We understand that the path to recovery is unique for each individual. Our mission is to provide a supportive haven for those seeking a way out of addiction, as well as family and friends affected by addiction.
Our Staff
Our “Why”
Our counselors and staff, many of whom have been through recovery themselves, support and work together in the therapeutic environment toward a common goal: to help those suffering from the diseases of addiction and alcoholism. This is a setting in which clients receive the tools they need to begin a successful recovery process.
Committed to earning your trust
The quality of the relationship between a client and his or her counselor influences the likelihood of treatment success. While it is not possible for a prospective rehab client to know what the dynamic will be like with any given staff member, a professional atmosphere can lay the groundwork for trust, which is a key ingredient of success in treatment.
The importance of experience
Most of our staff members are in recovery from addiction themselves and succeeded in earning the necessary credentials to work in this field. Many of our counselors were once drug abusers who, empowered through recovery, have dedicated their lives to helping others recover from substance abuse and addiction.
These people could be said to combine the best of both worlds, as they know addiction from firsthand personal experience and have received the academic and clinical training to become counselors and staff.
Meet Our Team
Get to know our exemplary team members who are dedicated to helping you or your loved one overcome addiction.
Our Administrative Staff
Randy’s passion for helping people to get clean and sober is what initially breathed Woodlake into existence. He has worked tirelessly since to help as many people get the resources that they need to start a new and better life. That selflessness and compassion has trickled down to the next generation with his children Lydia, Randal, and Joy who all work for Woodlake.
Blain Houston serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Woodlake, where he oversees the financial operations of the organization. In his role, Blain provides the financial guidance necessary to support Woodlake's team of professionals in delivering the high level of care their clients expect and deserve. His efforts help ensure that Woodlake can continue providing quality care for years to come.
“It is a blessing to be a small part of such a big mission at Woodlake. It is one of the greatest challenges I have ever been a part of, and I am continuously inspired by the passion my co-workers have as they strive to bring each client to recovery,” says Blain.
Blain holds a Bachelor of Science in International Trade and Finance from Louisiana State University. He began his career in banking, which eventually led to a CFO position at a freight company. Before joining Woodlake, Blain accumulated six years of experience in banking and 17 years in the transportation industry.
Randal is a Baton Rouge native. She attended Parkview Baptist High School and went on to continue her education at Louisiana State University. She attended the E. J. Ourso School of Business, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing.
She is the proud mother to two children, Alice McKay and Wilder. Randal, along with her husband Kevin, have a passion for serving God's children. She likes to spend her time taking bike rides, hanging with her family, and going to the beach.Randal has been with Woodlake since 2014, where she has been able to grow professionally and personally in the field of addiction.
Ryan Phillips serves as the Corporate Clinical Director at Woodlake, where he plays a vital role in developing and implementing clinical programming and ensuring quality through audits. He collaborates with directors to create innovative solutions in navigating the field of Addiction and Mental Health.
Ryan's passion for his work is deeply rooted in his family history with addiction as well as his faith, which inspired him to assist those suffering from this disease. His journey began as an intern fresh out of graduate school, where he quickly fell in love with the process of helping individuals rebuild their lives through recovery. Witnessing the transformative power of recovery and the ripple effect it has on others continues to fuel his dedication.
“I love the staff and the opportunities created for individuals in recovery. I am so grateful to see people's lives changed due to the compassion and dedication of the Woodlake family. I am proud to be a part of a company/family that passionately strives to help others in need,” says Ryan.
Ryan has a Master’s in Counseling Education from Southeastern Louisiana University and has been instrumental in developing specialized programs, including professional addiction programs, veteran recovery initiatives, and Woodlake's L.I.F.E. model used in our treatment centers. Ryan has also mentored numerous interns and paraprofessionals, contributing to the growth of future leaders in the field.
Ryan finds immense fulfillment in seeing lives changed through the collective efforts of the Woodlake team.
Our Directors
Dr. Jake Wood grew up in Louisiana where he earned his degree in microbiology at LSU and his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham. He completed his internship and residency at Medical Center East Family Practice in Alabama and has practiced Family Medicine since 2003.
