Therapy Team
Marta Finnegan, Program Director MA Counseling, BA psychology
Marta has over ten years of experience in the field of substance abuse. She has worked primarily with adults and has focused on dual diagnosis counseling for the last two years. She has worked in all levels of substance abuse treatment. Marta has served as the clinical manager of a detox unit as well as an aftercare therapist. She holds a masters degree in counseling with a focus on mental health from Webster University in Jacksonville, FL.
Marta has an eclectic therapy style. She utilizes techniques from a wide variety of orientations. Marta utilizes cognitive behavioral techniques, Gestalt techniques, Reality therapy techniques - all with a flavor of a humanistic approach. She enjoys using experimental techniques in her therapy and has begun to facilitate interventions using the Johnson technique. Additionally, Marta is certified in ropes course.
Why did I choose this profession?
I always knew that I wanted to be in a field that helps others. When I first worked in the field, I did not think I wanted to work in substance abuse, but after one month of working in this field, I realized this was my niche.
Why do I think Brookhaven is right for you or your loved one?
We have such a soft touch with the most dedicated staff I have ever seen. We're all passionate about what we do.
What is my biggest fear?
I'm terribly afraid of birds – particularly peacocks.
I live by this rule.
Things happen the way they are supposed to. I'm also very focused on having healthy boundaries and balance in my life.
Mona Blanton-Kitts , Primary Therapist Licensed Clinical Social Worker/LCSW
Why did I choose this profession?
Working with others is energizing and rejuvenating for me. It is challenging and fulfilling to make a difference in another person’s life and to know that you have given them a part of you to take with them where ever they may go.
Why do I think Brookhaven Retreat is right for you or your loved one?
The clinical program is comprehensive, holistic and results oriented. It is designed to promote a caring, professional culture that is focused on the unique issues of the women we serve. The women are met with open arms and compassionate staff who dedicate their lives to helping others.
What is my passion?
My role as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
I live by this rule.
I am an open minded person who believes in promoting individual rights and dignity. I believe that all persons should be treated with respect and that everyone is truly created equally.
Annabel Agee, Primary Therapist PhD, LPC/MHSP
A Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Services Provider, Annabel joined the Brookhaven staff in January 2007. She holds a doctoral degree in Family Studies and a master's degree in Counseling Psychology, both from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Annabel's experience includes 30+ years in community mental health, social services, and college teaching/administration. In her role as a primary therapist, Annabel offers a balance of clinical and academic expertise that contributes to the program excellence at Brookhaven.
Why did I choose this profession?
I think this profession chose me. I was a teacher and administrator in a community college for 20 years before returning to graduate school to earn my doctorate degree. My dissertation research was a collective case study of families with someone with Alzheimer's disease. I have worked with elder populations in nursing homes, assisted living and community mental health settings, but opportunities to expand my knowledge and experience have opened up to me in ways that seem, "meant to be." I know the work I am doing now at Brookhaven Retreat Center is the work I am suppose to be doing at this time.
What is my passion?
Nature - the mountains, the beach, the woodland, the river. Also, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, EAD, I have completed the EAGALA Level II Training, and have discovered EAP as the most powerful therapy tool I have ever used. Amazing what horses can teach us when we let them "be horses" and even more amazing how healing "the outside of a horse is for the inside of a person."
What is my biggest fear?
That I won't have the time to do all the writing I want to do in my life.
I live by this rule.
"Nothing really matters except relationship"
Rachel Bingham
Melissa Blaque, Domestic Violence Legal Advocate / Instructor / Reflexologist Certified Domestic Violence Advocate through the Tennessee Coalition
Melissa Blaque has been involved in the realm of domestic violence for over 20 years, as a survivor, facilitator advocate and speaker. She is a certified women's domestic violence legal advocate through the Tennessee Coalition Against Domestic Violence. She has also been a well renowned public speaker on this issue for over twelve years, concurrently sitting on the Board of Survivors for the conception and opening ceremonies for the Family Justice Center.
Melissa also felt the need to unify and Westernize the characteristics of Yoga into her healing and awareness programs which focus on deep breathing, meditation and various stretching techniques. She has been certified in Reflexology since 2004 through the Health Flex School of Reflexology. Melissa is also a trained trigger point technician, certified in ice, heat and hot stone therapies.
At Brookhaven, Melissa facilitates Empowerment groups using various non-traditional and very unique therapy techniques that are personally individualized to meet each guests needs. She includes discussions of healthy and non-healthy relationships, honing in on women's sexuality and how to recognize the early warning signs of domestic violence. Another unique and non-traditional focus for Melissa is the Equine Therapy groups she facilitates with trainer Tony Jones.
Why did I choose this profession?
I am a true advocate. It is my purpose in life to empower women.
Why do I think Brookhaven Retreat is right for you or your loved one?
