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Ashley Amundson, APCC, LAADC, ICADC, RYT 200 | Director of Operations
Ashley Amundson, APCC, LAADC, ICADC, RYT 200
Director of Operations
I was fortunate to be born and raised in this beautiful city. It’s here I started to direct my focus on a mission to help and empower women all over the world. I obtained my BA in Women’s Studies from San Diego State University. I explored many avenues of women’s service before realizing that I was drowning and in need of help. For years I struggled with alcohol addiction. Upon entering recovery my direction and passion became clearer. I wanted to help women who also suffered from substance abuse. With this goal in mind, I acquired my AOD certification and pursued my Masters in Professional Counseling (LPC).
I decided to expand my horizons and apply classroom learning to world experience. I took a hiatus from life and ‘Eat, Pray, and Loved’ my way around the world. I ventured to spiritually-inspiring locations such as India and Indonesia (where I became a certified yoga instructor) and spent five months living in Italy. Through discovering culture and spirituality, I learned to open my heart and lead with total compassion, gaining new perspective on life. My journey with Villa Kali Ma started in 2017, when I joined as a resident advisor. I have learned so much here in the last two years and am proud to say I am now the Director of Operations. Together with this amazing staff, we have seen so many women rebuild and empower themselves. It is where I feel I belong. Being passionate about spiritual and mental well-being, I serve as a mentor, a yogi and a fellow woman in recovery. It is here at Villa Kali Ma that I aim to further my mission and integrate it with the professionals and vision of this wonderful program.
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” – Carl Bard.
Ashley Amundson, APCC, LAADC, ICADC, RYT 200
Director of Operations
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Katie Hirst, MD | Medical Director
Katie Hirst, MD
Medical Director
Dr. Hirst graduated from Stanford University and then attended UC San Diego School of Medicine, completing her medical degree and then attaining board certification in both Family Medicine and Psychiatry. With this combined training, including additional board certification in Addiction Medicine, she is uniquely qualified to attend to both the psychiatric and medical needs of Villa Kali Ma’s patients and enjoys providing care to each patient from a holistic, whole-person perspective.
Katie Hirst, MD
Medical Director
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Kristine Jackson, LCSW, CEDS, CET-II, DWCF-C, CP, PAT | Clinical Director
Kristine Jackson, LCSW, CEDS, CET-II, DWCF-C, CP, PAT
Clinical Director
I often say “connection is the smallest definition of healing” and I strive to bring that to the community at Villa Kali Ma. After graduating magna cum laude with a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania, I moved to California to become a clinical supervisor for therapeutic programs and spent the next couple of decades working in the field of trauma. As the clinical director of a few different mental health, addiction and eating disorder programs, I continued to connect others to their innate healing force, and became certified in modalities that connect the wisdom of the body to the heart and mind. I have a passion for helping Seekers through the beautifully challenging time of exploring not just behaviors, but the beliefs that hold them. We are spiritual beings having a physical experience and there is a gift in that. My hope is that you gain clarity, confidence, and true connection.
Kristine Jackson, LCSW, CEDS, CET-II, DWCF-C, CP, PAT
Clinical Supervisor
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Dr. Alisha Bhatia | Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Alisha Bhatia
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Alisha Bhatia is a Naturopathic Doctor who’s mission is to Educate, Enhance and Empower patients to have healthier lives, optimize their bodies through comprehensive blood analysis, and address all aspects of patient care in a holistic model. Her scope in private practice includes helping men and women with a myriad of health complaints, with a focus on thyroid, hormones and gut health.
She is passionate about living up to the Latin word for doctor, docere, which means to teach. One of her favorite things right now is helping to educate patients on the gut-brain axis and how gut health impacts “mental” health, but as Dr. Daniel Amen says, it’s NOT “mental health” is really BRAIN HEALTH.
Dr. Alisha graduated from the National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR in 2009, and moved to Temecula in 2012. When outside of patient care, she enjoys relaxing, reading, and all things mind/body/spirit. She volunteers monthly for Jacob’s House, a hospitality home like Ronald McDonad House, helping local families who have a loved one in the hospital and need a place to stay.
One of her claims to fame was being featured in the documentary The Miracle Morning, based on one of her favorite books by Hal Elrod.
She has been married to Andy for almost 5 years and they hope to have a family, beyond their fur baby, in the near future.
