The Mile High Recovery Center team is a group of passionate people committed to helping you find and maintain your recovery. Our highly qualified addiction treatment team specializes in relapse prevention, trauma, brain-based learning, family involvement, and much more.

Brice Hancock

Chief Executive Officer

Dr. James Shuler, DO, MS, FACOEP, FAWM, FASAM

Medical Director

Mark Bowman

Chief Financial Officer

Melissa Gelman

Operations Manager

Osvaldo “Ozzie” Cabral, MA, LPC, LAC

Clinical Director

Sara Gillett, BS, CAS

Primary Therapist

Madison McGonnigal, LSW

Licensed Social Worker

Tyson Forkner, MS, MFTC

Primary Therapist

Bridgette Lovett, M.Ed., M.A.

Primary Therapist

John Donahoe, BA

Case manager

Jayden Wiersma, LCSW

Intake Therapist

Gabrielle Popovich, LPCC

Primary Therapist

Jill Johanningmeier

Admissions Specialist

Matt Neptune

Director of Community Outreach

Lauren Crawford

Director of Admissions

John Rogers

Patient Advocate, Early Recovery Engagement Specialist

Grace Babet 

Alumni Coordinator

Melanie Stritch

Outreach Specialist

Tamra Evans

Admissions Specialist

Holly E. Vause, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Ashley Medina

Medication Manager

 

Shay Buffamoyer

Facility and Safety Manager/Billing Specailist

Anthony Bonnaci

Head Chef 

Jeremy Abeyta

Facility Maintenance

Tamra Evans

Admissions Specialist

Derrick Deidel

Recovery Coach, Lead Behavioral Health Technician

Hannah
Sexson

Behavioral Health Technician 

Danny Rodd

Behavioral Health Technician 

Kenna Delay

Behavioral Health Technician

Malcolm Floyd

Behavioral Health Technician

Reach Out to Mile High Recovery Center in Denver, Colorado

Mile High Recovery Center understands addiction, but we also understand what it takes to recover from addiction. We know that addiction is different for everyone and that a long-term, personalized treatment plan is the best chance of successful recovery.

If you or someone you know, perhaps a friend in the LGBTQ community, is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction in the Denver, CO area, please reach out to us at 303-268-2144.

Brice Hancock

Chief Executive Officer

As the CEO and Founder of Mile High Recovery Center, Brice is dedicated to helping individuals struggling with addiction to overcome their challenges and reclaim their lives. Brice’s passion for recovery comes from his own lifelong struggle with substance abuse. With years of experience in the field of addiction treatment and sober living, he has developed a deep understanding of the complex nature of addiction and the importance of providing individualized care to each and every client.

Brice started Mile High with one sober house in the Congress Park neighborhood of Denver, CO.  The mission at the time was simply to give back to others what had been freely given to him.  Throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to build a team of compassionate and skilled professionals who share his commitment to providing the highest quality care to their clients. Together, they have developed a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that combines evidence-based practices with a focus on holistic healing and personalized support.

At Mile High Recovery Center, we believe that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction, but about rebuilding a fulfilling and meaningful life. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to support our clients in every aspect of their journey, from detoxification and residential treatment to outpatient care and aftercare support.

As CEO, Brice believes his mission is to ensure that Mile High Recovery Center remains at the forefront of addiction treatment, always striving to improve and innovate services to meet the evolving needs of it’s clients. Brice is proud to lead a team of dedicated professionals who share his passion for helping individuals achieve lasting recovery, and he is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those he serves.

In a previous life, he was a career musician, booking agent, and he owned a live music bar. Brice is a father, a realtor, and podcaster. He enjoys scuba diving, surfing, snowboarding, hiking, the gym, playing guitar, and painting.

