Nick Padlo
CEO
Nick Padlo is a small business leader, entrepreneur, and native of Jacksonville Florida. He received his undergraduate degree from the United States Military Academy (West Point), where he served as the Chairman of the Honor Committee. After West Point, Nick served for 5 years in the United States Army. Where he spent 27 months in combat operations between Afghanistan and Iraq, earning the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge. He attended Stanford University for business school, and later went on to become CEO of an Inc1000 growth company. His move into substance abuse treatment is a result of his personal battle with depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder. After getting treatment himself, Nick defined his personal mission as helping others through similarly dark times. He believes that everyone can find their way back, regain their lives, and live a life free of suffering. Sophros was designed to be just that place, where clients across North Florida can develop a set of tools that can help them establish their own personal road to recovery.
Erin Moran, LMHC, C-GP
Vice President of Clinical Operations / Co-Owner
Erin Moran is a licensed mental health counselor and certified group practitioner who originates from Orange County, New York. She received her Bachelor of Science from SUNY New Paltz and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida (UNF). She began her career as a therapist working at the UNF Counseling Center where her passion for group psychotherapy originated. She has since gained additional experience working as a therapist and clinical manager at a dual-diagnosis residential substance abuse treatment facility and an outpatient eating disorder facility. She opened her part-time private practice in 2016 and worked with adults and older adolescents seeking overall health and wellness in their lives.
Erin has been fortunate to work with people from diverse backgrounds, experiencing a variety of concerns, including various forms of addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, identity conflicts, histories of abuse, and relationship/family stress.
Erin’s therapy style incorporates client-centered, interpersonal-work, emotion-focused, and psycho-dynamic approaches. She believes in treating the whole person and working towards healing the mind, body, and spirit. Erin’s current passion involves establishing a safe and supportive work environment for her team.
Outside her time working as a therapist, leader, and business owner, Erin enjoys snuggling with her dog and cat, practicing yoga, watching Marvel shows/movies, and taking trips to the mountains.
Dr. John Kemerer
Medical Director
Dr. Kemerer is originally from Michigan. He went to college at Michigan State University and majored in chemistry. He earned his medical degree from A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed post graduate training at Michigan State University Bay Medical Center. Dr. Kemerer has an interest in family medicine, emergency medicine and medical treatment of substance abuse.
Dr. Kemerer has thirty years experience in family medicine, with special interest in emergency medicine and urgent care. He has experience with substance abuse treatment utilizing medically assisted treatment in private practice as well as with Ohio Valley Physicians. He has been an assistant professor of family medicine at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and the medical director of Ohio University Student Health Center.
Dr. Kemerer served in the United States Army Reserve. He resides in St. Augustine, Florida and lives with his wife, and enjoys life with his children. He likes biking, fishing and boating.
Elaine Simpson, MBA
Senior Director of Customer Relations/Business Development & Partner
Elaine Simpson is a seasoned professional, with over 30+ years in the Healthcare industry. She spent part of her career as an Assisted Living Administrator, working for Hospice and Marketing in the Jacksonville market. Her background and expertise consist of: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Sales, Marketing, Admission’s, Administrative, Management, Team Building and Customer Service just to name a few. She works actively with Physicians, Psych, LMHC and clients.
Elaine has a MBA degree in Business administration and a BS degree in Healthcare Administration.
She was born in Portland, Oregon, moved to Cuba when she was 6 months old and relocated to Jacksonville, FL when she was 3 years old where she has lived all but 3 years of her life.
She has a son and daughter in law she enjoys to spend time with. They love to watch sports together. She is an animal lover, and her hobbies include being a season ticket holder for the Jacksonville Jaguars since the very beginning who she attends with her fiancé. Elaine loves sea turtles and travel.
Catherine Vergara, BA
Director of Business Development Virtual & Spanish
Catherine Vergara, a Trilingual Business Development Professional in the Substance Abuse and mental treatment industry, with over 10 years of health care business development experience. Catherine received her BA of Business Administration from St. John University New York. Catherine has dedicated her career to building meaningful partnerships and expanding access to quality care for individuals struggling with addiction. Her expertise lies in forging relationships with behavioral health providers, navigating industry regulations, and implementing strategies that drive sustainable growth. As someone who is passionate about improving patient outcomes, Catherine has successfully increased and developed referral networks with leading healthcare organizations. As a patient advocate, she is committed to staying ahead of industry trends to better serve patients and providers.
