Meet The Team

James Tyler

CEO/Program Director

James Tyler began 5 years ago in this field working his way from a tech to a Director. James brings compassion and a sheer drive to help people find their purpose through individualized treatment and going above and beyond to instill hope where hope has been lost.

Dr. Lawrence Tucker

Medical Director

Lawrence V. Tucker, M.D. is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Addiction Medicine, practicing in the pharmacological management of psychiatric disorders and addiction medicine. Dr. Tucker attended UCLA for his undergraduate degree, where he obtained a B.S. in Physiological Sciences. He then attended UCLA School of Medicine for his Medical Degree and stayed at UCLA for his residency in Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been in leadership roles since 2006 and is a Certified Physician Executive. Prior to attending UCLA, Dr. Tucker served in the United States Marine Corps, Infantry, and served in Desert Storm. Among the long list of accomplishments, Dr. Tucker feels most accomplished with his blended family of 5 children and his wife of over 13 years. In addition, Dr. Tucker has a private practice in Newport Beach CA. His paradigm of treatment is that he: “Treats a person Not a Diagnosis”. He uses a holistic model and incorporates sobriety, exercise, diet, therapy, supplements, as well as psychopharmacological therapies.

Dr. Kristen Garubba

Clinical Director

Dr. Garubba works with a variety of populations, taking special interest in trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and family relational issues. Her experience includes work within the non-profit sector, county crisis residential programs, victims of crime, residential substance abuse, and mental health program participants. Dr. Garubba has also served as a clinical director and supervisor within substance abuse and private practice settings. Kristen uses a variety of treatment approaches, including CBT, psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, and EMDR therapy with related specialty interventions including RTEP and DeTUR. She now takes the role of training other therapists in EMDR interventions for addictions and compulsive behaviors. Currently, Dr. Garubba owns and operates her private practice in San Juan Capistrano, California, providing individual, couples, and family therapy. She is also an adjunct professor at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and at California State University, Fullerton where she teaches graduate-level courses. She also serves in a supervisory capacity for psychotherapists who are new to the profession. Kristen brings with her long-standing experience in the field and holds a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Doctorate in Educational and Counseling Psychology both from Argosy University

Greta Liang

Marketing & Site Director

The biggest part of creating a community is creating a support network. This network will be comprised of those within the neighborhood, and of professionals that can assist in the treatment process. My goals are to create a strong outreach program, connect with the community and build long lasting relationships. I have seen firsthand what addiction can do to a person, the damage it can cause and the tragedy that follows. I stand by the mission and vision of Simple Path Recovery. I believe that community support, and program based treatment is the solution.

Ruben Escamilla

Therapist

Ruben Escamilla is an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Ruben is also a Certified Drug & Alcohol Counselor with CAADE. Ruben has a total of 6 years experience in the field of behavioral sciences. Ruben earned a B.A. in Cross-Cultural Studies at Bethany College, earned an M.A. in Education and earned an additional M.A. in Clinical Psychology, both from Azusa Pacific University. Working as a Therapist here at Simple Path Recovery, Ruben utilizes his past experience and knowledge as an educator of 15 years into his group therapy approaches to provide a safe therapeutic environment. Ruben continues to take additional Graduate level courses in the field of Clinical Psychology to improve his knowledge and expertise in the field of study for daily implementation with his clients.

Monica Vargas

Nurse

Monica Vargas brings over six years of psychiatric and addiction licensed nursing experience in lock down hospital, residential, and outpatient settings. Upon obtaining her nursing license, Monica pursued an addictions studies certification, a B.A. in Psychology, and additional nursing courses. Monica serves as the primary mentor and technical expert for the Psychiatric Technology program at the college where she obtained her license. Monica fosters empathetic, person-centered care, upholding a safe therapeutic milieu cultivated in a philosophy of dignity, compassion, and competence. Simple Path Recovery allows a holistic use of her expertise and nurtures her passion for helping others. Monica aims to continue actively providing the highest standard of supportive care, focusing on promoting health and wellness for those seeking help to achieve their recovery.

Maryanne Forrester

Lead Case Manager

Mary Anne brings over 4 years of experience to her role as a case manager and SUD counselor. having graduated from Intercoast College with a focus on mental illness and substance abuse counseling. Throughout her career, she has engaged with diverse groups, including adults, couples, and families, tackling issues such as mental illness, family dynamics, substance abuse, relationship conflicts, and introducing the 12 steps of recovery. Her approach is centered on the client, fostering collaboration and tailoring strategies to individual needs and goals. Mary Anne fosters a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their
thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her ultimate aim is to empower individuals, helping them identify
strengths, develop coping mechanisms, and make positive changes for their overall well-being.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mary Anne is dedicated to continuous learning, staying abreast of the latest research and counseling practices. Outside of work, she finds joy in nature, mindfulness meditation, and nurturing her own journey of sobriety.