
OUR
TEAM
At Alternatives we believe that all of us are alike in that we are each seeking happiness and satisfaction in our lives. We succeed or fail in this effort because of what we have experienced in the past, what we know now, and how we feel about ourselves. Therefore, the service we provide at Alternatives is to give people the tools they need to build successful and responsible lives for themselves. We introduce and encourage use of the 12 step program.

School Street Team
JONI YACOE
Clinical Director
Joni Yacoe was licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in 1980. She works with adults and adolescents in groups, individually and with families. She joins with her clients to build on their strengths and learn the tools they need to have the life they want. She has worked as a supervisor, as a consultant for businesses, private practitioner and as a founder and clinical director of Alternatives. She is trained in EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, hypnotherapy, psychodrama and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.
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JENNIFER MERRELL
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II, Certified Domestic Violence Facilitator
Jennifer has been working in the field of chemical dependency since 2002. She has Drug and Alcohol Certification and earned her certification in Anger Replacement Training. At Alternatives Jennifer has worked with both adolescents and adults who struggle with addiction and relationship issues and parents who are having difficulties with positive discipline of their children.
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RENEE SILVA
Office Manager
Renee is responsible for the daily operations at Alternatives including financial and staff management. In 2007 she was certified in Cognitive Facilitation by the National Curriculum and Training Institute. In addition to her administrative duties, Renee helps clients with financial planning.
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ARACELI CASAS
Certified Domestic Violence Counselor and Spanish Program Coordinator
At Alternatives Araceli works with adult groups as well as Individuals. She is the Spanish Program Coordinator and facilitates the Spanish speaking Domestic Violence group for men as well as women, Spanish Drug Diversion, and co-facilitates the Spanish Parenting groups. Araceli also provides individual treatment for clients struggling with addiction issues.
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