When Catherine is not building connections, she volunteers with local addiction recovery initiatives, helping to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health and substance abuse.
Catherine loves spending time with her family, helping animals, senior citizens, children and reflecting her passion for community and nature.
Linsey Mizic, LMHC
Clinical Director
Linsey Mizic is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Bachelor of Science from The Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Science from Lock Haven University. Linsey has developed a robust clinical foundation through her diverse experience over the last 8 years in crisis intervention, family-based therapy, residential substance use treatment, and outpatient therapy, while also successfully operating her own mental health private practice.
As the Clinical Director at Sophros Recovery, Linsey brings a trauma-informed, client-centered approach to care, with a deep commitment to fostering healing and resilience. Her leadership is grounded in clinical excellence, team collaboration, and a passion for developing meaningful programming that meets the complex needs of individuals navigating mental health and substance use challenges. She is especially dedicated to creating inclusive, affirming spaces where clients feel empowered to reclaim their lives and build lasting recovery.
In addition to overseeing clinical operations, Linsey plays an active role in the development and success of the internship program. She works closely with the internship coordinator to ensure a high-quality learning experience for emerging professionals, emphasizing supervision, ethical practice, and the cultivation of clinical confidence.
In Linsey’s spare time she enjoys riding motorcycles, spending time with her wife, traveling to new places, hanging out with her animals, and learning how to cook new meals.
Taylor Santioni, LMHC
Clinical Director of Virtual Program
Taylor Santioni obtained a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida in August 2022 and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She additionally received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from the University of North Florida.
Her therapy style includes incorporating strengths-based, existential, humanistic, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. She believes in a holistic approach and strives to empower her clients to discover and utilize their inherent strengths to grow and learn throughout the therapeutic process.
Taylor’s passion for working with clients who have experienced stress and trauma led her to becoming a Certified Master Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) Practitioner. ART is an evidenced-based form of psychotherapy that utilizes rapid eye movements, CBT, Gestalt, psychodynamic approaches, guided imagery, and metaphors to help clients address problems such as depression, anxiety, phobias, and post-traumatic stress.
Raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Taylor is passionate about serving the needs of the local community and fostering the mental health and wellness of diverse populations. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and dog as well as hiking many of Jacksonville’s beautiful nature trails.
Dexter Galang
Office Manager
Dexter Galang is a native of Jacksonville FL and graduated from University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health. His Minor Degree is in Leadership and Disabilities in Society. He has an interest in helping to put people’s diversity into perspective and professionally communicate with respect.
Dexter has experience serving people in all walks of life at UF Health Shands Hospital, Heartland Hospice, and Trinity Rescue Mission Homeless Shelter. Dexter is passionate about driving his community forward by helping people feel valued and growing them into their best selves.
During his free time, Dexter likes to teach downhill skateboarding and play spontaneous games of chess.
Melissa DePorre
Virtual Administrative Assistant / HR
Melissa is originally from Dallas, Texas but has lived in Jacksonville most of her life. She graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in public health and a minor in Disabilities in Society. She enjoys connecting and empathizing with clients when they first walk into Sophros, regardless of their background. Melissa has experience in finance, childcare, individuals with disabilities, and administrative duties.
She is expecting her first baby this June and is very excited to be a mom! She enjoys finding new places to eat with her husband and spending time with her dog Zoe.
Patricia James, RN
Lead Registered Nurse
Patricia was born in Bogota Colombia and moved to Jax at age 7. After graduating from University of Florida with bachelor’s in nursing she moved to Los Angeles to work for the department of Mental health. She received her master’s degree in behavioral health from California State Dominguez Hills.
Patricia has worked with clients struggling with chronic and severe mental health and substance abuse providing mental health treatment and medication management. She was part of the crisis response team for Los Angeles county until she retired in 2021 after working with department of mental health for 27 years.
Patricia moved back to Jacksonville in 2021 where she continues to utilize her experienced nursing skills at Sophros and enjoys seeing clients thrive. Her hobbies include attending concerts, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and going to the beach.
Carrie Phillips, RN
Registered Nurse
Carrie Phillips is a registered nurse and has been in the healthcare industry for 24 years. She received her Bachelors of Science from the University of Florida.
