We are thrilled to welcome incredible new team members who bring unique strengths, perspectives, and steadfast commitment to the vital work of supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. Each of them has a unique story and professional path that reflects their commitment to fostering hope, healing, and personal growth. Their combined strengths will help enhance our efforts to create transformative experiences for the individuals and communities we serve.
Joshua Nichols, RADT-1
Primary Aide – Bimini
Joshua, a native of the Northwest, now finds himself working in Los Angeles, California, where he helps people overcome addiction and find healing. His aspirations are deeply rooted in his desire to harness the wealth of his life experiences, inherent strengths, and an unwavering sense of hope, all aimed at empowering individuals in their pursuit of discovering their true purpose in life, healing, and attaining sustainable sobriety. Presently, he is diligently pursuing his education at East Los Angeles College, where he is focused on cultivating the necessary skills to become a primary counselor. Additionally, he is working toward obtaining his Substance Use Disorder (SUD) certification and earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Joshua is committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those grappling with addiction and searching for direction.
Gerald Soriano
Kitchen Aide – Bimini
Gerald Soriano brings over 12 years of dynamic experience in the restaurant industry, with a unique journey that began in graphic design. While he initially thrived in the creative world of design, his true passion emerged when he discovered the culinary arts. Transitioning into the kitchen, Gerald dedicated himself to mastering diverse cooking techniques, flavor profiles, and plating styles. His background in design continues to influence his culinary approach, allowing him to create dishes that are not only delicious but visually captivating. Gerald’s adaptability and focus on holistic success highlight his deep understanding of both artistry and community building. He looks forward to bringing his passion for cooking to Social Model Recovery Systems.
Marcus Griffin, RADT-1
Primary Aide – River Community
Marcus graduated from Chaffey College in 2023, earning an associate degree in psychology. His goal is to obtain his bachelor’s degree in psychology, and eventually earn his master’s in social work. Marcus is currently attending Cal State San Bernardino University and taking part in the AOD program at Mt. San Antonio College. His short-term goal is to become a certified counselor by the summer of 2025. Education is extremely important to Marcus. He believes that the more an individual educates themselves, the more motivated we are to finding our purpose. His goal is to help and influence others to be the best version of themselves. As part of Social Model Recovery Systems, he is proud to be part of a team that cares so passionately about the growth of their cohorts and residents.
Uriel Avina, MS
Primary Counselor – PCADD
Uriel was born in Los Angeles, California and lived most of his life in the San Gabriel Valley area before moving to Northern California for about five years. He was then led to move to Kansas City for a couple of years before relocating back to the Los Angeles area in March of 2020. Uriel struggled with alcohol addiction for almost twenty years before entering his first recovery program. After multiple rehabilitation centers and various relapses, he finally broke free in August of 2014 when he entered a recovery program that would change the course of his life.
With about five years of experience working mainly as an inpatient residential facility counselor, Uriel has been involved with recovery groups around faith-based ministries, serving as part of the leadership team with individuals in various outpatient programs. This path led him to study psychology, ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree and later a master’s in industrial-organizational psychology from the University of Capella.
Uriel is looking forward to being part of Social Model Recovery Systems and learning how he can be of service to those in need. Along with his experience in recovery centers, both as a resident and counselor, his work at the Department for Children and Families as a Child Protection Specialist has given him valuable case management experience, which he believes will be beneficial at PCADD.
Uriel loves animals, especially cats, and in his free time he enjoys researching startup projects in the disruptive technology sector and interacting with protocols on-chain.
Melissa Munoz, RADT-1
Primary Counselor – Omni Center
Prior to coming to Social Model Recovery Systems, Melissa worked in the medical field, where she obtained her Medical Assistant, Certified Nurse Assistant, and Phlebotomy certifications. During a particularly difficult period in her life, she realized she needed a change and decided to pursue a career that would not only bring her personal fulfillment but also allow her to make a meaningful impact on others. This decision was driven by her desire to find purpose and truly connect with those she serves. Melissa began interning at Omni in the Fall of 2024. Now, Melissa is excited to be of service as a full-time employee, helping others overcome challenges and guiding them toward becoming the best version of themselves. Her goal is to inspire growth, healing, and positive transformation, just as she has experienced in her own journey. In her free time, Melissa enjoys gardening.
Francisca Rodriguez, SUDRC
Primary Aide – Mariposa
Francisca grew up in the San Gabriel Valley and was inspired to pursue a career in the addiction field after experiencing her own struggles with addiction. At the age of 15, Francisca became addicted to methamphetamine. “My life quickly spiraled out of control,” she stated. At the time, she felt hopeless, believing that no help was available or that recovery was even possible for someone in her situation. After 12 years in recovery, Francisca found a deep calling to help others who are facing the same challenges she once did. Her personal journey has given her a unique understanding of the struggles individuals face in addiction, and it motivates her to support others in their path to recovery.
Our new team members’ unique talents and compassion in supporting recovery will surely assist in enriching the lives of those they work with. We are excited to have them on board and look forward to the positive and lasting contributions they will make to our programs, our team, and the broader community.
