Healing Minds, Changing Lives!

Michael Tillem

Founder / Chief Executive Officer at Journey House Behavioral Health & Journey House Recovery Center

Michael Tillem is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Journey House Behavioral Health RVA and Journey House, where his leadership and vision have been integral in establishing a supportive environment for those in recovery. He brings extensive experience in the hospitality field, marketing, restaurant management, and sales to JHBHRVA. Journey House Behavioral Health RVA was created as a result of Michael’s personal passion and life experience in long-term recovery. Although his formal education includes graduating from Kecoughtan High School in 1981, Michael’s true education has come through his lifelong passion for service and helping others. Outside of work, Michael cherishes spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and beloved hounds, making family a central part of his life. A fun and quirky fact about Michael is that, alongside his friend Kyle, he’s always loved skateboarding, he’s embraced longboarding in recent years to keep the spirit alive as he ages. Michael began his recovery Journey in April 2002 and married his wife, Kimberly in 2007. They have 4 children, Jeremy, Kaeler, Nathan and Garrett, as well as 3 grandchildren, Jayden, Emma, and Malachi.

Kimberly Braine-Tillem, BS, MA

Co-Founder, Chief Administration Officer at Journey House Behavioral Health & Journey House Recovery Center

Kimberly Braine-Tillem is the Co-Founder and Chief Administration Officer of Journey House, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s mission and operations. With a Bachelor of Science in Family and Child Development from Virginia Tech and a Master of Arts in Human Services with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University, Kimberly brings both academic knowledge and practical expertise to her leadership. Kimberly is a former Children’s Minister, enrichment teacher, on air radio show host and experienced Founder and Former Executive Director of The Sophie House (now known as Forward Foundation), a local 501 (c)(3) based here in Richmond.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Kimberly is deeply committed to family, enjoying activities like skiing, power walking, reading, journaling, and baking. Her passion for helping others extends beyond her work at Journey House, as she also dedicates time to dog rescue efforts and ministry work. A fun fact about Kimberly is that she was born in Japan and has lived in nine different states, which has given her a diverse perspective and an appreciation for a wide range of cultures and experiences. Kimberly is married to the Founder/Executive Director, Michael Tillem. Together they have 4 children, Jeremy, Kaeler, Nathan and Garrett, as well as three grandchildren, Jayden, Emma, and Malachi.

Kimberly and her husband, Michael Tillem, founded Journey House after witnessing the barriers facing individuals leaving incarceration or treatment: no stable housing, limited access to resources, and fractured family relationships. Together, they launched Journey House RVA Recovery Residences in 2016, starting with one home dedicated to providing dignity and direction. In 2017, they established Journey House Foundation, which today is a Recovery Community Organization that addresses critical gaps in substance use disorder support through peer-to-peer support and wrap-around services. Journey House Foundation became the heart of the organization’s mission, creating a home base where individuals could access resources, build community connections, and develop personalized recovery plans without time limits. Kimberly championed family-centered programming, recognizing that substance use disorder impacts entire family systems. Her vision led to the creation of Hope at Home, a program that brings parents in recovery together with their children in a safe, supportive space to rebuild trust and strengthen bonds. Under her operational leadership, Journey House Foundation has grown from serving one recovery residence to becoming part of an integrated network that includes Journey House Richmond Recovery Residences and Journey House Behavioral Health. Kimberly’s approach reflects a core belief: recovery is strongest when families are supported together, and every person deserves the opportunity to thrive on their own timeline.

Kaeler McCollough BS, MA, CSAC-Supervisee

Program Director at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Kaeler McCollough is the JHBHRVA Program Director at Journey House, where she oversees program development and ensures the delivery of high-quality care. With a strong educational foundation, Kaeler holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Cognitive/Behavioral Neuroscience from Virginia Tech, as well as a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology with a concentration in Developmental Psychology from Liberty University. She is also a CSAC-Supervisee, building on over five years of experience in the mental health field and three years in the substance use disorder (SUD) field. Outside of her professional role, Kaeler enjoys spending time with friends and family and engaging in a variety of creative activities, including painting, crafting, and reading. She also stays active through kickboxing and pilates. A fun and quirky fact about Kaeler is that she has performed a neural dissection of both a sheep brain and a cockroach, reflecting her deep curiosity.

