Meet the Team - Heartwood Detox (2024)

Medical Director

Dr. Nelson brings over 35 years of experience into the addiction medical field. Dr. Nelson has the passion and knowledge in providing the best treatment for each of his patients. He attended the University of Nevada Medical School and completed his post-graduate training at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York, NY. Dr. Nelson has been practicing medicine since 1980 and brings his years of expertise to our program to ensure greater success with our clients. Dr. Nelson is trained in addiction medicine, and has seen first-hand what addiction and alcoholism can do to the mind and body. He believes that a compassionate approach in a non-judgmental environment, coupled with the appropriate medication, will allow for the greatest chance of physical and mental healing that can lead to a successful detoxification process and lasting sobriety for each individual.

Director of Psychiatry

Dr. Matthew Paley is a licensed physician in the states of California and Texas. He completed his residency in general psychiatry at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. He received a doctorate of osteopathic medicine from Touro University of California and a bachelor’s degree in public health from James Madison University. His clinical scope of work is varied, however, he has particular interests in addiction, reproductive psychiatry, and treatment-resistant depression. Additionally, he has published clinical work and has experience teaching medical residents and medical students alike. When not at work Dr. Paley enjoys camping and hiking, cooking, and exercising.

Consulting Psychiatrist

Originally from the Midwest, Dr. Balt has lived in the Bay Area for many years. He is a graduate of Stanford University, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, and Rockefeller University. Dr. Balt received residency training in adult psychiatry at Stanford Hospital and UCLA-Kern Medical Center. Dr. Balt is experienced in psychopharmacology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and public mental health. Dr. Balt has previously served as medical director in a residential addiction treatment program in the Bay Area, as well as a psychiatrist at the Schuman-Liles Clinic in Oakland, CA. Dr. Balt has experience working with the Center for Health Care Evaluation at the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where he helped to develop more effective ways of prescribing opioids for chronic pain, and at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, studying the antidepressant effect of non-medical ketamine use. Dr. Balt has taught at Stanford University, Stanford Medical School, UCLA, and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His presentations include talks at the 2012 American Psychiatric Association (APA) Annual Meeting and the 2012 California Psychological Association/Advanced Training in Psychopharmacology workshop. In his free time, Dr. Balt is an avid runner and reader, and has a vital interest in health care policy and the evolution of modern psychiatry.

Clinical Director

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor Level IV and Masters Level Registered Addiction Specialist, Sharon is extremely knowledgeable in the challenges facing those afflicted with alcoholism and drug addiction, and what it takes to treat them. Sharon believes that support, respect, compassion and unconditional positive regard are essential to growth and happiness, and she brings those values into her work with all her clients. With a number of years experience as a therapist, utilizing numerous theoretical frameworks (including Existential Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical & Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy), Sharon has found the most successful outcomes often incorporate parts and styles of different systems as therapy progresses in order to achieve the best results for each patient and personality. Sharon is a frequent speaker, lecturer and trainer for business, community groups, and clinicians, and a prolific writer of psychology, addiction and better living articles for publication. She spent many years providing individual therapy in low income and luxury inpatient and outpatient addiction clinics and spent decades as a highly successful, high producing business owner. Sharon received her BA from the University of San Francisco and her Masters in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.

Director of Nursing

Suzanne Hart brings to Heartwood advanced physical nursing skills and sincere empathetic compassion in caring for those facing addiction. Growing up in San Francisco, Suzanne acquired a young yearning to help others. Volunteering in various hospitals and local convalescent centers, she quickly learned nursing was her calling. After moving to Marin County and having two young boys, she began a nursing career that has spanned over 28 years. Suzanne worked the majority of her nursing in Emergency Rooms throughout the Bay Area. Her experience includes medical-surgical, cardiovascular, intensive care, psychiatric, and managerial nursing. She noted patient problems with addiction in every position she held and was often frustrated by discharge plans that ignored resources available to those in need of help. In addition to her professional experience, Suzanne has faced her own personal and family struggles with substance abuse. Suzanne entered her own path of recovery in 2000. She knows first hand how addiction can shatter your soul and those surrounding you. Suzanne believes in a physical, mental, spiritual, and team approach to treat the illness of addiction. Suzanne will combine her mature clinical nursing experience and personal life experience to help restore wellness in anyone putting their hand out for help. Suzanne knows when she does that, she strengthens her own inner soul and body.

