Meet our Team

Our team is comprised of dedicated, caring individuals with a passion for serving and helping others. Our team understands that meeting you where you are at is very important and that this is a journey and though you will be held accountable; it will be done without judgement. ​

Administration Team

Mindi Woodruff, BSN, RN, BHP, CCS-P
Owner/Program Director/Nurse/Behavioral Health Professional
Mindi Woodruff is a compassionate leader and seasoned professional with nearly two decades of experience in behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment. As Owner and Program Director of New Hope Behavioral Health Center, Mindi’s mission is rooted in a simple yet powerful belief: every individual is worthy of living their best life. Her approach to care is deeply personal and holistic, combining clinical excellence with a heartfelt commitment to meeting people exactly where they are.

Since beginning her career in 2005, Mindi has dedicated herself to creating a space where healing, dignity, and empowerment take center stage. Her philosophy--“Built on Faith, Powered by Spirit, and all done in Love”—guides her daily work and life. She is also inspired by the timeless words of Aesop: “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” These values are woven into every aspect of her leadership and patient care.
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Mindi holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), is a licensed Registered Nurse (RN), and a Certified Coding Specialist – Physician-based (CCS-P). As a Behavioral Health Professional (BHP), she combines clinical knowledge with deep empathy to provide comprehensive care that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of each person served.
Her greatest accomplishments are not just found in her professional achievements, but in the lives she touches—whether through her role as a mother, a caregiver, or a mentor. Mindi remains grounded, centered, and true to her roots, believing that love, forgiveness, and compassion are the most powerful forces for healing and change.
Sandi Kuhns
Human Resources/Compliance Officer
​Sandi Kuhns was born and raised in New Jersey, attended college in NYC and resided in southern California until 2019 when she located to Arizona. Sandi has been working in the human resource and corporate compliance world for the past nine years and brings diversified experiences from the precision manufacturing industry to the domestic and international residential development and recently, the substance abuse healthcare field. Sandi’s philosophy is to bring an approachable and positive culture to the Team and believes that employees are one of the most important assets to any business. She is committed to achieving the best work culture for all employees and creating an inclusive Team spirit environment. When Sandi is not working you can find her cycling on her beach cruiser, hiking, Pilates, cooking, and spending quality time with all dogs.
Emaley Muridan
Accounting Manager
Emaley Muridan joined the New Hope team in 2019. Her role encompasses managing accounts, preparing budget forecasts, processing weekly payroll, and overseeing financial statements, among other duties. Emaley has actively cultivated new partnerships with prominent organizations, expanding her expertise in web applications such as QuickBooks Online and Excel. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the W.P. Carey School of Business and is now an alumna of ASU. She aims to become a Forensic Certified Public Accountant (FCPA). Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, she enjoys outdoor activities with her three dogs, cooking, staying active, and exploring new destinations through travel. 
​Samantha Schierhold
Senior Administrative Assistant
​Samantha Schierhold is New Hope’s Senior Administrative Assistant with 15 years’ experience working in multi-departmental company that specializes in treatment for opioid substance use disorder. Samantha has been employed with New Hope since 2007. Samantha works closely with front office staff and other departments to facilitate a smooth flow for all daily operations and intakes. Samantha has a positive attitude and tireless energy, working to communicate needs of patients to staff. She is inspired by the patient’s success in their treatment. In her free time, she enjoys paddle boarding, camping, off-roading, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Arizona Medical Team

Dr. Matt Evans, MD
Medical Director
Dr. Matt Evans, New Hope's Medical Director, specializes in substance use disorder, harm reduction and general physical health for the substance use disorder population. He completed his addiction medicine fellowship here in central Arizona at Honor Health/CBI and attended medical school at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Phoenix. His work included managing the physical health consequences of substance use and treats patients with Hepatitis C as part of his addiction medicine practice.

Dr.  Evans is involved in a variety of activities to help improve the lives of those living with substance use disorder. He leads the education project ECHO at Arizona State University (ASU) to educate healthcare workers about medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).  He facilitated an education project to educate judges in the state of Arizona on the benefits of MOUD. In addition, he works with local harm reduction groups like Sonoran Prevention Works to advocate for changes to Arizona laws which eventually helped pass laws that allow for sterile syringe access programs for people who inject drugs. Dr. Evans is a fierce advocate for harm reduction and access to Narcan (Naloxone).