Layne Bell, RPRS

Registered Peer Recovery Specialist at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Layne’s connection to Journey House began long before joining the team as a Registered Peer Recovery Specialist. She was once a client here herself and later returned in 2023 to complete her Recovery Corps service term. Now, with more than four years of experience in the recovery field, coming back to Journey House as an employee feels a little like things have come full circle. Layne has been in recovery since 2022, and her lived experience shapes the way she connects with people. She believes recovery is about much more than staying sober. It is about figuring out who you are, learning how to show up for yourself, building real connections, and creating a life you actually want to be present for.

As a peer, Layne believes in meeting people exactly where they are. Her style is compassionate but direct, helping people recognize their own strengths, find their own answers, and learn to trust themselves through the decisions they make. Group work is one of her favorite parts of being a peer because she loves creating a space where people can laugh, talk about the hard stuff, connect with each other, and realize they are not alone. She brings plenty of humor and personality into her work while still being willing to have the conversations that actually matter.

Layne is currently continuing her education with the goal of graduating with her Bachelor’s degree in December of 2026 and remains active in her own recovery community. Outside of work, she loves spending time with the people she cares about, laughing probably louder than necessary, and having conversations that somehow always end up much deeper than they started. Layne is excited to be part of Journey House again and looks forward to bringing her experience, personality, and genuine love for peer support back to a place that has been an important part of her own story.

Russell Bootwright RPRS, CPRS, LMT

Registered Peer Recovery Specialist at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Russell Bootwright is a Registered Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (R-CPRS) for Journey House Behavioral Health RVA. As a trained individual with lived experience of recovery from substance use disorder, he provides peer support, mentorship and guidance to others on their recovery journey. Using peer based relationships and evidence based practices, he works to promote recovery, reduce stigma, and empower everyone he works with.He is a certified Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), blending his knowledge of recovery with a holistic approach to well-being. Outside of work, Russell wears many hats—he is a devoted partner, stepfather, uncle, son, and currently an expecting father. He has a deep passion for spirituality, meditation, and philosophy, and loves immersing himself in reggae music and culture. Active and adventurous, Russell enjoys surfing, snowboarding, playing soccer, and hiking. If you were wondering, a unique piece of Russell’s family history is that his last name was originally “Boatwright” in the 1800s, until a great-grandfather’s tax evasion led to a name change to “Bootwright,” making Russell the only Bootwright anyone is likely to meet—except for his Uncle Russell and Cousin Geddes. His adventurous spirit and fascinating family history make him a one-of-a-kind presence at Journey House.

Nathan Braine

Front Desk & Office Administrator at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Nathan brings several years of managerial experience in retail and customer service, along with a passion for creating a positive and welcoming experience for clients, visitors, and staff.

He has previously worked with Journey House on various maintenance projects and is excited to step into his role as Front Desk & Office Administrator at Journey House Recovery Center, where he’ll continue supporting our team and the individuals we serve.

Outside of work, Nathan is a big motorsports and Dallas Cowboys fan. He enjoys sim racing, running, and spending time with his husky, Echo, who never fails to keep him busy!

Danielle Costa, CSBC

Certified Substance Abuse Counselor at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Dani grew up in Maryland and graduated from York College of Pennsylvania with a background in communications, events, and promotions. She relocated to Richmond in 2018 and began her own recovery journey the following year.

After building a career in event coordination, catering, and marketing, Dani’s path eventually led her to Journey House, where she lived in a Journey House recovery residence in 2022. Inspired by her own experiences and a desire to support others, she returned to school at Reynolds Community College in 2024 to study substance use disorder counseling, combining her lived experience with professional education and training.

