Leadership & Team
Compassionate Professionals Guiding Your Path to Recovery
At First Light Recovery, our strength lies in our dedicated, compassionate team of professionals who are committed to helping each individual reclaim control, confidence, and hope.
We understand that choosing a residential mental health program is a major decision — and it begins with trust. That’s why our team shows up every day with empathy, clinical expertise, and a deep respect for the people we serve. We don’t just treat symptoms — we care for the whole person.
Meet Our Team
Jennifer Worley, M.A LMFT #97125
Clinical Director/Program Administrator
“It is truly amazing to witness an individual connect their experience with their emotions and begin a new journey with recovery” – Jennifer Worley, LMFT
Jennifer entered the behavioral health field in 2004, includes working with individuals and their families with spectrum disorders, mood and personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. Her roles have included implementing direct intervention with clients, case supervision, individualized programming, parent training, family and conjoint therapy, and program development in the settings of detox, residential, and outpatient treatment. Jennifer has spent significant time in her career in the Mental Health Residential treatment setting supporting clients taking back their lives and reintegrating into daily living skills and interpersonal connections.
With extensive leadership experience, Jennifer leads First Light Recovery’s operations and clinical teams; manages licensing and accreditations; expansions; and supports referral relationships.
Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, East Bay. Her passion for working with families, individuals, and couples led her to her master’s degree in clinical psychology with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy from Pepperdine University. Jennifer truly enjoys working with her clients and teams to facilitate a safe and open environment for change and growth.
Binah Mogensen
Director of Admissions
Binah Mogensen is a certified recovery specialist who studied at the grief recovery Institute and graduated in 2014. Binah also studied at Santa Monica College and American Jewish University.
She started as a behavioral technician and had much experience in cross departmental functions. Her career began in 2013 in the substance use disorder and mental health industry. Binah then jumped into admissions, where she found her passion in 2018.
She is the current admissions director where she is the first contact clients make when starting their journey at First Light Recovery. Binah is passionate about helping others and feels very honored to be a part of something that is so important in people changing their lives for the better.
Sienna Kuehnis, AMFT
Therapist
Shea Ridenour, M.A., LMFT #164329
Therapist
Shea Ridenour is an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist who integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide compassionate, flexible care for individuals living with personality disorders and other psychotic disorders. A graduate of Pepperdine University, Shea has been a part of the clinical team at First Light Recovery since 2023.
She takes a strength-based, person-centered approach, helping clients regain a sense of control in their lives. Shea is passionate about psychoeducation, empowering clients to better understand their diagnoses—how and why their disorders manifest—and equipping them with effective tools for symptom management.
She places great importance on building mutual trust within the therapeutic relationship, fostering connection through humor, openness, and a client-led approach to treatment.
Amy Wallace
Business Development
Jaesen Evangelista, ASW
Therapist
Jaesen Evangelista is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who provides trauma-informed, compassionate care through a relational and strengths-based approach. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and elements of Narrative Therapy and Somatic Experiencing to help clients navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. She earned her Master of Social Work with Honors from the University of Southern California, specializing in Adult Mental Health and Wellness.
Before joining First Light Recovery, Jaesen completed her clinical training with the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and the USC Keck Human Rights Clinic, supporting asylum seekers through trauma-informed mental health services and interdisciplinary care. She also worked in a residential crisis stabilization program, helping adults experiencing acute psychiatric conditions develop emotional regulation, coping skills, and stability.
Jaesen believes healing begins with a trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered. She has a special interest in trauma, grief, and cultural identity, and aims to help clients build resilience, reconnect with their strengths, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Sarah Jang
Office Manager/Human Resources
Our Approach Support That Starts With Trust
Supportive, open communication with clients and families
Accountability and consistency across every level of care
Ongoing training in evidence-based practices
A safe, nonjudgmental environment that makes healing possible
What Clients Say About Our Team
Start Your Journey Toward Healing Today
If you’re struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to face it alone. First Light Recovery offers compassionate care, expert treatment, and a real-world approach to empower you.
