At Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS), our strength comes from the dedicated individuals who choose to serve others with compassion, purpose, and commitment.
We are excited to welcome several new team members who bring their life experiences, diverse backgrounds, and a passion for supporting individuals and families. Each of them joins our mission with a commitment to helping others find hope, peace, wellness, and recovery, and we are grateful to have them as part of the SMRS family.
Primary Aide | Bimini
Born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley, Leazette brings a deep passion for helping others to her work in the field of SUD. Having worked across various industries, she is excited to begin her journey at Social Model Recovery Systems. Her decision to pursue this field is deeply personal; having witnessed the challenges of substance use through the lived experiences of her own family members, Leazette feels a strong calling to support others on their recovery journeys.
She is looking forward to beginning this new chapter of her career, bringing both empathy and insight to her role. To further her impact, Leazette is currently completing her final year of a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with plans to pursue a master’s degree immediately after.
Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Leazette is motivated by her family. She loves spending quality time going to the mall and the movies with her children; she also enjoys her German Shepherds
Primary Aide | River Community
Born and raised in Pasadena, California, Nancy developed a strong sense of community and resilience early on. As an alumna of Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS), she states that she holds deep gratitude for the support and opportunities provided to her by the organization, recognizing firsthand the profoundly positive impact the program continues to have on individuals’ lives.
Nancy takes immense pride in balancing her many responsibilities as a dedicated full-time mom, student, and employee, approaching each role with determination and grace. She fully embraces the journey life has taken her on and remains thankful for every opportunity she has received along the way. Driven by a positive outlook and a strong work ethic, she focuses on continuous personal growth while inspiring those around her.
Outside of her work and studies, Nancy loves cooking and embarking on new adventures to try different foods with her family.
Medication Support Specialist | Royal Palms
A Los Angeles native, Crystal is a Licensed Vocational Nurse who is deeply passionate about caring for others and supporting the well-being of the people she serves. She approaches her work with compassion, empathy, and a strong belief in the importance of mental health as a foundational pillar of overall wellness. Crystal earned her Associate’s Degree in Vocational Nursing and is committed to creating a supportive, respectful environment where residents always feel seen, heard, and valued.
Outside of her professional life, Crystal is a devoted mother of two who values faith, family, and living life with purpose. She brings that same positive energy into her personal time, where she enjoys staying active through running and embracing new adventures that keep her inspired.
Primary Counselor | Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
Born in Detroit, Michigan, and raised largely in New York, Jose Miller joined the Navy directly out of high school in the early 2000’s. A strong believer in higher education, Jose holds degrees from California State University, Northridge, the University of Southern California, and various California community colleges. His professional background spans several industries, including the military, entertainment, education, hospitality, the federal government, and mental health.
He is currently continuing his education to earn his Master of Social Work (MSW) on his path to becoming a therapist. Outside of his work and studies, Jose stays active and balanced by hiking, playing basketball, traveling, practicing martial arts, and dedicating time to meditation.
We are excited to welcome Leazette, Nancy, Crystal, and Jose to the SMRS family. We look forward to the positive impact they will make in the lives of the residents/participants and communities we serve.
