Alex studied Philosophy at Clark University before earning his Master's in Business Administration from the University at Albany (SUNY Albany). He joined Column Health in order to help make a difference in the lives of patients struggling with mental illness and to help educate and raise awareness on the many misconceptions surrounding substance use disorders.
Dr. Schlaff is the Director of the Public Health Program and Professor in the Department of Public Health and Community Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine. He received a BA in History from Yale University, an MD from Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, and an MPH from the Harvard School of Public Health. He trained in Internal Medicine at Boston City Hospital and in Preventive Medicine at Carney Hospital in Boston and is board certified in both specialties. His clinic practice now focuses on addiction medicine and he works at Column Health in Arlington and Brighton. Prior to assuming his current position at Tufts, he has worked as a medical director and director of quality improvement in several community health center networks and has directed several community health initiatives in Boston and New York. He is a past president of the Association for Prevention Teaching and Research.
Dr. Barbara Herbert is an expert in the field of Addiction Medicine with over thirty years of caring for patients, teaching and mentoring physicians, and leading policy and regulatory organizations. She has a passion for treating new mothers with Substance Use Disorder and has been an outspoken advocate for the reduction of stigma associated with Mental Illness. Dr. Barbara Herbert is the immediate past president of the Massachusetts Society of Addiction Medicine (MSAM). She graduated from State University of New York at Stony Brook, School of Medicine and completed her residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and a post doc fellowship at Harvard University.
Biruh Mezgebu studied at Bridgewater State University, where he majored in Economics and Business. Biruh is deeply passionate about mental health which led him to work as a counselor for two years and later as a program director for Vinfen. He played a very important role by supervising counselors to ensure that contract specifications, and program regulations were followed. He currently enjoys making a difference with Column Health which facilitates full recovery for mental illness, and substance abuse.
Colin is a seasoned healthcare strategy and startup consultant with experience driving startups to success; he is the founding partner of Triple Canopy Advisors LLC healthcare strategy consulting firm as well as the founder of Petri Dish, a medical software development company. He holds an MBA from Kellogg School of Management, a Masters from Stanford University, and received his emergency medical training at UCLA medical.
Dr. Craig Smith is an American media artist and theorist whose art and research focuses on the process, aesthetics, and ethics of human‐to‐human interactivity and contemporary visual culture. Craig has held teaching, research, and global fellowship positions at numerous universities and colleges and joined the University of Florida as a senior faculty member. His exhibitions of photography, live sound performances, lectures, and other art media have been featured at an international range of museums, galleries, art fairs, athletic facilities, and financial organizations including the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., PS1MOMA Contemporary Art Institute in New York, The Tate Modern in London, The George Eastman House in Rochester, the Hudson River Museum, and the Burchfield Penney Art Center.
Deirdre brings to Column Health over 20 years of experience in treating Dual Disorders. She received her Masters in Social Work from Boston University and began her career working with pregnant women contending with addiction. From there she transitioned to managing a large outpatient clinic in New England, treating over 900 persons a day. In addition, Deirdre was the Director of Residential Services for a private PACT team, serving patients with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness and Co-Occurring Substance Abuse and Dependency. From these experiences, Deirdre was able to understand and effectively treat the complex issues facing patients struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. Deirdre holds a clinical view that encompasses a strong patient centered focus, while understanding the need for individual contoured treatment. Deirdre is committed to utilizing a non-confrontational whole person approach, focusing on helping patients return to educational, vocational, and family roles that had been lost secondary to their disease.
Elaine holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William James College. She originally joined Column Health as a Clinic Experience Representative while she continued furthering her education and transitioned to a Psychotherapist role. Elaine has experience conducting individual and group therapy with varying ages and diagnoses, with a specialty in substance abuse treatment, eating disorders, depression, and trauma. Her theoretical orientation pulls from strength based and person-centered therapies and she strives to collaborate with her patients to create individualized treatment goals that fit with her patient’s strengths and lifestyles. In her free time, she enjoys reading mystery novels and exploring different things to do around Boston.
Gurteg studied Neuroscience and Psychology at Boston University. He took his passion for mental health, coupled it with his growing interest in business operations, and began working at a startup focused on measuring and managing stress through wearable devices. Now, he joins the Column Health team with the purpose of disrupting the delivery of behavioral treatment and expanding its impact.
