About Us
jeremy, mswi, asudc, aat, cpss, founder, ceo
This story is not so unlike many of the stories told by too many... dysfunction (malfunction, perhaps?) in the family of origin, mental health challenges compounded by loneliness and uncertainty diluted with drugs and alcohol, homelessness with habits supported by criminality, and prison. I credit a 7-year stretch of incarceration with saving my life. It was during that little time-out that I began to understand who I was and who I was not. Because of that I am not patently opposed to incarceration. It takes what it takes...
Fast forward some, I was paroled in 2005. Felonies on my record provided for challenge after challenge to the point that my spirit felt black and blue. I tell anyone who cares to listen, prison is the easy part; the real sentence begins when you start to not only hope for but try to achieve a legit and productive life. I get it. And I have committed myself to offering whatever I can to my brothers and sisters who are living a similar struggle, regardless of whether the prison is cinder and bars or dope and drink. Watercourse Way is the fruit of that commitment.
After applying and being denied several times, I was eventually granted a pardon in 2019. It has been since then that this program went from being a whisper of the still, small voice to becoming a place of healing in a world that desperately needs it, probably now more than ever. I invite you to come, to heal, to remember what it is to experience the playful joy that is the true intention of Existence.
andrea, sudc, aat, co-founder, chief operations officer
Andrea is a certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor with additional training in AcuDetox (Auricular Acupuncture), bringing a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach to supporting individuals navigating substance use, co-occurring conditions, and complex life transitions. As a co-founder of Watercourse Way Wellness, Andrea is committed to delivering compassionate, client-centered treatment that integrates experiential modalities, neurobiological understanding, and meaningful connection.
Andrea's educational background and clinical training are complimented by her own lived experience, which informs her belief that recovery is both deeply personal and universally human. She is particularly passionate about working with justice-involved individuals, parents rebuilding connections, and those who feel unseen within traditional systems of care. Her approach emphasizes resilience, attachment, nervous-system awareness, and the power of safe relational experiences.
Andrea is known for her intuitive style, grounded presence, and ability to create a therapeutic environment rooted in dignity, curiosity, and hope. She believes in meeting every person exactly where they are, walking alongside them as they develop the skills, insight, and confidence needed to build sustainable recovery and a meaningful life.
martin, mba, chief development officer
Martin joins Watercourse Way Wellness Services with over 25 years of Executive Leadership in various roles within the Healthcare, Technology, Education and Non-Profit sectors. A chance meeting with Jeremy, the founder of Watercourse Way, blossomed into a partnership that neither expected.
After sharing common goals and visions over countless phone and video calls, it became clear that together much could be accomplished. The driving force to join Watercourse Way was a shared vision for serving those with need.
As a lifelong servant leader, Martin is passionate about advancing the mission and vision of Watercourse Way and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who engage in services across Watercourse Way Wellness and its subsidiaries.
“Every day is a blessing when you can plant seeds of hope and empowerment”
About Us
nita, sudc, aat, executive director
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
Nita is a Substance Use Disorder Counselor and Certified Crisis Worker who takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to healing. Originally from Louisiana, she developed a deep appreciation for diversity, culture, and community, values that continue to shape her work today. After moving to Utah in 2011, she began working in healthcare, g
Nita is a Substance Use Disorder Counselor and Certified Crisis Worker who takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to healing. Originally from Louisiana, she developed a deep appreciation for diversity, culture, and community, values that continue to shape her work today. After moving to Utah in 2011, she began working in healthcare, gaining a strong understanding of the social determinants of health and their impact on well-being. Nita views each person as a unique individual with their own experiences, strengths, and capacity for growth.
Licensed as a SUDC since December 2024, Nita integrates Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a Person-Centered approach with complementary practices such as meditation practices, sound healing, and Acudetox. She is passionate about creating a safe, empowering space that supports whole-person healing. Outside of work, Nita enjoys time with her husband of 13 years and their four children, the mountains, and creative art.