Chief Executive Officer

Jesse has been in recovery since 2013. Before getting sober, Jesse worked in the cannabis industry where he started one of the Bay Area’s first collectives. After growing it to the second largest non-profit in Northern California, it became clear to him that he needed a change of career, so he shifted his focus to helping others. Jesse went on to start a successful sober living company, as well as an internet marketplace platform for addiction recovery resources, both of which were designed to allow those in recovery to find and receive the help they need. Jesse was also instrumental in bringing the first residential detox-only facility to San Francisco in 2019. Jesse continues to remain grateful for the fact that every road in his past has led him here. He is convinced that he is here on borrowed time and that every day is an opportunity to help someone who is still suffering.

Executive Director

Director of Admissions

Originally from Northern California, Jon brings a calm, understanding, and nonjudgmental approach to everyone he comes in contact with. Having been in recovery himself since 2015, Jon has worked in many different facets of recovery. Initially, in 2016 Jon was involved in managing multiple sober living houses in the Bay Area where he developed a strong desire to help others find recovery. Moving on to working with individuals as a sober companion and recovery coach, Jon continued to help guide individuals and families through the early stages of recovery that often feel overwhelming and somewhat daunting. For the next 4 years, Jon held many different roles while working in a residential treatment center in the Bay Area. During this time, he further developed his understanding of addiction and his desire to help those find what works for them and their path. Outside of helping others find recovery, Jon enjoys spending time with his family, taking trips down the coast with his wife, playing golf with friends, and mountain biking around Marin County, where he now calls home.

Director of Operations - Novato

Operations Manager

I am a Marin County native with a strong dedication to my recovery journey, which has spanned over a decade. I have found purpose and fulfillment in my work at Heartwood, where I have been employed for the past three years. Through my own experiences, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with recovery, and I am passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to healing and growth. My time at Heartwood has allowed me to further develop my skills and knowledge in supporting individuals on their recovery journeys, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me.

Chef

Growing up in the Bay Area, Aaron has over 25 years of cooking experience. His culinary career extends across several prominent restaurants throughout Northern California. Aaron loves exploring with herbs, spices, and the many diverse cultures and cuisines of the Bay Area. His journey to recovery has enabled him now to give back through food and the wonderful experiences that the kitchen can offer. In his free time, Aaron loves practicing yoga and meditation.

Lead Tech

Mike Dibley is a native of Marin County and has been blessed to call it home for more than 50 years. He was a teacher for 30 years and has been coaching a variety of sports for more than four decades. He has a passion for helping people in recovery and is grateful for the opportunity to be lending support to people looking to be as healthy as possible.

Yoga Instructor

Residing and teaching in the Bay Area, Erika Fischer has had a passion for working with clients in addiction recovery for the better part of a decade. Having found yoga in the beginning stages of her own recovery from drugs and alcohol, she knew her calling included supporting others through their healing journey. With the unique experience of someone who understands the challenges her clients have faced, she teaches with compassion, philosophy, autonomy, and a little lightness.

Massage Therapist

Growing up on the grounds of Sonoma Developmental Center Daisy Swisher’s intuitive skills were honed for nurturing and empathy. As an Adult Child of an Alcoholic, she offers a unique experience for anyone that would like treatment at Heartwood. Daisy has been diving deep into the realm of trauma and holistic healing arts since 2005; the journey began at Sonoma State University which provided the foundation with her degree in Psychology (with an emphasis on Depth/Jungian psychology). She has been certified by Veriditas as a Labyrinth meditation facilitator, by the World School of Holistic Healing Arts & Massage Therapy as a Life Coach and Certified Massage Practitioner. Most recently she has added certifications for Emotional Freedom Technique and Matrix Reimprinting by Tapping the Matrix Academy. On the table, we work together to release old stored trauma, regain homeostasis, and an overall sense of wellbeing. Each session is specifically and thoughtfully curated to your needs and hones in on what needs to be held, supported, or broken apart.

Fitness/Athletic Trainer

Pat is a NASM and ACE certified fitness/athletic coach and trainer. He is dedicated to helping clients set and achieve goals. He has a whole approach to fitness. He believes the mind is primary. Pat is dedicated to fitness and 12-step recovery. Mind, body, spirit, sweat.