In August 2026, Dani joined Journey House Behavioral Health as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor, bringing a unique combination of lived experience, education, compassion, and professional expertise to her work. Her personal connection to recovery helps her meet participants with understanding while supporting them as they build their own pathways to lasting recovery.

Kimberly Engleman BFA, CSAC

Dr. Eric Etka, BSC

Chief Operating Officer at Journey House Behavioral Health & Journey House Recovery Center

Dr. Eric Etka, BSC brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to his role as Chief Operating Officer for Journey House Recovery Center. For 20 years, Eric served as a Doctor of Chiropractic, building a successful practice rooted in patient care and community impact. In 2017, he joined Amazon, where he spent eight years leading large-scale operations, managing teams of over 400 people, and driving improvements in safety, efficiency, and leadership development.

Eric has also worked in healthcare operations and technology, designing systems that improved provider scheduling, credentialing, and patient access to care. His work increased completed visits by 150% and reduced no-shows significantly, showcasing his ability to combine strategy with real-world results. Most importantly, Eric has been sober for 14 years. He understands firsthand the courage, perseverance, and daily commitment it takes to get sober and stay sober. This lived experience fuels his passion for helping others on their recovery journey. At Journey House Foundation, Eric is dedicated to strengthening programs, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that individuals and families in recovery have the support they need to thrive.

John Harding, RPRS

Intake Coordinator & Registered Peer Recovery Specialist

I’m a person in long-term recovery whose passion and purpose are rooted in helping those who still struggle with substance use disorder. As a Registered Peer Recovery Specialist (RPRS) and CSAC-A, I currently serve as an Intake Coordinator at Journey House Behavioral Health, where I assist individuals in developing practical skills and building recovery capital for sustainable wellness.

The peer mentors who supported me during my own treatment were instrumental in my recovery, and now I have the privilege of serving in that same role for others — offering the same hope, understanding, and guidance that once helped me rebuild my life.

My approach is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and lived experience — meeting people where they are and walking beside them on their recovery journey. Outside of work, I enjoy riding motorcycles and spending time with my daughters, both of which remind me daily of the joy and balance recovery can bring.

Shelby Haydel

Director of Finance at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Shelby is the Director of Finance of Journey House Behavioral Health RVA, Journey House Richmond and Journey House Foundation where she oversees all finance related activities. She brings over 10 years hands on experience in the Accounting field and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Accounting at Virginia Commonwealth University. Outside of work, Shelby enjoys spending time with her husband and two rambunctious daughters. She also volunteers her time and accounting skills by acting as Treasurer for another local non-profit. She also enjoys reading and gardening, when time allows. 

Antoniette Lowery CSAC-Supervisee, QMHP-A

McKenzie O’Brien, BS, QMHP, CSAC-Supervisee

Substance Use Disorder Counselor at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

McKenzie O’Brien is a Substance Use Disorder Counselor at Journey House Behavioral Health, where she is dedicated to supporting individuals in their substance use and addiction recovery through compassionate, person-centered care. She brings over three years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, working with both adults and children as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), with a strong focus on crisis intervention and skill-building to promote stabilization and long-term growth.

McKenzie earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and currently holds her CSAC-S credential. She is continuing her education at VCU, where she is pursuing her Master of Science in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling to further expand her clinical knowledge and effectiveness in treating co-occurring disorders.

Originally from Alaska and raised in a military family, McKenzie values adaptability, resilience, and meaningful connection, which she brings into her work with clients every day. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, camping, and spending time with friends and family.

Dr. K. Jason Pryor, DHA, LPC, LSATP, CSAC, NCC

Clinical Director at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Dr. K. Jason Pryor serves as Clinical Director at Journey House Behavioral Health, where he is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to heal, grow, and thrive in recovery. With more than 17 years of experience in mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and client advocacy, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise and leadership to the Journey House team.

