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Larisa Krichevsky, LMFT

CEO, Program Director

Kyna Sternlight, MSW

Director of Operations

Desiree Golbahar, LMFT

Clinical Director

Annie-Claire Lowen, LMFT

Co - Clinical Director

Dr. Eric Chaghouri, MD

Medical Director

Jackie Heckmaster, RADT

Director of Admissions

Amaka Obaze, M.S

Director Of Digital Marketing

Lana Mitsevich

Director of Clinical Outreach

Elizabeth Davis, SUDRC

Intake Coordinator

Jacob Flores, RADT

Case Manager

Patrick Lombardo, RADT

Operations Coordinator

Wendy Roehr, AMFT

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

Paul Backlund, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Jacobi Wade, LMFT

Primary Therapist

Erica Cannon, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Orlando Suarez, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Kayala Gosnell, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Nia Brooks, SUDRC

Client Care Specialist

Michael Stewart, RADT

Client Care Specialist

Larisa Krichevsky is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience as a psychotherapist and a clinical supervisor. Larisa’s approach is solution-focused and asset based. This means her work is focused on reinforcing her clients’ strengths, rather than putting the focus on the exploration of their weaknesses. Larisa’s treatment goals include teaching emotion-regulation skills, the ability to identify somatic activation patterns (mad, sad, glad, afraid, etc.), moving her clients to a more secure attachment strategy, increasing resilience for positive experience, and the restoration of a natural defensive response or their natural ability to say ‘NO’. 
 Larisa is greatly influenced by neuroscience and the research of positive psychology which guides her asset based treatment through the underlying assumption that without focusing on strengths and resources healing will not occur. Larisa is dedicated to fostering growth in a safe and nurturing environment. Her treatment approach is tailored to who the client is, where her clients’ strengths lie, and the clients’ needs as unique individuals. Larisa’s ultimate goal is to empower her clients to create change within themselves, have their needs met in relationships and to help every client feel accepted, valued, and understood within themselves and their interpersonal relationships.

Larisa Krichevsky, LMFT

CEO, Program Director

Kyna Sternlight is a passionate and compassionate individual with a diverse background in mental health, substance abuse treatment, and business operations. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work. Kyna has worked with dually-diagnosed adolescents and teens in residential treatment facilities, as well as in an inpatient adolescent psychiatric facility. She is committed to supporting individuals on their road to recovery from addiction. Kyna has also owned and operated two successful businesses and understands the importance of organization and implementing systems to maximize function and impact. She has a deep listening of clients' needs and is dedicated to expanding their success and well-being.

Kyna Sternlight, MSW

Director of Operations

Desiree Golbahar is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Program Director at Launch to Wellness, specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC San Diego and her master’s in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles. With over 10 years of experience, she has worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families across a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control, and behavioral issues. Desiree takes a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach, integrating psychodynamic, family systems, existential, and DBT techniques. She has also trained at UCLA’s OCD Clinic, supporting individuals with OCD and hoarding disorders, and is a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Known for her compassion, authenticity, and strong clinical leadership, she is dedicated to creating a supportive, ethical, and client-centered environment while guiding individuals on their path to lasting recovery.

Desiree Golbahar, LMFT

Clinical Director

Annie-Claire Lowen, LMFT, earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2020 and has completed advanced training in EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). She has several years of experience working with individuals facing complex trauma, mood and personality disorders, substance use, and at-risk youth. Annie-Claire takes an individualized, attachment-focused approach to therapy, helping clients understand how life experiences shape present challenges while incorporating mindfulness and grounding practices to support healing and growth.

Annie-Claire Lowen, LMFT

Co - Clinical Director

Dr. Eric Chaghouri graduated summa cum laude from UCLA in 2007 with a B.A. in Biology, where he was also part of the 2006 NCAA National Championship men’s volleyball team and was named UCLA Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2007. He earned his medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine of USC and completed his psychiatry residency at LAC + USC Medical Center, serving as Chief Resident of Psychiatric Emergency Services and as a Resident Clinical Instructor. He later completed a forensic psychiatry fellowship at the USC Institute of Psychiatry and Law. Dr. Chaghouri now runs a successful psychiatric practice in Southern California specializing in co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders, while also consulting with attorneys, courts, and major television networks on psychiatric matters. His professional interests include addiction medicine, forensic psychiatry, medical ethics, psychological autopsy, gender wellness, and evidence-based psychiatric treatment.

Dr. Eric Chaghouri, MD

Medical Director

Originally from Overland Park, Kansas, Jackie moved to Los Angeles six years ago and found purpose through her recovery journey. For the past five years, she has been an active member of the LA recovery community, dedicated to supporting others in sobriety. As a sponsor, Jackie offers compassionate, one-on-one guidance, grounded in her belief that genuine human connection is key to healing. She draws strength from her supportive family, whose encouragement has fueled her growth and resilience. Passionate about giving back, Jackie inspires others to stay committed to recovery, reminding them that a happy, sober life is possible. Outside of her work, she enjoys fitness, beach days, reading, golf, and spending time with loved ones.

