Steven Locnikar

Medical Director
DO

Certified in Otolaryngology. Dr. Steven Locnikar was one of the most successful reconstructive and cosmetic surgeons in the state of Arizona throughout the 1990s into early 2000. However, he developed a substance addiction that ultimately consumed his personal and professional life during that time. Ironically, after successfully completing extensive inpatient drug and alcohol treatment, he returned to the practice of medicine and chose to dedicate the remainder of his personal and professional life to the treatment of others suffering from similar addictions. This unique blend of personal experience and extensive medical/surgical knowledge has allowed him to provide his patients with the best in cutting-edge medical addiction treatment in a compassionate and empathetic environment which is immediately evident upon his first encounter.

Joseph Malinconico

Director of Compliance
BSBA

Joseph J. Malinconico is a results-oriented compliance and operations professional with over 20 years of experience driving organizational efficiency through Lean methodologies and strategic leadership. At the Arizona Department of Health Services Joseph led high-impact Kaizen events, conducted complex regulatory investigations, and implemented process improvements that significantly reduced errors and administrative burden. Previously, as a General Operations Manager at Walmart, he managed large teams, led cross-functional improvement projects, and trained staff in Lean tools such as Standard Work and PDCA cycles. Joseph holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resource Management and is certified in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt), NCIT–CLEAR Advanced, and Google Workspace. He excels in building collaborative teams, leading change, and ensuring compliance while aligning operations with broader organizational goals.

Monica Schumann

Case Manager

Monica Schumann is a dedicated Case Manager at Plugged In Recovery, where she brings a compassionate, client-centered approach to supporting individuals on their recovery journey. As someone in recovery herself, Monica understands the challenges and triumphs firsthand and uses that insight to build meaningful connections with the clients she serves. Her passion for helping others and commitment to personalized care make her a trusted advocate and integral part of the Plugged In team.

Tricia Jacobson-Rudd

Operations Analyst
Therapist

Tricia is a Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor and certified neuropsychotherapist. Tricia holds a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling and a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science. Tricia has over 6 years of experience working within the behavioral health field, specializing in substance abuse/addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. Tricia’s personal experiences with family members who have struggled with addiction fuels her passion and compassion for working with others to achieve and sustain a lifelong recovery.

James Currier

Operations Analyst
MA in Mental Health Counseling

James brings nearly a decade of experience in the behavioral health field, including five years in executive leadership. With a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a personal journey in recovery, he combines clinical knowledge with lived experience to lead compassionate, client-centered care. His work is grounded in a strong focus on regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making, helping programs grow while upholding the highest standards of quality. James is dedicated to building systems that drive lasting change for both clients and the programs that support them.

Fabiana Osnato

Director of Human Resources
Associate of Arts

Going on 7 years in human resources, Fabi has a genuine passion for people. She focuses on boosting employee engagement through leadership initiatives in order to create a positive culture that encourages growth and loyalty. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, reading fantasy and sci-fi novels, playing soccer, and practicing yoga.

Nate Evans

Group Facilitator

Nathan is a proud Arizona native with five years of sobriety and a deep-rooted passion for recovery. As a dedicated mental health advocate, he actively participates in community service and volunteer work, using his own journey to inspire and support others. Nathan brings compassion, relatability, and lived experience to every group he facilitates. Outside of work, he’s a full-time father to his three-year-old daughter, who is the heart of his world and his greatest motivation.

Laura Zsako

Primary Therapist

Laura is a therapist with a deep passion for mental health, healing, and recovery. She believes in creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can work through challenges, rediscover their strengths, and reclaim their lives. Whether you’re navigating trauma, addiction, or emotional overwhelm, she walks alongside you with compassion, structure, and hope. When she’s not in the therapy room, you’ll often find her mountain climbing with her husband, grounded in nature and adventure — a reminder of the strength and balance we all strive for, inside and out.

Haley Ackert

Behavioral Health Paraprofessional

Haley is in recovery herself and has long been passionate about helping others on their journey. Her lived experience fuels her compassion, and she brings heart and hope to every client interaction.