Brookhaven Retreat's unique approach to holistic recovery is unlike any therapeutic center I have seen.
What is my passion?
My passion is to play a role in empowering women in any way I can.
What is my biggest fear?
My biggest fear is that someone who truly needs my help might not come forward to get it.
I live by this rule.
Never put the responsibility of your personal safety in someone else's hands.
Darleena Rae Anderson, Primary Therapist MA, LPC
Ms. Anderson has always had an interest in the social service field and nursing. She has completed four degrees in psychology, sociology, human services, and professional counseling with an emphasis in clinical psychotherapy in which she graduated at the top of her class. She is currently completing her fifth degree doctorate of education with an emphasis in Administration and Leadership. Ms. Anderson has over 22 years working in the social services field and has been a key player in the development of several programs throughout the United States. She recently returned to Tennessee to enjoy the Smoky Mountains and be closer to her family. There have been many success stories through out her career "It's a beautiful life and helping others over-come life obstacles makes it a great journey." She has joined the team at Brookhaven as Program Director.
Why did I choose this profession?
I was a nursing student completing my practicum in nursing working in the Med surgery department when my grandmother, who was my hero, became very ill. She had been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and was in a catatonic stage. She did not remember anyone in our family and would simply sit in a chair all day long and stare out the window. She was not eating or sleeping, and was not able to do any of the things she used to do. I was set on finding a way to help her. I asked the physician if I could look through her charts because I was a nursing student. He agreed, and allowed me to become very involved in my grandmother's treatment. She had 11 ECT treatments. It was a very hard thing for her to go through but she did get better and with the help of her therapist and her family, she lived the last few years of her life very well and happy. I asked her to explain to me what that experience was like for her and she said it was like being imprisoned in a dark hole. Through this life experience I learned a lot about depression, how it affects a person, and how it affects the family of the people who love that person. I decided to learn more about depression and other mental health issues and felt like this was the area in which I could make a difference. I wanted to help people like my grandmother, whose lives have been negatively impacted by mental health issues.
Why do I think Brookhaven Retreat is right for you or your loved one?
When my grandmother was ill there was no place like Brookhaven Retreat. She, unfortunately, had to experience a locked hospital setting that did not provide her with the wonderful treatment and therapy program that Brookhaven offers. I wish there would have been a place like Brookhaven for her when she needed it. Throughout my career I have been to, and worked at, facilities that just cannot compare to the quality of care that is provided at Brookhaven. When I think about my family and the people I love, I think that if they got ill with mental health issues, or struggled with drug, or alcohol problems, I would want them to have the best that Brookhaven Retreat can offer. I believe here, people can experience the best in treatment and the caring of a dedicated and understanding professional staff.
What is my passion?
I believe that life is to be lived to the fullest. My passion is to experience life that way. So I am learning how to fly and do all the things that I have dreamed of doing.
I live by this rule.
To be truthful to myself, honor myself and others, to give the best of myself to others, to stand up for what I believe in and to share my laughter, love and friendship with all those I come in contact with.
Jill Blankenship
Misty Gladdish
L. Tony Jones
Tony began professionally handling horses at the age of 40 following a life long love of horses. After studying the infamous techniques of J. Lyons, P. Parelli, M. Roberts and Sam Powell, Tony applied these extraordinary teachings and has trained numerous horses and horse owners all over East Tennessee. Tony's goal at Brookhaven is to invite clients to develop a working/playing relationship with horses through encouragement and trust, while speaking the language of equine through patience, kindness and integrity.
Joanna L. Kluck, Registered Dietitian MBA; RD; CSG; LDN
Joanna has over 30 years of experience in administering and supervising clinical dietetics, food service programs and operations. After obtaining her MBA in Health Care Administration she went on to become the Director of Clinical Dietetics and Food Service at Presbyterian Manor in 1989. Other work experience includes the Texas Department of Human Resources where she served as Nutritionist V, and in Knoxville, OMNI Healthcare where she served as Operations Manager/Registered Dietician. Joanna has also taught nutrition at Walter State Community College, and is currently the Consulting Dietician at Brookhaven. She is certified as a Registered Dietician, Licensed Dietician and is a member of the Knoxville District Dietician Association. Certifications include CSG (Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition and SMQT (Surveyor's Minimum Qualification Test).
Why did I choose this profession?
I knew I wanted to do something that pertained to health and thought this would be a good fit.
Why do I think Brookhaven Retreat is right for you or your loved one?
It is a very personal and warm place. I like the idea that Brookhaven Retreat is for women only, as women definitely approach problems differently than men. I also like the idea that the owner is involved on a day-to-day basis.
What is my passion?
My family.
What is my biggest fear?
Leaving this earth and feeling as if I have not made a difference in someone's life.
I live by this rule.
Always tell the truth and lead by example.