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
Dr. JeanAnne Johnson is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the medical field, specializing in mental health and substance use disorders. She holds a Doctorate in Neuropsychology with a focus on Positive Psychology, along with certifications in Psychiatric/Mental Health, Family and Pediatric
Dr. JeanAnne Johnson is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the medical field, specializing in mental health and substance use disorders. She holds a Doctorate in Neuropsychology with a focus on Positive Psychology, along with certifications in Psychiatric/Mental Health, Family and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Addictions. Dr. Johnson has worked with over 14 clinics, providing comprehensive psychiatric services, and is a national speaker and author. Passionate about functional medicine, she offers personalized, holistic care that addresses the root causes of mental health challenges, utilizing strategies like nutrition optimization and inflammation reduction. Outside of work, Dr. Johnson enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with her children, and is a cancer survivor and animal lover.
marsha, ma, sudc, compliance specialist
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
marsha, ma, sudc, compliance specialist
Marsha K Stafford has been a licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor since 2007. She is also a Licensed Private Probation Officer and has a Master's degree in Art Psychology. Marsha specializes in Program Development, is an Alleva, Best Notes EMR Administrator, and a Joint Commission and CARF Administrator. Marsha has dedicated much of
Marsha K Stafford has been a licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor since 2007. She is also a Licensed Private Probation Officer and has a Master's degree in Art Psychology. Marsha specializes in Program Development, is an Alleva, Best Notes EMR Administrator, and a Joint Commission and CARF Administrator. Marsha has dedicated much of her career to developing a non-profit whose mission is to provide education, medical, addiction recovery, and humanitarian aid in Nepal.
She is the Producer and Host of The Been There Done That Show, a recovery talk radio show. Since December 2012, the mission of the show has been to be a voice in recovery. Additional achievements include being Executive Producer for the documentary, Climb 4 Sobriety 2012, and Production Assistant for Sherpa the movie 2014.
whitney, director of operations
jeananne, psy-d, pmhnp-bc, medical director/clinical supervisor
marsha, ma, sudc, compliance specialist
I am someone who has lived many lives within one lifetime. For years, my world was shaped by addiction, criminal activity, broken relationships, and profound loss—including the loss of my family and, ultimately, the loss of myself. I know what it feels like to be completely broken, hopeless, and unsure if change is even possible.
Everythin
I am someone who has lived many lives within one lifetime. For years, my world was shaped by addiction, criminal activity, broken relationships, and profound loss—including the loss of my family and, ultimately, the loss of myself. I know what it feels like to be completely broken, hopeless, and unsure if change is even possible.
Everything shifted when I made the decision to do the hard work—when I chose to dig deep, face my pain, and begin a spiritual journey that led me inward. Through that process, I found a sense of peace and contentment that I had never experienced before. For the first time in my life, I began living with intention, purpose, and self-worth.
Today, my mission is to give back. My purpose is to walk alongside people who feel just as lost and broken as I once did, and to show them—through lived experience—that a happy, successful, and meaningful life is possible. Recovery is not just about surviving; it’s about learning how to truly live.
sandy, ccm
amber, cpss, ccm, director of outreach
amber, cpss, ccm, director of outreach
Sandy Tracy is a dedicated and compassionate professional in the behavioral health field with over two decades of personal recovery experience. Originally from San Diego, California, Sandy faced significant challenges early in life, including substance use and repeated interactions with the criminal justice system. After multiple attempt
Sandy Tracy is a dedicated and compassionate professional in the behavioral health field with over two decades of personal recovery experience. Originally from San Diego, California, Sandy faced significant challenges early in life, including substance use and repeated interactions with the criminal justice system. After multiple attempts at treatment, a pivotal moment came in 2003 when she was given the opportunity to enter a long-term residential program instead of serving a prison sentence.
Sandy completed a nine-month behavioral modification program at CRASH, where she gained a deeper understanding of the underlying behaviors contributing to substance use and began the process of healing. Following treatment, she transitioned into sober living, became actively involved in Narcotics Anonymous, and has remained committed to her recovery journey for more than 22 years. This milestone continues to shape both her personal growth and professional purpose.
Six years ago, Sandy relocated to Utah, where she began building her career in the treatment field. Starting as support staff, she advanced to become a certified Peer Support Specialist and later a Case Manager. Through each role, Sandy has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting individuals in recovery, drawing from both her professional training and lived experience.
Sandy is deeply passionate about helping others navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery. She values the opportunity to walk alongside clients as they grow, heal, and rebuild their lives into healthy, productive futures.
