Meet Our Team
Reuel Hunt
CEO | Founder
Reuel has been helping people to get out of their own way and into recovery for over two decades. His own journey with addiction has been long and, like most, fraught with trauma and loss. Very early on, he was exposed to and began to use drugs. This would keep him in and out of the juvenile justice system for most of his adolescence. He was in a shoot out on I-25 with the highway state patrol resulting in him serving twenty years of a forty-eight year sentence with the Colorado Department of Corrections. While on the inside, Reuel was introduced to “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” He applied these principles, and after seeing how the practice changed his life, he began learning how to help others. He joined a 7 Habits’ group in the prison and quickly became a core member. Reuel is now a certified Franklin Covey facilitator and continues to teach the 7 habits. This work led to creating and implementing several programs inside the walls, including an inmate run and published newspaper. Reuel has also created and implemented a program based on Weldon Long’s New York Times bestselling book “The Power of Consistency,” which focuses on the law of attraction and manifestation. Weldon was so impressed with Reuel’s work on the inside that, upon his release, he hired him. They are still good friends today. Reuel uses his own life as an example of how this concept has helped him to manifest his own plans and goals. Reuel continues to teach this course for people who have been recently released and/or people in recovery who want to manifest the realization of their own dreams. Since his release, Reuel has become an entrepreneur, and an asset to his family and community. He founded Transcendence Recovery after watching so many people from his past die from overdose. He felt the need to do something. His passion and skills meet in helping people pursue and sustain their recovery from addiction through manifestation and consistency.
Cat Ewert
Clinical Director
Hi, I'm Cat! I have been working in both inpatient and outpatient substance use treatment centers as a therapist and Clinical Lead for the last 5 years. After being in therapy myself for several years to learn to deal with my own trauma, I was inspired to become a therapist so that I could help others create change and find healing for themselves. It sucks to feel alone in what you are experiencing, not have the words to describe how you're feeling, and continue to utilize unhealthy, habitual coping skills to try and avoid what is going on deep down. I am proof that being vulnerable, embracing every aspect of my life that has made me who I am, and learning to face the darkest parts of my story is not impossible and is extremely fulfilling in the end. I love anything outdoors, trying out new coffee shops and restaurants, and continuing to create and find adventures everywhere I go. I have a super loud laugh, a big personality, and I love talking to anyone and everyone and listening to their stories. I cannot wait to walk alongside you as you discover who you are and start your journey towards healing and loving the person you are today.
Brooke Jensen
Director of Peer Services
My name is Brooke, and I am a Certified Peer and Family Specialist with the state of Colorado, dedicated to helping others on their journey to recovery. I am a woman in long-term recovery myself, and my personal experience has been a driving force in my work within the substance use disorder field for over three years. My passion for supporting others stems not only from my own struggles with addiction but also from witnessing my parents’ battles with substance use. Their struggles, alongside my own, ignited a deep commitment within me to pursue a career that allows me to give back and provide hope to those facing similar challenges. I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology through an Accelerated to Master's program, which is helping me expand my knowledge and enhance my ability to serve those in need. I am working toward becoming a Recovery Coach Professional (RCP) and National Certified Peer Support Specialist (NCPRSS). These credentials, combined with my lived experience, empower me to guide individuals through their recovery with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to see them thrive. Every day, I dedicate myself to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others by offering not only support but also the perspective of someone who has walked a similar path. Recovery is possible, and I am here to help others realize that they, too, can overcome the obstacles in their journey and achieve a fulfilling, substance-free life.
Clinicians
Jordyn Moody
Clinician
Hi, I'm Jordyn Moody! I’ve been dedicated to working with children and families as a play therapist for the past two years, and I’ve spent over a decade coaching and counseling kids and young adults through volleyball. Empowering children and helping them develop the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges is what fuels my passion for this work. As an only child myself, I have a special connection to single kiddos, who bring a unique blend of strengths and challenges to the therapy room. I also love working with parents in individual therapy because I believe maintaining a strong sense of self is so important while navigating the journey of parenthood. I’m deeply passionate about helping those who feel stuck or overwhelmed connect to the resources and support they need. Whether it’s guidance, encouragement, or simply navigating the next step, I believe everyone deserves a helping hand along the way. In my free time, you’ll find me diving into a good book, baking something delicious, or traveling with my husband.
Amanda Hayes
Clinician
Hi, I’m Amanda! I have been working in mental health as a therapist for the past 2 years. By day I am a high school counselor working with teenagers helping them navigate the choices that are entering them into adulthood. I became a therapist after going through some really tough trauma and finding a therapist that helped me find healing for myself, it made me want to offer that same support to others. I have two boys that make my world go round and keep me extremely busy most days! We love all things outdoors but also nothing beats a fire, popcorn and a family movie night. You will rarely catch me without an iced coffee and book in my hand. I love meeting and working with new people and I cannot wait to watch you embrace this journey of recovery!
