Ryan Franke, MBA
Co-founder + CEO
Ryan has a BA from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and an MBA from the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California (USC). He has worked in the behavioral health field for over eighteen years.
In a previous role, Ryan served as Chief Operations Officer & Partner of a dual site mental health treatment program and assessment clinic in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to this, Ryan spent nine years working for the nations largest provider of behavioral health treatment services where he held numerous positions during his tenure, including roles in marketing, operations, and executive leadership for the 140-site organization.
Ryan grew up in Newport Beach, CA where he currently resides. Ryan’s passions include advocating for those struggling with mental health disorders, participating in and coaching athletics, and spending time with his two children.
Max Reznik
Chief Financial Officer
Max has a BS in Finance with a Marketing Concentration from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
After college, Max moved to New York City and began working in Advisory services in the Banking and Capital Markets sector at one of the “Big Four” professional service firms. In 2013, Max moved to Orange County to take a corporate finance position at a large Behavioral Healthcare organization headquartered in Newport Beach. After being immersed in behavioral healthcare, Max co-founded an insurance billing and consulting firm that specializes in behavioral healthcare. In 2019, Max spearheaded the sale of the firm to a technology company with the ability to broaden the reach of the business.
Max hails from the east coast and enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching sports and playing with his dog, Yogi.
Greg Rosenbaum
Chief Development Officer
Greg Rosenbaum has a BS in Business Administration from the University of Alabama. He has been immersed in business since childhood, having worked for his family’s businesses where he frequently interacted with customers.
After college, and a few years as an analyst at a Fortune 500 life insurance company, Greg found his way to behavioral healthcare. Starting from the bottom, he excelled through different roles including those in operations, finance, admissions, marketing, direct care, and leadership. He attributes his knowledge of the behavioral health industry to his years working in-the-field, hands-on training, and personal experience.
Greg has worked in business development and admissions leadership for several nationally known behavioral health treatment programs. Most recently Greg was instrumental in the successful development and execution of a national branding initiative for a regional treatment program. From there, Greg co-founded AVA Billing, an insurance billing and consulting company focused on the behavioral healthcare segment. When Greg was approached to partner with The Mental Health Collective, he recognized a unique opportunity to create something that was much needed in Orange County, CA. He joined the founding team, where he committed to building a cutting edge, high quality, ethical mental health treatment program. Greg remains passionate about helping people transform their lives, always moving one step closer to breaking the stigma against all manner of psychological issues.
Greg attributes his passion for business to his late grandfather, who modeled an always honorable code of conduct and innate leadership. Never far from his roots, Greg is proud to be from Alabama, and manages to sneak it into every conversation. Roll Tide.
Dr. Kristen Zaleski, PhD, LCSW
Clinical Director
Kristen Zaleski, PhD, LCSW is a nationally-recognized author, researcher, and psychotherapist on trauma related disorders and an expert on sexual trauma within both civilian and military culture. Dr Zaleski is the author of two books, multiple research articles, and is a consultant and trainer on trauma disorders and survivorship to entities such as Facebook and the U.S. Department of Defense. Dr. Zaleski came to the Mental Health Collective after a decade-long tenure at University of Southern California as Clinical Associate Professor for the Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work. Dr. Zaleski continues to be affiliated with USC as an adjunct professor and Founding Director of the USC Keck Human Rights Clinic which is a pro-bono organization offering forensic evaluations for survivors of international human rights abuse.
Dr. Zaleski sits on the board of two Orange County non-profits- Center for Law and Military Policy and HOPE 365- where she advocates for survivors of human trafficking, sexual violence, and forced marriage around the world and within the United States military. She also consults with television production companies on how to represent mental health realistically on their programs.
Dr. Zaleski has specific training on neurobiology and modern day attachment theory. Her area of expertise centers around somatic and body-based treatments to heal trauma holistically. She has previously worked at UCLA Rape Treatment Center, Veterans Administration Healthcare Center in Long Beach, and Las Encinas Psychiatric Hospital. She also has a private practice based in Hermosa Beach, CA.