Sam Barta

Behavioral Health Paraprofessional

With over one year of sobriety, Sam understands firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with the recovery journey. His passion lies in helping others build a strong foundation of sobriety they can rebuild their lives upon. At Plugged In Recovery, Sam is proud to support individuals through compassionate care, shared experience, and a commitment to lasting wellness. “Recovery is possible — and no one has to do it alone.”

Kevin Harvey

Primary Therapist
MS

Kevin is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in clinical settings. With a background that spans roles as a counselor, therapist, and advisor, Kevin has dedicated his career to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. His compassionate approach and ability to connect with people from all walks of life have been key in fostering trust and facilitating meaningful change. Kevin’s expertise and empathetic nature make him a trusted guide for those seeking support and growth.

Michael Magallan

Registered Nurse
RN

Michael brings over 17 years of experience in healthcare, with a strong focus on behavioral health for the past 10 years. His passion for working in addiction recovery is deeply personal – shaped by the experiences of family members and close friends who have faced similar struggles. With a background as both a golf professional and salesman, Michael has developed exceptional communication and teaching skills that help him build trust and guide clients with compassion and clarity.

Brianna Perone

Director of Outpatient Services

Brianna Perone serves as the Director of Outpatient Services at Plugged In Recovery, bringing over eight years of experience in the behavioral health field and nine years in personal recovery. Her career began as a Behavioral Health Technician and evolved through roles in case management and operations, giving her a well-rounded perspective on client care and program development. With a deep passion for helping others, Brianna blends her professional expertise and personal recovery journey to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose. She is dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering environment for individuals seeking recovery from addiction and mental health challenges.

Scott Zielinski

COO

Scott brings over 20 years of leadership experience in creating, growing, and scaling businesses. Known for building high-performing teams and driving operational excellence across technology and investment sectors, he now applies this expertise at Plugged In Recovery. There, Scott is focused on expanding access to high-quality addiction recovery services and creating pathways for sustainable growth.

Shannon Scott

Exectutive Chef

Shannon serves as the Executive Chef at Plugged In Recovery, bringing decades of experience in the culinary arts. Throughout her career, she has cooked for a wide range of individuals—from world-renowned musicians and professional athletes to former U.S. Presidents and first responders. Her work has taken her from large-scale events like WMPO and ESPN to disaster relief efforts during hurricanes and programs supporting women and children experiencing homelessness. Now, at Plugged In, Shannon finds deep purpose in nourishing individuals on their path to recovery. She considers it an honor to be part of each resident’s journey and continues to be inspired by the community she serves.

Alexis Uttecht

Nursing Coordinator
RN-MSN

Alexis is a dedicated registered nurse with a Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in psychiatric care, addiction and holistic healing. With extensive experience in addiction recovery and mental health, Alexis is known for her compassionate, client-centered approach. She integrates evidence-based practices with a focus on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Her passion for helping others navigate complex behavioral health challenges is matched by her calm presence and clinical expertise.

Ann Wilson

Equine Therapy
LPC-MSC

Ann Wilson, LPC, MSC graduated from the University of Phoenix where she earned her master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ann specializes in PTSD and has psychotherapeutic trainings that include EMDR by the EMDRIA institute, Equine Assisted EMDR (Equilateral™) by Dragonfly International, Structural Dissociation Theory integrated with Equine Psychotherapy, ASIST applied suicide intervention skills training. She is passionate about helping her clients and bringing awareness to mental health, she found a great way to combine that passion with her lifetime love of horses. She rides and competes in Dressage, enjoys swimming, Pilates, and spending time with her family. Ann Wilson is a board certified clinical supervisor.

Lauren Cortes

Hollistic Wellness Instructor

Lauren is the heart of our holistic program at Plugged In. Specializing in the mind-body-spirit connection, she helps residents understand themselves at a deeper level. Through yoga, sound healing, and Human Design, Lauren guides individuals to reconnect with the truth of who they are — helping them release old patterns, connect past experiences to present challenges, and cultivate lasting fulfillment in relationships and life.