Jackie Heckmaster, RADT

Director of Admissions

Amaka brings over a decade of experience in marketing, storytelling, and community-building to her work, blending creativity with a deep commitment to impact. Throughout her career, she has led innovative social media strategies and campaigns for globally recognized brands, building engaged communities and driving meaningful connection at scale. Driven by a passion for helping others, Amaka extends her expertise into the wellness and recovery space, where she focuses on creating authentic, purpose-driven narratives that resonate. She believes in the power of storytelling to inspire change, foster connection, and support personal growth. Known for her strategic mindset and empathetic approach, Amaka is dedicated to building environments where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered on their journey. Her work is rooted in intention, impact, and a genuine desire to uplift others. Outside of her professional work, Amaka enjoys staying active, exploring culture and creativity, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Amaka Obaze, M.S

Director Of Digital Marketing

Lana brings both professional expertise and deeply personal insight to her work at Launch To Wellness, connecting individuals and families with the mental health and recovery resources that change lives. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, she immigrated to the U.S. at sixteen and has called Los Angeles home for more than three decades. Before entering the wellness space, Lana built a 25-year career in real estate and lending as a licensed Broker and Mortgage Loan Originator. What truly shapes her work, though, is lived experience. Having navigated grief, childhood trauma, and her own recovery from alcohol addiction, Lana leads with the kind of empathy that can only come from walking the path herself. Outside of work, she's the proud mom of two sons, Ben and Daniel, and finds joy in travel, new cultures, and her ongoing exploration of self-development and spirituality.

Lana Mitsevich

Director of Clinical Outreach

Eliza grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and brings a warm, personal touch to her work at Launch to Wellness. Her passion for helping others is deeply rooted in her own lived experience. Having walked through addiction, survived suicide attempts, faced the pain of losing loved ones, and worked through the long process of grief and healing from trauma, Eliza understands firsthand how challenging the road to recovery can be. Guided by a strong spiritual motivation and a belief in the power of hope, Eliza approaches every patient with empathy and genuine care. She strives to create a safe space where people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to believe that change is possible. Eliza is dedicated to lifelong learning and growth in the field, and she feels honored to walk alongside individuals and families as they discover their own strength and resilience. She believes that recovery is more than overcoming addiction—it’s about rebuilding a life filled with purpose, connection, and the possibility of healing.

Elizabeth Davis, SUDRC

Intake Coordinator

Jacob's journey began in a small Oklahoma suburb, where he quickly realized the need to seek opportunities beyond his hometown's confines. Motivated by a desire to make a difference, Jacob pursued a career in the helping profession, drawing from his own recovery journey to guide others struggling with mental health and substance use challenges. Committed to continuous learning and growth, Jacob aims to understand all facets of recovery, ensuring he can provide tailored support to each individual. Having experienced firsthand the transformative power of a caring and safe environment, Jacob prioritizes creating that same nurturing space for his clients. As a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician (RADT), Jacob is dedicated to expanding his knowledge and expertise in the field to better serve those in need

Jacob Flores, RADT

Case Manager

PJ is a dedicated Client Advocate at Launch To Wellness, bringing a wealth of experience in behavioral therapy and a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. With a background as a Behavioral Therapist specializing in children with Autism and Down Syndrome, PJ possesses invaluable insights into addressing the unique needs of each client with empathy and expertise. ​He holds two Associate’s degrees, one in Behavioral Science and another in Administration of Justice from Los Angeles City College, an American Bar Association-approved program. This comprehensive academic foundation enriches PJ's approach, allowing for a holistic perspective in client advocacy and support. ​Driven by a passion for empowering individuals and families, PJ is committed to fostering a supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and encouraged on their path to healing. He combines clinical knowledge with compassionate advocacy to ensure that every client receives personalized care and guidance throughout their treatment journey.

Patrick Lombardo, RADT

Operations Coordinator

Wendy Roehr is an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist (AMFT) with over 18 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families. In her career as a therapist Wendy has worked with state agencies and non-profit organizations, in-patient and out-patient treatment, dual-diagnosis mental health, trauma and substance abuse treatment. She has been commissioned to create team building projects, interpersonal relationship seminars, and parenting & life skill classes for pregnant teens and teen parents. She is passionate about her work, recognizing unique and complex needs of clients and incorporating them in the therapeutic process as a healing tool and integrative technique for mind, body and spirit.

