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(844) 719-1315

Our Team

Our team is guided by an unrelenting desire to help every client experience the highest possible quality of life. We meet our clients where they are, help them identify realistic short- and long-term goals, and then provide the services and support that will help them realize their greatest potential.

Meet Our Clinical Team

Our staff members are chosen for their ability to provide you with the most advanced care possible and their dedication to delivering an extraordinary treatment experience. When you arrive at Crownview Psychiatric Institute, you will know that you are in a safe place—one of kindness, expertise, and genuine compassion for the healing process.

  • Johanna Brubaker, AMFT
    Johanna Brubaker, AMFT
    Program Therapist
  • Christena Khattar, LPA
    Christena Khattar, LPA
    Program and Trauma Therapist
  • Leo Preuss, CADC-II
    Leo Preuss, CADC-II
    AODS Counselor
  • Devyn Rodriguez
    Devyn Rodriguez
    Program Therapist
  • June Cappiello, AMFT, APCC
    June Cappiello, AMFT, APCC
    Program Therapist
  • Astinne Duffey, AMFT
    Astinne Duffey, AMFT
    Program Therapist
  • Mary Becerra, AMFT
    Mary Becerra, AMFT
    Program and Trauma Therapist
  • Jake Ruhe, CCI/CPI
    Jake Ruhe, CCI/CPI
    Group Facilitator

In-Network with

ComPsych
Worldwide leader in organizational mental health. Comprehensive programs for mental health, well-being, work-life, and heath navigation needs, powered by a new digital experience.

Halcyon Behavioral
Halcyon Behavioral provide self-insured clients with complete inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance abuse (MHSA) benefit administration.

TRICARE is a world-class healthcare system that supports the military mission by fostering, protecting, sustaining, and restoring health.

Meet Our Administrative Support Staff

Our support staff is comprised of a closely interwoven team of professionals. They manage the institute’s operational needs, coordinating seamlessly with the therapists to provide the highest quality service to our clients. The spirit of compassion and individual care permeates the entire Crownview staff.

  • Michelle Ertel, CADC-II
    Michelle Ertel, CADC-II
    Program Director
  • Aaron Priddy, RADT
    Aaron Priddy, RADT
    Director of Admissions at CPI
  • Nikki Miller, CADC-II
    Nikki Miller, CADC-II
    Director of Operations
  • Kimberly Gilkey, RADT-1
    Kimberly Gilkey, RADT-1
    Director of Office Administration
  • Melissa Martinez
    Melissa Martinez

The path to a healthier tomorrow starts here.

Contact Crownview today.

Call  844-719-1315 Verify Benefits

Why Choose Crownview Psychiatric Institute?

Stress-Free Admissions

You don’t have to navigate a maze of paperwork or endure extensive delays. Our streamlined admissions process is designed to quickly connect new clients with the care they need.

Clinical Excellence

Every Crownview client receives a customized treatment plan that includes a carefully selected variety of evidence-based, research-supported therapies and beneficial adjunct services.

Wraparound Support

We provide each client with a dynamic array of wraparound support services, including life skills practice, nutritional education, vocational instruction, and case management.

Safety & Community

We work diligently to ensure that every Crownview client feels safe, welcomed, and valued. Our center is a vibrant community where each person can experience a sense of true belonging.

A Safe & Welcoming Environment

Crownview Psychiatric Institute's supportive local setting
Crownview Psychiatric Institute's supportive local setting
Crownview Psychiatric Institute's supportive local setting

When a severe mental health disorder disrupts your ability to participate in the basic activities of daily life, you may need to spend time away from your typical daily environment and the factors that exacerbate the symptoms of your disorder. Our residential treatment program gives you the time and space you need to get the individualized, targeted care that can help you work toward a full, fulfilling, and independent life.

Time spent in immersive residential treatment – where your only goal is to learn, heal, and grow – can make all the difference. We specialize in supporting patients with challenging disorders, patients who have not experienced success in other programs, and patients who need the expert guidance of skilled treatment professionals who specialize in complex mental health disorders.

