MEET OUR STAFF

Loren Beck, ADC, CCS

Director of Residential Services

In 1998, my life was at its lowest point. I was homeless, addicted, filthy, and alone. I carried nothing but shame, pain, and the belief that my story was already over. Every day was a fight just to survive—and the only future I could see was darker than the past.

But something deep inside me refused to die. With the help of others who understood, I took the first shaky steps into recovery. It wasn’t easy. It wasn’t quick. But it was real. One day at a time, I began to rebuild—learning to live sober, learning to trust again, and slowly discovering that my life could have meaning.

In 1999, just a year after starting over, I began working the night shift in a treatment center. It wasn’t glamorous, but it lit a fire in me. I saw myself in the people I was helping—and I knew this was my calling. Over the years, I became a licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, then a Clinical Supervisor, guiding other counselors and shaping treatment programs with the same compassion and honesty that had once been shown to me.

In 2024, I reached a milestone that once seemed impossible: I was invited to direct Newhaven Recovery Lodge, a treatment center built on dignity, structure, and spiritual healing. In our first year, we treated several hundred patients, and I stood proud as four of our earliest graduates celebrated one full year of sobriety last month. My weekly public lectures now draw more than 80 members of the recovery community and their families—turning personal healing into a community movement.

From sleeping on sidewalks in 1998 to directing one of the most respected treatment programs in the ArkLaMiss, I am living proof that no one is too far gone to come back—and that the comeback can be greater than the fall.

Andy Turner, ADC

Substance Use Counselor

Andy Turner is a credentialed substance use counselor and a person in long-term recovery. After multiple treatment stays and countless detoxes, he found sustained recovery and now draws from both clinical training and real-world experience to guide others. His approach is grounded in respect and helping people uncover their true selves. He sees the person—not the symptoms or diagnosis—and believes recovery is about awareness, growth, and connection.

Jenna Huitt, PharmD, CIT

Substance Use Counselor

Degree/Credentials: BA in Psychology, Social Work; BS in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science; Doctorate in Pharmacy. I am passionate about working in the field of recovery with Newhaven Recovery Lodge because I am personally connected to the journey. As someone in recovery myself, I understand the struggles, resilience, and hope that comes with the process. My lived experiences give me a unique insight and empathy, allowing me to connect authentically with others who are navigating their own recovery paths. Helping others in recovery is incredibly fulfilling because it allows me to give back to the community, provide hope, and reclaim lives that were once thought lost. By sharing my story and supporting others, I have become part of the ripple effect of positivity, helping to build a span class="creds"er, more compassionate recovery network.

Bill Harrell, CIT, RDS

Substance Use Counselor

Working in a rehab center allows me to combine my desire to help others with my interest in mental health and wellness. I’m also drawn to the idea of continuous learning and growth—whether it’s through understanding the complexities of addiction or discovering new ways to support individuals in their recovery. The idea of being part of a team that provides support, compassion, and guidance to those who need it most excites me. I believe that by being there for people during one of the most difficult times in their lives, I can make a lasting difference and help them find a path to a better future.

Coleman Matthews, LPC, LMFT

Chief Executive Officer, Marriage & Family Counselor

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, and Licensed Professional Counselor who is credentialed to practice in Arkansas for over 20 years. For the past 2 years, I have served in the capacity of CEO for Newhaven Counseling and Health Services in El Dorado, AR. During this time, I spearheaded an effort to expand Newhaven’s service parameters to include comprehensive substance use disorder treatment.

Jennifer R. Eley, LPC, ADC

Chief Clinical Officer

Degree/Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor; Advanced Drug Alcohol Counselor. I have a passion for helping people and being for them what I have needed in my own life. I struggle with mental health issues and addictive behaviors and know what it is like to not have the support needed for healing. My goal is to show others they are worthy of the support and have that support through my team of counselors.

I have been working in the counseling field since July 2010 and started with this agency in January 2011. Through the years, I have worked with clients of all ages and a variety of mental health and substance use disorders. A significant issue when working with clients who need treatment for substance use disorders is the lack of local resources. The opportunity to be a part of the to build a program that reduces the barriers to treatment is beyond exciting.

Lindsey Garcie

Substance Use Counselor

With a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and several years of experience in that field, I eventually found my true calling in addiction recovery after battling my own addiction. I began working as a recovery tech and quickly realized how meaningful it was to help others who are struggling. As a counselor in recovery, I’m dedicated to guiding clients on their journey to healing and growth. My background in criminal justice gives me a unique perspective on the connection between addiction and the legal system, which I use to help others find lasting change.

Brandon Allen, CIT, RDS

Substance Use Counselor 

I’m a proud graduate of Hampton High School and earned my Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

Before joining Newhaven, I spent 21 years in the insurance industry as a property and casualty catastrophe specialist, working with people who had literally lost everything. That experience gave me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to help others rebuild their lives.

