Meet the Team

Cathy Robison is the Program Director and Co-Owner of New Hope Recovery. Her journey from addiction to long-term recovery is a powerful testament to resilience and transformation. Since joining New Hope in 2006 as an intern counselor, Cathy has become a passionate leader dedicated to providing the highest quality care in Stanislaus County.

Known for her positivity and deep commitment, Cathy often speaks of “feeling the spirit of New Hope,” which fuels her drive and determination. Surrounded by her trusted support system—her “tribe”—Cathy embraces both challenges and triumphs with grace. Clean since January 1, 2001, she continues to inspire others through her leadership and lived experience.

Shawna Phillips exemplifies “leadership through love.” Since joining New Hope Recovery in 2016 as a Marketing Manager, Shawna has embraced multiple roles with grace and dedication. Inspired to expand her impact, she became a certified Substance Abuse Counselor and now serves as Co-Owner alongside her mother, Cathy.

Shawna has been in recovery since April 1, 2010, and is deeply committed to honoring the individuality of each client. Her mission is to uphold New Hope’s legacy as a safe, welcoming space for healing in the community. Shawna continues to inspire through both her leadership and creativity.

Bob Pauly serves as the Administrator of New Hope Recovery, ensuring full compliance with ever-evolving state and federal regulations. With a deep understanding of the recovery process—having been sober since October 1, 1994—Bob brings both professional expertise and personal insight to his role.

With over 20 years in the field, Bob has held positions ranging from Counselor and Case Manager to Clinical Supervisor and Program Director, working primarily in residential treatment, as well as outpatient and diversion programs. While his role is largely administrative, his true passion is supporting client growth and mentoring counselors. Outside of work, Bob enjoys relaxing on the water with a fishing pole in hand.

Martin is a certified Substance Use Disorder Clinical Supervisor with over a decade of experience serving diverse populations, including adolescents, transitional age youth, families, and individuals involved in the criminal justice system. He is highly skilled in delivering both group and individual services using evidence-based practices and structured educational curricula.

In recovery since January 5, 2011, Martin brings a personal understanding to his work and is deeply committed to person-centered care. He believes each individual’s recovery journey is unique and should be respected as such. Currently pursuing his college degrees, Martin is passionate about lifelong learning. In his free time, he enjoys jogging, golfing, and spending time with his family.

As Intake Coordinator at New Hope Recovery, Theresa Frassrand is often the first warm welcome clients receive. With a deep passion for reducing barriers to treatment, Theresa is committed to helping individuals take their first steps toward recovery. Clean since November 21, 2011, she is driven by a personal mission to support those struggling with addiction.

Theresa has over eight years of experience in substance abuse counseling and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s in psychology, with plans to advance into a Master’s program and become a clinician. Outside of work, she devotes her time to her three young children and cherishes family outings.

Erica Costa is a valued member of the New Hope Recovery team, serving as our Financial Services Coordinator. Since joining New Hope in 2022, Erica has brought strong organizational skills and a strategic mindset to the role, significantly enhancing our back office operations. She also developed a marketing strategy to expand New Hope’s presence in the community and help more individuals find their path to recovery.

An alumna of New Hope, Erica has been clean since December 6, 2007. Her dedication, positivity, and willingness to support others make her an integral part of the team. Outside of work, she finds peace by the ocean—whether camping in Santa Cruz or visiting Maui—and enjoys time with her three beloved dogs: Bella, Coco, and Mr. Murphy.

Dr. Ken Starr is up for the challenge addiction brings. Working with unique individuals who are struggling with substance use disorder, Dr. Starr knows just how to reach every one of our clients. Utilizing his knowledge of the disease model, his medical background, and his empathy for the still-suffering addict, Dr. Starr is addressing the needs of each person with grace and dignity. Dr. Starr is board-certified in Addiction Medicine and Emergency Medicine. He serves as the Chief Medical Officer for a number of world-class substance abuse treatment programs and is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Addiction Medicine at California Northstate University College of Medicine. Dr. Starr is a family man who cares about giving back to those families struggling with addiction. We might not be well when we first arrive, but help is here for you. You’re in good hands with Dr. Ken Starr. He enjoys cycling and hanging out with his family in his free time.

Katie Leonard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Substance Use Counselor with a strong passion for empowering clients to make healthy, positive choices. She holds a BA in Sociology from Stanislaus State University and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. Katie began her career in 2010 working with adolescents and has since grown into a skilled mental health clinician.