Dr. James Schuler, DO, MS, FACOEP, FAWM, FASAM

Medical Director

Dr. Shuler has lived in Colorado since age 6, growing up in the Fort Collins area. He attended Colorado Timberline Academy in Durango for high school and after that became an MP in the United States Army. After that, he returned to Fort Collins where he was self-employed in a couple different ventures before attending College at Colorado State University where he did a double major in Botany and Zoology. After graduating, he attended medical school at Des Moines University where he also received a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. He then attended internship residency in emergency medicine at Michigan State University in Lansing, Michigan. He then returned to Colorado and practiced emergency medicine in a wide variety of emergency departments including locum tenens work in multiple states and started an urgent care business with other partners.

Dr. Shuler’s passion for addiction medicine arose from his own recovery from alcoholism over a decade ago. He began his training at Harmony Foundation and worked under and with several addiction medicine specialists in a variety of practices over the past 6 years. He is currently dual board-certified in addiction and emergency medicine with a subspecialty fellowship in wilderness medicine. He currently lives with his wife in Lafayette, Colorado and has two girls, ages 20 and 23, and two stepchildren ages 20 and 26. He is currently the Medical Director for inpatient addiction treatment at the Foundry in Steamboat, Colorado, and Choice House/Lookout in Boulder, Colorado. Additionally, he is a regional medical director for Front Range Clinics, devoted to outpatient addiction treatment and works with the Denver Recovery Group, another outpatient addiction treatment facility.

His hobbies include gourmet cooking, as much travel as possible, and a variety of outdoor activities in Colorado.

Mark Bowman

Chief Financial Officer

Melissa Gelman

Operations Manager

Melissa Gelman is a dedicated Operations Manager with a profound commitment to making a positive impact in her community. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Youth and Diverse Communities at Risk, Melissa has spent the past decade tirelessly working with high-risk populations, demonstrating her unwavering passion for social welfare and empowerment.

Currently pursuing her MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Administration, Melissa exemplifies her relentless pursuit of knowledge and professional growth. Her academic endeavors reflect her aspiration to leverage her expertise and skills in operational management to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector, where she aims to enact positive change and improve accessibility to quality healthcare services.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Melissa finds solace and joy in her role as a mother, cherishing every moment spent with her daughter. She finds rejuvenation in nature, often indulging in outdoor activities and adventures. Additionally, Melissa is a devoted dog owner, finding companionship and happiness in the playful antics of her furry friend.

Melissa’s commitment to personal growth and well-being extends to her active participation in a 12-step program, where she has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. With a clean date of 9/11/19, Melissa serves as an inspiration to others, showcasing the transformative power of perseverance and self-improvement.

Driven by her values of compassion, integrity, and resilience, Melissa Gelman continues to forge ahead, making a meaningful difference in both her professional endeavors and personal journey.

Osvaldo “Ozzie” Cabral, MA, LPC, LAC

Clinical Director

Osvaldo “Ozzie” Cabral, MA, LPC, LAC (Wixarika/Chichimeca) is the Director of Clinical Services at Mile High Recovery Center and has worked in addictions and mental health since 2002. He has worked in various treatment settings including residential, outpatient treatment facilities, domestic violence, sex offender clinics, and community mental health centers. Ozzie, co-authored and published a curriculum with Hazelden Publishing, on the integration of Dialectical Behavior Therapy with 12-step philosophy. Ozzie has been actively involved in the wolf and wolfdog advocacy for many years and initially founded Song of the Wolf Healing Center in 2016. A rescue for high-content wolfdogs. After separating from the organization in 2020, he co-founded Cuetlachtepetl Wolf Mountain Education Center (CWMEC) in hopes of creating a healing center for all individuals and the animals who reside at CWMEC. Tlazocamati Nochimeh.

Sara Gillett, BS, CAS

Primary Therapist

Sara received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and Counseling, with a concentration in Addictions Counseling, and is currently working toward obtaining her Master’s degree in counseling.

Sara completed her addiction counselor certification, and is excited to work closely with the newly recovering community.

Sara has various family and friends who have struggled with addiction, and because of this, she has a passion for helping those who are also struggling with addiction. She believes that everyone has the capability for recovery and her goal is to assist clients in this treatment process.
Sara works individually and in groups to aid clients in achieving their goals, and utilizes motivational interviewing throughout this process.