Previously a Louisiana Tech team physician for 10 years and currently a team physician for Catholic High School, Dr. Wood is also active in medical mission work and is a member of the American and Louisiana Academies of Family Physicians and Louisiana Chapter, American Medical Association, Louisiana State Medical Society, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, Christian Medical and Dental Associations, and American Diabetes Association. He enjoys providing preventive and general medical care to patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.
Edward J. Atherton (Eddie), was born in Gulfport, Ms. I grew up in Gulfport and went to The University of Southern Miss. I was raised Catholic and continue to keep God a priority in my life. I struggled for many years with alcoholism. I have been to both faith-based and 12 step program treatment facilities. I completed WARC in April of 2016 with a sobriety date of 03/09/2016. I joined Woodlake staff in January 2018.
I was the manager of our sober living apartment complex for 3 years, while working as an Admissions Coordinator. I’m now the Director of Admissions. Through my own struggles with addiction, I can share my experience, strength and hope with others. Today, I’m grateful to work in an industry where we provide services for others to heal and grow from their addictions. During my time off, I enjoy spending time with my daughter, Sarah, family and friends. I, also, enjoy fishing and golfing.
Wendy received her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management from the University of Mobile. She has been working in the healthcare field for over twenty years. In addition to her extensive duties as Director of Human Resources, she also runs several of Woodlake’s Transitional Living properties. She is the proud mother of two children, Bailey and Dylan. She loves to spend her time bowling and coaching the youth. She has been with Woodlake since 2013.
Savannah Smith serves as the Assistant Director of Education at Woodlake, where she is dedicated to providing quality education on 12-Step Recovery Dynamics, substance abuse, and relapse prevention.
Savannah teaches at four of Woodlake's facilities—Ethel, Denham Springs, Mid City, and Bogalusa—helping clients understand the disease of alcoholism and equipping them with the tools and life skills needed for a substance-free life.
Her approach to education is deeply personal, as she integrates her own experience, strength, and hope from addiction into her teachings, striving to reach clients on both a mental and emotional level.
“I am passionate about the work I do because I have also worked and continue to work this same program; it provided me with the blessings of being a mother, daughter, respected friend and colleague, and a vessel to be able to help others,” says Savannah.
Savannah's path to her current role began with her certification as a Registered Addiction Counselor through the State of Louisiana Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority, followed by becoming a Certified Clinical Supervisor. She is currently pursuing further education to become a Licensed Social Worker.
Our Team Members
Lindsay Boudreaux serves as the Assistant Program/Clinical Director of ARC at Woodlake. In her role, Lindsay is dedicated to supporting clients in their recovery journey through a variety of clinical and administrative duties.
She facilitates group therapy sessions as an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) counselor, ensuring that clients receive consistent, ethical, and professional care. Additionally, she oversees facility operations, assists with staff support, and steps in for client interventions when needed, all to maintain a high standard of client services.
“I am afforded the opportunity to witness the beauty of recovery every single day. Every client I encounter has an opportunity to recreate their life despite whatever hurdle or circumstances that make this a difficult feat, requiring courage, willingness, humility, and perseverance. As someone who is not in recovery and has never struggled with addiction, I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to both encourage and support all clients I encounter, serving as an ally to the recovery community and spreading awareness for recovery. I get a front row seat to recovery success every single day,” says Lindsay.
Lindsay's journey into the field of addiction recovery began serendipitously. She started as an intern at Woodlake ARC in Lafayette while still in graduate school. The inspiration and sense of purpose she found working there led her to pursue a career in addiction recovery. Lindsay attributes her continued dedication to the supportive community of clients and professional peers at Woodlake, who have profoundly influenced her personal and professional growth.
In her free time, Lindsay enjoys spending time with her husband and their two sons. Whether it's engaging in sports, participating in fun activities, or helping with homework, Lindsay cherishes the joys of parenthood and the busy, fulfilling life it brings.
Faith Boutte is a Certified Addiction Counselor and Certified Clinical Supervisor through the Louisiana ADRA. Faith has worked at Woodlake Addiction Recovery Center in the Abbeville, LA location since May 2017. Faith had her start at Acadiana CARES Pathways Inpatient Program as an intern in late 2011.
Faith worked as a Case Manager for the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Department in the Alternative Sentencing Program DOC from 12/2014-08/2016. In August of 2016, Faith transferred to Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Department Acadiana Recovery Center Outpatient Services Custody Program as a Counselor in Training.
