Meet the Team
Castle Brusa, CADC I
Chief Operating Officer
Castle Brusa is the kind of leader who leaves things better than he found them—whether it’s people, systems, or entire treatment programs. As Chief Operating Officer at Totality Treatment, Castle is dedicated to building ethical, high-performing, and deeply client-centered systems of care.
With over 10 years of experience in behavioral health and addiction treatment, Castle has worked across all levels of care—from detox to outpatient—in both high-end private and insurance-based settings. He is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with extensive experience leading teams through Joint Commission accreditation, DHCS licensing, and full operational turnarounds.
Castle is known for creating systems that truly serve the people they’re meant for. He’s redesigned intake processes, clinical documentation, and group therapy frameworks to ensure clients are never treated like just a number. His leadership is rooted in integrity, and his work consistently focuses on making recovery accessible, personalized, and life-changing.
Beyond his operational expertise, Castle’s presence is felt throughout the treatment center. Whether he’s supporting staff development, facilitating groups, or jumping into case management, he stays close to the mission and the people Totality serves.
Castle’s passion for this work is deeply personal. As a person in recovery himself, he believes everyone deserves a genuine shot at healing—and that begins with systems built on transparency, compassion, and purpose.
Fun fact: Castle is a husband and father to two beautiful, God-given children. He and his wife, who is also in recovery, stay actively involved in the recovery community through leadership, service, and volunteering. Outside of work, he loves music, snowboarding, and dancing with his kids.
Favorite quote:
“How are we supposed to teach children how to read if they can’t even fit inside the building?” – Zoolander
Brooke Gilbertsen Adams, Psy.D.
Dr. Brooke G. Adams is a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in the field of mental health and a deep specialization in co-occurring disorders since 2013. As Clinical Director, she brings a powerful blend of knowledge, compassion, and insight to help clients—and their families—navigate the journey of recovery with purpose, integrity, and healing.
Brooke is committed to treating the whole person. She considers every layer of the human experience: mental health diagnoses, genetics, neuropsychology, trauma and loss, family dynamics, social relationships, shame, vulnerability, and self-worth. Her approach integrates evidence-based modalities with psychodynamic insight, mindfulness, and spirituality—creating space for clients to reconnect with themselves and uncover the healthiest version of who they are.
She is especially passionate about helping individuals reclaim their freedom and rebuild lives filled with purpose, peace, and meaning. For Brooke, healing is not about temporary fixes—it’s about building a life you want to show up for every day, not one you need a vacation from.
Brooke holds a B.A. in Psychology from San Diego State University (2008), an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University (2013), and a Doctorate in Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (2016). She is the author of The Impact of Mindfulness on the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients (2017) and has served as a keynote speaker on addiction recovery. Her work is grounded in a genuine belief that growth is always possible, and that healing begins with the courage to begin.
Having overcome her own health challenges and struggles with depression, Brooke is deeply connected to the work she does. “There’s no greater currency,” she says, “than helping someone reclaim their life and a renewed sense of freedom and purpose.”
When she’s not working, Brooke prioritizes self-care by spending time in nature with her two young children.
Favorite quote:
“The greatest project you will ever work on is you.”
Alison Eagle, MA, AMFT
Alison “Ali” Eagle is a passionate Primary Therapist who brings a creative, compassionate, and deeply personalized approach to her work. Using an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, humanistic, internal family systems, inner child work, Jungian, Gestalt, somatic, creative, and trauma-informed interventions, Ali creates a safe, empathic space where clients can gently piece together their personal stories and rediscover their authentic selves.
Ali is especially drawn to working with young adults, artists, LGBTQIA+ individuals, adolescents, and couples. She specializes in guiding clients through existential exploration, relational challenges, trauma processing, dream-work, parts and shadow work, creative expression, psychodrama, play therapy, and complex struggles such as eating disorders, codependency, sex and love addiction, depression, and anxiety. Her work is a powerful invitation for clients to show up fully and begin writing new chapters with honesty, curiosity, and self-compassion.
For Ali, this is more than a profession—it’s a heartfelt calling. She loves people, and she believes that everyone has a story worth exploring. Her goal is to help each client feel seen, understood, and empowered to embrace the complexity of their journey.
Ali has worked in mental health treatment for the past two years and is known for her warm presence, creative therapeutic style, and ability to meet clients wherever they are with openness and care.
When she’s not working, Ali loves reflecting on the fact that both of her grandfathers were named Norman—a family detail that always brings a smile.
