Substance Abuse Counselors and Trainers, demonstrating his commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for staff and clients.

IOP Address: 9270 Siegen, Ste 603 Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Phone: 318-728-2970