Healing isn’t something we do for you—it’s something we do with you.

OUR TEAM

OUR TEAM

  • Dr Michael Gadbaw is a board certified licensed psychiatrist. He attended the USC Keck School of Medicine and did his residency at Stanford University where he served as a chief resident, as well as his fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

    Dr. Michael Gadbaw, MD

    MEDICAL DIRECTOR, PSYCHIATRIST

  • Santa Cruz Clinical, Erica Ives, MA/LMFT

    Erica Ives, MA/LMFT

    CLINICAL DIRECTOR | SANTA CRUZ

  • Kayla Smith, LCSW

    CLINICAL DIRECTOR | SAN FRANCISCO

  • Anna Riverso, MS/RDN

    DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

  • Leah Hopkins, MS/RDN

    REGISTERED DIETICIAN | SANTA CRUZ

  • Rone Canyon Gasch

    OUTPATIENT THERAPIST | SANTA CRUZ

  • Olivia Lynch, LMFT

    LEAD PRIMARY THERAPIST | SAN FRANCISCO

  • Kimberly Kapelson, MA/ASW

    LEAD PRIMARY THERAPIST | SANTA CRUZ

  • Kylee Mueggenburg, APCC

    PRIMARY THERAPIST | SAN FRANCISCO

  • Lauren Glasgow, MA/LMFT

    PRIMARY THERAPIST | SAN FRANCISCO

  • Sue Mileto, MHA

    ADMISSIONS DIRECTOR

  • Liz Cruz Porter, BS

    BUSINESS DIRECTOR

  • Gabe Smith, BA

    ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR

  • Mary Christensen, BS

    UTILIZATION REVIEW

  • Alicia Noonkester

    RECOVERY COUNSELOR

  • Chloe Rosen

    RECOVERY COUNSELOR

Dr. Liz Esalen, Founder & CEO

Dr. Elizabeth Esalen founded The Lotus Collaborative in 2011 with a vision to create a place where science, compassion, and individuality converge in the pursuit of healing. After witnessing the limitations of traditional treatment models, Liz was driven to create a center that treats every client as a whole person—honoring their unique stories and providing tools for lasting recovery.

With a background in counseling psychology and years of experience in mental health leadership, Liz brings a depth of knowledge and passion to her work. As someone who has personally navigated the challenges of recovery, she understands the importance of holistic care that goes beyond the surface to address the heart, mind, and body.

Liz’s commitment extends to her team and the broader community. She fosters a culture of care and respect, ensuring that both staff and clients feel supported and valued. Her mission is simple yet profound: to empower individuals to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives with resilience and confidence.

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How we support you.

CLINICAL DIRECTOR

Coordinates your care, ensuring every part of your treatment plan is personalized and evolves with your progress.

PSYCHIATRIST

Provides guidance on whether medication could support your recovery and offers ongoing care if it’s part of your plan.

REGISTERED DIETITIAN

Guides your relationship with food through meal plans, nutrition education, and support for your body’s healing.

SUPPORT TEAM

Counselors, recovery coaches, and mentors are here for daily encouragement and practical help when you need it.

PRIMARY THERAPISTS

Help you understand your experiences, uncover patterns, and develop tools to create a fulfilling life.

ADMISSIONS & PROGRAM TEAM

Handles the behind-the-scenes work, from insurance to scheduling, ensuring your experience feels smooth and stress-free.