Favorite quote:
“Live…laugh…love…” — a very profound pillow
Nicholas Helgager, LMFT
Nicholas “Nick” Helgager is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings empathy, honesty, and grounded presence to his role as a Primary Therapist at Totality Treatment. Nick works closely with individuals in early recovery, helping them navigate the daily challenges of healing while fostering a safe, supportive environment where meaningful growth can take root.
Since 2019, Nick has worked in addiction treatment and mental health, offering clients steady support through individual therapy sessions and by being an accessible, encouraging presence throughout the treatment center. He is passionate about helping people move beyond the immediate crisis of addiction and step into deeper work—addressing the lifelong patterns and challenges that recovery invites them to explore.
What Nick finds most rewarding is witnessing the transformation when clients begin to realize their own power, agency, and worth. “Seeing the light come back in someone’s eyes,” he says, “is what makes this work so meaningful.” His approach is honest, direct, and deeply supportive, offering clients a space to confront their past while building a future they are excited to live.
Nick chose this path because of his own recovery journey. It’s work that feels natural to him—a calling rather than just a career.
While Nick jokingly claims there’s “nothing fun” about him, his dry humor and grounded perspective make him a truly unique and valued part of the Totality team.
Favorite quote:
“Wherever you go, there you are.”
Nicholas Tandberg, CADC-II
Nicholas Tandberg is a seasoned Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II) who has been dedicated to transforming lives since 2013. As the Lead SUD Counselor at Totality Treatment, Nicholas oversees all Case Management services and plays a pivotal role in guiding clients through their recovery journey.
Known for his motivational yet practical approach, Nicholas believes that lasting change comes from combining inspiration with real-world strategies. His work focuses not just on breaking the cycle of addiction, but on helping clients rediscover their true selves and build meaningful, purpose-driven lives.
Nicholas is deeply committed to walking alongside each individual, addressing both the visible symptoms and the underlying factors that contribute to their unique challenges. His goal is to empower clients with the skills, mindset, and support needed to overcome obstacles and create a life filled with fulfillment and purpose.
With years of hands-on experience, Nicholas brings both expertise and empathy to every client interaction, fostering an environment where growth, transformation, and lasting recovery are truly possible.
Madeleine Dem, ACSW
Madeleine Dem is an Associate Therapist at Totality Treatment who brings creativity, depth, and a holistic perspective to her work with clients. She provides individual, group, and family therapy, helping people better understand their mental health conditions and develop effective coping strategies. Madeleine is passionate about meeting clients where they are—whether through evidence-based practices, creative modalities, or simply offering a safe, compassionate space to explore their healing journey.
With over four years of experience in behavioral health and advanced training in EMDR, DBT skills, and TF-CBT, Madeleine is well-versed in working with complex psychiatric conditions, trauma, substance use, and dual diagnoses. Her integrative approach draws from her background in mental health, biology, and anthropology, allowing her to see each client as a whole person, shaped by both internal and external forces. Madeleine’s ability to weave together science, story, and creativity offers clients a unique pathway toward rewiring cognition, releasing old patterns, and discovering new ways of being.
What Madeleine finds most rewarding is helping people transform their relationship with themselves—especially those working through trauma—so they can experience meaningful, connected, and fulfilling lives.
Her decision to pursue this work was deeply personal, inspired by her mother, a clinical social worker, and further shaped by the reflections that emerged during the isolation of the pandemic. For Madeleine, therapy is not just a profession—it’s a chance to foster human connection and support lasting change.
When she’s not working, you can find Madeleine watching The Real Housewives or South Park—two shows she playfully credits with making her a better therapist thanks to their surprisingly sharp social commentary.
Favorite quote:
The Real Housewives & South Park (her secret therapy tools)
Jerry Ismerio
Jerry Ismerio is the Lead Client Care Coordinator at Totality Treatment, where he plays a key role in creating a seamless, supportive experience for clients throughout their treatment journey. Jerry acts as a bridge between clients, clinical teams, and administrative staff to ensure each person feels seen, supported, and empowered during their recovery.
With over a year of experience in the addiction treatment field—starting as a house manager in sober living—Jerry quickly found his passion for client care. He specializes in helping individuals move past their own barriers, offering guidance and encouragement as they work toward sobriety.
Jerry was inspired to pursue this work after his own life-changing experience with a case manager during treatment. That support made a lasting impact on him, and he now dedicates his career to paying it forward and making a difference in the lives of others.
When he’s not supporting clients, you can find Jerry immersed in his lifelong love for baseball. He lives by the principle:
“We cannot keep it unless we give it away.”