Carrie has a diverse nursing background which includes working at the following: Mayo Clinic in outpatient surgery, Shands Hospital as a labor and delivery nurse, and in legal nurse consulting.
Carrie has a passion for recovery and volunteers in the community. She enjoys collaborating with physicians and therapists at Sophros to create a customized plan of care for clients.
When she is not working, she has fun with her blended family, including 5 teenagers. She and her family like to travel, kayak, bike ride, and spend time in nature. Being a certificated reiki master and lifelong yogi, she shares her wholistic approach to recovery with clients. Her purpose is to help those in active addiction to regain their health and lives.
Kathleen Allen, RN
Registered Nurse
In a career of four decades, Kathleen has provided nursing care to virtually all age groups, from prenatal to geriatric populations. In addition to working with patients in all age groups, she has served in a range of professional settings, including the MICU at Emory University Hospital, high tech field nurse with Regional Obstetric Consultants managing high-risk pregnancies, Medical Magnet instructor and girls’ cross country coach at a local urban secondary school, specializing in pulmonary artery hypertension with infusions and patient education at Accredo Specialty Pharmacy, and retired from a 10-year position as nurse educator in hepatology and immunology with AbbVie Pharmaceuticals.
After nine months of retirement, her journey led her in a new direction to Sophros. She gains personal fulfillment through helping others with their illness/struggles. A common thread that prevails in all her patient/client care is that “One patient is One patient” and provides essential and individual customer service to all, whether it is the client in front of her or being “on call” for a neighbor’s minor scrapes or her grown sons’ bellyaches.
When not working, she enjoys days spent walking the beach with her dog, sewing special surprises for her five granddaughters, and slowly learning to appreciate yard work.
Jackie Ivey, LMHC
Clinical Manager and Internship Coordinator
Jackie Ivey is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor originally from Baltimore, Maryland. She received her Bachelor of Science from The Pennsylvania State University and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. Jackie began her clinical work as an eating disorder therapist and relocated to Florida in 2021. She started her career in the substance abuse field at Sophros Recovery, utilizing a diverse range of modalities to address each client’s unique needs.
Jackie provides clinical leadership while overseeing the comprehensive internship program. Jackie is dedicated to guiding and mentoring emerging clinicians, ensuring that interns receive robust clinical training and professional development. She offers ongoing support, clinical guidance, and feedback, fostering a supportive learning environment that emphasizes the integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and mindfulness interventions. Her commitment to nurturing a collaborative and empowering space has proven invaluable in cultivating strong therapeutic alliances and enhancing clinical practice among interns.
Jackie utilizes a holistic framework to integrate the spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional facets of well-being. Her approach is centered on aiding growth and facilitating a deeper self-understanding for both her clients and the interns she mentors. Outside of her professional role, Jackie enjoys going to the beach, exercising, and traveling.
Hannah Johnson, MS
Senior Therapist, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Hannah graduated from the University of North Florida with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. As part of her clinical electives, Hannah worked with horses in a therapeutic setting and subsequently received a certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy and Interventions.
Hannah incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy into her practice. She believes healing can be found by treating clients holistically and by helping clients recover their authenticity and identify personal values.
Hannah prides herself in being the “cool Tia” to her nieces and nephews and enjoys spending time with family and friends. A true Florida girl, she spends much of her time in the sunshine and at the beach.
Meredith Rowland, LMHC
Virtual Senior Therapist
Meredith Rowland is Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is enthusiastic about recovery and personal growth. Meredith holds a master’s degree in education, from Georgia Southern University, having taught individuals with emotional and behavior disorders for eighteen years before training to become a therapist. Meredith has worked in Georgia with Drug Court and DCFS to advocate for individuals in early sobriety, while she was Coordinator for Therapeutic Child Care program serving women and children. She has experience in residential treatment as well as outpatient settings and is thrilled to be a member of the Sophros Team. Meredith specializes in trauma recovery, as a trained ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) Therapist, and has witnessed the benefits of this therapy in multiple clients healing trauma and substance abuse.
Meredith and her husband have two children in college, and two dogs who are the heads of the household! They love hiking in the North Georgia and North Carolina mountains, and enjoy the Jacksonville Symphony, as well as live music in outdoor venues. Meredith is passionate about life and loves adventure in traveling. She starts her day with gratitude and celebrates others in their journey.