Certified by the State Department of Health Care Services Social Rehabilitation Program Certification #MHBT200333; exp: August 10, 2026
Johanna Brubaker, AMFT
Program Therapist

Johanna graduated from National University with her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and is soon to be a licensed marriage and family therapist. She has experience working in crisis houses, non-profit organizations as well as private practice settings. She provided support to clinicians as a program supervisor while working at Mental Health Systems. She weaves in playful and creative strategies when working with clients alongside other evidence-based treatments such as Motivational Interviewing, Solutions-focused therapy as well as Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Her warm and compassionate approach is always well-received by clients, families and colleagues.

Christena Khattar, LPA
Program and Trauma Therapist

Christena Khattar is a PhD candidate as well as a licensed psychological associate. After discovering a love for psychology while studying philosophy in her undergraduate program, she received a master’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis on Media Psychology from Touro University. Currently, she is working on her dissertation to fulfill the requirements for her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology at Saybrook University, known for its multicultural and humanistic affiliations. Attending to clients from a person-centered and holistic stance, she draws from multiple modalities, including existential-humanistic, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based/contemplative, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and positive psychology. Christena believes in a collaborative approach, forming and maintaining a strong bond with the client, and creating a sense of hope and meaning. Her interests and specialties include PE trauma therapy, addiction, adults with ADHD, and Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy (CRT).

Leo Preuss, CADC-II
AODS Counselor

Leo Preuss was born in Los Angeles and moved to San Diego in 1987. He is certified as CADC-II AODS counselor through the California Consortium for Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP). Leo has worked in the substance use disorder field for the past 15 years. He has extensive experience conducting group therapy, individual counseling, crisis intervention and case management.

Leo is also Native American and enjoys sharing Native American Spirituality with those who are interested. “I am passionate about what I do and believe that everyone deserves a chance to make positive change in their lives, I am so grateful to be part of such an amazing team!”

Devyn Rodriguez
Program Therapist

Devyn is a therapy intern working towards her Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) license. She is currently completing her Master of Science in Mental Clinical Health Counseling through Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Throughout her undergrad and graduate education, Devyn has completed ALLY and multicultural competency training to better create a welcoming and more inclusive environment for all future clients. Her future interests and goals include working with depression, anxiety, and acute mental health disorders with special emphasis on the maternal mental health field.

June Cappiello, AMFT, APCC
Program Therapist

June earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University – Los Angeles and is currently pursuing dual licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). With a strong background in grief and loss, she has worked in palliative and hospice care settings, supporting individuals and families during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

June’s therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and deeply client-centered. She integrates evidence-based approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. Additionally, she incorporates a narrative framework, helping clients explore the stories they tell about themselves and empowering them to rewrite these narratives to foster growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Guided by compassion and a commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive space, June partners with her clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery, working alongside them to build a more hopeful and fulfilling future.

Astinne Duffey, AMFT
Program Therapist

Astinne is a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) focused on helping individuals overcome life’s challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care. Astinne received her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University, where she gained experience as a part of a multidisciplinary team. Astinne has involvement working with a diverse population including at-risk youth, adolescents and their families, as well as inmates within county jail. Astinne focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, stress, or personal growth, or seeking support for high acuity needs, Astinne provides a safe and non-judgmental space to foster healing and empowerment. She enjoys working towards achieving your goals and creating lasting positive change through collaboration, open communication and mutual respect. Astinne is committed to the cultivation of wellness for both individuals, families and community bases, and looks forward to serving those in need!

Mary Becerra, AMFT
Program and Trauma Therapist

I’m a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in California, holding the passionate of recovery through finding our authentic selves. I got my Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology through Azusa Pacific University. Throughout my initiation of clinical work, starting in 2019, I have ever grown my passionate of understanding people, at their core. I am passionate for people to understand emotions as opportunities to strengthening understanding ourselves and our connection with others. Through EMDR, Mentalization-Based Therapy, IFS, and ACT, I support clients of various cultural backgrounds, including neurodiversity, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+. Two quotes that define a lot of my approach to treatment include:

“Trauma is not what happened to you, it is what happens inside you as a result of what happened to you” -Dr. Gabor Mate

“All we can decide is what to do with the time that is given to us”. -J.R.R. Tolkien

Jake Ruhe, CCI/CPI
Group Facilitator

Jake Ruhe, MA is a PhD candidate at National University specializing in trauma and disaster recovery. and a group facilitator at Crownview Psychiatric Institute. He holds a Master of Arts in Psychology from National University, where he completed advanced coursework in trauma psychology, biopsychology, addictions treatment, family and adolescent therapy, ethics, and cultural competency, and was inducted into the Omega Nu Lambda Honor Society.

