Table of Contents
ToggleAlyssa Looser-Smith, LCSW, Clinical Director
Alyssa is a licensed Clinical Social Worker and received her Master’s degree from San Diego State University. She has experience working with individuals in recovery of all ages for over eight years. Alyssa has also worked with at-risk homeless foster youth transitioning into independent living along with the families in the neonatal intensive care unit at UCSD.
From a clinical perspective, creating a safe, nonjudgmental and healing space is a priority for Alyssa. As clinical director, her goal is to cultivate growth, authenticity and a positive community. Alyssa believes all individuals should have a specialized treatment plan that meets their specific needs. In terms of theoretical approach, she utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Humanistic approaches, Motivational Interviewing and holistic therapies.
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Alyssa Looser-Smith, LCSW
Clinical Director
Zachary Bell, LCSW, Director of Operations
Zachary Bell is a native of Philadelphia, PA, and made his way to San Diego when he joined the United States Navy in 2009. He spent 8 years as a Mass Communications Specialist embarking on multiple deployments, all while receiving numerous awards for his outstanding work in videography, photography, public affairs, and journalism. Shortly after retiring from the Navy, Zach discovered his new passion for working in recovery. Zach’s experience as the Lead Clinical Technician at Akua Mind and Body inspired him to pursue the next step in his career. As the Director of Operations at Bayview Recovery. Zach is dedicated to delivering high-quality service and developing a culture that makes clients feel safe, at peace, and cared for.
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Zachary Bell
Director of Operations
Charles Moreno, MA APCC NCC, Therapist
Charles Moreno, MA APCC NCC, is a therapist at Bayview who sees therapy as a collaborative process between himself and his clients. He graduated from University of San Diego back in May 2023 where he received his Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While in school, he did his practicum at a military family clinic where he had the opportunity to work with children, veterans, couples, and families. After his internship, he worked at an inpatient residential facility to provide therapy for the homeless population struggling with severe mental illness and substance abuse. Charles utilizes treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). His goal as a therapist is to continue making a difference in a person’s life by being empathetic, actively listening to their lived experiences, and highlighting their strengths as an individual.
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Charles Moreno, MA APCC NCC
Therapist
Fernando Valdivia, Lead Behavioral Health Technician
Fernando is the Lead Behavioral Health Technician at Bayview, where he mixes his personal journey of sobriety with a professional mission to guide and help others. Known for his knack for organization and efficiency, he’s not just about spreadsheets and coding—he’s genuinely invested in every client’s recovery journey. With a colorful career ranging from sales to construction, along with a knack for all things computers, Fernando now channels his eclectic past and tech ‘skills’ to innovate and simplify processes at Bayview.
Fernando is a firm believer in the transformative power of recovery programs, partly because he’s walked that path himself, and partly because it keeps things lively in a world of paperwork. Fernando’s mission is clear: to stop having people tell him he bears a striking resemblance to Tom Cruise.
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Fernando Valdivia
Lead Behavioral Health Technician
Lauren Johnson, MA, APCC, Associate Therapist
Lauren Johnson, MA, APCC, is a compassionate associate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through evidence-based practices on their journey toward recovery. With a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver and over two years of experience in the addiction field, Lauren specializes in trauma-informed care and a client-centered approach. Lauren completed her internship at Porter Hospital in Denver, Colorado, where she worked with high-acuity clients struggling predominately with suicidal ideation, psychosis, and substance use disorders. She prioritizes creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel supported as they work through substance use disorders. Lauren’s mission is to empower individuals with resilience and self-compassion, fostering hope for a brighter tomorrow.
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Lauren Johnson, MA, APCC
Associate Therapist
James DiPaola, BA, RADT, Counselor
James is an RADT-certified substance use disorder counselor with 3+ years of experience. James has also worked in education and outreach at community-based healthcare agencies and he has a background in both visual and performing arts. Beyond individual counseling, James is highly experienced in leading group therapy sessions, supporting and facilitating community-based support groups, and has contributed to educational workshops and podcasts on substance abuse and addiction.
James’ approach to substance use disorder counseling is to work collaboratively with each client on developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs, strengths, and goals. James believes that an individual, nonjudgmental, therapeutic relationship with each client is how we watch them grow and transform to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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James DiPaola, BA, RADT
Counselor
Josh Gross CADC, CCAPP Student, Counselor
Originally from Allentown, Pennsylvania, Joshua relocated to San Diego to pursue both personal and professional growth. He is a CCAPP-certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor and brings lived experience and sustained long-term recovery into his work, allowing him to connect with clients through authenticity, empathy, and accountability. Joshua is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work at San Diego State University, with long-term goals of earning a Master’s degree and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
Driven by a mission to give back, Joshua entered this field to help others overcome challenges he has personally faced. His approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, evidence-based practices, and the belief that recovery is built through connection, structure, and purpose. Joshua is committed to empowering individuals to build resilience, stability, and lasting change as they move forward in their recovery journey.
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Josh Gross CADC, CCAPP Student
Counselor
Bryan Ballantyne, Counselor
Bryan Ballantyne is a dedicated counselor who brings a client-centered, strengths-based approach to supporting lasting change and overall well-being. He has a strong background in psychoeducation and group facilitation, with extensive experience helping individuals build insight, accountability, and practical coping skills in both individual and group settings. Bryan has also managed sober living environments, giving him a grounded understanding of the day-to-day challenges clients face as they transition into sustained recovery and independent living. He is deeply committed to his clients’ success and is currently working toward his graduate degree in clinical counseling, continuing to expand his clinical skills and knowledge to better serve those in his care.