Wilhelmina Kohn, LMHC
Senior Therapist
Wilhelmina was awarded her Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Webster University. Her degree concentration was Mental Health and School Guidance. Wilhelmina received her undergraduate degree from Edward Waters University with an emphasis in psychology.
Wilhelmina has over a decade of experience in the field of child-welfare, mental health diagnosis and substance abuse treatment. She began her career working at Gateway Community Services in Jacksonville, FL. Wilhelmina has experience in performing assessments, facilitating educational groups, and providing clinical care to clients in a residential treatment setting.
Wilhelmina’s therapy styles incorporate integrative or holistic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. She believes in encouraging clients to exercise their capacity to make rational choices and develop their maximum potential. She offers a genuine concern and unwavering support for her clients during their process of treatment.
When Wilhelmina is not working as a therapist, she enjoys DIY projects, a great laugh, and being amongst family and friends.
Terry Kirton, LMHC
Senior Therapist
Terry Kirton, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, received both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida. As a counselor, she has worked in a variety of settings including college-based counseling, general outpatient mental health for adolescents and adults, and dual diagnosis IOP/PHP.
Terry is passionate about providing a holistic approach to support the whole person. Terry’s style involves creating warmth and safety for clients to show up as themselves and cultivate growth. She strives to meet clients where they are to best understand their perspective, while also challenging them to explore how their personal experiences have influenced the lens in which they view themselves, others, and the world. To do this, Terry balances a Person-centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Terry conducts evaluations for the North East Florida Safety Council in addition to her therapeutic roles.
Terry spends her free time enjoying all things outdoors, traveling to hike, running, reading, and spending time with her daughter and loved ones.
Kayleigh Ratashak, MS
Therapist, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Kayleigh moved from Raleigh, North Carolina to attend the University of Florida and graduated with her undergraduate degree before completing her M.S in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida. She has a background in healthcare and health education, specifically in cancer care and working with those impacted by health disparities.
Kayleigh utilizes a trauma-informed approach to treatment and uses various modalities such as Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Inner Child work. Kayleigh works to provide therapy through a feminist and liberation framework. They believe in taking a holistic, person-centered approach to the therapeutic process, and that treatment, recovery, and self-acceptance is not a “one-size fits all” process.
In her free time, Kayleigh enjoys exploring the thrift stores of Jacksonville, exercising, and reading on the beach.
John Craycraft, MS, Military & First Responder Therapist
Therapist, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
John is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). John Craycraft obtained a Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling from Jacksonville University in 2023 and his Bachelors of Arts in Philosophy and Religion from Shawnee University. John is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps infantry.
John is passionate about helping individuals lead happy, fulfilling, and holistic lives, John integrates evidence-based techniques to support personal growth, emotional well-being, and resilience. With a love for the outdoors and a deep commitment to physical, mental, and emotional health, John fosters a compassionate, client-centered approach to healing and self-discovery.
Outside of his work, John enjoys exercise, spending time in nature, reading, and playing video games.
Gracie Bowden, MS, Military & First Responder Therapist
Therapist, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Gracie Bowden is a Primary Therapist working towards licensure in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, having graduated from University of North Florida with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Previously, she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from Georgia Southern University in Psychology, with a concentration in Lifespan Development and a minor in Child and Family Development. She has background working in youth development, school settings, child counseling, and family counseling. Additionally, Gracie is one of our Military and First Responder therapists.
Gracie works through a strengths-based, person-centered lens of counseling, believing deeply in the power of community. She has special interests in grief and bereavement, mindfulness, and expressive arts therapy.
Gracie is originally from Savannah, Georgia and has lived in Jacksonville since 2019. She enjoys cooking, fishing, camping, spending time with family and friends, and exploring Jacksonville’s state parks.
Hailey Rigdon, MSW
Therapist, Registered Mental Health Social Work Intern
Hailey earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Florida and holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Social Welfare. Her professional experience spans multiple levels of care, including residential treatment, detox stabilization, and outpatient settings. Hailey takes a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She is passionate about helping individuals reach their full potential and live joyful, meaningful lives, while also learning to accept and navigate life’s inevitable challenges.
Hailey believes that the therapeutic process is a collaborative journey, one that fosters growth, self-compassion, and resilience. She strives to create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences and make meaningful changes. Outside of her work as a therapist, Hailey enjoys practicing yoga, listening to music with friends, going on walks, and engaging in meaningful conversations with others.