Dr. Evans is also active in research-based emerging treatment options for people with substance use disorders. He's a native Arizonan, who continues to give back to his home state and community. He finds joy in rock climbing, mountain biking, snowboarding, and above all else, spending time with his family. 
Karen Holtz, PMHNP-BC
Mental Health/MOUD Provider
Karen Holtz is board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), demonstrating her commitment to providing excellent care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. Throughout her career, Karen has worked in various clinical settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private practices. Her compassionate and patient-centered approach to care has earned her a stellar reputation among her patients and colleagues. As a PMHNP-BC, she utilizes evidence-based therapeutic interventions to address the unique needs of each individual, creating a safe and trusting environment that allows her patients to feel comfortable discussing their concerns and collaborating on their journey towards improved mental well-being. With her empathetic and personalized approach, Karen is a true advocate for mental health, committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Lora Mangiafico, PA-C
Physician Assistant
​Lora Mangiafico is a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with over 25 years of experience in healthcare. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings; however, her passion is addiction medicine. She joined New Hope in 2024 with 5 years of experience in treating patients with substance use disorders as well as Hepatitis C. She strongly believes patients with substance use disorders should not be treated any differently than patients with other medical diagnoses. She strives to remove the stigma surrounding substance use disorders and addiction and to always treat her patients with the care, understanding and respect that they deserve. Lora holds an associate’s degree in science in Respiratory Care, a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in science in Physician Assistant Studies. She is originally from Massachusetts and moved out to Arizona in 2015. In her time away from work, you can catch her hiking the nearby trails in the valley, traveling, exercising and trying new foods. Her greatest sense of joy and inspiration comes from her two children.
Christopher Sims, LPN
Nursing Lead
Chris was born and raised in southern California. He has 13 years of medical experience, working in high acuity psychiatric, and in patient drug and alcohol treatment units. He moved to Arizona in 2020, where he tested and vaccinated patients during the COVID pandemic. Chris began his career at New Hope in 2023 where he is now the Nursing Lead. Chris believes his purpose in life is to be of service to others. He strives to be the type of supervisor his nurses can depend on. In his spare time, he enjoys riding motorcycles to scenic views such as the Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park.

Michigan Medical Team

Dr. Matt Evans, MD
Medical Director
Dr. Matt Evans, New Hope's Medical Director, specializes in substance use disorder, harm reduction and general physical health for the substance use disorder population. He completed his addiction medicine fellowship here in central Arizona at Honor Health/CBI and attended medical school at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Phoenix. His work included managing the physical health consequences of substance use and treats patients with Hepatitis C as part of his addiction medicine practice.

Dr.  Evans is involved in a variety of activities to help improve the lives of those living with substance use disorder. He leads the education project ECHO at Arizona State University (ASU) to educate healthcare workers about medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).  He facilitated an education project to educate judges in the state of Arizona on the benefits of MOUD. In addition, he works with local harm reduction groups like Sonoran Prevention Works to advocate for changes to Arizona laws which eventually helped pass laws that allow for sterile syringe access programs for people who inject drugs. Dr. Evans is a fierce advocate for harm reduction and access to Narcan (Naloxone).

Dr. Evans is also active in research-based emerging treatment options for people with substance use disorders. He's a native Arizonan, who continues to give back to his home state and community. He finds joy in rock climbing, mountain biking, snowboarding, and above all else, spending time with his family. ​
Norman Curtiss, PA-C, PharmD
Physician Assistant
April Farr, LPN
Nursing Lead

Arizona Clinical Team

Melissa Porter, BS, MS, GC-HSA, CADAC
Clinical Director
​Melissa Porter is a dedicated and compassionate Clinical Director with over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health and addiction treatment field. At the heart of her leadership is a deep love for the work she does and the individuals and families she serves. Melissa’s patient-centered philosophy ensures that every person receives care that is respectful, personalized, and focused on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Organizational Business Administration, a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling, and a Graduate Certificate in Health Services Administration. Her diverse educational background allows her to seamlessly integrate clinical expertise with effective program management, ensuring high-quality, holistic care for every patient.
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With 10 years of experience as a CARF Surveyor, Melissa brings a comprehensive understanding of quality standards and best practices to New Hope Behavioral Health Center. Her leadership ensures the delivery of services that not only meet but exceed regulatory and accreditation standards, always keeping the patient’s well-being at the center.
Melissa believes that recovery is more than overcoming addiction—it’s about restoring hope, dignity, and purpose. She is passionate about creating an environment where patients feel supported, empowered, and inspired to achieve lasting change.
Matthew Swanson
Counselor
Matthew Swanson is a Counselor-BHT with six years of experience in Behavioral Health. Before transitioning into his role as a counselor, he spent five years working as an admissions coordinator and intake specialist at a substance use inpatient treatment center. Having been in long-term recovery for over eight years, Matthew leverages his personal journey to assist others in overcoming what may seem like insurmountable challenges. In his free time, he enjoys camping and fishing with his son and girlfriend.​
Marné Egarton
Counselor
Marné Egarton is a Behavioral Health Tech with 4 years experience. She oversees individuals on their journey to overcome their Opioid Use Disorder through 1:1 and group counseling by educating them on harm reduction while also connecting them to much needed services such as housing, employment, mental health, and medical services. What some may view as lacking in professional experience, Marné makes up for by having an authentic understanding of addiction and its influence on people, their families, and society. A Colorado native, Marné spent her late teens and early 20’s residing just outside of Chicago, in Hammond, Indiana, where she earned a BA in both Sociology and Psychology. Marné values the importance of positive human connections and its ability to help others become better versions of themselves. In her free time, she can be found exploring the Valley with her four-legged, ride or die, Murphy. 
Brittany McGillivray
Counselor
Brittany McGillivray is a Substance Abuse Counselor with 5 years’ experience working in Medication Assisted Treatment Programs. Brittany has an Associate degree in Applied Sciences of Addictions and Substance Use Disorders. Outside of New Hope, Brittany is an undergraduate student working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Addictions Counseling, with the goal of becoming a LISAC. Brittany has extensive history working with clients who are parenting and/or pregnant and patients who are involved in criminal justice system and or with the Department of child Safety. Brittany is extremely passionate about recovery and helping our patients to achieve their recovery goals. 
Mark D. Cain, BHT
Community Outreach Specialist
Mark has worked in substance abuse treatment for over 2 decades. He has spent the last 14 of those years in medication assisted treatment, working with individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorders. He is an advocate for treatment in justice settings, including Specialty Courts, Adult Probation, the Department of Child Safety. Arizona and the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry along with various city and county correctional institutions. Mark works to educate, to reduce stigma and increase awareness of the role medications for opioid use disorders play in today's environment. Each day his goal is to make a positive difference in someone’s life.
​Campbell Woodruff
Certified Peer Support Specialist
As a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Campbell brings lived experience and unmatched empathy to the people he supports. Working alongside Mark Cain, Campbell offers hope, connection, and guidance to individuals navigating the challenges of recovery and reintegration. His work is grounded in the principles of compassion, dignity, and grace, and he is passionate about supporting others on their unique journey to wellness.