Dr. Alisha Bhatia
Naturopathic Doctor
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Janice Graham, LMFT | Primary Therapist
Janice Graham, LMFT
Primary Therapist
As soon as I graduated with a Master of Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco I started my journey following my passion by working as a Clinician, focusing on clients that suffer with co-occurring disorders: addiction, bi-polar, depression, anxiety and Eating Disorders.
I have over 20 years of experience working with complex clients which contributes to my ability to help guide and heal as a primary therapist. I have consistently run an art based therapy group throughout my career which allows the clients to experience another approach to Self-discovery. I also have extensive experience facilitating group process, psychoeducation groups, individual and family therapy sessions. I have many years working with attachment and trauma, providing the clients with a secure and sacred place to process their past history Since working with clients and families of those struggling with eating disorders, addiction and other mental health issues for the past 20 years, I have discovered the importance of the therapeutic relationship so we can get to a deeper level of healing.
I have been lucky to work in some great facilities throughout my career but have found my home here at Villa Kali Ma. It offers a special and unique path to healing which is why I became a therapist. Not only does it incorporate an amazing holistic program it also has some of the most amazing staff that are not only therapist and practitioners but truly are profound healers and artists. Together we are able to focus on the mind, body and spirit of our clients in order to ensure a successful road to their recovery and life.
Janice Graham, LMFT
Primary Therapist
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Jennifer Sage, LMFT | Primary Therapist
Jennifer Sage, LMFT
Primary Therapist
Born and raised here in San Diego, I discovered my love for helping others, being outdoors, and traveling at a young age. I graduated with my Bachelors in Psychology from San Diego State University and then went on to get my Masters in Counseling, specializing in marriage, family, and child therapy from the University of Phoenix. I dreamt of working with the mind, body, spirit connection and have completed various yoga teaching certificates, including yoga for trauma and am EMDR certified as well. I took some time to travel prior to really diving into my clinical career, and for the past 7 years I have been working with people of various ages with co-occurring disorders, treating both addiction and various mental illnesses simultaneously. I work with self-love, forgiveness, acceptance, grief, resilience, and mindfulness techniques to build rapport and provide tools for my clients in their journey. It is through developing a safe and comfortable relationship with my clients that I believe the most successful therapeutic work is done. I combine mindfulness with trauma-informed, evidence-based DBT, CBT, and ACT Therapy to help clients create lasting change in their lives. I believe that we are whole and perfect at our core and that the answers we seek are within each of us. I am beyond grateful and humbled to have found a home at Villa Kali Ma and look forward to working with you and being present for your transformation and healing journey.
Jennifer Sage, LMFT
Primary Therapist
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Kristina Blachere, LMFT | EMDR Therapist / EMDRIA Consultant
Kristina Blachere, LMFT
EMDR Therapist / EMDRIA Consultant
20 years ago, I began my training as an LMFT at the holistic counseling program at John F. Kennedy university in the San Francisco Bay Area. It was my own experience of psychotherapy, with a therapist who blended somatic, nature-based, and Jungian/depth approaches, that led me into mindfulness meditation practice and learning to become a therapist myself. I’ve studied many different approaches over the years, always seeking to stitch together mind, body and spirit, and to deepen and expand a compassionate, loving relationship to self and others.
In my EMDR work, I always start by connecting with internal resources that support us in healing the pain and suffering that holds us back. These resources connect us to our loving, compassionate hearts, and offer a sense of meaning, depth, and purpose–qualities that make up the foundation of good health.
Kristina Blachere, LMFT
EMDR Therapist / EMDRIA Consultant
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Kacey Mather, AMFT | Primary Therapist
Kacey Mather, AMFT
Primary Therapist
I believe that every human being has a divine purpose. When we are out of alignment with this purpose, we may experience mental health issues or substance abuse, which are often the psyche’s attempts at coping with this pain of separation. My mission is to guide each individual on their journey of reclaiming their power and awakening to their soul’s calling.
I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Sociology and Applied Psychology from UC Santa Barbara and went on to obtain my Master’s in Marital and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego. My specialties include addictive processes, PTSD/trauma, attachment issues, relationships and codependency, and mood disorders. I take a psychodynamic, holistic, client-centered approach and am committed to creating a secure relationship between the therapist and client through empathic attunement and authentic connection. In both my clinical work and personal healing, I’ve witnessed the alchemy of transforming wounds into wisdom.