CERTIFICATIONS: EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and various 2nd and 3rd generation cognitive behavioral evidence based practices.
EDUCATION: University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) BA in Sociology and BA in Psychology, University of Southern California (USC) Master of Social Work, and Sanville Institute for Social Work and Psychotherapy, PhD.
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATIONS: Dr. Zaleski utilizes a trauma-informed, attachment focused lens to client work. Her training integrates interpersonal neurobiology to understand mental health holistically. Dr. Zaleski has advanced training in “bottom-up” somatic treatment modalities to assist the client to feel more in control of their body’s reactions to life events while coupling “top-down” narrative therapies to promote behavioral and cognitive changes. Her clinical experience has centered around military trauma and interpersonal violence that include sexual assault and human trafficking.
Aaron Oliver
National Clinical Outreach
Aaron brings a diverse background and skill set to the Mental Health Collective, marked by his experience in the behavioral health industry and his dedication to service. Originally from Chesapeake, Virginia, Aaron attended Virginia Commonwealth University where he studied business administration.
Aaron began his career in the behavioral health field in 2013 working in the intake department for a well known primary care behavioral health treatment program in Newport Beach, CA. He then transitioned to a hybrid marketing & operations role for a well-respected extended care treatment program in Huntington Beach, CA. Aaron steadily grew in the organization, eventually becoming executive director in 2017, a role he served in prior to joining the collective.
Aaron strives to be a community resource for the families of those suffering from mental health issues and to connect them with appropriate treatment programs. “I believe that I have a responsibility to each individual and /or family seeking assistance that I come in contact with to provide clinically appropriate and ethical treatment recommendation and placement.” As co-founder of Leadwell, a wellness retreat for professionals in the behavioral health community, Aaron has demonstrated his commitment to the continuous development of both himself and of his colleagues in the field.
Sarah Verrelli
Business Development Executive
Sarah Verrelli attended Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT where she majored in Business Administration with an emphasis on Marketing. She entered the behavioral health field in 2006, and has spent the past 17 years connecting those struggling with their mental health and substance use disorders with the treatment programs best suited to help them. In this time she has developed extensive industry knowledge as well as a sterling reputation as a leader in the field.
During her career, Sarah has served as Outreach Coordinator, Director of Marketing, Vice President of Business Development, and Vice President of Market Insight for a nationally known treatment organization. Sarah has been recognized for her accomplishments by receiving multiple prestigious ‘Best in Class’ awards. Considered a “connector” amongst her peers, Sarah is dedicated to providing clients and families with the most appropriate resources in the country given their circumstances. In so doing, Sarah has built a rewarding career positively impacting the lives of those struggling with behavioral health as well as their families.
Sarah resides in the beach community of Fairfield, Connecticut with her six year old son. She is a devoted member of Orangetheory and iCryotherapy. In her spare time, she enjoys travel and spending time by the water.
Madison Baker
Intake Director
Madison Baker earned his Bachelors of Science from the University of Texas at Austin in 2010 and has worked in a variety of treatment settings within the field of substance abuse, mental health and dual diagnosis treatment. He specializes in admissions consultations, case management and navigating access to appropriate healthcare. With an attitude of kindness and compassion, he strives to be a resource for families and professionals navigating the crises and often confusing process of accessing appropriate treatment.
Beginning his career in the film industry as an audio visual editor on major motion picture movie trailers, he found his way to working in the behavioral healthcare field through his own personal journey in recovery. He attributes his passion for his work to his experience as a young adult, seeing his parents navigate the difficult process of quality treatment access. Through his work in direct client care, business development and admissions, he found a passion for providing quality assessment and consultation to families and professionals navigating one of the most difficult and unexpected processes of life.
Originally from Austin, Texas, Madison takes pride in his accomplishments as an Eagle Scout, and serving local communities through service in and out of recovery. Previously serving on the board of directors for Austin’s Alano Club and working for several nationally known treatment programs in admissions and business development roles.
