Lucent Team

Chris founded Lucent Recovery and Wellness in 2020 with the goal of crafting an individualized approach to outpatient mental healthcare. Today he continues to play an integral role on our executive team and is the driving force behind the experiential components of our program.

Prior to Lucent, Chris served in a variety of leadership and clinical roles ranging from Trauma Therapist to Executive Director and brings to the table almost a decade of experience in the treatment field. Chris has a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Seminary of the Southwest, a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art from Lewis and Clark College, holds both LPC and LCDC licensure, and is formally trained in a broad range of trauma modalities.

Outside of work you can find Chris enjoying time with his wife and daughter, exploring new trails on his mountain bike, and teaching woodworking classes at his favorite local nonprofit.

With over eight years in the treatment industry, Joe is a standout in program development and team leadership. His approach not only drives operational excellence but also makes a significant impact on clients. Renowned for strategic proficiency, Joe has fostered nationwide partnerships and played a key role in improving staff retention and company culture.

Joe’s expertise in operational oversight, clinical programming, and staff development has notably advanced both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. His specialization in advanced trauma-focused therapies and co-occurring disorders has led to the development and revitalization of six programs, significantly enhancing client experiences and outcomes.

Among his achievements, Joe created a comprehensive trauma-intensive program for a residential treatment facility, elevating it to top national performer status. His commitment to innovation, professional growth, and team excellence has made a transformative impact in the treatment industry.

Outside of work, Joe cherishes spending time with his wife, children and three dogs, and indulges in his passion for rebuilding classic cars.

Zach Pogue has worked in the Mental Health and SUD industry since 2014. His unwavering commitment lies in assisting individuals on their journey to recovery, fueled by a genuine passion for making a positive impact on others’ lives. Zach’s approach is rooted in the belief that each person’s path to recovery is unique, and he thrives on connecting individuals with tailored resources that best suit their specific needs.

Zach brings a ton of experience to the table, tackling his job with genuine empathy and a solid grasp of the hurdles people deal with in battling addiction and mental health disorders. It’s not just a 9-to-5 for him; he genuinely wants to make a positive impact on others’ lives. Zach’s path in the SUD and mental health arena is all about working relentlessly to find solutions that really work, and he firmly believes that recovery is possible for everyone he helps.

In Zach’s free time, he enjoys watching Real Madrid with his dog Bruno, and spending time with family and friends.

Scott believes in the importance of living an exciting life in sobriety and gets to model this philosophy for our clients in his role as Community Coordinator.

Scott got sober at the age of 20 and was faced with the daunting question of “What do I actually like to do?” Through his 7 years of experience in the recovery field, he’s been trying to help others answer that question as well.

“I want to remind everyone that they don’t need any substances to have a good time. I want them to continue to try new and exciting things, find new passions, and see that life in sobriety is about more than just not using or drinking.”

Matt has devoted his career to helping individuals, couples, and families recover from multiple mental health and addiction concerns in order to improve their quality of life. In 2015, Matt began working in the mental health field as a crisis counselor while obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA. Matt continued on to complete his graduate studies and obtained his Master of Social Work at Louisiana State University in 2018.

Since this time, Matt has worked as a clinical therapist at varying levels of care from traditional outpatient counseling settings to higher levels of care such as several PHP/IOP facilities, residential treatment, and acute inpatient hospitalization. Matt believes that no two people are alike. Thus, he values listening and connecting with each person’s story so that potential and healing can be achieved. He utilizes a person-centered approach with an array of therapeutic techniques such as: CBT, interpersonal therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.

In his free time, Matt can be found engaging in his own self-development by spending time with loved ones, his dog and through hobbies such as meditation and yoga, swimming, and hiking.

Jordan is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Seminary of the Southwest. Following completion of her graduate program Jordan has gained experience in a number of settings including a local agency and her own private practice.

Jordan’s approach is direct but gentle, warm, and trauma-informed. She is formally trained in EMDR, Ego State Therapy, and Internal Family systems and works with those seeking to heal post-trauma and find relief.

Outside the counseling room, Jordan enjoys being outdoors with her 65 lb dog, spending time with her family and friends, and reading a library book at different coffee shops around town.

Dana González is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to guiding individuals and families through their transformative journeys of healing and empowerment. With both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Baylor University, Dana brings over five years of diverse mental health experience to her practice. Her professional background includes providing crisis intervention and therapeutic support while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.

Dana has also supported youth and adults in housing programs and guided K-12 students in school-based settings. Her roles have encompassed crisis intervention, therapeutic support, individual therapy, case management, and comprehensive services for diverse populations, with a specialization in addressing trauma and attachment wounds.

She is formally trained in several therapeutic modalities, including Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS).

In her free time, Dana enjoys traveling, spending quality moments with her husband, Luis, and their pet, Ruth. She is passionate about exploring new cultures, savoring culinary adventures, and connecting with family and friends.

Em is a Licensed Master Social Worker who believes that connection and community are essential to the healing process. At Lucent Recovery & Wellness, Em is dedicated to co-creating trauma-informed, inclusive spaces with their clients. They are particularly passionate about the transformative power of group therapy, where shared experiences and mutual support can foster profound healing and personal growth.

Before joining Lucent, Em worked at the University of Texas Counseling and Mental Health Center, providing individual and group therapy, as well as crisis intervention, to undergraduate and graduate students. They helped students navigate challenges ranging from grief and loss to trauma and complex family dynamics. Em’s approach is client-centered, emphasizing collaboration and respect for each individual’s unique journey. Born and raised in Texas, Em is a queer, non-binary social worker, introvert, and coffee enthusiast. When they’re not seeing clients, they enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, practicing joyful movement, and spending quality time with their spouse and close friends.