His academic and clinical foundation emphasizes evidence-based practice, multidisciplinary collaboration and trauma-informed care. Mr. Ruhe has been providing psychotherapy since 2022, serving individuals experiencing acute mental health distress and co-occuring substance abuse issues through individual and group sessions utilizing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing and Strength-based approaches, with a focus on stabilizing symptoms, developing coping resources and cultivating resilience.

In addition to his clinical experience, Mr. Ruhe brings a decade of integrated wellness instruction from his tenure as an Assistant Chief Instructor for White Dragon Martial Arts, where he taught Choy-Li-Fut Kung Fu, Yang Family Tai-Chi and Qigong meditation. His work emphasized mindfulness, somatic awareness, and personal development across diverse age groups, contributing to his holistic approach to mental health treatment and behavioral health engagement.

Grounded in empathy, compassion and a commitment to health equity, Mr. Ruhe’s work centers on supporting individuals facing acute crises and behavioral health challenges. He strives to deliver care that is evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, culturally responsive and rooted in the belief that every individual deserves dignity, safety, and access to comprehensive support.

Johanna Brubaker, AMFT
Program Therapist

Johanna graduated from National University with her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and is soon to be a licensed marriage and family therapist. She has experience working in crisis houses, non-profit organizations as well as private practice settings. She provided support to clinicians as a program supervisor while working at Mental Health Systems. She weaves in playful and creative strategies when working with clients alongside other evidence-based treatments such as Motivational Interviewing, Solutions-focused therapy as well as Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Her warm and compassionate approach is always well-received by clients, families and colleagues.

Christena Khattar, LPA
Program and Trauma Therapist

Christena Khattar is a PhD candidate as well as a licensed psychological associate. After discovering a love for psychology while studying philosophy in her undergraduate program, she received a master’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis on Media Psychology from Touro University. Currently, she is working on her dissertation to fulfill the requirements for her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology at Saybrook University, known for its multicultural and humanistic affiliations. Attending to clients from a person-centered and holistic stance, she draws from multiple modalities, including existential-humanistic, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based/contemplative, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and positive psychology. Christena believes in a collaborative approach, forming and maintaining a strong bond with the client, and creating a sense of hope and meaning. Her interests and specialties include PE trauma therapy, addiction, adults with ADHD, and Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy (CRT).

Leo Preuss, CADC-II
AODS Counselor

Leo Preuss was born in Los Angeles and moved to San Diego in 1987. He is certified as CADC-II AODS counselor through the California Consortium for Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP). Leo has worked in the substance use disorder field for the past 15 years. He has extensive experience conducting group therapy, individual counseling, crisis intervention and case management.

Leo is also Native American and enjoys sharing Native American Spirituality with those who are interested. “I am passionate about what I do and believe that everyone deserves a chance to make positive change in their lives, I am so grateful to be part of such an amazing team!”

Devyn Rodriguez
Program Therapist

Devyn is a therapy intern working towards her Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) license. She is currently completing her Master of Science in Mental Clinical Health Counseling through Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Throughout her undergrad and graduate education, Devyn has completed ALLY and multicultural competency training to better create a welcoming and more inclusive environment for all future clients. Her future interests and goals include working with depression, anxiety, and acute mental health disorders with special emphasis on the maternal mental health field.

June Cappiello, AMFT, APCC
Program Therapist

June earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University – Los Angeles and is currently pursuing dual licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). With a strong background in grief and loss, she has worked in palliative and hospice care settings, supporting individuals and families during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

June’s therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and deeply client-centered. She integrates evidence-based approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. Additionally, she incorporates a narrative framework, helping clients explore the stories they tell about themselves and empowering them to rewrite these narratives to foster growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Guided by compassion and a commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive space, June partners with her clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery, working alongside them to build a more hopeful and fulfilling future.