Sara is a Colorado native and enjoys hiking and camping in her free time. She also enjoys exploring and visiting new places, and so far she’s visited over 15 countries through her travel

Tyson Forkner, MS, MFTC 

Primary Therapist

Tyson was born and raised in Abilene, Texas. He went to Searcy, Arkansas to get his bachelor’s degree at Harding University. At HU he met his now wife. Each of them then attended Oklahoma State University to get our master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. During their time in Oklahoma, they grew their family and are now parents to the most beautiful 2-year-old boy.
In his personal life, he loves to play sports, spend time in nature, eat good food, and spend time with his loved ones. He’s grateful to be able to do meaningful work at Mile High Recovery Center working with individuals turning their lives around.

Bridgette Lovett, M.Ed., M.A.

Primary Therapist

Bridgette brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role as a Primary Therapist at MHRC. She holds a master’s degree in education and a master’s degree in Psychological Counseling, both from Teachers College, Columbia University. With over a decade of teaching experience, she has honed her skills in creating engaging and effective learning environments. Before transitioning to her current role, Bridgette served as a School Counselor, where she specialized in supporting first-generation college applicants, and undocumented students. Her work in this area has equipped her with a deep understanding of the unique challenges these populations face, and she is passionate about providing the guidance and support necessary for every intersectionality. At the heart of Bridgette’s therapeutic approach is her belief in making lessons fun and interactive. When a client enjoys the learning process, they are more likely to return to treatment. If they return to treatment, they will learn. Bridgette applies this same principle to her work at MHRC, striving to create a welcoming and stimulating environment, conducive to sustainable recovery. Bridgette’s educational background, combined with her experience and innovative approach, makes her an asset to the Mile High Recovery Center team.

John Donahoe, BA

Case manager

J.D. Donahoe joins the MHRC Clinical Team as a Case Manager after working in the educational field. After excelling as a Student-Athlete for the C.U. Buffs, J.D. brings hands-on experience from over a decade of teaching high school and coaching college football.  J.D. has a huge passion for empowering clients and helping them discover their own potential. 

J.D. loves working closely with the recovery community. He has a huge passion for helping those who are struggling with addiction, and enjoys sharing his experience, strength, and hope with anyone who could benefit from it. J.D. comes from a big “Pittsburgh Family” (Go Steelers!) and spends as much time as he can with his nieces and nephews. One of them, who is 5 years old, is concerned and wants to know why J.D. is not married yet. 

Jayden Wiersma, MSW, LCSW

Intake Manager

Jayden Wiersma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Strength Based Solutions.  He is an Iowa native where he got his Masters of Social Worker from the University of Northern Iowa. Jayden has over 15 years of experience providing human services in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, criminal corrections, group homes, community supportive living, and inpatient hospitalizations.  He has training in Crisis Prevention Institute, Medication Administration/QMAP, and CPR/First Aid.  Jayden has a passion for addiction recovery after witnessing the impact that substance abuse has on the individual, family, and community as a whole.

Gabrielle Popovich, LPCC

Primary Therapist

Gabrielle believes that everyone has the innate capacity for living a fulfilling and healthy life. Gabrielle graduated from Naropa University’s Nature-Based Transpersonal Counseling program, where she learned to integrate nature-based, somatic, and expressive elements with cognitive and behavioral models to create a well-rounded and individualized experience for each client. As the therapist for MHRC’s Residential Treatment Program, she embraces a motivational, compassion-centered, and strengths-based approach to therapy. Gabrielle helps clients navigate the unique challenges of addiction with empathy, self-compassion, and motivation.

Gabrielle meets clients where they are, focusing on harm reduction, relapse prevention, and emotional resilience while fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust. She strives to offer a safe and supportive space for healing, personal growth, and lasting recovery.

In her spare time, Gabrielle can be found enjoying the outdoors and the local art and music scenes.