Currently employed with San Joaquin County Behavioral Health and now working with New Hope Recovery, Katie brings expertise in both mental health and substance use treatment. She excels at assessment, diagnosis, and connecting clients to appropriate medical and psychiatric care. Katie’s approachable nature and clinical insight make her an invaluable asset to the New Hope team and its mission.

Rhonda Anderson brings over 30 years of experience in the medical field to her role as Medical Technician at New Hope Recovery. Her background includes emergency medicine, hospice care, infectious disease, and substance abuse support—making her an invaluable resource for client health and wellness.

Rhonda began her recovery journey on May 6, 2020, and has since dedicated herself to helping others heal. Her deep gratitude and compassion shine through in her care for clients in need. Outside of work, Rhonda is full of surprises—once a pitcher in the Lodi softball league, a competitive swimmer, and even a skilled speed skater.

Heather Dickey is a Registered Medical Assistant at New Hope Recovery, known for her infectious laugh and compassionate spirit. Since joining the team in 2021, Heather has drawn from her personal experience as both a client and a counselor, deeply connecting with clients and helping them navigate their recovery journeys.

Sober since April 10, 2020, Heather is dedicated to sharing the life-changing message of recovery while bringing joy and positivity to the lives of those she serves. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time in Carmel, CA, where she hopes to relax by the beach. To her colleagues and clients alike, Heather is the bright energy that lights up the New Hope community.

Kirstin Colliss is a dedicated Residential Case Manager at New Hope Recovery, known for her balanced approach—firm yet compassionate. With a strong grasp of evidence-based practices, she is committed to helping clients and their families heal together, recognizing that addiction affects the entire family system.

Kirstin leads the Sunday family group at New Hope, offering support and guidance to loved ones of those in recovery. Her ability to listen, empathize, and guide families toward healing makes her a vital part of the team. In recovery since June 17, 2017, Kirstin brings both personal insight and professional passion to her work. Outside of New Hope, she enjoys making memories with her family in Pacifica, California—her personal sanctuary and spirit place.

Daniel Chavez is a Residential SUD Counselor and Case Manager at New Hope Recovery, with four years of experience in supporting individuals struggling with addiction. An alum of the program, Daniel has been clean since October 31, 2017, and is committed to educating clients about the disease of addiction.

Currently pursuing his master’s degree, Daniel plans to become a college professor, teaching future counselors about chemical dependency. Before transitioning to the addiction field, he traveled the world and worked as a professional makeup artist. Daniel’s greatest passion is musical theater, and his favorite place is in the theater.

Cheree Jimenez-Lenhart is a residential case manager at New Hope Recovery, currently developing her therapeutic approach with a focus on CBT and DBT. Her advanced education and lived experience support clients in making meaningful cognitive and behavioral changes.

Clean since October 27, 2020, Cheree joined New Hope in 2022. A dedicated wife and mother, she finds joy both in her work and in her favorite place—Disneyland.

Jessica Holt is a dedicated Residential Counselor at New Hope Recovery and an alumna of the program. Her recovery journey, which began during a time when the path to sobriety was especially challenging, has shaped her no-nonsense, compassionate approach to client care. Jessica believes that sometimes the message of hope must be delivered with strength and clarity.

For the past three years, she has played a key role in helping individuals transform their lives through recovery. Her lived experience allows her to connect deeply with clients, seeing them beyond their addiction. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys traveling, cherishing time with her family, and dreaming of her next sunny escape to the beaches of Hawaii.

September Black is the Case Manager for the Day Treatment program at New Hope Recovery. With extensive experience and a strong foundation in recovery and education, she connects with clients navigating real-life challenges while in treatment.

September meets individuals where they are, supporting their growth with empathy and insight. Outside of work, she enjoys the vibrant energy of Las Vegas.

Warren Lloyd brings a calm and compassionate presence to New Hope Recovery as an Intensive Outpatient Case Manager. His ability to connect with clients through encouragement and empathy helps individuals feel safe and supported as they begin their recovery journey.

An alumnus of New Hope, Warren has been clean since July 12, 2022, and credits his success to the care and support he received from the team. Now, he’s committed to providing that same level of support to others. Outside of work, he is a gifted photographer with a passion for capturing meaningful moments. His approach is grounded in the belief: “I have faith in every client that walks through our doors.”

Andrea Conklin-Hier brings creativity and heart to the kitchen at New Hope Recovery, preparing nourishing meals that are as memorable as they are delicious. A former substance use counselor, Andrea seamlessly transitioned into her culinary role, blending her passion for recovery with her talent for cooking.

Clean since March 11, 2015, Andrea values the opportunity to witness clients embrace their recovery journey. Outside of work, she enjoys watching her son play football and spending quality time with family.