Astinne Duffey, AMFT
Program Therapist

Astinne is a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) focused on helping individuals overcome life’s challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care. Astinne received her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University, where she gained experience as a part of a multidisciplinary team. Astinne has involvement working with a diverse population including at-risk youth, adolescents and their families, as well as inmates within county jail. Astinne focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, stress, or personal growth, or seeking support for high acuity needs, Astinne provides a safe and non-judgmental space to foster healing and empowerment. She enjoys working towards achieving your goals and creating lasting positive change through collaboration, open communication and mutual respect. Astinne is committed to the cultivation of wellness for both individuals, families and community bases, and looks forward to serving those in need!

Mary Becerra, AMFT
Program and Trauma Therapist

I’m a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in California, holding the passionate of recovery through finding our authentic selves. I got my Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology through Azusa Pacific University. Throughout my initiation of clinical work, starting in 2019, I have ever grown my passionate of understanding people, at their core. I am passionate for people to understand emotions as opportunities to strengthening understanding ourselves and our connection with others. Through EMDR, Mentalization-Based Therapy, IFS, and ACT, I support clients of various cultural backgrounds, including neurodiversity, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+. Two quotes that define a lot of my approach to treatment include:

“Trauma is not what happened to you, it is what happens inside you as a result of what happened to you” -Dr. Gabor Mate

“All we can decide is what to do with the time that is given to us”. -J.R.R. Tolkien

Jake Ruhe, CCI/CPI
Group Facilitator

Jake Ruhe, MA is a PhD candidate at National University specializing in trauma and disaster recovery. and a group facilitator at Crownview Psychiatric Institute. He holds a Master of Arts in Psychology from National University, where he completed advanced coursework in trauma psychology, biopsychology, addictions treatment, family and adolescent therapy, ethics, and cultural competency, and was inducted into the Omega Nu Lambda Honor Society.

His academic and clinical foundation emphasizes evidence-based practice, multidisciplinary collaboration and trauma-informed care. Mr. Ruhe has been providing psychotherapy since 2022, serving individuals experiencing acute mental health distress and co-occuring substance abuse issues through individual and group sessions utilizing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing and Strength-based approaches, with a focus on stabilizing symptoms, developing coping resources and cultivating resilience.

In addition to his clinical experience, Mr. Ruhe brings a decade of integrated wellness instruction from his tenure as an Assistant Chief Instructor for White Dragon Martial Arts, where he taught Choy-Li-Fut Kung Fu, Yang Family Tai-Chi and Qigong meditation. His work emphasized mindfulness, somatic awareness, and personal development across diverse age groups, contributing to his holistic approach to mental health treatment and behavioral health engagement.

Grounded in empathy, compassion and a commitment to health equity, Mr. Ruhe’s work centers on supporting individuals facing acute crises and behavioral health challenges. He strives to deliver care that is evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, culturally responsive and rooted in the belief that every individual deserves dignity, safety, and access to comprehensive support.

Michelle Ertel, CADC-II
Program Director

Program Manager, and Program Director. Michelle was recruited to the Crownview team in February 2017. She initially joined the team as a Case Manager and was promoted to Director of Crownview’s Case Management Services shortly after. Through her compassionate leadership style as Program Director, Michelle exemplifies the heart and soul of the organization. She has had a tremendous impact on the Crownview culture and continues to remain dedicated to the organization’s mission.

Aaron Priddy, RADT
Director of Admissions at CPI

Aaron Priddy is the Director of Admissions at Crownview Psychiatric Disorders Institute. He began his career working for non-profit organizations specifically in the area of Probation and Parole Recovery first as a Mentor then as an Operations Coordinator. In this field he highlighted his personal journey through recovery and helped others navigate their own journey. He eventually gained a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician credential from CCAPP and began utilizing his credential for group facilitation. Once this proverbial door opened his old friend and colleague reached out to him about an open Support Staff position at Crownview. He jumped at the chance to work in the Co-occurring Recovery field. He has taken on various roles at Crownview which have included Lead Support Staff, Case Manager, Family Liaison and now in his current role as a Discharge Planner. Aaron ensures the continuity of care from our facility to the next phase of the client’s life. This involves listening to the client and understanding what the future may look like after treatment. He is with the client and family at every step and he wouldn’t have it any other way. “Crownview has fostered my growth as well as the clients we serve. I am proud to be a part of this team”.