Jill Johanningmeier

Admissions Specialist

Jill is a Denver native and a single mother to an amazing daughter. Survivor of alcoholism and drug addiction by way of 12 step recovery, it is her passion and purpose to help others to recover from the disease of addiction.

She is active in the Denver recovery community, involved in twelve-step recreation leagues, on the committee for hospitals and institutions for cocaine anonymous and a CCAR trained recovery coach.

Jill enjoys playing Volleyball, managing the Mile High Softball team, traveling and being the president of her daughter’s fan club.

She joined Mile High Sober Living as a House manager in 2018 and is now the Program Director for Mile High Sober Living. Jill has worked for Mile High Recovery Center since it opened and is the Director of Admissions.

“I love being a part of someone’s recovery journey, seeing lives transform and helping others to thrive, not just survive, is such a beautiful thing!” – Jill

Matt Neptune

Director of Community Outreach

Matt Neptune has worked in a variety of capacities in the treatment field over the last 7 years including residential director, director of operations, and sober living owner. Over time, Matt felt he had the experience and knowledge that could help relate to individuals and families struggling with some of the same things he once did, and began his career at Mile High Recovery Center. Matt often speaks to his community partners about his choice to work for MHRC because of the mission, culture and core values the company embodies.

Matt has a proven reputation of working with each client and family to offer unwaivering support in finding placement for individuals in need of care. Please reach out to Matt today with any questions or to set up an appointment to learn more about MHRC.

Lauren Crawford

Director of Admissions

Lauren Davis moved from Louisiana to Colorado in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina. Here she studied at The University of Colorado where she graduated with her bachelors in international affairs and TEFL Certificate (teaching English as a foreign language). She utilized her education to travel abroad and teach English in Argentina and Costa Rica before returning back to Colorado. For the next 10 years she developed her professional career as an account executive and sales client trainer.

In 2021, Lauren found sobriety through the Harmony Foundation and created a fulfilling life in Denver with Mile High Recovery Center’s sober living community. Today you can find Lauren playing on 12-step sporting leagues (soccer, volleyball and softball), traveling every chance she gets (51 countries and counting), leading AA meetings in the Denver Women’s Prison, or lounging with her partner and their German Shepherd, Buddy.

In 2023, Lauren decided to merge her career skills with her own sober experience to help others recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Thus she was the ideal person to continue to build the alumni community at Mile High Recovery Center. She loves working with other recovering alcoholics and addicts throughout their journeys; helping them from their first day here to finding work, volunteer opportunities, a positive community to engage with, and fun activities to participate in while living sober.  

John Rogers

Patient Advocate, Early Recovery Engagement Specialist

John has been on a path of sobriety since December 21, 2020, the same day he joined Mile High Sober Living. Originally from Houston, Texas, John quickly demonstrated his leadership and commitment to the recovery community. He became a house manager in 2021 and later transitioned to the roles of Early Engagement Recovery Specialist and Patient Advocate for clients.

In his roles, John focuses on helping new clients acclimate to the recovery process, offering support and guidance during the critical early stages of their journey, and advocating for their needs to ensure they receive the best possible care and resources. His dedication to helping others is evident in his compassionate approach and genuine care for each individual’s progress.

John enjoys spending time with friends, walking his beloved pugs, and being outside. His commitment to his own recovery and his passion for supporting others make him an invaluable member of the Mile High team.

Grace Babet

Alumni Coordinator

Grace Babet is a Mile High Alumni of 2023, with a sobriety date of June 13, 2023. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Grace found her path to recovery through Zinnia Health in South Bend, Indiana, where she made the pivotal decision to enter sober living. After relocating to Denver, Colorado, it was at Mile High that she found the community, support, and accountability she needed to build a new life free from drugs and alcohol.

Through the 12-step way of recovery, Grace has cultivated a new way of life, believing wholeheartedly in her recovery from a hopeless state of mind and body. She believes that saying “yes” to opportunities to help others is key to her sobriety. Her profound gratitude for Mile High motivates her to give back as the Alumni Coordinator, fulfilling a vital role in the community that helped restore her life.

