Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) is proud to celebrate our newest licensed clinician, Denise Hernandez-Felice, whose dedication, perseverance, and passion for helping others continue to inspire us all.
Denise earned her Master of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University in 2025 and has since achieved licensure, marking another significant milestone in her professional journey. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to expanding her clinical expertise, developing her unique therapeutic approach, and applying her knowledge to better serve individuals experiencing mental health and substance use disorders.
Denise’s journey with SMRS began in June 2018 when she completed an internship while pursuing her undergraduate degree at the University of La Verne. Inspired by a desire to make a meaningful difference, she furthered her education by enrolling in the Drug and Alcohol Counseling program at Mt. San Antonio College, strengthening her foundation in addiction treatment and recovery services.
In January 2019, Denise joined SMRS as a staff member at our Bimini treatment program, beginning what has become an extraordinary career of service and leadership. Her commitment to learning, professional growth, and compassionate care has consistently made a positive impact on the participants we serve.
Her academic accomplishments reflect her dedication to the field. Denise earned a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science with a minor in Ethnic Studies, an Associate of Arts in Drug and Alcohol Counseling, became a certified drug and alcohol counselor, and completed her Master of Social Work with the support and encouragement of SMRS throughout her educational journey.
Over the years, Denise has excelled in a variety of roles, including Substance Use Disorder Counselor, Case Manager, and Group Facilitator. Her passion for leadership led to her appointment as Program Director of the Bimini Treatment Program, where she successfully balanced the responsibilities of leading a treatment program while completing graduate school and an intensive internship. Denise describes leading the Bimini team as one of the most rewarding experiences of her career.
Recognizing her talent for leadership and commitment to staff development, Denise later accepted the role of Director of Education and Training, where she focused on expanding educational opportunities and professional development for SMRS employees. Her dedication to lifelong learning and organizational excellence embodies the mission and values of SMRS.
Today, Denise serves as Senior Director of Treatment Services, where she continues to champion clinical excellence, innovation, and professional growth across our organization. Achieving licensure is another remarkable accomplishment that reflects years of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to those we serve.
In her leadership role, Denise continues to encourage professional development and advanced education while supporting the implementation of evidence-based treatment practices that improve outcomes for our participants. Her journey exemplifies the core values of SMRS: continuous growth, compassionate service, leadership, and excellence.
As we look toward the future, we are excited to see the continued positive impact Denise will have on our organization, our employees, and the communities we serve. Her vision, leadership, and dedication will help ensure that individuals seeking recovery receive the highest quality care and support.
Please join us in congratulating Denise Hernandez-Felice on earning her clinical license and on this outstanding professional achievement. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone with her and look forward to all she will continue to accomplish.