Medical Director

Dr. Nelson brings over 35 years of experience into the addiction medical field. Dr. Nelson has the passion and knowledge in providing the best treatment for each of his patients. He attended the University of Nevada Medical School and completed his post-graduate training at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York, NY. Dr. Nelson has been practicing medicine since 1980 and brings his years of expertise to our program to ensure greater success with our clients. Dr. Nelson is trained in addiction medicine, and has seen first-hand what addiction and alcoholism can do to the mind and body. He believes that a compassionate approach in a non-judgmental environment, coupled with the appropriate medication, will allow for the greatest chance of physical and mental healing that can lead to a successful detoxification process and lasting sobriety for each individual.

Director of Psychiatry

Dr. Matthew Paley is a licensed physician in the states of California and Texas. He completed his residency in general psychiatry at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. He received a doctorate of osteopathic medicine from Touro University of California and a bachelor’s degree in public health from James Madison University. His clinical scope of work is varied, however, he has particular interests in addiction, reproductive psychiatry, and treatment-resistant depression. Additionally, he has published clinical work and has experience teaching medical residents and medical students alike. When not at work Dr. Paley enjoys camping and hiking, cooking, and exercising.

Consulting Psychiatrist

Originally from the Midwest, Dr. Balt has lived in the Bay Area for many years. He is a graduate of Stanford University, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, and Rockefeller University. Dr. Balt received residency training in adult psychiatry at Stanford Hospital and UCLA-Kern Medical Center. Dr. Balt is experienced in psychopharmacology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and public mental health. Dr. Balt has previously served as medical director in a residential addiction treatment program in the Bay Area, as well as a psychiatrist at the Schuman-Liles Clinic in Oakland, CA. Dr. Balt has experience working with the Center for Health Care Evaluation at the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where he helped to develop more effective ways of prescribing opioids for chronic pain, and at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, studying the antidepressant effect of non-medical ketamine use. Dr. Balt has taught at Stanford University, Stanford Medical School, UCLA, and the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His presentations include talks at the 2012 American Psychiatric Association (APA) Annual Meeting and the 2012 California Psychological Association/Advanced Training in Psychopharmacology workshop. In his free time, Dr. Balt is an avid runner and reader, and has a vital interest in health care policy and the evolution of modern psychiatry.

Clinical Director

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor Level IV and Masters Level Registered Addiction Specialist, Sharon is extremely knowledgeable in the challenges facing those afflicted with alcoholism and drug addiction, and what it takes to treat them. Sharon believes that support, respect, compassion and unconditional positive regard are essential to growth and happiness, and she brings those values into her work with all her clients. With a number of years experience as a therapist, utilizing numerous theoretical frameworks (including Existential Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical & Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy), Sharon has found the most successful outcomes often incorporate parts and styles of different systems as therapy progresses in order to achieve the best results for each patient and personality. Sharon is a frequent speaker, lecturer and trainer for business, community groups, and clinicians, and a prolific writer of psychology, addiction and better living articles for publication. She spent many years providing individual therapy in low income and luxury inpatient and outpatient addiction clinics and spent decades as a highly successful, high producing business owner. Sharon received her BA from the University of San Francisco and her Masters in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.

Director of Nursing

Suzanne Hart brings to Heartwood advanced physical nursing skills and sincere empathetic compassion in caring for those facing addiction. Growing up in San Francisco, Suzanne acquired a young yearning to help others. Volunteering in various hospitals and local convalescent centers, she quickly learned nursing was her calling. After moving to Marin County and having two young boys, she began a nursing career that has spanned over 28 years. Suzanne worked the majority of her nursing in Emergency Rooms throughout the Bay Area. Her experience includes medical-surgical, cardiovascular, intensive care, psychiatric, and managerial nursing. She noted patient problems with addiction in every position she held and was often frustrated by discharge plans that ignored resources available to those in need of help. In addition to her professional experience, Suzanne has faced her own personal and family struggles with substance abuse. Suzanne entered her own path of recovery in 2000. She knows first hand how addiction can shatter your soul and those surrounding you. Suzanne believes in a physical, mental, spiritual, and team approach to treat the illness of addiction. Suzanne will combine her mature clinical nursing experience and personal life experience to help restore wellness in anyone putting their hand out for help. Suzanne knows when she does that, she strengthens her own inner soul and body.