Em is under the clinical supervision of Joan Long, LCSW-S

Maryam has a passion for helping individuals and families navigate their own individual paths to recovery. She has worked in a variety of roles spanning from Therapist to Executive Director in substance use and co-occurring treatment facilities. In that experience, she has learned that residential treatment sets a solid foundation however, their journey to recovery must continue beyond the walls of treatment.

Maryam received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Texas State University and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is dual licensed as a LMSW and LCDC. Maryam is formally trained in a number of therapeutic modalities including but not limited to EMDR, DBT, and multiple parts work modalities.

In her free time, you can find Maryam and her husband taking their children on adventures outdoors. Maryam also enjoys keeping up with the restaurant scene and trying new places with her husband and friends.

Maryam is under the clinical supervision of Angela Viesca, LCSW-S

Leila Anderson, is a systemic therapist, supervisor, leader, and speaker who has worked with clients struggling with substance abuse and mental health for nearly a decade. Her experience includes work in treatment centers, correctional facilities, psychiatric hospitals, agencies, and private practice. She specializes in blending cutting-edge therapy techniques with tried-and-true approaches to mental healing and wellness. When she’s not at work, Leila enjoys biking, board games, gardening, and relaxing with her husband and three kids.

As a woman in recovery, Rhea has made it her life’s mission to help men and women not only achieve sobriety, but to find their purpose in the world. Rhea believes in action and goal-based therapeutic approaches while challenging her clients’ beliefs about themselves to constantly improve and grow.

Rhea is in the process of finishing her Equine Therapy Certification with Natural Lifemanship. Rhea grew up on a horse ranch in Kentucky and rode horses competitively. Throughout her sobriety she has experienced the true healing power that horses have over the human spirit.

Rhea has over six years of experience working in the treatment industry as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and is currently finishing her LPC-A hours to become a Licensed Professional Counselor.

When she isn’t working, Rhea can be found volunteering at the local equine facility. She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her rescue dogs and husband.

Rhea is under the clinical supervision of Connie Motley, LPC-S

Over the past five years, Noah has dedicated both his professional and personal life to supporting individuals at all stages of recovery. His roles have ranged from Sober Living Owner to Residential Program Director, demonstrating his extensive experience and unwavering passion.

Noah believes that creating a fulfilling life during recovery is just as crucial as the clinical and programmatic work. Beyond his professional commitments, he enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, going on adventures outdoors, exploring with his dogs, hunting down great lunch spots, and engaging in pick-up soccer games.

Notably, Noah played a pivotal role in establishing effective programming at a local treatment center. Additionally, Noah holds certification as a Mental Health Peer Specialist, further enhancing his ability to support others on their recovery journey.

Zach Dyer brings nearly seven years of dedicated experience in mental health and addiction treatment, fueled by a profound commitment to guiding individuals through their recovery journeys towards freedom and fulfillment. In his role as a Recovery Coach, Zach provides essential support to clients and their families, collaborating closely with staff to deliver personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs. He employs an experiential approach, incorporating activities like mountain biking and skateboarding to inspire joy and foster growth throughout the recovery process.

Zach’s diverse background includes directing a men’s 12-Step intensive treatment program, serving as a case manager, spiritual mentor, and lead technician. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Grace College, and holds certifications as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern and a Recovery Support Peer Specialist.

Outside of his professional life, Zach cherishes time with his wife and young son. He is also an avid illustrator and enjoys immersing himself in horror novels.

Rebecca has dedicated the last six years of her career to the field of substance use, where she has become a passionate advocate for those who struggle with addiction and mental health.

Rebecca is a certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist, and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern and has worked in a variety of roles ranging from Program Director, Case Manager and Recovery Coach. Rebecca believes recovery involves rediscovering one’s true self and is excited to help others navigate that road and share her experience. Rebecca is a local Austinite and enjoys showing our clients new places to explore as well as help clients rediscover passions and hobbies that were once lost in their addictions.

Her hands-on experience has given her a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with substance use disorders. Rebecca prioritizes a holistic approach to recovery that ensures a path to overall wellness in recovery.

With over two years in the treatment industry, Andrew is a recovery coach dedicated to empowering men on their journey to long-term sobriety and personal growth. His experience as a group facilitator taught him the importance of creating a supportive, open environment where clients feel safe to explore their challenges. Andrew has mastered the skills to takes to help men build confidence and resilience, guiding them to set goals and reach new heights of a fulfilling life in recovery.

He understands that recovery extends beyond the individual, which is why he works closely with clients’ loved ones to foster strong, healthy support networks. Together, they build communication skills, establish boundaries, and create an environment that supports sustained, positive change.

Outside of his work, Andrew is a devoted husband and father who loves spending time with his wife, son, and daughter. He enjoys hiking and hunting as ways to connect with nature and recharge.

Andrew is committed to helping his clients make meaningful changes, develop the tools for lasting recovery, and embrace their best lives.

Dr. Saeed completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven. Prior to that, he was a resident in general psychiatry at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans.

Dr. Saeed is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an assistant clinical professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.

He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi.

Reggie is a highly skilled advanced practice nurse with dual certifications in psychiatric mental health and family care. Based in Austin, TX, Reginald brings over nine years of extensive experience in psychiatry, specializing in psych emergency, intensive care, mobile crisis units, chemical dependency, and nursing administration. Reginald excels in conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a diverse patient population. He employs collaborative strategies for patient-centered care, ensuring compliance with hospital policies and state regulations. His expertise includes managing complex mental health diagnoses in both acute and residential settings.

Educationally, Reginald holds a Master of Science in Nursing with specializations in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley, and Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Texas, Arlington. He also earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas, Arlington. An active member of several professional organizations, including the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and Houston Area Nurse Practitioners, Reginald is dedicated to continuous professional development and excellence in patient care