Justin Krause
Intake Coordinator
Hailing from Orange County, Justin studied locally at South Coast College. He began his professional journey working in treatment centers, providing support and care to individuals seeking help. While working in this field, he developed a deep understanding and compassion for the mental health industry.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Justin continues to actively engage in the recovery community, supporting and empowering those in their journey toward recovery. His personal experiences and dedication to the well-being of others fuel his commitment to making a difference.
Supporting families with a holistic understanding of the industry enables him to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves at the Mental Health Collective.
Beginning his career in the film industry as an audio visual editor on major motion picture movie trailers, he found his way to working in the behavioral healthcare field through his own personal journey in recovery. He attributes his passion for his work to his experience as a young adult, seeing his parents navigate the difficult process of quality treatment access. Through his work in direct client care, business development and admissions, he found a passion for providing quality assessment and consultation to families and professionals navigating one of the most difficult and unexpected processes of life.
Originally from Austin, Texas, Madison takes pride in his accomplishments as an Eagle Scout, and serving local communities through service in and out of recovery. Previously serving on the board of directors for Austin’s Alano Club and working for several nationally known treatment programs in admissions and business development roles.
Sophie Pyne, MSW, LCSW
Sound + Meditation Teacher
UNIVERSITIES + DEGREES: University of Southern California [Psychology, BA] University of Southern California [Social Work, MA]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION: Sophie has a specialty in using both evidence-based psychotherapy, somatic-based and alternative holistic modalities such as sound healing, arts, movement, and the natural world around us to help clients explore and express their truest selves in the world. Her areas of specialization include substance use disorders, co-occurring anxiety and depression, mindfulness, meditation, and mind-body-spirit integration.
CERTIFICATIONS: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT-I), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Seeking Safety, Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP), Sound Healing, Holy Fire Reiki I & II, Trauma Informed Surf Therapy
Sophie has a passion for helping clients learn to love and believe in themselves. What fulfills her professionally is seeing when each client surrenders to the process, opens up, and finally recognizes that they are worth it. Her superpower is being authentic, genuine, and sincere. Sophie believes it is important to help clients understand the purpose that their unhealthy behaviors served them while building new coping skills to live a healthier life. Sophie’s therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, fun, and direct. She uses a comprehensive and holistic approach, drawing from cognitive behavioral to somatic based and alternative healing therapies. She believes each of us are healing from something and everything we need to get there is already within us. Her job, as a therapist and facilitator, is to hold a safe and brave space for clients to dive in.
Angelinne Montero, MA, BCBA
Art Therapist
UNIVERSITIES + DEGREES: Ball State University [Applied Behavior Analysis, MA] University of California, Irvine [Psychology & Social Behavior, BA]
SPECIALIZATION: Applied Behavior Analysis, Art Therapy
CERTIFICATIONS: BOARD CERTIFIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (BCBA)
Angeline has experience as an art therapist for a pediatric oncology department. While in Germany, she worked as the art director for a child education center. She has studied art theory, art history, and different mediums. Her speciality is in photography, drawing, and painting. She also has a background in applied behavior analysis, including working with individuals with developmental disorders, and research on autoclitics and increasing communication for individuals with autism.
“Sometimes it’s difficult to put into words how you feel or what you are thinking. Art is helpful in communicating what cannot be said with just words. Through art, a person can have revelations and find resolutions. Art can be a powerful tool in a person’s healing. The beauty of art is no skill level is necessary to participate. I have dedicated my career in helping others find their voices, whether that is through applied behavior analysis or art therapy. I enjoy working with clients of all ages from early childhood to late adulthood. I am passionate about gently guiding clients through directives that help them process their feelings and thoughts in a supportive environment.” -Angelinne
William Nephew, B.A
Music and Movement Teacher
UNIVERSITIES + DEGREES: San Francisco State University [Cinema Production, BA] San Diego City College [Audio Production, A.A.]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION: As an award winning musician and clinical counselor, William empowers therapy clients to craft musically dynamic songs using their own personal narratives and musical tastes. He leads collaborative songwriting, music performance, and music education opportunities for individuals and groups. William’s musical talents as a singer/songwriter, combined with a natural ability to connect with clients, make him a dynamic facilitator for creative expression. In addition to his musical talent and clinical training, William brings expertise in audio production and film music to client sessions. William is the founder of a music therapy organization called Moving Melodies, where he has developed a unique curriculum that guides participants through each stage of the songwriting process: (1) Identify the Intention; (2) Move the Melody; (3) Create and Connect; (4) Ready to Record.
