Program
Stephanie Gutierrez
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Stephanie is a certified nursing assistant and is working to pursue her Bachelor of Science with a Major in Nursing. In 2014 Stephaine started working children and teens. With an interest in the medical field and a desire to work with young people, Stephanie began her career working in treatment for rehabilitation with young adults.
Following her passion in 2019, she transitioned into working with children and teens in the mental health field and joined Polaris as a Program Aide. As an integral part of the Polaris team, she was promoted to Lead Program Aide and eventually to Residential Supervisor, in which she co-supervises all floor staff. Working for Polaris, Stephanie has been able to witness the positive impact and change the program and staff have on the teens and their families.
Lisa Hitchell, MEd
TEACHER
Lisa has over ten years’ teaching experience in various academic settings. She holds a master’s degree in Education from Sierra Nevada College and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UNLV. Her classroom experience began as an ESL (English as a second language) instructor in Las Vegas helping international students, both teens and adults, become acclimated to the English language and American culture. This transitioned into Lisa earning her state teaching license in secondary education, with which she taught middle school ELA for over six years. During that time, she developed skills and delivery approaches to help students of various backgrounds and challenges, including physical, mental, and emotional, to succeed in their studies.
Lisa enjoys working with students in smaller groups settings or in a one-to-one situation so that she can tailor the content delivery to that student’s specific needs and learning style. She is able to apply those skills in a one-to-one setting with the students here at Polaris to facilitate their continuing educational progress during their stay.
Clarissa Salazar, BA
EDUCATION COORDINATOR
Clarissa received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from California Polytechnic State University, Pomona and is pursuing a Masters Degree in Social Work. Prior to joining Polaris, Clarissa worked with individuals from many different populations and socioeconomic backgrounds through volunteering and working collaboratively with community-based organizations. Clarissa began her work with Polaris as a Program Aide before being promoted to Assistant Case Manager. In these roles, Clarissa worked closely with the teens, their families and outside providers, diligently coordinating resources for discharge and aftercare planning to ensure a successful transition from residential treatment.
Clarissa brings her joy of working directly with the Polaris clients and her administrative skills to the position of Education Coordinator. Her goal is to provide the appropriate structure and support for every child, so that they may successfully and confidently navigate their coursework in a way that is both empowering and meaningful.
Laura Ragan
RESIDENTIAL MANAGER AND ALUMNI COORDINATOR
Laura is a graduate student pursuing her license in marriage and family therapy. She enjoys working with young people, and helping them foster growth and achievement in their lives.
She began her journey at Polaris as a Program Aide, which has benefited her mental health career. She was promoted to Lead Program Aide, Alumni Coordinator, and then Residential Manager. During her time at Polaris, she has witnessed the tremendous progress clients can make during treatment, and as Alumni Coordinator, she has seen that impact continue.
Jocelyn Zepeda, BA
RESIDENTIAL MANAGER
Jocelyn Zepeda is a Cal State Long Beach alumni with a Bachelors in Social Work and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Social Work. She has worked with children of all ages in different settings. She worked with children in a foster/adoption agency as a case manager and then moved on to work for an after school organization in the role of classroom assistant. Jocelyn is passionate about working with children to ensure their well being and wants to be an advocate for all children. She started as a Program Aide at Polaris® and is now a Residential Manager. Her different experiences have taught her about mental services and mental health, which is a pathway for her career.
Vanessa Portillo, BA
RESIDENTIAL MANAGER
Vanessa is a highly dedicated and compassionate individual with a strong background in working with children. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and driven by her passion for helping children, she is currently pursuing a certification to become a Child Life Specialist.
From being a childcare worker, a pediatric nurse assistant, and volunteering at the Boys & Girls club: Vanessa has gained valuable experience in various child-focused roles. She aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to address the unique challenges faced by children. She firmly believes that investing in the mental well-being of children is crucial for shaping a brighter future.
Robert Bracaliello, BS, AA And Asher Young
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Robert Bracaliello began working in treatment in 2001 as a counselor for at risk youth after earning his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Rutgers University. He went on to earn Associate of Arts in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu in 2004. Robert has served as a restaurant consultant, personal chef, food judge, sous chef, and executive chef/owner of Residential Dining Solutions. We are excited because of the insight he brings to the position bridging the world of food service and treatment. His multi-faceted experience translates to a better experience for our residents and guests.