Meet our Clinical Director, Todd Payton. After many years experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Todd focused on mental health, addiction and dual diagnosis therapy.
Specifically trauma as it relates to addiction and other mental health disorders. Helping patients work through past trauma and high stress situations is vital. Assisting in setting long term goals and objectives to live a happy and successful life. Todd doesn't want anyone being held back from the past, its key to live in the present, and learn how to live with what's going on around us.
Meet our program director, John Doherty. John is a current National Guard Medic but has been in the Army through different components for ten years. John’s inspiration to collaborate with both individuals suffering from mental health and substance use related disorders, specifically within the veteran and first responder communities derived from a multitude of things.
John admits his large extended family did not come out unscathed in the battle of mental health and addiction, but for him the passion really ignited in him when tragically his life-long best friend who he will only refer to as his brother left this world in 2017. A contributing factor in which his motivation, desire and determination has not faltered is how he has watched firsthand as a third-generation veteran, second generation former firefighter and current EMT is how underserved the military community and first responder communities are. John always returned to high level management and advocacy, John holds dual degrees in clinical psychology with mental health concentrations and is currently chipping away at his PsyD.
Meet one of our Primary Therapists, Tanya Baskcomb. As a Primary Therapist based in the South Shore of Boston, MA, Tanya brings over thirty years of experience in the medical field, including nine years dedicated to mental health and three years focused on substance abuse treatment. Originally from Sydney, Australia, Tanya has a deep appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape our understanding of mental wellness. Having grown up in a military family—Tanya's father served as a Royal Marine and Green Beret Commando, while her mother was in the Navy—Tanya has a profound respect for those who serve. This respect is further reinforced by her role as the proud mother of an Army Veteran who completed three tours in Iraq as a Cavalry Scout and Army Ranger. His struggles with mental health, PTSD, and TBI have fueled her commitment to ensuring that our soldiers receive the care they deserve. Tanya is honored to work with veterans and first responders, guiding them on their healing journeys. Her therapeutic approach incorporates a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Tanya has experience working with diverse populations across all age groups, including children with ASD and elderly clients. Tanya's academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (Psychology and Religion) from Liberty University, and a Master’s in Mental Health and Wellness with a focus on Grief and Bereavement.She also holds a diploma in Gerontology, Medical Terminology, and Anatomy/Physiology, and is currently preparing for her LADAC I exam. Driven by her personal experiences with PTSD, domestic violence, and the loss of my brother to suicide, I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I strive to offer hope, compassion, and empathy to all those I serve.
Stephanie brings a professional background in nursing, personal insight into the challenges associated with mental health and substance use, and a strong commitment to behavioral health to her role as Veteran & First Responder Liaison at Healing Heroes. After transitioning from nursing to behavioral health, with a focus on serving Veterans and first responders, Stephanie now leads community outreach efforts, develops collaborative partnerships, and connects individuals and families with essential resources and support. She is a QPR Certified Instructor/Trainer and is passionate about promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering an environment where individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered to seek help. Her professional approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and the belief that no one should have to navigate these challenges alone. Stephanie’s commitment to the Veteran and first responder communities is deeply rooted in her family. As the wife and daughter of U.S. Army infantry Veterans and the granddaughter of a retired police detective lieutenant and bomb squad officer, she has a strong personal connection to those who serve and their families. She is dedicated to advocating for these communities by helping Veterans navigate VA services, coordinating access to resources, strengthening communication among healthcare providers and community partners, and ensuring individuals and families feel supported throughout their journey. Outside of her professional role, Stephanie is a proud mother, soccer coach, and active community volunteer. She brings enthusiasm, positivity, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference to everything she does. As an animal lover, she also recognizes the valuable role animals can play in emotional well-being, offering comfort, connection, and unconditional support. Both personally and professionally, Stephanie is guided by the values of compassion, connection, and meeting people where they are, with the goal of helping individuals feel supported and improving overall well-being within the communities she serves.