Faith received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in December 2011. Faith is certified in facilitating Moral Reconation Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Faith uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness/DBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing to assist in the therapeutic process.
Faith has a passion for helping those suffering from addiction, provides empathy and compassion, and assisting them in gaining the tools and knowledge to live a life of recovery. Faith is happily married to her husband, Josh and is the proud mother of her two adult children Nathan and Jaida. In her spare time Faith enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, traveling, and camping.
Frank Carter, RAC, CTP, is the Program Director for Woodlake Mid-City. Frank is deeply passionate about his work, driven by his personal journey through addiction and recovery.
“Woodlake and the counselors before me were there for me when I was at the lowest point of my life. I could not think of a better way to give back other than to do for others what was done for me. Watching others who struggle with addiction turn their lives around has been and will continue to be a bright spot in my life,” says Frank.
Frank's path to his current role began in 2018, when he sought treatment at Woodlake for the last time and has remained sober ever since. In 2019, he started working in the treatment field as a behavior technician and, in 2020, earned his CIT certification, becoming a counselor.
Frank has continued to grow in his career within the same organization where he achieved sobriety.
Outside of work, Frank enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. Together, they have built a close-knit community of friends and family through recovery. Additionally, Frank is actively involved in a fellowship where he supports others struggling with addiction.
Craig Encalade is a Registered Addiction Counselor. Craig has been with Woodlake since 2019. He started out as a behavioral health tech, moved up to assessment coordinator, and then to a full-time clinician. Craig found his passion in working with veterans and is currently the Patriot Program Director.
Craig is a residential counselor in Ethel. Craig is also a part of the Baton Rouge outpatient program as well as an Integrated Wellness Clinic counselor. Craig has had a part in managing male sober living homes. Craig and his wife currently own a transitional female home for women with one year or more of sobriety.
Craig has been sober since April 2018. He is very family oriented and enjoys traveling with his wife and making memories with their daughter and their three granddaughters.
Halley Blackwell is a native of Ruston, La, where she attended Ruston High School and continued her education at Louisiana Tech University. Halley has been working in the behavioral health/substance abuse field since 2015. As a person in recovery she is able to carry out her true passion which is to continue to help the alcoholic/addict that is still suffering. In her spare time she loves making memories with her son and close friends.
Kym Herrin is the Director of Nursing at Woodlake, where she embraces the challenges of addiction recovery nursing with compassion. She views addiction nurses as the first face of recovery, responsible for uncovering the root causes of addiction and developing collaborative treatment plans through honest discussions and keen observations.
“As addiction nurses, we must tap into our keen observations with a compassionate approach to help clients as they begin the journey of reclaiming their lives from the grips of addiction,” says Kym.
Kym's passion for her work is driven by her love for the staff and her desire to master new skills. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in Psychology from Southeastern Louisiana University, Kym brings extensive experience in burn ICU, outpatient dialysis, hospice, and quality improvement, with a focus on management over the past 20 years.
In her free time, Kym has devoted 22 years to raising her wonderful kiddos and pursuing her passion for sports photography. She also enjoys reselling thrifted items on eBay, a hobby she has pursued for 25 years. When not thrifting, Kym can be found hunting and fishing with her family in Woodville, MS.
Mrs. Lauren Hutchinson, RAC works at our Ethel location as a psychological assessor along with assisting clinical staff with all client’s needs in group, individual sessions, treatment planning, etc. Mrs. Hutchinson completed the Addiction Counselor’s CE program where she received her Certificate.
Mrs. Hutchinson assists in improving the lives of our clients by using unique techniques to address their issues. She provides compassionate, high quality counseling and therapy to clients that are seeking recovery. Mrs. Hutchinson is in the process of working towards her Registered Addiction Counselor License.
When she is not working, Mrs. Hutchinson spends time with her supportive husband and two amazing children. Mrs. Hutchinson is also an asset to the AA community in which she provides time and effort to assist women in sobriety.
Kevin James serves as the Director of Education at Woodlake, where he oversees all aspects of 12-step education and recovery aspects.
“Being in recovery myself for over 24 years, I do know the 12-steps work. Being able to carry that message to the ones who still suffer is a very rewarding thing to do. Being a part of the recovery process at Woodlake is the main reason I love this place!” says Kevin.
