Table of Contents
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Patrick Santosuosso | Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder
Patrick Santosuosso is the visionary co-founder and CEO of Amity Behavioral Health Network, a network of substance abuse facilities committed to providing compassionate and ethical care to individuals on their recovery journey. With over a decade of experience in the field, Patrick built a reputation for combining clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the personal struggles that come with addiction.Having personally navigated the challenges of addiction and recovery, Patrick is uniquely positioned to offer guidance and support to those in need. His own experience has been the driving force behind his mission to create a safe, nurturing environment where patients can heal, regain hope, and transform their lives. Through this work, he has become a tireless advocate for ethical care, ensuring that each patient is treated with dignity, respect, and the highest standard of support.
Under Patricks’ leadership, Amity Behavioral Health Network has become known for its innovative approaches to treatment, rooted in evidence-based practices and a patient-first philosophy. His commitment to long-term recovery and holistic care continues to inspire staff and patients alike, as he remains an active presence in the day-to-day operations of the facilities.
Patrick is not only a dedicated healthcare professional but also a passionate speaker and advocate for addiction recovery. His personal story has touched countless lives, proving that with the right guidance and support, recovery is not only possible—it’s transformative.
Patrick Santosuosso
Michael Clark | President & Co-Founder
As President and Co-Founder of Amity Behavioral Health Network, Michael Clark leads the organization’s strategic business operations across a network of premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs. With a strong commitment to safe, effective, and patient-centered care, he drives the development and execution of initiatives that enhance organizational performance and operational efficiency.Michael oversees a multidisciplinary team focused on delivering forward-thinking, data-driven solutions that elevate the quality and consistency of behavioral health services. His leadership is rooted in innovation, accountability, and operational excellence—ensuring that every individual served by Amity Behavioral Health Network receives the highest standard of care.
Passionate about improving systems and outcomes in behavioral healthcare, Michael continues to position Amity Behavioral Health Network as a leader in the field. Through the integration of clinical integrity and business acumen, he is dedicated to creating meaningful and lasting change in the lives of individuals and the communities they serve.
Michael Clark
Mark Santosuosso | Chief Operating Officer
Mark Santosuosso is the Chief Operating Officer of Surf City Detox, where he brings a deeply personal and passionate approach to leadership in the substance abuse treatment field. With years of experience in recovery himself, Mark’s journey has profoundly shaped his mission-driven work, combining operational excellence with genuine empathy for those battling addiction.Drawing on his firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in recovery, Mark has become a champion for creating treatment environments that are not only clinically sound but also rooted in dignity, hope, and human connection. His leadership style emphasizes authenticity, compassion, and accountability—values that reflect both his personal and professional commitment to helping others reclaim their lives.
At Surf City Detox, Mark oversees day-to-day operations across multiple facilities, ensuring that each location delivers consistent, high-quality care. His strategic vision and operational discipline have helped the organization expand its impact while maintaining its core values. Whether streamlining systems or mentoring staff, Mark remains grounded in his belief that recovery is possible for everyone and that effective treatment begins with understanding.
Through his work, Mark Santosuosso continues to transform his own recovery experience into a catalyst for change—building programs and teams that not only treat addiction but also empower individuals to thrive beyond it.
Mark Santosuosso
Ryan Higgins | Chief Financial Officer
As Chief Financial Officer of Surf City Detox, Ryan Higgins brings over two decades of executive experience in steering large organizations toward financial stability and operational growth. With a deep background spanning both Education Administration and Behavioral Health Care, Ryan combines strategic foresight with a passion for systems that work—leading company-wide financial planning, budgeting, accounting, treasury, and risk management initiatives.
Known for a creative and solutions-driven mindset, Ryan was instrumental in launching one of the first 1:1 student and employee technology platforms in partnership with Google. This forward-thinking project not only shaped his approach to cost efficiency and innovation but also solidified his belief in balancing performance with smart budgeting and boasting technology.