Outside of her professional work, Sandy enjoys spending quality time with her family, traveling, and participating in recovery community events. She lives with a deep sense of gratitude and purpose, embracing each day as an opportunity to give back and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
amber, cpss, ccm, director of outreach
amber, cpss, ccm, director of outreach
amber, cpss, ccm, director of outreach
Amber is a Certified Peer Support Specialist, community leader, and advocate in long-term recovery. She is passionate about building connections, creating safe spaces for healing, and supporting individuals and families impacted by addiction, trauma, and mental health. Through her work, she empowers others to discover their own strength, embrace hope, and step into a life of recovery and purpose.
will, director of housing & admissions
amber, cpss, ccm, director of outreach
will, director of housing & admissions
With 25 years of lived experience beginning at the age of 12 in the youth system, including six trips to prison and over five and a half years at The Other Side Academy, my story I hope brings hope that change is possible no matter where you are in life! There came a point in my life when something had to change—something deep inside me k
With 25 years of lived experience beginning at the age of 12 in the youth system, including six trips to prison and over five and a half years at The Other Side Academy, my story I hope brings hope that change is possible no matter where you are in life! There came a point in my life when something had to change—something deep inside me knew I was meant for more. Today, I show up by giving back what was freely given to me. I find purpose walking alongside others in the trenches—people just as broken as I once was, but willing to reach for something greater. I strive daily to be and do the impossible, because if your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough. I have a love for the Utah Jazz and Miami Dolphins and pizza!!!
ulysses, cpss, house manager
ulysses, cpss, house manager
ulysses, cpss, house manager
My name is Ulysses M. I’m originally from Los Angeles, California. I was involved with gangs and drugs since I was thirteen years old. My recovery journey began in 2007 when I went to inpatient treatment and was sober for 3 years. In 2010 I relapsed when I moved here to Utah. Continuing with old behavior and not using what I had learned f
My name is Ulysses M. I’m originally from Los Angeles, California. I was involved with gangs and drugs since I was thirteen years old. My recovery journey began in 2007 when I went to inpatient treatment and was sober for 3 years. In 2010 I relapsed when I moved here to Utah. Continuing with old behavior and not using what I had learned from treatment, my recovery journey got interrupted until the end of 2023. I was arrested, and while incarcerated, I made a life changing decision to give my will to my higher power. I have since completed inpatient and outpatient treatment and terminated probation successfully. Today, I’m Certified in Peer Support and I’m looking forward to supporting my peers on their recovery journey as well as my own.
jose, house manager
ulysses, cpss, house manager
ulysses, cpss, house manager
I am a dedicated recovery coach and specialist with a passion for helping individuals navigate their journey toward lasting change. Drawing from both personal experience and professional training, I provide guidance, encouragement, and accountability to those working through substance use and life challenges. I believe in meeting people
I am a dedicated recovery coach and specialist with a passion for helping individuals navigate their journey toward lasting change. Drawing from both personal experience and professional training, I provide guidance, encouragement, and accountability to those working through substance use and life challenges. I believe in meeting people where they are, building trust, and empowering others to rediscover their strengths, purpose, and self-worth. My approach is rooted in compassion, honesty, and connection, helping others create a meaningful and sustainable recovery.
leo, house manager
ulysses, cpss, house manager
rafael, house manager
I have spent the majority of my adult life incarcerated because of my substance abuse. Since my 18th birthday I was only free less than 3 years I say free but in reality I was anything but because in between incarcerations I was released to my demons. Addiction has affected me and my family in the worst way. Everything people hear about
I have spent the majority of my adult life incarcerated because of my substance abuse. Since my 18th birthday I was only free less than 3 years I say free but in reality I was anything but because in between incarcerations I was released to my demons. Addiction has affected me and my family in the worst way. Everything people hear about the ugliness that is addiction I put my family through. Being absent was the most predominant one but also letting my loved ones down again and again was horrible. I Was committed to the Utah State Prison 5 different times and to the federal prison system once for a total of 22 years. The reason I mention the amount of time is to emphasize how easy it was to lose years of one's life to addiction especially since I started later in life than most people that end up with similar lengths of incarceration. I was never in trouble as a juvenile, never stepped inside of a juvenile detention facility, no run ins with the law. In fact I was a student athlete with a 3.5 gpa I was a four year varsity starter in football I was all-region my sophomore and junior years and making all state my senior year. That year I injured my right lateral meniscus (knee) for which I had surgery and was introduced to opiates for the first time and thus began my life long battle with addiction, I committed to play for Snow College but unfortunately by the time the year started I was already on my way to Prison for the first time. That was in the year 2000, fast forward to 2025 I was sentenced for the first time to a residential treatment program and it has changed my life, I was trying to avoid prison for the 7th time and ended up finding my sobriety. I was fortunate enough to be entrusted with the responsibility of helping others with their fight against addiction. Sobriety is sacred to me because it has returned a son to his mother a father to his children and it has given me the confidence in myself that went away long ago. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be apart of the Watercourse Family I see the vision and I believe in the dream. The future is bright and success is within grasp!