Dr. Pryor holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The Citadel: The Military College of South Carolina, a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University, and a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from Virginia University of Lynchburg. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Registered Clinical Supervisor in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

His passion for the recovery field is deeply rooted in the impact substance use has had on his family, friends, and community. This personal connection fuels his dedication to helping individuals and families find hope, build resilience, and create lasting change through recovery.

Outside of his professional role, Dr. Pryor enjoys spending time with his family and dogs, reading, playing pool, and mentoring adolescents. A lifelong animal enthusiast, he has a particular interest in exotic animals and hopes to become a master falconer in the future.

Shermai Simpson, MA, CSAC-Supervisee

Substance Use Disorder Counselor at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Shermai Simpson serves as a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor with Journey House Behavioral Health, where she is committed to supporting individuals on their recovery journey with compassion, guidance, and hope. She was drawn to this work to give back to a community she believes is often underserved, and to help individuals build lasting change and stability in their lives.

She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and brings over five years of experience in the substance use field. Her background spans multiple levels of care, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), providing her with a strong foundation to support individuals at every stage of recovery.

Her passion for this work is deeply rooted in personal experience, including a strong family history of substance use, which shaped her desire to better understand and support individuals and families navigating recovery.

Outside of her professional role, she is a dedicated parent. After being told she would not be able to have more children due to being a cancer survivor, she recently welcomed another child, an experience she describes as both humbling and deeply rewarding.

In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, teaching her children, and encouraging them to explore the outdoors. She has also developed a love for caring for plants, especially bringing neglected ones back to life, a reflection of the growth and transformation she values both personally and in her work.

Christina Sisler, CPRS

Outreach & Business Development Coordinator at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Christina Sisler serves as the Outreach and Business Development Coordinator for Journey House Behavioral Health & Journey House Recovery Center, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience in recovery to her work within the behavioral health and substance use treatment community.

As a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, Christina has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families navigate the path to treatment, recovery, and long-term support. Her experience includes peer recovery services, treatment navigation, advocacy, community outreach, and developing strong referral partnerships with behavioral health providers, hospitals, community organizations, courts, corrections, probation and parole, and other professionals throughout Virginia.

Christina’s passion for this work is deeply personal. Her own journey through addiction, incarceration, recovery, and rebuilding has shaped her belief that no individual should be defined by the most difficult chapter of their story. She understands firsthand the importance of being met with dignity, compassion, accountability, and hope—and carries those principles into the work she does and the relationships she builds.

At Journey House, Christina focuses on strengthening community partnerships, expanding access to care, reducing barriers to treatment, and helping individuals connect with the resources and support they need. She believes recovery is about far more than achieving sobriety—it is about rebuilding identity, restoring hope, discovering purpose, and creating a life worth protecting.

Outside of work, Christina is the proud mother of four children—three daughters and a son. She enjoys reading, spending time at the gym, and continuing to challenge herself to grow both personally and professionally. Her experiences with motherhood, recovery, and rebuilding after adversity continue to fuel her commitment to helping others recognize that their past does not determine what their future can become.

Sarah Terry, CSAC

Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Supervisee at Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Sarah Terry is a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) Supervisee and Registered Peer Recovery Specialist (RPRS) who brings both professional training and lived experience to her work in the recovery community. She graduated in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Addiction Science and has experience facilitating recovery-focused groups.

As a person in recovery for nine years, Sarah understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with building a life in recovery. Her personal experience, combined with her education and professional training, allows her to connect with participants from a place of understanding and compassion. She is passionate about providing hope, encouragement, and support as individuals continue their own recovery journeys.

Before pursuing a career in the recovery field, Sarah spent 20 years as a professional dog groomer and owns a dog grooming salon. As she transitions away from the salon, she plans to continue building her education and experience in addiction treatment and recovery services.

Outside of work, Sarah loves learning, crafting, and reading. During the summer, she enjoys spending time at her camper on the Bay, where you can often find her reading on the beach or fishing. She also enjoys spending time with her son and her partner.