A lifelong learner, Ryan studied Computer Science and Educational Administration Leadership, supplemented with ongoing professional development. He thrives on implementing company-wide systems that drive efficiency and empower operational leaders to excel.
His experience in multitudes of areas in this industry, makes him always trying to think outside of the box and connect all departments together, ultimately to aid in improving patient care. Passionate about helping others, Ryan views challenges as opportunities and believes in building environments where people can succeed—fueled by his strong belief: there are only solutions, not problems.
Ryan Higgins
Angela Smith | Family Liason
With over twelve years of dedicated experience in the mental health and addiction field, Angela has built a career rooted in compassion, advocacy, and organizational excellence. Prior to her role as Executive Assistant, she served as family liasion and as lead case manager, where she developed a deep understanding of the clinical and family-support sides of treatment.As Executive Assistant at Amity Behavioral Health Network, Angela plays a pivotal role in supporting the executive leadership team. She manages scheduling, correspondence, reporting, and task coordination with precision, ensuring that daily operations run smoothly and efficiently. Drawing on her background in client and family engagement, she brings a unique perspective to executive support—balancing strategic organization with empathy and strong interpersonal skills.
Angela’s commitment extends beyond administrative excellence. She ensures seamless communication across departments, supports legal and compliance-related correspondence, assists in vendor and contract management, and helps maintain the structured systems that allow leadership to focus on growth and patient care. Her ability to anticipate needs, prioritize tasks, and maintain confidentiality makes her an invaluable asset to the organization.
Outside of work, Angela deeply values quality time with her family, attending sporting events and traveling.
Angela Smith
Dr. Eric Chaghouri , MD | Medical Director
Dr. Eric Chaghouri is a 2007 graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned his B. A. in Biology with Summa Cum Laude honors. While at UCLA, he helped the men’s varsity volleyball team earn a National Championship in 2006. He was named the UCLA Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2007.
He earned his medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine in 2011. He completed his internship training in 2008 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the remaining three years of residency in general adult psychiatry at the Los Angeles County and University of Southern California Medical Center. He served as the Chief Resident in psychiatric emergency services during his fourth year of residency. He also served as Resident Clinical Instructor and Volunteer Faculty in the Department of Psychiatry at the Keck School of Medicine.
After completing residency, Dr. Chaghouri accepted a fellowship position in forensic psychiatry at the prestigious USC Institute of Psychiatry and Law. His scholarly activities included publishing in Legal Digest and presenting research findings at the Keck School of Medicine annual conference. Since completing his forensic psychiatry fellowship, he has established a successful and thriving practice in Southern California, focusing on treatment of co-occurring psychiatric and addictive disorders. He has developed a strong clinical team of practitioners who share similar goals and philosophies regarding psychiatric treatment, including providing cutting-edge interventional treatments for psychiatric conditions. He works in an array of capacities with attorneys, courts, and other parties in actual or potential litigation. He also has extensive experience consulting and providing opinions on psychiatric issues for major television networks. Dr. Chaghouri’s interests include addiction medicine, substance use disorders, forensic psychiatry, medical ethics, psychological autopsy, gender wellness, and evidence-based treatment of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Eric Chaghouri , MD
Ari Labowitz , LMFT | Clinical Director
Ari approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective, incorporating a humanistic approach to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to grow. With a diverse background in working with individuals, couples, and families, Ari tailors his therapeutic approach to each person, addressing their unique challenges while emphasizing their strengths.Ari’s expertise is deeply rooted in the drug and alcohol treatment field. With extensive experience and knowledge in recovery, he has contributed his expertise to numerous treatment centers, offering consultation and direct support.
Ari holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology (MA) and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California and Idaho. He is also a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Beyond his private practice, Ari has worked in high schools, counseling centers, and corporate settings, providing therapy to a diverse range of clients.