Judy E. Shafer, CADAC II
Judy E. Shafer is a deeply committed Substance Abuse Counselor, Grief Recovery Specialist, and Group Facilitator with over 14 years of experience working in addiction treatment. Judy brings a powerful blend of professional expertise and lived experience, offering clients a compassionate, authentic space to explore their recovery, process grief, and reconnect with themselves.
Judy’s journey into this work is both personal and profound. Following her incarceration in 2010 for an alcohol-related death, Judy chose to transform her life and committed herself to healing and giving back. She became CADC II-certified in 2011 and worked within the Substance Abuse Program throughout her time of incarceration, continuing to support others until her release in 2019. Today, her work is not just a career—it’s a vital part of her own recovery and a meaningful way to create understanding and hope for others.
Specializing in trauma recovery, Judy helps clients gently uncover the roots of their pain, particularly the unresolved wounds of the inner child. She is passionate about guiding individuals to realize that their struggles are not their fault and that healing is always within reach. Her approach fosters self-efficacy, encouraging clients to step into their power as they build lives grounded in sobriety, self-awareness, and purpose.
Judy works with clients one-on-one and leads both in-person and virtual groups, creating supportive communities where honest connection and deep transformation can happen.
A lifelong lover of the arts and an eclectic spirit at heart, Judy finds peace and inspiration in creativity and the natural world. Her life and work are anchored by the belief that every soul blooms in its own time.
Favorite quote:
“You’re not behind, you’re not lost, you’re exactly where the soul needs to be to bloom next.”
Prahlad Devaprakash, SUDCC
Prahlad Devaprakash, known by many as Pinaki, is a dedicated Case Manager and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor at Totality Treatment. He works closely with clients, guiding them through the recovery process with care and purpose. His role includes comprehensive case management, individualized counseling, and ensuring that each client’s needs are fully supported throughout their treatment journey and beyond.
With over four years of experience in addiction treatment, Pinaki’s career has spanned multiple roles, from group facilitator to Behavioral Health Technician. This range of experience has made him a versatile and empathetic advocate for his clients, allowing him to connect on a personal level and support them in meaningful ways.
Pinaki is especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with substance use disorders—a calling deeply rooted in his own recovery journey. Having once sat in the same seat as his clients, he brings a unique understanding and heartfelt commitment to helping others reclaim their lives. For him, the most fulfilling moments are when he witnesses the shift in his clients—the spark of hope, the realization that change is possible.
His path to this work was both personal and natural. After navigating his own recovery, Pinaki knew he wanted to give back and be a supportive presence for others, just as others had once been for him.
Outside of work, Pinaki enjoys living life to the fullest—whether that’s through CrossFit, hiking, skydiving, or spending quality time with his fiancée and their cats. He also stays actively engaged in the local recovery community, continuously giving back.
Favorite quote:
“For it is in giving that we receive.” — St. Francis of Assisi
Morgan Galipeau-Robinson, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Morgan Galipeau-Robinson is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of critical care experience and a dedicated focus on mental health and addiction treatment since 2021. At Totality Treatment, Morgan provides expert care through comprehensive assessments, psychotherapy, medication management, and individualized treatment planning—all with a trauma-informed lens and a deep commitment to helping clients heal and thrive.
Morgan’s approach is rooted in empathy and a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health. Her work focuses on addressing trauma, fostering resilience, and empowering clients to reclaim their lives. She believes that sustainable healing happens when we treat the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—through holistic, personalized care that honors each individual’s unique story.
Her passion for this work is deeply personal. Growing up in a family touched by mental health challenges, addiction, and neurodiversity shaped her calling to provide the support, care, and hope she wished had been more accessible to her loved ones. For Morgan, this is not just a career—it’s a life mission to help people rediscover themselves and build lives filled with meaning, connection, and possibility.
Morgan brings over 11 years of experience as an ICU nurse and 3 years specializing in outpatient mental health and addiction treatment. She is especially passionate about working with clients navigating trauma, complex mental health conditions, and those seeking recovery through medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
When she’s not working, Morgan finds balance and joy in hiking with her dog, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time at the beach with her husband and son, Caleb.
Favorite quote:
“Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves.” — Henry David Thoreau
Omaka Leemu Omeze, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Omaka Leemu Omeze is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Totality Treatment, where she specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and treating individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions and substance use disorders. In her role, Omaka provides patient education, psychotherapy, and supportive care, working closely with an interdisciplinary team to help clients achieve stability and long-term recovery.
With over seven years of experience working in high-acuity mental health facilities, Omaka has developed a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding mental illness and addiction. Her previous work involved closely monitoring behavioral changes, managing medications, and providing quality care in some of the most challenging clinical settings.