Kevin’s firsthand experience fuels his commitment to helping others navigate their own paths to healing. His leadership in education ensures that clients receive the guidance and support necessary to embrace the recovery process and reclaim their lives.
Lindsey James serves as the Director of Nursing at Woodlake, where she passionately dedicates herself to supporting clients on their recovery journeys. With over a decade of experience in nursing, Lindsey brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her role.
Her journey to becoming a nurse began after achieving sobriety, when she discovered a deep passion for helping others navigate their own paths to recovery. This newfound purpose led her to pursue a nursing degree, beginning with a License of Practical Nursing from Our Lady of the Lake Health Career Institute, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in the Science of Nursing from Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University.
At Woodlake, Lindsey’s work is fueled by her commitment to the 12-Step model of Alcoholics Anonymous, which she believes is a powerful tool for educating clients about the disease of alcoholism. She emphasizes the importance of this teaching method in helping clients grasp the true nature of their condition.
“I am passionate about recovery because it has given me a second opportunity at life. I can share my experience, strength and hope with clients and let them know that possibilities are endless once they take that first step to get sober.
Experiencing firsthand some of the same challenges as the clients I interact with daily allows me to show sympathy as well as empathy,” says Lindsey.
Skye Larrabee serves as the Program Director at Woodlake, where she plays a crucial role in ensuring the facility operates efficiently while providing individualized care to each client on their recovery journey.
Her commitment to creating a safe and encouraging environment for both clients and staff is at the heart of her work. Skye's dedication to individualized care not only enhances the likelihood of client success but also fosters relationships built on trust and understanding.
“It is my belief that everyone is deserving of a second chance, and being a part of someone’s journey toward healing and transformation is invaluable to me. At Woodlake, I am able to advocate for people in need, while also challenging the stigmas that follow people struggling with their addictions,” says Skye.
Skye’s passion for her work stems from witnessing the profound impact addiction has on individuals, families, and communities. For her, the most rewarding aspect of her role is helping people reclaim their lives and realize their full potential.
Taneshia Lee, LPC, is the Clinical Director at Woodlake Ethel. In her role, Taneshia helps clients recover by employing an eclectic approach to counseling, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
“I have a true passion for helping people make positive life changes. This is truly a rewarding career. It is fulfilling to empower and uplift those who are working to change attitudes and behaviors,” says Taneshia.
Taneshia holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University and a Master of Arts in Christian Studies with an emphasis in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University. She also earned a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University.
In her free time, Taneshia loves spending time with her family. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and attending sporting events.
Danielle Leffel, RAC, ICADC, serves as the Co-Director of Clinical Services at Woodlake. Her passion for helping clients recover stems from her personal experiences with addiction and the loss of a family member to the disease.
“I am passionate about helping clients recover because I understand first hand what it feels like to struggle with addiction as well as be a family member of an addict that died from her disease. I know there is a better life on the other side of active addiction because I live it on a daily basis,” says Danielle.
By showing clients tough love, patience, compassion, and understanding, Danielle helps them realize they are worth saving and deserving of recovery.
In her free time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family and watching sports, and cheering for the LSU Tigers and the New Orleans Saints.
Jeff is a Registered Addictions Counselor with the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority. He graduated from the University of Louisiana Monroe with a Bachelors in Marketing. Jeff has worked in the treatment field since March of 2016.
He served as the lead mental health technician and facilities manager at Woodlake Addiction Recovery Center in Ethel from March of 2016 until 2022. Jeff oversaw the daily operations of the facility to provide a safe and productive environment for our clients. He also managed Woodlake’s Transitional living and sober living in the Baton Rouge area from March 2015 to December 2017.
Currently, he serves as the corporate compliance officer where he maintains licensure and compliance for all Woodlake campuses.
As well as working in the treatment field, Jeff has been separated from alcohol through recovery since January, 6th 2015. He continues to help the still sick and suffering alcoholic/addict find the solution to this disease in recovery around Baton Rouge and Monroe, Louisiana.
Lydia Mouton serves as the Director of Operations at Woodlake, where she plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial health and integrity of the company. Working closely with other leaders, Lydia oversees the day-to-day financial operations, aiming to secure the longevity of Woodlake so we can continue helping clients for years to come.