James earned his Masters in Social Work from Simmons College. Throughout his career, he has provided community-based support to adults experiencing mental illness and has lead both individual and group psychotherapy with patients recovering from substance use disorder. James believes that all people have a unique and valuable story to tell, and that telling these stories can help accelerate the path to recovery.
Jessica joined Column Health in a community outreach role and as a clinic experience representative. She graduated from Curry College's Nursing School and has been in the healthcare field for over 10 years. Jessica has diverse experience with patients from the emergency room to primary care and cardiology practices and most recently at Walden Behavioral Care as an admissions intake coordinator for mental health. She is extremely passionate about substance abuse and finding ways to help address the current opioid epidemic. When not working, she is taking care of her two young, energetic sons! She also loves going to the beach, reading, and her daily dose of milk and cookies.
Jim is a passionate brand builder and marketing executive who has helped grow several household name brands during his career. Jim applies strategic frameworks to drive results through best-in-class marketing, disciplined product innovation, operations excellence, and strong customer relationships. Jim’s diverse career includes working for Kraft Heinz, the Olympics and the World Cup as well as entrepreneurial experience with developing multiple startup businesses, where he managed the development process for a multi-site, multi-state company. Jim has created a non-profit organization, has an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and lives with his wife Laura and their two dogs Taz and Max.
Katie received her Bachelors of Science from Northeastern in Psychology and a Masters in Mental Health Psychology from Lesley University. Katie is passionate about open dialogues around mental health issues that lead to the reduction of stigma, which is why she has joined Column Health as a Clinic Experience Coordinator. In her spare time Katie draws, paints and is also an avid reader of comic books.
Katy received her Bachelors of Science from Bridgewater State University in Psychology and worked previously as a transitional coordinator for urban adolescent teens struggling with mental illness. Katy has experience with case management specifically related to the treatment of substance abuse and is passionate about helping others overcome their disease. In Katy's free time she enjoys rugby, going to the gym and yoga.
Sonja graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and has plans to continue her education in Counseling. She brings a deep passion for smashing-stigma and aiding people in their journeys through treatment and recovery. In school she was on the student review board for the on-campus Counseling Center and has since worked at an independent-residential treatment facility for adults in recovery from severe mental illness. Out of the office you can find Sonja whipping up baked goods, hiking in Vermont, or walking the streets of Boston searching for dogs to pet.
Lindsey joined the Column Health team as a psychotherapist after attending Caldwell University in New Jersey, where she received her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy. Her clinical background includes assisting individuals with experiences ranging from incarceration to brain injury, and she embraces a strengths-based, holistic, and creative approach to care. She believes in the process of forming a safe space for healing that is unique to the individual, based on a foundation of trust, collaboration, and positivity. Outside of her role at Column Health, Lindsey is passionate about hiking, good lattes, and the Boston Red Sox.
Matt is a software, cybersecurity, and IT professional with over 20 years of technology experience. He has lead complex and healthcare focused engagements in both the private sector and within government agencies. Matt has provided technical management and strategic planning on a several large scale, software and systems development projects.
Rachelle is a part of the Column Health team as a Clinical Experience Supervisor. She studied Psychology and Biology at Roger Williams University where she focused on positive behavioral therapy for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and studied abroad in Jamaica to help spread Autism awareness. After graduation, Rachelle interned at Beverly Hospital in the Partial Hospitalization Program where she learned about addiction treatment and substance use disorder treatment. She hopes to continue her education in the mental health and research field. Rachelle is excited and passionate about working with others to achieve goals of wellness and understanding.
Aimee joined the Column Health team after relocating to the Boston area from Kansas City. She studied Communication at Marquette University and then transitioned to the canine care industry following graduate school. Aimee’s passion is contributing to a team which fosters a culture of organizational and operational excellence. In addition, Aimee is thrilled to be part of a team committed to well-being of others. Outside of Column Health, Aimee is an avid sports fan (Kansas City Royals and Chiefs) who also enjoys spending time with family and friends.
After earning her Master's degree from the Boston College School of Social Work, Julia joined the Column Health team in an effort to expand the scope of our comprehensive and individualized care. Her treatment approach closely aligns with Column Health's commitment to providing dignified, quality clinical care to those seeking support and personal improvement. She brings with her clinical experience from community-based settings, including in-home family therapy and work with children in state care and families formed through adoption. Outside of the office, Julia enjoys spin class, meeting pugs, and discovering new places around the city.