Grace’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and strength, fueled by strong morals that guide her each day. She is dedicated to carrying the message of hope to those still struggling with addiction, proving that recovery is not just possible—it’s a beautiful new way of life.

Melanie Stritch

Outreach Specialist

Melanie Stritch helps individuals and families better understand the disease of addiction, find effective treatment, and move toward recovery. Melanie has lived experience in every aspect of substance use and mental health disorders, family system dysfunction, and recovery, which allows her to offer uniquely informed perspectives that help her relate to her client’s issues and understand their needs. Melanie’s training in numerous intervention models and partnership with expert interventionist Marlyce Bowdish allows her to conduct highly tailored facilitated family conversations that increase the likelihood that individuals will be receptive to offers of help and initiate treatment.

With a background in recovery coaching, work as a behavioral healthcare community liaison, and extensive knowledge of treatment providers nationwide, Melanie deeply understands the vital, nuanced differences between treatment providers. She helps families identify the most appropriate resources to meet their needs.

Melanie is a North Carolina native and maintains strong connections with her home state despite moving to Colorado in 2006. When not working on behalf of her clients and her steadfast commitment to helping all people access recovery, Meanie is busy parenting her 13-year-old son and exploring all the natural glories Colorado has to offer.

Melanie is in long-term recovery and is dedicated personally and professionally to breaking the stigma around addiction.

Holly E. Vause, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Holly graduated from Middlebury College and completed a master’s degree in nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Colorado, College of Nursing. Currently, she works with children, teens, and adults in outpatient mental health services. For those in recovery, she has experience using medication-assisted treatment. In general, Holly has a deep appreciation for holistic care, including conservative use of medication, beneficial nutrition, daily routines, and physical movement to support mental health wellness and recovery. She has co-authored several published articles for The American Journal of Psychiatry and The Nurse Practitioner.

Ashley Medina

Medication Manager

Ashley plays a pivotal role as a behavioral health technician and medication manager, demonstrating exceptional organizational skills while delivering the highest level of care to Mile High’s clients. Since joining Mile High in 2022, Ashley has consistently infused her work with compassion and positivity, creating a nurturing environment for those in her care.

Her involvement in a 12-step program is a testament to her commitment to personal wellness, having maintained her sobriety since August 22, 2023. As a devoted mother of two beautiful children, Ashley finds immense joy in spending quality time with her family, cherishing moments with her kids and creating lasting memories with her loved ones and friends.

Beyond her professional and family commitments, Ashley finds fulfillment in playing softball on a 12-step recovery league, reflecting her passion for both physical activity and community involvement. Her vibrant and multifaceted approach to life embodies her dedication to personal growth, family, and the well-being of the community she serves.

Shay Buffamoyer

Facility and Safety Manager/Billing Specailist

Shay is an active and passionate member of the recovery community. Working as Mile High’s Facility and Safety Manager, Shay assists in multiple facets of the treatment center and sober living, alike. Shay grew up in Greenville, South Carolina and moved to Denver, Colorado in 2019 to seek recovery at Mile High Sober Living. Shay eventually became a house manager and helped many new clients in early sobriety. Shay enjoys playing in TSRAs sober softball and volleyball league, camping, listening to Grateful Dead and Widespread Panic and hanging out with his 115-pound Bernese named Wally. Shay brings empathy, humor and pride to his work at Mile High Recovery Center; he loves to see progress in those who are seeking treatment.

Anthony Bonnaci

Head Chef

Tony has been an integral part of Mile High since 2017, initially joining as a client in recovery housing. His dedication and natural leadership skills quickly became evident, and in 2018, he took on the role of house manager. Tony’s compassionate and supportive approach has made him a favorite among clients, helping to foster a positive and nurturing environment.

In addition to his responsibilities as a house manager, Tony serves as the executive chef for Mile High’s residential clients. His culinary expertise and passion for creating nutritious, delicious meals play a vital role in the overall wellness and recovery journey of the residents.