CERTIFICATIONS: Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor (CADC)
“I believe that everyone has an internal orchestra of emotions that can be transformed into music. I am most passionate about helping clients create original music to express personal narratives through songwriting. Music and melody have always been a powerful force in my life, and can be a very cathartic experience. Being able to empower clients to find their voice and sing their own songs is the most rewarding gift I can imagine. The moments in my sessions where clients express the creative parts of themselves bring me the most purpose and joy. I like to think that I help turn ‘music lovers’ into ‘music makers’ ” – William Nephew, B.A.
Dr. Kristen Zaleski, PhD, LCSW
Chief Clinical Officer
Kristen Zaleski, PhD, LCSW is a nationally-recognized author, researcher, and psychotherapist on trauma related disorders and an expert on sexual trauma within both civilian and military culture. Dr Zaleski is the author of two books, multiple research articles, and is a consultant and trainer on trauma disorders and survivorship to entities such as Facebook (Meta) and the U.S. Department of Defense. Dr. Zaleski came to the Mental Health Collective after a decade-long tenure at University of Southern California as Clinical Associate Professor for the Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work. Dr. Zaleski continues to be affiliated with USC as the Founding Director of the USC Keck Human Rights Clinic which is a pro-bono organization offering forensic evaluations for survivors of international human rights abuse.
Dr. Zaleski sits on the board of two non-profits- Center for Law and Military Policy and Sahiyo- where she advocates for survivors of human trafficking, sexual violence, female genital mutilation, and forced marriage around the world and within the United States military. She also consults with television production companies on how to represent mental health realistically on their programs.
Dr. Zaleski has specific training on neurobiology and modern day attachment theory. Her area of expertise centers around somatic and body-based treatments to heal trauma holistically. She has previously worked at UCLA Rape Treatment Center, Veterans Administration Healthcare Center in Long Beach, and Las Encinas Psychiatric Hospital. She also has a private practice based in Hermosa Beach, CA.
CERTIFICATIONS: EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Stephen Porges Safe & Sound Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and various 2nd and 3rd generation cognitive behavioral evidence based practices.
EDUCATION: University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) BA in Sociology and BA in Psychology, University of Southern California (USC) Master of Social Work, and Sanville Institute for Social Work and Psychotherapy, PhD.
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATIONS: Dr. Zaleski utilizes a trauma-informed, attachment focused lens to client work. Her training integrates interpersonal neurobiology to understand mental health holistically. Dr. Zaleski has advanced training in “bottom-up” somatic treatment modalities to assist the client to feel more in control of their body’s reactions to life events while coupling “top-down” narrative therapies to promote behavioral and cognitive changes. Her clinical experience has centered around military trauma and interpersonal violence that include sexual assault and human trafficking.
Dr. David Safani, MD, MBA, FAPA
Medical Director
UNIVERSITIES + DEGREES: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine [Doctor of Medicine]; University of California, Irvine Paul Merage School of Business [Master of Business Administration]; University of California, Los Angeles [BA, Business Economics]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION: Dr. Safani is a triple board-certified psychiatrist with a specialization in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry as well as clinical informatics (the application of information technology in the delivery of health care services). He provides an evidence-based and holistic approach towards healing mental illness including ADHD, anxiety, autism, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis. His experience spans multiple treatment settings including inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient clinics. Dr. Safani came to the Mental Health Collective after almost two decades at the University of California, Irvine, departing as Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the School of Medicine, Medical Director of Ambulatory Psychiatric Operations, Medical Compliance Officer, and Clinical Informaticist for UCI Health. As an associate clinical professor, he provided numerous lectures on mental health topics. He is a past president of the Orange County Psychiatric Society and has held voting positions in the National American Psychiatric Association.