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Bryan Ballantyne
Counselor
TIMOTHY THOMAS, SUDCC
Timothy Thomas is a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor at Bayview Recovery Center with experience working in both residential and outpatient treatment settings. Grounded in long-term recovery, Timothy brings an authentic and compassionate perspective to his work, integrating lived experience with professional training.
He completed his education through UC San Diego Extended Studies, where his career transition into the substance use disorder counseling field was later featured as part of the university’s Dare. Dream. Do. campaign. Timothy specializes in co-occurring disorders and takes a practical, individualized approach to treatment, supporting clients in addressing the intersection of substance use and mental health in a way that is realistic and sustainable.
He completed his education through UC San Diego Extended Studies, where his career transition into the substance use disorder counseling field was later featured as part of the university’s Dare. Dream. Do. campaign. Timothy specializes in co-occurring disorders and takes a practical, individualized approach to treatment, supporting clients in addressing the intersection of substance use and mental health in a way that is realistic and sustainable.
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TIMOTHY THOMAS, SUDCC
Counselor
Julio Montepeque BHT, Behavioral Health Technician
Julio was born and raised in Goleta, California. He grew up playing soccer and enjoying the outdoors. He has two daughters who motivate him to work on himself each day. He moved to San Diego to start his journey in recovery and found a great support system here. He hopes to continue his journey learning and helping others to find recovery. He wants to be an example of what recovery can bring you if you stay committed to working a good program. He’s inspired by seeing the growth and transformation of the people he works with and seeing the freedom in their eyes as they break the chains of addiction and hardship.
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Julio Montepeque BHT
Behavioral Health Technician
Elias Vernon BHT, Behavioral Health Technician
Elias Vernon is a well rounded team player. He is a behavioral health technician at Bayview Recovery center. His goals are to help people maintain sobriety and live clean lives. He is also certified in addiction counseling. One thing he brings to the table is great encouragement by leading by example on how to live a clean life.
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Elias Vernon BHT
Behavioral Health Technician
DARIAN RILEY, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN
Darian is a dedicated behavioral health professional with a strong commitment to supporting individuals through recovery, personal growth, and life transitions. He is a graduate of the program and brings substantial sobriety into his work, offering a grounded perspective shaped by both experience and continued personal growth. After relocating from South Carolina to pursue a healthier and more stable life, Darian has demonstrated resilience, accountability, and a strong dedication to long-term change. With experience working in structured treatment settings, Darian utilizes a client-centered approach that emphasizes empathy, accountability, and practical skill-building. He is known for creating a supportive and respectful environment where clients feel heard, challenged, and empowered to take meaningful steps toward stability and sustainable recovery. Darian values collaboration, consistency, and meeting clients where they are in their individual recovery journey.
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DARIAN RILEY
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN
DANNY AYALA, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN
Hi, I’m Danny. I’m originally from Florida and have been living in California for the past few years. I am a former client at Bayview and a graduate of the program. My sobriety date is June 2023, and I truly believe I would not be where I am today without Bayview. My commitment to long-term recovery and my passion for helping others through their own struggles are central to who I am.
Through 12-Step meetings, this program, and the support of my sponsor, I’ve been able to turn some of the darkest chapters of my life into a positive and meaningful way of living. I am currently enrolled in the AODS program at San Diego City College and am working toward my RADT certification (currently in Phase II of training).
I’m a bit of a geek at heart and enjoy academic learning, but I also value real-world knowledge and lived experience. I strongly believe physical fitness and personal growth go hand in hand with mental and spiritual healing. I’m an open book, and if someone is facing a challenge, I’m always willing to listen and help however I can.
Through 12-Step meetings, this program, and the support of my sponsor, I’ve been able to turn some of the darkest chapters of my life into a positive and meaningful way of living. I am currently enrolled in the AODS program at San Diego City College and am working toward my RADT certification (currently in Phase II of training).
I’m a bit of a geek at heart and enjoy academic learning, but I also value real-world knowledge and lived experience. I strongly believe physical fitness and personal growth go hand in hand with mental and spiritual healing. I’m an open book, and if someone is facing a challenge, I’m always willing to listen and help however I can.
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DANNY AYALA
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN
ANTHONY STELLUTO, CLIENT LIAISION
Anthony Stelluto is a dedicated Client Liaison at Bayview Recovery, bringing over five years of hands-on experience in addiction treatment operations. Originally from New York, Anthony relocated to California to pursue his own recovery and has since built a career rooted in service, accountability, and compassion.
With six years of sobriety, Anthony offers a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience. Throughout his time in treatment, he has worked in every operational role, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the recovery process from intake to aftercare. This depth of experience allows him to effectively advocate for clients, support families, and collaborate seamlessly with clinical and operational teams.
Anthony is passionate about meeting people where they are, reducing barriers to treatment, and helping individuals take confident steps toward lasting recovery.
With six years of sobriety, Anthony offers a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience. Throughout his time in treatment, he has worked in every operational role, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the recovery process from intake to aftercare. This depth of experience allows him to effectively advocate for clients, support families, and collaborate seamlessly with clinical and operational teams.
Anthony is passionate about meeting people where they are, reducing barriers to treatment, and helping individuals take confident steps toward lasting recovery.
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ANTHONY STELLUTO
CLIENT LIAISION
Trusted Care,
Made Affordable
Addiction Treatment Services
Making Recovery Accessible
Access to addiction treatment shouldn’t be limited by finances. At Bayview Recovery Center, we focus on providing affordable, high-quality recovery programs for men who need support but may lack insurance or resources. Our goal is to ensure that cost is never the reason someone doesn’t receive the help they deserve.