Outside of his professional commitments, Tony enjoys spending time with friends, soaking up the sun, and offering support to others on their path to recovery. His genuine care for the well-being of those around him makes Tony a cherished member of the Mile High community.

Jeremy Abeyta

Facility Maintenance

Jeremy is a cornerstone of the team, serving as the dedicated maintenance man at Mile High and demonstrating an exceptional aptitude for all things maintenance. His unwavering commitment to self-improvement on his recovery journey reflects his resilience and determination.

As a devoted father and husband, Jeremy finds immeasurable joy in spending quality time with his loving family. His passion for the outdoors comes to life through his love for hunting and fishing, where he finds solace and connection with nature. Additionally, Jeremy’s enthusiasm for football underscores his vibrant and multifaceted approach to life, reflecting his dedication to his family, personal growth, and the activities that bring him joy and fulfillment.

Derrick Deidel

Recovery Coach, Lead Behavioral Health Technician

Derrick has been on a remarkable journey of recovery, maintaining his sobriety since February 24, 2020. He joined Mile High in 2021, bringing his passion for helping others to the community. As a Behavioral Health Technician Lead, Derrick plays a crucial role in supporting clients through their recovery process, providing guidance, and fostering a compassionate and understanding environment.

Derrick’s dedication to his faith is a cornerstone of his life, providing him with strength and purpose. His commitment to personal well-being is evident through his love of working out, which helps him stay grounded and focused. Derrick also values positive reinforcement, recognizing its power in personal growth and recovery.

In his free time, Derrick cherishes moments spent with loved ones, appreciating the support and connection they bring to his life. His genuine care for others and unwavering dedication to his own recovery make Derrick an essential member of the Mile High team.

Hannah Sexson

Behavioral Health Technician 

Hannah grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado. Growing up, she enjoyed playing soccer and basketball. In 2019, Hannah moved to Denver to seek recovery at Mile High Sober Living and eventually worked her way up to being a house manager. While she is no longer in sober living, she enjoys playing on a sober volleyball league and continues to be an active member within the recovery community. Hannah received her Bachelor of Science in ecology from the University of Colorado in Boulder and is currently attending nursing school. She is on track to graduate in March 2025.

Danny Rodd

Behavioral Health Technician

Danny is a dedicated behavioral health technician who joined Mile High in 2023, marking the latest milestone in his extensive journey. Recently appointed as a house manager at one of Mile High’s sober livings, Danny brings his wealth of experience and compassion to his new role. His deep connection to his faith has been a guiding force throughout his personal recovery journey.

Beyond his professional commitments, Danny also serves as a life coach, leveraging his own experiences to inspire and support others. An avid gamer, he finds joy and relaxation in the world of gaming, showcasing his versatile interests and passion for personal growth.

McKenna Delay

Behavioral Health Technician

Kenna stands as a vital and valued member of the behavioral health team, where her unwavering dedication and profound compassion define her role as a behavioral health technician. Her commitment to personal wellness is evident in her journey of recovery, spanning a couple of years, and her active involvement in 12-step meetings, embodying resilience and an unwavering commitment to personal growth.

Beyond her professional commitments, Kenna’s heart fills with joy as she spends cherished moments with her delightful daughter, savoring the shared experiences that bring them closer together. Embracing a holistic approach to wellness, she finds fulfillment in her love for the gym, where she nurtures her physical well-being, and in the tranquility of the outdoors, where she finds peace and rejuvenation. Kenna’s balanced and vibrant approach to life shines through in her unwavering dedication to personal growth and her profound commitment to her family and well-being.

Malcolm Floyd

Behavioral Health Technician

Malcolm is a dedicated and passionate behavioral health technician who exemplifies unwavering commitment to his own recovery journey. His motivation and kindness shine through in his interactions with both clients and colleagues, creating a nurturing and supportive environment within Mile High.

When not at work, Malcolm finds joy in the company of his beloved family and friends, cherishing the moments spent with those closest to him. His commitment to personal growth and well-being reflects his vibrant approach to life, embodying his dedication to his profession and the relationships that bring him fulfillment and happiness.