Jen joined Column Health as a psychotherapist after attending Lesley University’s program in mental health counseling and expressive arts therapy in Cambridge, MA. Jen comes from a background in fine arts and utilizes creativity to approach the therapeutic process in a unique way. Jen’s clinical experience ranges from integrative cancer care to trauma to mental illness and addiction. Her philosophy on counseling is revolves around a collaborative process of forming a safe space, tailored to the client’s needs and goals. Outside of Column Health, Jen enjoys working on visual art, DJing, and dancing.
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board certified psychiatrist at the Massachusetts General Hospital’s Center for Women’s Mental Health, and an Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He completed his psychiatry residency training at Harvard Medical School’s South Shore Adult Psychiatry Residency Program and his fellowship in Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry at the MGH Center for Woman’s Mental Health. Dr. Raffi’s areas of interest include: Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry, Addiction and Substance Use Disorders, Geriatric Psychiatry, Trauma, Mind Body Medicine, Health and Technology. He is a recipient of the Harvard Medical School Department of Psychiatry 2016 Harry C. and Maida Solomon Award for his work related to substance use disorder in veterans.
Dani is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a Masters degree from Boston College and Bachelors degree from Florida State University. Throughout her career she has provided care in a variety of settings including outpatient, residential, court systems and schools. Dani enjoys facilitating group therapy and she specializes in the treatment of complex trauma. Dani recognizes that every individual is the expert of their own life and she collaborates with patients to identify individualized treatment goals. Dani is passionate about mental health and helping people overcome challenges to live a life of meaning and purpose. In her free time, Dani enjoys watching college football, exploring Boston, and listening to live music.
Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree from Tufts University and has been working to protect human rights and improve community health through various initiatives including time spent serving as member of Harvard Students for Global Health Board of Directors and supporting the Institutional Review Board, assessing ethical research practices. By joining the Column Health team she hopes to continue her commitment to breaking down stigma, stereotypes and any barriers to mental health and wellness. An avid rock-climber and lately ballroom dancer, outside of work Catherine loves to stay active and share her time and energy with friends, family and canines
Dusty is more than Column Health's mascot, he's our most valuable team member. He might be small, but he's feisty and just getting started!
Christopher J. Mulvey is a family nurse practitioner specializing in addiction treatment. Prior to his work at Column Health, Chris worked in family practice and correctional healthcare. Chris prides himself on providing empathetic, judgment-free, patient-centered care. He is a graduate of the MGH Institute of Health Professions and serves as a preceptor for MGH IHP nurse practitioner candidates.
Christopher is a board certified physician assistant. He received his Master's Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of New England in 2015 and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from the University of Arizona. Previous to obtaining his Master's Degree Christopher worked in pre-hospital medicine as a paramedic providing emergent, life-saving interventions in communities based both in the South Shore and North Shore. In addition to cultivating meaningful relationships with patients, Christopher aims to provide care that is evidenced-based and patient centered to facilitate positive outcomes. Outside of Column Health Christopher enjoys the outdoors, running, and spending quality time with his family.
Elena is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing from Boston College and has spent the majority of her career working in community mental health. Elena has a passion working with patients with a broad range of mental health disorders.
Julie is a revenue cycle operations expert with over 20 years of experience in the field. Prior to Column Health, Julie was at athenahealth where she completed assignments across all aspects of rev cycle. She is excited to join a team whose mission takes a comprehensive approach in treating addiction, including a multi-modal treatment model. Julie is an avid Boston sports fan and a proud Patriots season ticket holder. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with family and friends.
Meghan received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elon University and plans to dedicate her career to the field of mental health and addiction. She currently studies at Northeastern University, working towards her Master’s in Public Administration. Prior to beginning her Master’s degree, she interned in Connecticut working on legislation regarding drug policy and sober house regulation. Meghan is involved with addiction education nonprofits and also serves on the Board of Directors for an organization that provides alternative housing to children in DCF.
Linda is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She received her master’s degree in social work from Boston College with a specialty in mental health. She has worked in private residential addiction treatment, a private PACT team and private practice serving patients with severe and persistent mental illness and substance use disorders. She specializes in both addiction work and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Linda has a passion for working with individuals with co-occurring addiction and mental health needs. She finds fulfillment in working in both group and individual settings, setting goals that meet each client where they are and that are attuned to their current level of motivation, helping each person on their path to wellness and recovery.