Suzanne Fernandez

Lead BHT

Suzanne has a deep passion for recovery and a strong belief in the power of building a solid foundation for lasting sobriety. She carries a heartfelt compassion for those still suffering and is committed to helping others reclaim their lives. She thrives in the moments of early recovery – the “Aha” moments – where clarity sparks change and hope begins to return. One of the greatest gifts of her work is witnessing love and life come back into someone’s eyes. Being part of that transformation is both an honor and a calling to Suzanne.

Lexi Bailey

Director of Client Care

With over four years of dedicated experience in the behavioral health field, Lexi has worked in various treatment facilities, supporting clients through every stage of their recovery journey. Throughout this time, she has developed a deep passion for helping individuals find hope and healing. Lexi is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can feel empowered to make positive changes in their lives. She believes in meeting clients where they are and providing compassionate, individualized care that addresses the unique needs of each person.

Jonah Kanavel

Program Director

Jonah Kanavel serves as the Program Director at Plugged In Recovery, a residential behavioral health treatment center located in Scottsdale. With over eight years of personal sobriety and seven years of professional experience in the addiction and mental health field, Jonah brings deep empathy, insight, and dedication to his role. He is passionate about guiding individuals through their mental health and substance abuse journeys and is committed to creating a supportive, structured environment where lasting healing can take place.

Dezarae Gonzales

Executive Director

Dezarae serves as the Executive Director of Plugged In Recovery, bringing passion, leadership, and lived experience to the heart of the organization. With over five years in recovery and extensive experience in the behavioral health field, Dezarae leads with a hands-on, people-first approach. She oversees operations across residential treatment, outpatient services, and a network of sober living homes, ensuring clients receive compassionate, high-quality care at every stage. Her commitment to ethical leadership, compliance, and innovation continues to elevate Plugged In’s mission of providing meaningful recovery opportunities for individuals and families across Arizona.and compassion.

Jacqueline Armstrong

Clinical Director
MA, LPC, US Navy Veteran

Jacqueline Armstrong, LPC, is the Clinical Director with over 13 years of experience in the fields of mental health and substance use treatment. She is independently licensed by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners and is a Board-Certified Clinical Supervisor. Jacqueline is extensively trained in a wide range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Brief Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Grief Counseling. Her areas of specialization also include trauma-informed care, codependency, and military-related trauma. As a clinical supervisor, Jacqueline adopts a humanistic-existential approach, emphasizing authenticity, ethical integrity, and a deep respect for client autonomy. She is deeply committed to maintaining the highest standards of clinical care and ensuring that all clients are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Ryan Jongeward

Director of Admissions

With over eight years of experience in the addiction recovery field and more than nine years of personal sobriety, Ryan Jongeward brings both professional expertise and deep personal insight to his role as Director of Admissions. His passion lies in guiding individuals and families through the often overwhelming process of finding the right path to recovery. Ryan approaches each case with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to helping others take that crucial first step toward healing and hope.

Heath McVicker

VP of Operations

Heath McVicker has over nine years of experience in the behavioral health and substance use treatment field. As VP of Operations at Plugged In Recovery, he oversees daily operations and ensures quality care across programs. A leader in long-term recovery himself, Heath brings a personal passion for structure, accountability, and helping others rebuild their lives. Outside of work, he’s a proud husband, father, and grandfather who leads with faith and purpose.

Greg Bravo

VP of Programming

Greg Bravo has been working in the substance use disorder field since 2009. He began his career in an entry-level position and, through hard work and dedication, has grown into his current role as Vice President of Programming. Greg brings years of hands-on experience in 12-Step facilitation, Motivational Interviewing, peer support, and developing clear policies and procedures. Greg is deeply committed to helping clients surrender to their reality with honesty and courage. He approaches each individual with compassion, meeting them where they are while guiding them toward meaningful change and personal growth. In addition, Greg focuses heavily on staff development—fostering a culture of accountability, integrity, and professionalism across all levels of care.