Ari Labowitz , LMFT
James Miller | Chief Administrative Officer
James Miller is Surf City Detox’s Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Admissions. He oversees the day-to-day operations of admissions for our treatment centers. James has worked in the behavioral health field since 2012, managing admissions for several nationwide addiction and mental health treatment providers. He earned an associate degree in science with a concentration in addiction studies from Palm Beach State College. James’s passion for his work comes from his own long-term recovery. Leading a team who helps people take their first step towards sobriety is what he finds most rewarding about his job. In his free time, James enjoys being a father and spending time together with his daughter.James Miller
Jaspreet Kaur, LVN | Licensed Vocational Nurse
Jaspreet Kaur, LVN
Darren Piatkowski | Program Director
Darren serves as the Program Director with over 10 years of dedicated experience in addiction treatment. His expertise spans house management, behavioral health technician roles, and operations management, showcasing his multifaceted knowledge and leadership abilities in the field.Darren is deeply committed to serving clients, ensuring their comfort, and addressing their individual needs with empathy and professionalism. Having been with the company since its inception, he has played a vital role in its growth and success, exemplifying what it means to be a true team player. Darren’s dedication to fostering supportive and effective treatment environment highlights his passion for making a positive impact on the lives of clients and staff alike.
Darren Piatkowski
Joshua Lecker, AMFT | Primary Therapist
Josh has been working in the behavioral health field for almost a decade. He has held positions including case manager, counselor, primary therapist, manager, and director. He specializes in substance abuse, eating disorders, other process addictions, trauma, anxiety and depressive disorders. As a marriage and family therapist he focuses on family systems and how these systems contribute to mental health struggles. Josh believes that key to recovery is insight to struggles, willingness to work on struggles, and connection with self and others. One of Josh’s favorite quotes are, “It’s not about the cards you’re dealt, but how you play your hand.Joshua Lecker, AMFT
Alyssa Hendley | Case Manager
Alyssa is a dedicated clinician with over seven years of experience in the behavioral health field. She specializes in treating substance use disorders, trauma, co-occurring mental health conditions, and complex family dynamics. Currently completing her Master’s in Clinical Counseling, Alyssa will begin her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) in 2025.Her clinical approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and systems theory, blending evidence-based practices with genuine compassion and lived experience, Alyssa is also in long-term recovery herself. This unique perspective allows her to meet clients with authenticity, understanding, and a deep belief in their capacity for change.
Alyssa is passionate about helping clients rebuild self-worth, strengthen relationships, and move through life with greater clarity and connection. She is committed to fostering inclusive, collaborative therapeutic spaces where individuals feel safe, supported, and empowered to do meaningful work.
Alyssa Hendley
Kaylee Smelser | Lead Behavioral Health Technician
Kaylee is a compassionate and dedicated Behavioral Health Technician who brings personal experience and deep empathy to her work with individuals in recovery. Her journey through personal growth and healing has shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by those battling addiction, inspiring her to become a steadfast advocate for patient care.With a unique ability to connect with patients on a personal level, Kaylee provides a nurturing and supportive presence to those she serves. Her firsthand experience with recovery allows her to approach everyone with genuine empathy and an unwavering belief in their capacity to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting change.
In her role as a lead behavioral health technician, Kaylee is committed to fostering a safe and compassionate environment where patients can focus on their healing. She ensures that care is delivered with respect, kindness, and a focus on each person’s unique journey. Her dedication to patient care extends beyond clinical responsibilities, as she takes the time to understand and support the emotional and mental well-being of those in her care.
Kaylee’s leadership is rooted in her ability to inspire both patients and colleagues alike, demonstrating the power of compassion and resilience in recovery. Her work reflects a deep commitment to helping individuals rediscover their strength, embrace hope, and move toward brighter futures.
Kaylee’s personal journey fuels her passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. She views her role not just as a job but as an opportunity to guide, support, and celebrate each step her patients take toward healing and growth.
Kaylee Smelser
Contact Us for Addiction Treatment in Orange County
Surf City Detox Accepts Insurance
We accept many insurance plans to help cover the cost of addiction treatment. Contact your provider to get more information or call our office to reach an intake specialist.
