Frank founded Starfish Recovery & Wellness after multiple attempts at sustained recovery using multiple pathways. After receiving treatment using the “whole person approach” model, he was determined to introduce holistic wellness practices to the residential recovery setting. Frank developed the evidence based 5-pronged approach, represented by the five arms of a starfish, to address the emotional, social, mental, physical, and educational needs of our residents. This model is appropriate for a full spectrum of individuals, including those seeking recovery for the first time, those seeking step down from treatment, as well as the recently incarcerated.
As both a person in sustained recovery from Substance Use Disorder and a formerly incarcerated individual, Frank understands the challenges facing those attempting to recover from SUD while also attempting to re-enter society. He previously served one of our most vulnerable populations in the recovery community, the incarcerated, as the Director of Recovery Programs for a tri-county regional jail. He also served as Director of the Medication and Drug Screening Program at an 80+ bed Recovery Community Organization in Richmond, VA. He holds multiple certifications in the Substance Use Disorder/Recovery profession, including NADAAC-approved Certified Recovery Coach Trainer, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, and Forensic Peer Support Specialist. Prior to working in the recovery space, his educational and professional background was in meeting Federal and local quality assurance standards for the provision of Heavy Highway Construction.
Amber Deaton serves as the Director of Enterprise Systems of Care at Starfish Recovery & Wellness, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and guiding the continuous development of the program. Collaborating closely with Starfish’s clinical partner, StarCity Behavioral Health, Amber ensures the delivery of coordinated, high-quality care. With several years of experience in developing and managing recovery residence programs, she is dedicated to creating effective and sustainable systems that support both staff and individuals on their recovery journeys. Her commitment to excellence in care reflects her passion for fostering environments conducive to healing and growth.
As the Chief Wellness Officer, Stephanie is responsible for the development and implementation of Starfish’s world class programming. Stephanie is committed to ensuring that Starfish’s programs, education, and activities support the overall wellness of each participant. Stephanie has achieved Level I Certification in the Invitation to Change Approach and assists families struggling with their loved ones’ past or current use. When faced with her own loved one’s addiction, Stephanie found peace through practicing CRAFT and continues to use a variety of spiritual, therapeutic and wellness practices. Prior to co-founding Starfish, Stephanie had a 20+ year distinguished career, earning recognition from multiple Federal agencies for her innovation and leadership. Her own wellness journey combined with her family legacy of service led to her desire to open residences for persons seeking recovery.
The developer of WellBeing : a Recovery Curriculum, Evelyn is a nationally recognized, award-winning educator. Over the course of her nearly 30-year career, Evelyn has been a teacher, vice principal, educational presenter and now, a principal. Her accomplishments include being named NJ Governor’s Educator of the Year, leading her school to recognition as a Sustainable NJ School, and pioneering the “outdoor classroom”. Her innovative approach to childhood development has been featured in national publications including USA Today. Evelyn holds a BA in Communications from Monmouth University and an MA in Educational Leadership from Kean University. She is the proud mom of two adult children.
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