Chief Executive Officer

Jesse has been in recovery since 2013. Before getting sober, Jesse worked in the cannabis industry where he started one of the Bay Area’s first collectives. After growing it to the second largest non-profit in Northern California, it became clear to him that he needed a change of career, so he shifted his focus to helping others. Jesse went on to start a successful sober living company, as well as an internet marketplace platform for addiction recovery resources, both of which were designed to allow those in recovery to find and receive the help they need. Jesse was also instrumental in bringing the first residential detox-only facility to San Francisco in 2019. Jesse continues to remain grateful for the fact that every road in his past has led him here. He is convinced that he is here on borrowed time and that every day is an opportunity to help someone who is still suffering.

Executive Director

Director of Admissions

Originally from Northern California, Jon brings a calm, understanding, and nonjudgmental approach to everyone he comes in contact with. Having been in recovery himself since 2015, Jon has worked in many different facets of recovery. Initially, in 2016 Jon was involved in managing multiple sober living houses in the Bay Area where he developed a strong desire to help others find recovery. Moving on to working with individuals as a sober companion and recovery coach, Jon continued to help guide individuals and families through the early stages of recovery that often feel overwhelming and somewhat daunting. For the next 4 years, Jon held many different roles while working in a residential treatment center in the Bay Area. During this time, he further developed his understanding of addiction and his desire to help those find what works for them and their path. Outside of helping others find recovery, Jon enjoys spending time with his family, taking trips down the coast with his wife, playing golf with friends, and mountain biking around Marin County, where he now calls home.

Director of Operations - Novato

Operations Manager

I am a Marin County native with a strong dedication to my recovery journey, which has spanned over a decade. I have found purpose and fulfillment in my work at Heartwood, where I have been employed for the past three years. Through my own experiences, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with recovery, and I am passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to healing and growth. My time at Heartwood has allowed me to further develop my skills and knowledge in supporting individuals on their recovery journeys, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me.

Chef

Growing up in the Bay Area, Aaron has over 25 years of cooking experience. His culinary career extends across several prominent restaurants throughout Northern California. Aaron loves exploring with herbs, spices, and the many diverse cultures and cuisines of the Bay Area. His journey to recovery has enabled him now to give back through food and the wonderful experiences that the kitchen can offer. In his free time, Aaron loves practicing yoga and meditation.

Lead Tech

Mike Dibley is a native of Marin County and has been blessed to call it home for more than 50 years. He was a teacher for 30 years and has been coaching a variety of sports for more than four decades. He has a passion for helping people in recovery and is grateful for the opportunity to be lending support to people looking to be as healthy as possible.

Yoga Instructor

Residing and teaching in the Bay Area, Erika Fischer has had a passion for working with clients in addiction recovery for the better part of a decade. Having found yoga in the beginning stages of her own recovery from drugs and alcohol, she knew her calling included supporting others through their healing journey. With the unique experience of someone who understands the challenges her clients have faced, she teaches with compassion, philosophy, autonomy, and a little lightness.

Massage Therapist

Growing up on the grounds of Sonoma Developmental Center Daisy Swisher’s intuitive skills were honed for nurturing and empathy. As an Adult Child of an Alcoholic, she offers a unique experience for anyone that would like treatment at Heartwood. Daisy has been diving deep into the realm of trauma and holistic healing arts since 2005; the journey began at Sonoma State University which provided the foundation with her degree in Psychology (with an emphasis on Depth/Jungian psychology). She has been certified by Veriditas as a Labyrinth meditation facilitator, by the World School of Holistic Healing Arts & Massage Therapy as a Life Coach and Certified Massage Practitioner. Most recently she has added certifications for Emotional Freedom Technique and Matrix Reimprinting by Tapping the Matrix Academy. On the table, we work together to release old stored trauma, regain homeostasis, and an overall sense of wellbeing. Each session is specifically and thoughtfully curated to your needs and hones in on what needs to be held, supported, or broken apart.

Fitness/Athletic Trainer

Pat is a NASM and ACE certified fitness/athletic coach and trainer. He is dedicated to helping clients set and achieve goals. He has a whole approach to fitness. He believes the mind is primary. Pat is dedicated to fitness and 12-step recovery. Mind, body, spirit, sweat.