rafael, house manager
ulysses, cpss, house manager
rafael, house manager
Meet Rafael — a dedicated member of the Watercourse Way team whose story is built on transformation, resilience, and purpose. Originally from California and a proud father of five, Rafael faced challenges and trouble from a young age that eventually led him down a difficult path. In 2008, he moved to Utah, where his life began to change a
Meet Rafael — a dedicated member of the Watercourse Way team whose story is built on transformation, resilience, and purpose. Originally from California and a proud father of five, Rafael faced challenges and trouble from a young age that eventually led him down a difficult path. In 2008, he moved to Utah, where his life began to change after attending Volcum. There, he learned how to rebuild himself, develop accountability, and become the man he had always wanted to be.
Rafael joined Watercourse Wellness because he truly understands that change is possible—because he lived it himself. Through his own journey, he discovered a passion for helping others find the same hope, healing, and support that helped transform his life. Today, he is committed to being of service to others while continuing to value what matters most: faith, family, growth, and spending quality time with his loved ones.
kelly, cpss, house manager
kelly, cpss, house manager
kelly, cpss, house manager
My name is Kelly and just like anyone else who has been involved in drugs, gangs and had been in and out of prison it was the only life I had known! I didn’t think that I deserved a better life, I didn’t even think I deserved to be in treatment, I was an angry individual for many years! I’ve had moments when I tried to get my life togethe
My name is Kelly and just like anyone else who has been involved in drugs, gangs and had been in and out of prison it was the only life I had known! I didn’t think that I deserved a better life, I didn’t even think I deserved to be in treatment, I was an angry individual for many years! I’ve had moments when I tried to get my life together for my child, DCFS, I stayed sober on and off for years at a time, but never did it for myself and that was always the problem it was always for someone else!
Today I can proudly say I am happy, sober, I have full custody of my son and my mission is to help people who have felt just as angry, dark, and hopeless as I have felt before get that hope back and help them realize that they deserve a better life and that there is more than the streets and the hustle and we do deserve love and happiness in our lives! My goal in treatment was to get my certified peer support because I believe it's important to have someone you can relate to and who believes in you! Rafael joined Watercourse Wellness because he truly understands that change is possible—because he lived it himself. Through his own journey, he discovered a passion for helping others find the same hope, healing, and support that helped transform his life. Today, he is committed to being of service to others while continuing to value what matters most: faith, family, growth, and spending quality time with his loved ones.
ruby blu, nfb tech
kelly, cpss, house manager
kelly, cpss, house manager
Ruby Blu works as a Neurofeedback Technician at Watercourse Wellness. Through personal experiences with loved ones affected by substance use disorder, she developed a strong desire to be involved in work that creates healing and hope. Those experiences inspired her to pursue a path centered around service, compassion, and advocacy. She is
Ruby Blu works as a Neurofeedback Technician at Watercourse Wellness. Through personal experiences with loved ones affected by substance use disorder, she developed a strong desire to be involved in work that creates healing and hope. Those experiences inspired her to pursue a path centered around service, compassion, and advocacy. She is currently studying Social Work and is passionate about supporting underserved populations while gaining a deeper understanding of the broader societal factors that impact individuals and communities. She is driven by a desire to be part of meaningful change and hopes to contribute to solutions that create greater connection, opportunity, and support for others.