CERTIFICATIONS: American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology [Diplomat in Adult Psychiatry]; American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology [Diplomat in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry]; American Board of Preventative Medicine [Diplomat in Clinical Informatics]; University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, [Completed Postgraduate Medical Training in General Adult Psychiatry]; University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, [Completed Postgraduate Medical Training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry]; Diplomat Medical Board of California Physicians and Surgeons
“I feel privileged for the opportunity to help guide and support individuals on their journey to recovery, wellness, and self-actualization. I aim to understand the whole person and ensure treatment recommendations are unique to their individualized needs. Applying my medical knowledge and clinical experience, I treat people with compassion and empathy in an open-minded and non-judgmental space.” – Dr. Safani
Dr. Nazneen Nizami, PsyD, LMFT
Assistant Clinical Director
UNIVERSITY + DEGREES: Alliant International University [Couple and Family Therapy, Psy.D.], Loma Linda University [Marriage and Family Therapy, MS], University of California Riverside [Sociology, BS + Education, Minor]
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION: Dr. Nizami specializes in relational and systemic approaches grounded in Narrative Therapy and postmodernism. As an EMDR trained clinician, she works with acute trauma and grief-related issues. Her training and expertise blend the foundations of a calm and safe nervous system, stemming from PolyVagal Theory, with prioritizing identity and reclaiming power from life’s problems. Her specialization in Safe and Sound Protocol offers a somatic approach for developing safety and co-regulation with all clients, however particularly useful with neurodivergent communities. She also works interpersonally, using her training in conflict resolution and systems to guide authentic, vulnerable, and respectful relationships. Her passion is working with emerging adults in transition towards independence, self-assurance, and identity exploration.
In addition to therapy, Dr. Nizami serves as a part-time adjunct faculty member for Alliant International University, Pacific Lutheran University, and Golden West Community College. Her passion for teaching in the field of psychology and mental health has led her to strive to contribute to existing literature. Her research interests focus on exploring authenticity, desirability, and self-perception within modern dating and mating strategies. Another topic of interest includes identifying ethical therapeutic practices when working within multi-generational immigrant family systems.
“My hope for clients is to help redefine their relationship with the problems in their lives. Oftentimes, we so casually let go of the power we have within. If I can assist clients in igniting that fire of power ever-so-slightly, then there is so much room for growth and change. Doing so while developing stronger access to a calm and regulated nervous system, creates even greater possibilities for preferred changes. It’s when people feel safe, connected, and valued that influence living more authentic and preferred lives.” – Dr. Nizami
Julian Marc Opena, MS, LMFT, I-O
Program Director
UNIVERSITIES + DEGREES: University of Southern California/Azusa Pacific University [Masters in Clinical Psychology], Harvard University [Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology], Biola University [Bachelors in Human Biology, Minor in Developmental Psychology]. Julian is currently at Cal State Fullerton for a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology.
CLINICAL SPECIALIZATION: Julian is a clinician specializing in attachment theory and interpersonal neurobiology. With a deep understanding of how early relationships shape the brain and influence emotional and social development, Julian helps individuals navigate the complexities of their interpersonal dynamics. By integrating the science of neurobiology with therapeutic practices, Julian empowers clients to heal from relational wounds, enhance emotional regulation, and cultivate healthier connections. With a focus on the brain’s capacity for growth and change, Julian works to create lasting transformations in both individual and relational well-being. Additionally, Julian is trained in Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy and is Gottman Level 2 certified. Beyond The Mental Health Collective, Julian is a psychology professor and maintains a private practice.
“My goal as a Program Director is to create a healthy, attachment-informed milieu here at The Mental Health Collective. I strive to design and implement programs that nurture resilience, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen interpersonal bonds, ensuring individuals thrive in both personal and collective environments. My hope is to remind clients, perhaps reveal to them, the weight and significance of their value and potential”. -Julian