When Newhaven Recovery Lodge first opened its doors in July 2024, I was one of the first to join the team. Being in recovery myself, I felt called to bring my own story of experience, strength, and hope to those battling addiction — especially those who feel like they have none left.

Watching clients transform during their time at the Lodge has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’m truly blessed to work alongside what I honestly believe are some of the best people I’ve ever known.

Outside of work, I’ve been happily married to my wife for 22 years, and together we have a beautiful 15-year-old daughter. When I’m not at the Lodge, you’ll probably find me outdoors — hunting, fishing, or just enjoying any adventure nature has to offer.

Christy Wust, APRN,FNP-C

Family Nurse Practitioner

I joined Newhaven Recovery Lodge in March 2025 as a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) in 2019.

Before becoming an FNP, I worked for 10 years as a registered nurse in the ICU and later gained experience in primary care. I also serve as a board member for the Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Association (ANPA).

I have a deep passion for guiding and empowering individuals in need. At Newhaven, I’m committed to supporting those in recovery from substance use by providing compassionate care that promotes healing, hope, and lasting change.

Amber Kestler, BSN, RN

Director of Nursing

I’ve been a registered nurse since 2011 and have served in nursing leadership since 2016. My management career began in the Intensive Care Unit, where I directed the department for eight years while also taking on additional roles such as Hospital Education Director. In September 2024, I joined Newhaven Recovery Lodge as the Director of Nursing.

My commitment to nursing has always been rooted in compassionate, empathetic care. During my time at Newhaven, my work in addiction recovery has grown into a true calling. I find deep meaning in guiding and supporting nurses as they walk alongside clients during some of the most transformative months of their lives.

To me, Newhaven is more than a treatment center—it’s a place of support, resilience, and connection. I value the camaraderie that develops among both clients and staff and am dedicated to fostering a nonjudgmental space that encourages whole-person healing.

Having witnessed firsthand the impact of addiction, I carry both a professional and personal devotion to this work. I believe recovery has the power to bring healing not only to clients, but also to families, communities, and even to those of us who serve within this field.

Angela Huitt

Chief Operating Officer

I serve as the Chief Operating Officer of Newhaven Counseling & Health Services and Newhaven Recovery Lodge. I’ve spent years in leadership, and I’ve made it my mission to ensure that everything at Newhaven runs smoothly—from day-to-day operations to the long-term vision that drives our success. I thrive on solving problems, streamlining systems, and creating environments where both staff and clients can flourish.

What motivates me most is knowing that addiction and mental health challenges don’t just affect one person—they ripple through families and communities. That’s why I’m committed to providing not just treatment, but a holistic approach that wraps around the entire family. My goal is to make sure our clients feel supported, seen, and set up for lasting recovery.

Every day, I’m proud of the team we’ve built and the difference we’re making in South Arkansas. Together, we’re helping people heal, grow, and reclaim their lives—and I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.

Megan Thompson

Admissions Coordinator

As someone involved in Al-Anon, I understand the impact addiction has on families and loved ones. Through my own experiences, I’ve learned the importance of support, boundaries, and healing not only for the individual struggling with addiction but also for the people surrounding them. I feel I have a different perspective on how addiction affects relationships and how crucial it is to encourage recovery for everyone involved. This personal insight allows me to empathize with others facing similar challenges and to inspire hope that healing and growth are possible. Working in this field gives me an opportunity to share what I’ve learned, support others in finding their own path, and be a part of a process that strengthens individuals, families, and communities.

Danielle Bourgeois

Care Coordinator

Degree/Credentials: B.S. in Psychology, M.A. in Forensic Psychology. I worked in mental health and diversion programs within law enforcement and corrections for 10 years. I have worked in mental health and now residential SUD treatment with Newhaven since April 2022.

To be able to help people along their recovery journey is extremely special and rewarding. I am so thankful to have started with the Lodge from day one and to work with the team we have here.

J.W. Misenheimer

Marketing Director

I’m a proud Dragon graduate of Junction City High School and a former Mulerider from Southern Arkansas University. I served as the South Arkansas TV news reporter and Sales Executive for KTVE/KARD from 2022-2024 before joining Newhaven's team.

As the Marketing Director for Newhaven, I help lead outreach and awareness efforts for both Newhaven Counseling & Health Services and Newhaven Recovery Lodge. My work includes social media management, event coordination, fundraiser development, and campaign planning, including the Running for Recovery 5K, anniversary celebrations, and various community engagement projects that highlight recovery and wellness across South Arkansas.

Outside of Newhaven, I’m proud to serve as Vice President of TOUCH Coalition, an El Dorado–Union County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, a Rotary member, and an ACTIVE Coalition member. I also serve as Chairman of the Heart of the Eagle Committee for Scouting America.

I’m passionate about using creativity and collaboration to tell powerful stories, stories that inspire hope, connection, and change in the communities we serve.