Stephanie is a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and recent transplant from Portland, Oregon. Stephanie graduated from Lewis & Clark College and has practiced dual diagnosis therapy in an array of treatment settings including outpatient and intensive community based services, private practice, as well as worked internationally providing therapy and teaching. As a family therapist she believes it is integral to explore both the shared and individual human experiences that influence who we are when working with her clients. Stephanie specializes in trauma and substance use disorders, and her work with clients is strongly influenced by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. When she's not at Column Health Stephanie enjoys attempting to learn ceramics, hanging out with her dog and learning more about the greater Boston area!
Kate joined Column Health after relocating from Connecticut, where she spent the past few years as the Deputy Director of a dual-diagnosis treatment program for adults struggling with both substance abuse and severe mental illness. Kate completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Connecticut. She's excited to join a unique team at Column where she can help stigmatized populations, especially those struggling with addiction, receive the best treatment possible. She is currently working towards her Masters of Public Health in Behavioral Sciences through New York Medical College and in her free time enjoys exploring Boston, spending time with friends, and listening to true crime podcasts.
Rebecca joins the the Column Health team as a Clinic Experience Representative. She studied Psychology at Roger Williams and hopes to continue her education in the mental health and research field. In her free time she enjoys eating snacks, watching Netflix, and walking dogs.
Jimmy graduated from Boston College where he majored in Biology. He worked as a technologist with a national diagnostic company and has spent the last three years at Boston Heart Diagnostics quantifying heart disease risk. Jimmy is excited to join the Column Health team and make a difference in the lives of out patients.
Dr. Gunther is a locally raised board-certified family physician with a long history of caring for vulnerable populations in the Boston area. He completed his residency at the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, MA. He has served as medical director of community health centers in Somerville, MA and has maintained a clinical practice at Boston Medical Center. He has taught medical students and residents for many years, in part as an assistant clinical professor at Boston University. Dr. Gunther’s work has focused on survivors of trauma and the treatment of behavioral conditions that can arise from such experiences, particularly depression and substance use disorders. His philosophy of care is holistic in nature, acknowledging the multitude of factors that impact recovery and healing.
Jess Romeo is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner student at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, graduating in May 2019. She brings over 6 years of experience in addiction and mental health treatment as a social worker and psychotherapist, and a passion for working with people in recovery to make meaningful life changes. Jess believes the people she's honored to serve are both the experts and architects of their own journeys. As such, she works to provide services that are both evidence-based and flexible, meeting people where they are and helping guide them towards where they'd like to be.
Rylan was born and raised in beautiful Sonoma County, California. He has a natural curiosity for human behavior and interactions and earned a bachelors degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University. Rylan likes to consider himself a sports fanatic/guru and loves to support any and all Bay Area teams. He recently relocated to Boston to enjoy the warm winter months. Rylan believes there is truly a better way for society to deal with mental illness and he's excited to join Column Health to address the negative stigma associated with the disease of addiction.
Kristina is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with a Masters of Science in Nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and she holds a bachelors degree in social work. She has experience working in outpatient substance use disorder programs, residential treatment programs, inpatient detoxification, as well as, maternal-child health. Kristina is excited to join the Column Health team in their mission to reduce stigma and provide individuals with the treatment they need and deserve.
Clinical Experience Supervisor
Clinic Experience Supervisor
Staff Physician
Medical Director
Operations Director
Clinic Experience Coordinator
Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Director of Culture
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Physician Assistant
Psychotherapist
Physician
Psychotherapy Team Lead
The Dog
Medical Director
Psychotherapist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Strategic Development Director
Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Intern
Community Engagement Coordinator
Chief Operating Officer
Lab Technologist
Psychotherapist
Revenue Cycle Manager
Community Engagement Manager
Clinic Experience Representative
Clinic Experience Supervisor
Nurse Practioner
Psychotherapy Team Lead
Senior Psychotherapist
VP Of Technology
Clinic Experience Representative
Clinic Experience Supervisor
Clinic Experience Representative
Clinic Experience Coordinator
Clinic Experience Representative
Psychotherapist