With a dual bachelor’s degree in marketing and accounting from Louisiana State University, Lydia brings a strong background in both fields to her role. She has been a part of the Woodlake family for nearly a decade.
Lydia is deeply committed to supporting the ongoing work of her colleagues, who continue to transform lives through their dedication and compassion.
“Working in substance abuse has allowed me to see firsthand the impact the disease of addiction has on individuals, families, and communities.
The most rewarding part of my job is being able to play a small part in helping someone reclaim their life and realize their full potential. It is my belief that everyone is deserving of a second chance, and being a part of someone’s journey toward healing and transformation is invaluable to me.
At Woodlake, I am able to advocate for people in need, while also challenging the stigmas that follow people struggling with their addictions,” says Lydia.
As the Director of Nursing at Woodlake Addiction Recovery Center, Jeanne leads nursing operations and quality of care for patients in Abbeville and ARC. She joins Woodlake with over 20 years of experience, specializing in addiction recovery, infectious disease, and case management. Jeanne is a 2000 graduate of LSUE and a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse (2023) with a passion for helping people overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. She has been sober since 2011 after struggling with addiction for many years.
In previous roles as a Case Manager at Victory Addiction Recovery Center and Lafayette General Health, she coordinated treatment plans, referrals, and discharge of patients with various medical and behavioral health needs. She also has a background in business development at Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center, where she expanded services and maintained relationships with key referral sources. She has a strong track record of working with veterans, impaired professionals, and other vulnerable populations. Jeanne is a compassionate, collaborative, and competent leader, who values teamwork, professionalism, and excellence.
Brett Thibodeaux is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). He graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2018 with a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Brett received a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2011. Brett has worked/interned in many different settings including community counseling, private practice, university counseling centers as well as treatment centers. Brett started with Woodlake Addiction Recovery Center as an Intern at the Acadiana Recovery Center and then moving into the role of being an Intensive Outpatient Counselor before moving to Woodlake West in Abbeville to be a residential counselor.
Brett enjoys spending time fishing and going to New Orleans Saints games with his wife, Brittany and three kids, Jax, Kate and Graham. As an advocate for self care and enjoying life, Brett and his family enjoy traveling as often as possible.
Crystal Encalade is a Registered Addiction Counselor, a Certified Clinical Supervisor, a Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor, and a Certified Trauma Support Specialist. She is also an individual counselor with Integrated Wellness Clinic.
Crystal began working in the treatment field as a tech in 2014 and has been cross trained on utilization review, admissions, discharge planning, intake, and assessments. She has also managed female sober living homes.
Crystal and her husband currently own a transitional female home for women with one year or more of sobriety. Crystal’s passion is working with women; however, she is skilled at working with all clients.
Crystal has been with Woodlake since September 2016. Crystal was an integral part of opening and building Woodlake’s Denham Springs outpatient client. Crystal is currently the program director of outpatient programming in Baton Rouge. which includes medically assisted treatment. She has experience with counseling at all levels of care.
Crystal has been living a life of recovery since May 2013 and enjoys helping people put the pieces of their lives back together after getting sober. Crystal believes in addressing family of origin issues, adult child of an alcoholic traits and dependent traits as they relate to the client’s addiction. Crystal also focuses on relapse prevention.
Outside of work, Crystal enjoys traveling with her husband and spending time with their daughter and three granddaughters.
Lillian Young serves as an Admissions Consultant at Woodlake, where she guides clients through the first critical steps of their recovery journey. With a compassionate approach and a personal understanding of addiction, Lillian helps individuals find the right inpatient treatment path to begin their healing process.
As a recovering alcoholic and addict, Lillian’s passion for her work is deeply rooted in her own experience. She uses her story and understanding of recovery to connect with clients on a personal level, offering hope and reassurance as they start their own journey toward sobriety.
Lillian’s career began as a Sober Living Manager, where she provided support and structure to those transitioning back into society. She then worked with Integrated Wellness, scheduling clients for individual counseling, before serving as an admissions coordinator.
In her free time, Lillian enjoys fishing, spending time with her dog and family, and playing Scrabble.
Reach out to us today.
At Woodlake Addiction Recovery Center, we understand the urgency that comes with seeking help. Whether you’re reaching out for a loved one, or for yourself, our experienced team is here around-the-clock to support you.
We’ll be with you every step of the way, and we encourage you to take the first step today.