Kara Barranger
Clinician
My name is Kara Barranger, and I am a certified addiction specialist with over eight years of experience helping individuals in recovery. Originally from Paola, Kansas, I have lived in Colorado Springs for the past decade. I am married with three children, and my greatest joy comes from spending quality time with my family. I also enjoy hiking, working out, reading, and going to my amazing church. My work in the recovery field has spanned various roles, each deepening my appreciation for the courage and resilience of those I have had the privilege to support. I believe that true freedom begins when we slow down and look inward facing the hidden dialogue and unspoken pain that often resides deep within us. While it’s easier to focus on the external world, real healing happens when we turn inward. When we do this work, the changes we seek on the outside will naturally follow. During my own healing journey, I was told, “Kara, you will learn to love the work you do.” Those words have stayed with me, and now I fully understand their meaning. Healing isn’t just about change—it’s about embracing the process with love, courage, and a deep connection to oneself. I don’t believe we are meant to live in constant struggle. It is possible to walk in peace, even in the midst of chaos. We were created for connection, to love and to be loved. It’s an honour and a responsibility I hold close to my heart to walk alongside others on their path to healing and growth. I am humbled by the opportunity to witness the transformation in those I meet and to support them in embracing their unique journey toward peace and freedom,
Jack Flamgletti
Clinician
Jack Flamgletti, a licensed therapist since 2016, is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s most challenging moments. With a background as a Clinical Director in a treatment center for substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, Jack brings a compassionate, holistic approach to therapy. He has extensive experience working with children, teens, adults, and families, developing therapeutic programs focused on the healing process and training future therapists to provide impactful care. Guided by the belief that no one is alone and that everyone is worthy of healing, Jack’s approach blends empathy with evidence-based practices, creating a safe, empowering space for growth and recovery. Outside of work, Jack enjoys hiking, climbing, reading, board games, motorcycles, and aquariums.
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Tristan Beymer
Clinician
Tristan has worked in mental health and substance abuse for the past 18 years. She is a Colorado native who loves the outdoors and has 3 horses, two dogs and two cats. Tristan completed her undergraduate work at UNLV Las Vegas and her master’s through the University of Denver. She went on to complete a postgraduate degree in couples and family counselling.
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Theresa Jacobson
Clinician
My name is Theresa Robin Jacobsen, and I am an Colorado Addiction Specialist with a dedicated career that spans over four decades. I began my journey in this field in 1979 after earning my bachelor's degree in psychology and rehabilitation and social-related services, from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. Growing up in Salida, Colorado, I developed a deep appreciation for the community, which has shaped my commitment to helping others. Initially, I started my career in juvenile corrections, where I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that addiction had on young lives. It didn’t take long for me to realize that addiction was often a common thread linking various behavioral issues. This realization fueled my decision to shift my focus toward substance use, allowing me to address the root causes of many challenges faced by individuals. Throughout my career, I have been passionately involved in the community. I have had the honor of advocating for change, successfully supporting the passage of two bills aimed at improving the lives of those affected by addiction. My dedication to this cause has also led me to appear on renowned platforms such as 20/20 and the Montel Williams Show, where I shared insights on Inhalant Abuse and addiction treatment and recovery. As a proud mother of five and a grandmother of fourteen, my family serves as my greatest inspiration. Balancing my professional responsibilities with family life has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, love, and the importance of supporting one another through challenging times. My ultimate passion lies in witnessing the transformation of individuals who have been given a second chance. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy and satisfaction in their eyes when their hard work pays off, and they bloom into successful members of society. Each story of recovery reinforces my belief that every individual has the potential for change and growth, and I am here to support them on that journey. I am committed to continuing my work in addiction recovery and rehabilitation, ensuring that my community and the people I serve receive the compassion, understanding, and resources they deserve. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for those struggling with addiction.
Peer Coaches
Simon Rubick
Peer Recovery Coach
Simon is a native of Colorado born and raised in a small town on the western slope. He made his career in the hospitality industry and has a degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University with a focus on health and nutrition. He was exposed to drugs and alcohol at a young age, quickly realizing he was not a casual user, and admitted himself to a rehab at 17 years of age where he began gaining knowledge about his addiction. Sobriety was brief at this point and after graduating high school he moved to Grand Junction where he was charged with three DUI’s between the ages of 19 and 23, experiencing short periods of recovery from his addiction but never anything that stuck. Simon established himself in the drug trade to support his habits and lifestyle and in 2005 he was charged with possession with intent of a schedule 1 substance and faced his first period of incarceration in DOC. This time provided him with enough clarity to shift his focus in life but upon release he never established any connection to the recovery community for support. In 2015 Simon was charged with two more DUI’s and sentenced to 5 more years in DOC. He served 3 of these and found the TC program at Arrowhead before being released in 2018. After this Simon still made the attempt to go it alone and found himself in a hospital bed on June 10 th of 2022 from an overdose with nothing left from any of his pursuits in life. It was at this point Simon sought out the help of the recovery communities here in Denver and made his way to Transcendence Recovery where he finally surrendered the idea of facing his addiction alone. He eventually went on to gaining certification as a peer coach through the CCAR training and his focus is bringing people that are still struggling with addiction into the communities he found that saved his life. As part of the Transcendence team Simon uses his knowledge of health and nutrition to provide life skills training to those who are seeking long-term recovery from the destructive behaviors of addiction.