Michigan Clinical Team

Cari Maniteau, MA, LPC, CAADC
Licensed Substance Use Counselor
Cari brings over 15 years experience to New Hope as a licensed therapist.  She has over 9 years experience working with individuals with substance use disorders.  Cari recently joined the team in November of 2025.  Along with her professional counseling license, she has her certified advanced alcohol and drug certification.  After graduating from CMU she was working with individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders.  While there she discovered her passion for working with the substance use disorder population.  Cari’s passion also comes from watching her dad help numerous individuals with alcohol use disorders get into recovery.  Her dad was sober for over 40 years.  

Cari takes an eclectic approach to helping her clients. She meets them where they are at.  She prides herself in building the client-therapist relationship.  She encourages her clients to ask questions as a way to build that trust.  Her goal is to create similarity between the client’s real self and the client’s perceived self so that they can begin the healing process.  She believes that substance use counseling is a process that takes time, patience, and an overall understanding of who we are as individuals.  As well as a journey of self-discovery and self-actualization.  Cari displays unconditional positive regard, genuineness, and empathic understanding, which assist the client to achieve his/her full human potential. 

Melissa Porter, BS, MS, GC-HSA, CADAC
​Clinical Director
Melissa Porter is a dedicated and compassionate Clinical Director with over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health and addiction treatment field. At the heart of her leadership is a deep love for the work she does and the individuals and families she serves. Melissa’s patient-centered philosophy ensures that every person receives care that is respectful, personalized, and focused on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Organizational Business Administration, a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling, and a Graduate Certificate in Health Services Administration. Her diverse educational background allows her to seamlessly integrate clinical expertise with effective program management, ensuring high-quality, holistic care for every patient.
​With 10 years of experience as a CARF Surveyor, Melissa brings a comprehensive understanding of quality standards and best practices to New Hope Behavioral Health Center. Her leadership ensures the delivery of services that not only meet but exceed regulatory and accreditation standards, always keeping the patient’s well-being at the center.
Melissa believes that recovery is more than overcoming addiction—it’s about restoring hope, dignity, and purpose. She is passionate about creating an environment where patients feel supported, empowered, and inspired to achieve lasting change.

Front Office Team

Josy Tamayo
Front Office Manager
Josy serves as the Front Office Manager at New Hope where their compassion and dedication play a crucial role in our commitment to providing exceptional care. With a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those seeking treatment, Josy ensures that every patient receive the support and attention they need from the moment they walk through our doors. In their role, Josy is responsible for overseeing daily front office operations, including patient scheduling, administrative support, and facilitating communication between patients and clinical staff. Their ability to manage a busy office environment while maintaining a warm, welcoming atmosphere reflects their genuine concern for patient well-being. Josy brings a wealth of experience in customer service, combined with a heartfelt commitment to supporting individuals on their path to recovery. Their empathetic approach and unwavering dedication to their role significantly enhance the patient experience and contribute to the overall success of our clinic.
Stacey Barker
Receptionist
​Stacey is the friendly face you'll find at the front desk, where she handles patient check-ins, appointment scheduling, and transportation arrangements. Her passion lies in helping others and ensuring that everyone who walks through the doors feels valued and secure. Whether someone needs information, support, or simply a warm smile, Stacey is dedicated to assisting with any needs that may arise. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys watching stand-up comedy and cherishes quality time with her two wonderful children. She encourages everyone to reach out for assistance and looks forward to making each visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible.

Join Our Growing Family!