Omaka is especially passionate about helping individuals from communities that are often stigmatized or overlooked. She is committed to remaining current on innovative treatment approaches and is continuously expanding her knowledge to better support those in need. Her work is driven by the belief that everyone deserves compassion, respect, and the opportunity to heal.
Her path to mental health care began with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a growing curiosity about the human mind. This interest solidified into a calling as she recognized that everyone, in some way, is navigating their own mental health journey.
Outside of her professional life, Omaka is an avid tennis player who once competed at a near-elite level before a sports injury shifted her path. She now enjoys playing recreationally with her husband and daughter and loves exploring new adventures and learning experiences.
Favorite quote:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
Gerard Weeshoff, CADC I
Gerard Weeshoff is the Director of Treatment Coordination at Totality Treatment, where he ensures seamless and supportive care for clients from intake through discharge. Gerard works collaboratively across all departments to provide each client with a treatment experience that is welcoming, consistent, and safe. In addition to managing the client care process, he oversees key administrative, quality control, and financial responsibilities that support the overall success of the treatment program.
Gerard began his career in addiction treatment as a detox technician and quickly advanced after earning his CADC I certification. He has worked in multiple capacities within the field, including as an intake specialist, group facilitator, operations director, and psych practice manager, gaining valuable experience across all levels of care.
What Gerard enjoys most is building authentic relationships with clients and teaching them the importance of balancing compassionate support with healthy boundaries. He is passionate about motivating clients to envision and commit to a life of meaningful recovery.
Having experienced his own recovery journey, Gerard brings a deep, personal understanding to his work. His natural ability to connect with people and inspire positive change led him to the behavioral health field—a career that truly chose him.
Fun fact: A wild bear once sniffed Gerard’s ear!
Favorite quote:
“As long as you live, keep learning how to live.” – Seneca
Erin Staley, SUDRC
Erin Staley is a dedicated Client Care Coordinator who brings compassion, authenticity, and lived experience to every part of her work at Totality Treatment. Whether she’s guiding clients through the intake process, facilitating groups, or supporting the day-to-day operations, Erin is a steady, encouraging presence—walking alongside each client as they pursue their recovery journey.
Having worked in the treatment field for two years, Erin is actively advancing her education toward CADAC certification while also serving as Director of Gracious Wellsprings Sober Living. Her work is driven by a deep personal connection to recovery, grounded in her own lived experience. Erin knows firsthand the courage it takes to choose healing, and she finds her greatest joy in witnessing the moment clients realize they are worthy of the life they’re building.
Erin is passionate about helping clients believe in themselves, trust the process, and step fully into their growth. For her, the opportunity to give back—just as support was once freely given to her—is the most rewarding part of her work.
Outside of Totality Treatment, Erin’s favorite hobby is practicing self-care. Whether it’s a massage, facial, manicure, or pedicure, she fully embraces the importance of tending to both body and spirit.
Favorite quote:
“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” — Buddha
Bridy Bless, SUDRC
With nearly six years in recovery, I bring both lived experience and a deep sense of purpose to the work I do in the field of addiction treatment. As a case manager and group facilitator, I meet people where they are—always with compassion, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. I believe in the power of wellness and positive psychology to help individuals reconnect with their strengths and begin to imagine something better for themselves.
I strive to create safe, empowering, and respectful spaces in group settings and one-on-one care. Whether coordinating resources, helping someone navigate next steps, or leading a group session, I aim to ensure every client feels seen, heard, and supported.
The Why: The magic in this work
Staying present with clients, in their most vulnerable or chaotic moments, has taught me that discomfort is often the doorway to growth. When I lean into those moments instead of resisting them, something shifts—not just for the client, but for me too. In those quiet, uncomfortable spaces, insight is born, and a new way forward becomes possible for both of us.
An interesting fact about me:
I was born and raised in The Last Frontier, where my love for land, water, and wildlife took root. Nature grounds me—it’s a part of how I stay connected to myself and others. At 16, my best friend and I fearlessly hitchhiked across several states, chasing adventure and collecting stories. That journey taught me about human connection, resilience, and the beauty of being open to life.
Favorite quote:
“I’ve learned that when I stay fully present—even in the most uncomfortable moments—that’s where transformation begins. New understanding and healing can truly unfold in the raw, honest space between struggle and connection.”
You’ve Tried Programs. Now Try Something That Works.
Totality Treatment Center is more than a rehab. It’s a community of healers, guides, and believers walking beside you to create something better.