Wendy Roehr, AMFT

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

From an early age, therapy played a meaningful role in Paul’s life, shaping his curiosity and desire for deeper understanding. As a second-generation St. Thomian from the Virgin Islands, he was raised within a rich, multicultural community that instilled in him a deep appreciation for diversity and connection. These experiences led him to mentor at-risk and marginalized youth and pursue studies focused on how unseen social influences shape our lives. Paul became a therapist to help others explore the stories that define them. He believes therapy is not about “fixing” problems, but about understanding our relationship to them—uncovering how thoughts, beliefs, and experiences shape emotions like anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, he helps clients challenge limiting patterns and discover new, more empowering narratives. Paul has experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, trans youth, young adults, couples, and families. His areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

Paul Backlund, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Jacobi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her B.A. from the University of Colorado Boulder, a law degree from New England School of Law, and later a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Northridge. She has clinical experience across detox, IOP, PHP, and residential treatment settings, and has worked with court-mandated families, veterans with PTSD, and individuals facing trauma and addiction. Jacobi takes a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach to therapy, integrating DBT skills with mindfulness, CBT, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and creative arts therapies to support clients on their path to healing.

Jacobi Wade, LMFT

Primary Therapist

Erica is a compassionate and dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) with a strong foundation in mental health care. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California, Davis, and a Master’s Degree from the University of Massachusetts Global, Erica has spent over seven years working in the mental health field, working across a range of settings, including in-home behavioral therapy, residential treatment, school-based, and outpatient care. Throughout her career, Erica has worked with individuals facing diverse challenges, including trauma, substance use, developmental disorders, depression, personality disorders and anxiety. Her passion for therapy is deeply rooted in personal life experiences and a genuine desire to support others during difficult times. With a holistic approach that prioritizes empathy and empowerment, Erica is committed to fostering healing and resilience in those she serves. ​Outside of her professional life, Erica is an avid reader with a love for books that range from self-help to fantasy. A devoted cat lover, she also enjoys spending quality time with her two beloved cats, who bring comfort and joy to her life. Erica believes in the importance of self-care and balance, and finds inspiration in both her personal interests and the meaningful work she does as a therapist.

Erica Cannon, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Orlando Suarez’s approach to therapy is supportive, practical, and empowering. He integrates DBT, CBT, ACT, and IFS with mindfulness and affirmative therapy to help clients manage emotions, build healthy coping skills, and navigate life’s challenges. Orlando also has extensive experience supporting individuals struggling with addiction and believes recovery begins with compassion, not judgment. In addition to his clinical training, he brings over 15 years of experience as a yoga teacher, incorporating a mind–body perspective to support healing and lasting growth.

Orlando Suarez, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Kayala Gosnell is a somatic psychotherapist focused on trauma-informed and holistic healing, supporting individuals recovering from complex trauma and addiction. Her approach integrates somatic therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and narrative therapy, and she also works with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy to help bridge Eastern and Western healing practices. With experience in addiction treatment and her own journey in 12-step recovery, Kayala brings both professional insight and lived experience into a compassionate, client-centered approach. She is currently working toward licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Kayala Gosnell, AMFT

Primary Therapist

Nia brings a unique blend of compassion, professionalism, and lived experience to her role as Client Care Specialist at Launch To Wellness. With a background in hospitality and over three years of experience supporting clients, including her time as a Room Service Associate at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, Nia has always been committed to service and care. After moving to Los Angeles in 2022 to begin her own recovery journey, she has since worked in residential and detox settings for substance use treatment, gaining 16 months of hands-on experience in the field. In addition to her commitment to the 12 step process, Nia is passionate about holistic healing and fully embraces Launch to Wellness’ approach to recovery. She finds purpose in being of service to others and takes pride in meeting client needs while being a reliable and supportive presence on her team.

Nia Brooks, SUDRC

Client Care Specialist

Michael has had hands-on experience working in sober living environments and detox treatment centers, supporting individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health challenges. His background has given him a strong understanding of recovery-focused care, crisis support, and working with diverse populations in high-stress settings. Michael brings true empathy, professionalism, and a very strong and dedicated commitment to helping clients work toward stability and long-term recovery.

Michael Stewart, RADT

Client Care Specialist

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LAUNCH TO WELLNESS

Real Support.
Structured Care.

Clinician-led mental health and recovery programs built for lasting change.

Compassionate Team

Experienced clinicians

who truly care. 

Evidence - Based Care

Proven therapies that

drive real results. 

Whole Person Approach

Addressing mind, body,

and everyday life. 

Ongoing Support 

We walk with you every step of the way.

Meet Our Staff 

At Launch to Wellness, our team is the heart of everything we do. Comprised of experienced, licensed clinicians and dedicated professionals, we are united by a shared commitment to providing personalized, high-quality care. Our clinical team is trained in evidence-based treatment approaches, ensuring every client receives structured, results-driven support. Each member brings a unique blend of expertise, empathy, and lived experience, allowing us to support clients with depth, understanding, and genuine connection.

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The Joint Commission Accreditation

National Gold Seal of Approval

Accreditation ID: #700145
Effective: 10/27/2023
Expires: 10/27/2026

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California Department of Health Care Services

State Licensed Treatment Provider

License #: 191279AP
Effective: 10/01/2025
Expires: 09/30/2027

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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Aligned with National Standards

National Behavioral Health Authority
Guiding Evidence-Based Care

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WBENC Certified

Women-Owned Business Enterprise

Certification #: WBE260006
Effective: 01/05/2026
Expires: 01/31/2027

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