Rowen Foster
Peer Recovery Coach
Rowen found themselves in a home with a parent in active addiction for most of their early life. After falling into addiction themselves, they began their recovery journey and have since focused on internal, emotional, and psychological work to achieve their goals and work through past traumas. They believe that anything is possible if the person is willing to put in the work, and has dedicated themselves to gathering every resource they can to assist others along the way. After working in the Psych field for about a decade - three of those years being in recovery, specifically - Rowen uses their Forensic Psychology degree and knowledge of SMART Recovery and esoteric teachings to help those around them discover their purpose, become their true self, and achieve the life that individual has always wanted. Their spiritual beliefs allow Rowen to hold to the idea that any pathway is the right one as long as it's healthy and productive, and they have centred their coaching style around being people-focused with a concentration on diving into the deeper parts of addiction and how it affects a person mentally, not just their life and choices.
Autumn Plyter
Peer Recovery Coach
My name is Autumn, and I’m 31 years old. I’ve been sober for four years now, my journey hasn’t been easy. For most of my life, I struggled with addiction and spent a significant amount of time incarcerated. Those years were tough, but they also taught me some valuable lessons about resilience, strength, and the power of change. Today, my purpose is clear: to help others who are facing the same battles I once did. I know what it’s like to feel stuck and hopeless, but I also know that recovery is possible. I’m committed to sharing my story, offering support, and guiding others toward a better, healthier future. My past doesn’t define me—it’s the work I do today that drives me to keep going and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Desiree Lynch
Peer Recovery Coach
Hi! I'm Desiree, a psychology student, energy worker, and certified yoga teacher (RYT-200). My passion is helping people find balance- whether through movement, mindfulness, or simply holding space for real conversations. In addition to my lived experience of 4.5 years in recovery, my background in somatic healing allows me to support others in regulating their nervous systems and reconnecting with themselves. Practices like breathwork and meditation, EFT tapping, somatic yoga, energy healing, and sound therapy have been instrumental in my own healing, and I believe in their power to aid in recovery. As a psychology student, I’m committed to deepening my understanding of the mind-body connection and using both evidence-based and holistic tools to support others. Recovery is more than just abstinence- it’s about rebuilding a sense of self, learning to trust your body again, and finding balance in a way that feels right for you. My goal is to hold space for others, offering support, tools, and compassion as they navigate their own journey.
Margo Taylor
Peer Recovery Coach
Heya. I'm Margo. I have worked in the hospitality industry for quite some time, and the past few years within the music industry. From a young age I was exposed to substance abuse and many traumas within the religious cult I was raised in, which led to being admitted into psychiatric wards, being arrested multiple times from childhood into adulthood, and facing many more struggles within the legal system. I now find that my experiences have inspired me to do things differently and to help others who have been through struggles in their life. I have been sober from alcohol and other substances going on 2 years in May of 2025, I write and perform vocals in my band regularly and strive to help others reach their potential by understanding that their past does not have to define their future, and that success can look different for everyone, I take it one day at a time and help others to do the same, I use my knowledge of many years of therapy and experience to help paint a path for individuals that may not know what the proper steps are to get to where they need to be. I am excited to continue to share my skills and knowledge to help others in their journey.
Brenda Laabs
Peer Recovery Coach
My name is Brenda Laabs, I'm a Certified Peer and Family Support Specialist with a passion for helping others on their journey to recovery. With over 30 years of lived experience and a deep understanding of addiction and healing my goal is to share hope with others that recovery is possible. I have four years of solid recovery, I strive to inspire change and to help others reclaim purpose and fulfillment in their lives.
Shelly Romero
Peer Recovery Coach
My name is Shelly Romero and I am a certified peer recovery support specialist. Being in and out of active addiction for over 20 years and having people close to me struggle with substance use disorder and mental health issues, my passion to be the person I wish I had continues to grow. I have been in recovery 4 1/2 years and my goal is to share my lived experience with all struggling to find hope.
Wendy Whitfield
Peer Recovery Coach
My journey to becoming a Peer Recovery Coach has been deeply personal and transformative. I’ve walked the challenging path of overcoming substance use and healing from trauma, and those experiences have shaped not only who I am today but also my passion for helping others navigate their own recovery journeys. Having lived through the struggles and triumphs of recovery, I understand the complexities of substance use, mental health, and the power of resilience. My mission as a Peer Recovery Coach is to provide compassionate support, a listening ear, and the encouragement needed to empower individuals as they rediscover their strength and rebuild their lives. I chose this path because I believe in the potential of every individual to heal and thrive, no matter how difficult their circumstances may be. By sharing my story and offering guidance, I aim to be a beacon of hope and a source of practical tools for those on the road to recovery.
“Today expect something good to happen to you no matter what occurred yesterday. Realize the past no longer holds you captive. It can only continue to hurt you if you hold on to it. Let the past go.”