I am deeply passionate about helping individuals access their inner radiance. Through encounters with the unconscious, we can face our deepest fears, insecurities, painful memories, and parts of ourselves that have been rejected. But as we illuminate our darkness, we can begin to integrate these parts and love ourselves completely. My goal is to provide a foundation of safety and trust as we navigate this healing process with curiosity and compassion. I am honored to be a part of your soul’s journey at Villa Kali Ma to finding your
light within.
Kacey Mather, AMFT
Primary Therapist
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Katherine Tirkel, ASW| EMDR Therapist
Katherine Tirkel, ASW
EMDR Therapist
My entire life, I have naturally gravitated towards helping others. I am a therapist, but also a healer at heart. I create a safe space for you to feel warmth, acceptance, and support without judgment, and believe that every person has the power and capacity to heal themselves from within once the barriers are removed.
I received my Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences from University of Missouri – Columbia and Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. I approach each person holistically through a mind-body-spirit and neurobiologically-sensitive, trauma-informed lens, infusing EMDR, holistic health, narrative therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, ACT, inner child work, Reiki, and strengths-based therapy.
I utilized these very approaches to heal from my own pain and suffering, and saw first-hand how transformative and important it is to integratively approach one’s healing process. I believe that suffering has a silver lining, and offers an opportunity for growth beyond what’s imaginable.
My intention is to cheer you on while empowering you to turn your struggles to strengths and move forward with clarity. I am honored to be part of your journey, and am so excited for you to come home to yourself.
Katherine Tirkel, ASW
EMDR Therapist
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Angel Tang, AMFT | Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
Angel Tang, AMFT
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
I am a clinician specializing in brain-body-based integrative treatment modalities. My education journey began at the University of California, Irvine, where I earned my Bachelor’s in Public Health Sciences. Then I discovered my passion for mental health and wellness and pursued my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University. During my graduate studies, I delved into the didactics of trauma and crisis curriculum, where I concurrently sought out independent training in Brainspotting. This impactful neuro-experiential and grounding intervention unexpectedly furthered my personal healing journey.
I believe that traumatic experiences reside in the body and mind, remaining unprocessed to preserve a person’s present survival. My passion lies in guiding survivors to process these trauma memories and restoring trust in their nervous system’s innate ability to heal. My treatment approach facilitates a framework for neutral, attuned, and secure healing processes with compassion. I am privileged to be trusted with the rawness of clients’ suffering and pains. My clients have shown me the universal necessity for secure connections with oneself and the world to heal from deeply rooted trauma and to cope with lived injustices. Every day I am filled with gratitude for leading a life dedicated to healing and transformation. I am eager to join you on your healing journey and attune to your needs and growth. Together, we can nurture a path toward sustained healing and empowerment.
Angel Tang, AMFT
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
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Lizzie Powell, RADT | Operations Manager PHP
Lizzie Powell, RADT
Operations Manager PHP
I was lucky enough to grow up in Oceanside, Ca. I got married and had my two sons at young age and unfortunately fell down my own dark road of addiction that took a few years to get out of & when I finally did, I had this feeling that I needed to help other women in my situation. I enrolled in Palomar College in their AODS program and found Villa Kali Ma. I started in 2020 as a Resident Advisor, and then moved to Case Manager and in January 2023 became Operations Manager of our PHP/IOP program. Villa Kali Ma was different than anything I had ever seen in the treatment world. I felt a connection instantly and knew I found my passion and my home.
My Mom taught me from an early age how important it is as a woman to lift not only myself up, but other women as well. In May 2021, my mom fell ill and passed away. I was filled with heartbreak and sadness but also felt this new motivation to carry on what she always taught me as a young girl and decided Villa Kali Ma is the place for me long term to find a way to help women get their lives back and face the trauma they had been through.
When I am not at VKM, I am with my husband of 10 years and our two sons. I love doing yoga, journaling, listening to a good podcast and remembering to constantly keep working on myself. Villa Kali Ma helped me find my true self, and it’s my honor to help other woman in the healing that takes place here.
Lizzie Powell, RADT
Operations Manager PHP
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Elyse Estrada, RADT| Operations Manager RTC
Elyse Estrada, RADT
Operations Manager RTC
I am a Southern California native, born and raised in Long Beach, CA. During my struggle with substance use, I decided to move to San Diego in 2015 and have never left. Through my journey in recovery, I discovered a passion and joy that comes from helping others. I am currently working on my AODS and will continue the adventure of learning and growing in whatever direction the universe calls to me.