Kali Robertson, MS, Military & First Responder Therapist
Therapist, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Kali received both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida. Kali is currently a Primary Therapist at Sophros pursuing licensure in the state of Florida.
Kali is a Certified Basic ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) practitioner, passionate about providing trauma-informed care. Kali takes a holistic and active approach to therapy, integrating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Schema Therapy, and somatic experiencing techniques to tailor her approach to each client’s unique needs. She views therapy as a collaborative process and is committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to be vulnerable and explore their experiences. Kali believes in a person-centered approach to therapy, recognizing that treatment, recovery, and self-acceptance are unique journeys that require individualized care.
Outside of her clinical work, Kali enjoys reading, spending time in nature, live music, yoga, and creating.
Jasmine Flowers
Intake Coordinator/Alumni Coordinator
Jasmine Flowers is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, experienced model, and dynamic speaker, dedicated to empowering individuals throughout their recovery journey. Jasmine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and is a certified trauma-informed yoga instructor. As the Assessment and Alumni Coordinator at Sophros, Jasmine works closely with clients from the very beginning of their time at Sophros, guiding them through their initial steps into recovery and continuing to support them as they transition into long-term sobriety. She is passionate about active listening and creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can share their stories, explore their healing paths, and build a foundation for lasting recovery. Jasmine also specializes in working with alumni clientele, offering ongoing care, fostering relationships, and building community to help clients continue to thrive in recovery. To further support this sense of connection, Jasmine organizes quarterly alumni gatherings, providing opportunities for individuals in recovery to meet, enjoy meaningful activities, and strengthen their bonds.
As a survivor and person in long-term recovery, she believes that recovery is a shared experience, where strength is found in community and connection.
Outside of her professional work, Jasmine enjoys spending time outdoors with her children at the park, pool, or beach, and is an enthusiast of live music, yoga, and improv.
Felicia Miller, MS, Military and First Responder Coordinator
Therapist, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Felicia Miller is originally from New York City; she moved to Jacksonville, Florida for the 2nd time in 2019 to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Jacksonville University. She is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern working towards licensure. She is pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy at Walden University. Felicia is a Veteran of the United States Navy as an Engineer and Retiree from the United States Army as a Chemical Operations Specialist HAZMAT. Felicia is one of the primary therapists for Military and First Responders clients. Felicia serves as our Military and First Responder Coordinator.
Felicia is deeply passionate about focusing on the present moment and utilizing a person-centered approach in therapy. She is also trained in EMDR, specifically designed to help reduce the distress linked to traumatic memories. Felicia also leads a small group at her church dedicated to helping Christians overcome anxiety and depression through the practical application of biblical principles.
Felicia enjoys spending time with her family, she prides herself on being a grandmother. She also enjoys cooking, singing, acting and shopping.
Olivia Springer, BS
Intake and Admissions Coordinator
Olivia is originally from Philipsburg, Pennsylvania and made the exciting move to Jacksonville in 2023 to pursue an internship at Sophros Recovery. A proud graduate of The Pennsylvania State University, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies and is eager to continue her educational journey toward a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
With a deep passion for helping others, Olivia has always known she wanted a career that would allow her to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. She is committed to showing up as her authentic self, creating a space where individuals feel supported and empowered to meet their full potential. By encouraging others to embrace their strengths and challenges, Olivia fosters an environment of growth and self-discovery.
Outside of her professional life, Olivia enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog Sunny, whether it’s unwinding by the ocean or exploring new places. Her love for adventure and personal growth is reflected in both her career and her lifestyle, as she continuously strives to inspire and be inspired by those around her.
Ashley Schleicher, BS
Office Assistant
Ashley is a dedicated woman in long-term recovery and a passionate advocate for personal growth and mental health. Currently pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University, Ashley combines her academic journey with a deep commitment to helping others on their paths to healing. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Business from Columbia College and has experience in both residential treatment and outpatient settings, now contributing to the team at Sophros Recovery.
An avid runner, Ashley finds joy and resilience in movement, whether simply enjoying the open road or exploring new places with her husband. She has a particular fondness for Disney adventures that fuel her sense of wonder and fun. Ashley embraces life with enthusiasm, balancing her professional ambitions with travel, self-care, and the simple joys of everyday moments.