Nikki Miller, CADC-II
Director of Operations

Nikki Miller joined the Crownview team in 2017 and as her career progressed, she emerged as an exceptional leader with a natural talent for operations and analytical problem-solving. She manages vital components directly related to the success of the organization, including overseeing Crownview’s staff-training program, hiring, and supervising its case management team. Nikki has been instrumental in improving communication and utilizes a bottom-up management approach.

Nikki Miller was born and raised in Oceanside, CA, and is pursuing her B.A. in Sociology at CSUSM. She holds the certification of CADC-II with the California Consortium for Addiction Programs and Professionals and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa’s honor society. She has since held various positions including manager, supervisor, and director.

Kimberly Gilkey, RADT-1
Director of Office Administration

Kim was born and raised in Riverside County, however in 2013, decided to call San Diego her home. Kim started her career journey after graduating from Mueller College with her certification in Alcohol and Drug Studies. Kim has worked with homeless veterans, in a dual diagnosis detox, and was on staff as Office Manager for a small, psychotherapy private practice. Kim joined the CCI team in 2018 as a Case Manager for the female clients, and stepped into the administrative department in 2020. Kim is currently working on her Bachelors of Healthcare Administration at Western Governors University.

When not at work, Kim enjoys spending time with her spouse and dog, going to the hot yoga studio, and watching Dodgers baseball.

Melissa Martinez
Michelle Ertel, CADC-II
Program Director

Program Manager, and Program Director. Michelle was recruited to the Crownview team in February 2017. She initially joined the team as a Case Manager and was promoted to Director of Crownview’s Case Management Services shortly after. Through her compassionate leadership style as Program Director, Michelle exemplifies the heart and soul of the organization. She has had a tremendous impact on the Crownview culture and continues to remain dedicated to the organization’s mission.

Aaron Priddy, RADT
Director of Admissions at CPI

Aaron Priddy is the Director of Admissions at Crownview Psychiatric Disorders Institute. He began his career working for non-profit organizations specifically in the area of Probation and Parole Recovery first as a Mentor then as an Operations Coordinator. In this field he highlighted his personal journey through recovery and helped others navigate their own journey. He eventually gained a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician credential from CCAPP and began utilizing his credential for group facilitation. Once this proverbial door opened his old friend and colleague reached out to him about an open Support Staff position at Crownview. He jumped at the chance to work in the Co-occurring Recovery field. He has taken on various roles at Crownview which have included Lead Support Staff, Case Manager, Family Liaison and now in his current role as a Discharge Planner. Aaron ensures the continuity of care from our facility to the next phase of the client’s life. This involves listening to the client and understanding what the future may look like after treatment. He is with the client and family at every step and he wouldn’t have it any other way. “Crownview has fostered my growth as well as the clients we serve. I am proud to be a part of this team”.

Nikki Miller, CADC-II
Director of Operations

Nikki Miller joined the Crownview team in 2017 and as her career progressed, she emerged as an exceptional leader with a natural talent for operations and analytical problem-solving. She manages vital components directly related to the success of the organization, including overseeing Crownview’s staff-training program, hiring, and supervising its case management team. Nikki has been instrumental in improving communication and utilizes a bottom-up management approach.

Nikki Miller was born and raised in Oceanside, CA, and is pursuing her B.A. in Sociology at CSUSM. She holds the certification of CADC-II with the California Consortium for Addiction Programs and Professionals and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa’s honor society. She has since held various positions including manager, supervisor, and director.

Kimberly Gilkey, RADT-1
Director of Office Administration

Kim was born and raised in Riverside County, however in 2013, decided to call San Diego her home. Kim started her career journey after graduating from Mueller College with her certification in Alcohol and Drug Studies. Kim has worked with homeless veterans, in a dual diagnosis detox, and was on staff as Office Manager for a small, psychotherapy private practice. Kim joined the CCI team in 2018 as a Case Manager for the female clients, and stepped into the administrative department in 2020. Kim is currently working on her Bachelors of Healthcare Administration at Western Governors University.

When not at work, Kim enjoys spending time with her spouse and dog, going to the hot yoga studio, and watching Dodgers baseball.

Melissa Martinez