There was an overwhelming sense of peace when I first walked through the doors of Villa Kali Ma, and I knew this was the place I needed to be. Villa Kali Ma is my first job working in Substance Use Treatment. I couldn’t be happier working in a small intimate setting where I’ve been honored to witness so much healing and have had the opportunity to learn and grow with such an incredible staff.
Elyse Estrada, RADT
Operations Manager RTC
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Amy Ray, RADT | Case Manager Outpatient Program
Amy Ray, RADT
Case Manager Outpatient Program
“Life’s challenges are not supposed to paralyze you; they are supposed to help you discover who you are”
I was born and raised in the Midwest, and I am a recent southern California resident. I love the adventure, diverse, culture and people, the culinary scene, the weather and the relaxed, easy-going people of SoCal.
I have over 10 years of experience, specializing in addiction and recovery. I am in long-term recovery myself, so I understand the impact addiction can have on one’s life and those around them.
I was immediately drawn to Villa Kali Ma because of its holistic perspective and the sense of tranquility. I have always been passionate about helping others. I know that when one aligns their mind, body and spirit it is possible to be truly healthy and happy.
I am so grateful to be on this journey at Villa Kali Ma.
Amy Ray, RADT
Case Manager Outpatient Program
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Melissa Borst, RADT | Case Manager RTC
Melissa Borst, RADT
Case Manager RTC
I was born and raised in southern California. My journey began in the healthcare industry when I started a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, after receiving an AA in Surgical Technology. However, the universe led me to discover the field of case management and addiction counseling. My holistic approach in my own life allows me to help the women of VKM in a way that aligns with my personal beliefs.
Throughout my life, I have experienced my fair share of trauma and struggles. But perseverance and openness, have allowed me to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger. My personal experiences have given me a unique perspective and deep empathy for the challenges that my clients face. My passion for helping others and my commitment allow me to help and inspire those around me and those I help.
My future and current goals include furthering my education in psychology and advocating for the most vulnerable members of society and ensuring that they receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my kids, working out, and enjoying outdoor activities like snowboarding, and running.
Melissa Borst, RADT
Case Manager RTC
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Holly Mae Haddock | Content Writer/ Author / Blogger - MA in Counseling Psychology & Expressive Arts Therapy
Holly Mae Haddock
Content Writer/ Author / Blogger
MA in Counseling Psychology & Expressive Arts Therapy
I am honored to be the “voice of Villa Kali Ma” as blogger and content writer for the website. I began my relationship with Villa Kali Ma in 2016 as the director of the Expressive Arts Therapy Program while also providing Individual Therapy Sessions for the clients. With the personal experience of being on the clinical team and working closely with the founder, I am able to speak the Villa Kali Ma language and share the unique mission, vision and passion of this transformational program for women.
I received my MA in Counseling Psychology and Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2007. Throughout my career I have utilized Expressive Arts to work therapeutically with individuals suffering from dual diagnosis in a variety of settings such as transient families in community-based programs, incarcerated youth and individuals in residential treatment centers for addiction and mental health. Currently working as a private counselor and coach, I specialize in supporting people from all walks of life to develop channels of resilience, joy and meaning through accessing the deep, wild creativity that dwells inside us all. If you would like more info about me and my work please check out https://www.lionsongprocess.com
Holly Mae Haddock
Content Writer/ Author / Blogger
MA in Counseling Psychology & Expressive Arts Therapy
“"I don't believe it to be an exaggeration to say that Villa Kali Ma saved my life. I couldn't have asked for a better environment to heal and redirect onto a path towards true living."
Kristen B.
“"This place completely changed my life. I needed a drastic change from the typical recovery environment in order to stay sober long term. Villa Kali Ma was more than able to provide a safe healing environment for me to cultivate a strong spiritual connection through yoga, meditation, and an organic lifestyle. I can honestly say that I love who I am today and I am forever grateful for Villa Kali Ma!"
Cynthia B.
“"I am so grateful I found Villa Kali Ma, it has truly changed my life. Kay is awesome and the entire team who works there is absolutely amazing. I was introduced to many different types of therapy, healing and recovery options. I was able to choose what works for me and continue them outside of treatment once I went home. VKM is truly a tranquil place to start healing. If you are looking for treatment I would highly recommend making this the start to your recovery."
Suzie H.
