Avenues Recovery Center at Denver

David Gertz is the executive director of Avenues Recovery Center at Denver.  Originally hailing from  Toronto, Canada, David now resides in the bustling and beautiful city of Denver. 

Having pursued higher education at Capella University, David holds a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, and finds fulfillment in making a meaningful impact on individuals' lives during their greatest times of need. He finds joy in helping people recognize their own potential, courage, and strength, guiding them towards a path of recovery and empowerment.

Outside of his professional endeavors, David enjoys hiking and swimming, and cherishes moments spent with his family. With six children, family time can be chaotic but is undeniably precious! Additionally, David is actively involved in his community, making a positive impact on those around him each day. 

Chris Dow is a clinical supervisor with a heartfelt commitment to addiction treatment. Hailing from Boulder, Colorado, Chris earned his Bachelor's degree in Human Services counseling (with a focus on addiction studies) from Metropolitan State University of Denver. He then continued his educational journey at Regis University, obtaining Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health counseling. Chris's connection to addiction is deeply personal, rooted in his own path to recovery. Recognizing that addiction affects people from all walks of life, Chris approaches his work with humor, compassion, and a person-centered approach. He firmly believes that with support, everyone can find their path to hope, happiness and recovery. Beyond his professional endeavors, Chris finds joy in his role as husband and father of two beautiful children. He is a devoted dog lover with many pets, and can often be found exploring the great outdoors of Colorado with his family. Chris is also an avid sports fan and loves cheering on his home team. Go Nuggets!

Rachael Tapp is the Program Manager of Avenues Recovery Center at Denver. She is a proud and longstanding native of Elizabeth, Colorado.

With over a decade of experience in the field of addiction, Rachael has earned numerous certificates related to substance use and mental health. Her passion for her work stems from a deep-seated belief that every individual deserves to experience love and gratitude for and from at least one being in their life. She believes her role in this field and this world is to spread love and connection to all she encounters.

Outside of work, Rachael treasures her close family ties and her beloved partner. She believes in smiling at strangers and enjoys spreading laughter wherever she goes! 

In her leisure time, Rachael embraces the simple joys of life, whether it's hunting for rocks with her grandparents in the summer or indulging in creative hobbies like crocheting, painting (albeit poorly), or needlepoint. With two dogs by her side, Rachael finds joy and contentment in the quiet moments of her simple life.

Meet our nurse manager Emily Silk,  hailing from the charming town of Medford, NJ.

Emily holds a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA, and has aspirations of furthering her education by pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Her goal is to become a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on addictions—a testament to her passion for making a difference in the field of addiction treatment.

Driven by personal experiences with addiction within her own family, Emily is deeply committed to improving the lives of patients at Avenues. She believes that addiction affects individuals from all walks of life, and advocates for treating each patient with compassion, kindness, and empathy.

Outside of work, Emily enjoys the outdoor beauty of Denver, having moved there from Philly in 2018. An avid skier and live music enthusiast, she spends her downtime with her boyfriend and their Great Dane, Mo. Whether exploring new restaurants in the Denver area or soaking up the sunshine in a local park, Emily embraces every opportunity to enjoy life's simple pleasures.

Laura Dubman is a Client Engagement Specialist with roots spanning from San Francisco to Boise, Idaho.

Laura holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Chapman University, and she recently obtained an Associate Professional in Human Resources certification, further enhancing her skills and expertise.

Laura's career in addiction treatment and behavioral health began in 2010, inspired by the transformative power of recovery she witnessed in the lives of her loved ones. Her passion for helping others is evident in the meaningful connections she cultivates with clients every day.

Outside of work, Laura finds joy in the great outdoors. She loves hiking, backpacking, and traveling with her partner and their 11-year-old rescue dog, Roo. Embracing the beauty of nature, Laura cherishes every moment spent exploring new trails and destinations with her loved ones.

Lana O’Neil is Nurse Practitioner hailing originally from Yuma, Colorado.

Lana's educational journey has taken her through Midland Lutheran College, the University of Utah, and Grand Canyon University, where she earned multiple degrees. She holds a Bachelor of Science with majors in biology and natural science, along with a minor in chemistry. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), specializing in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.

Lana's passion for addiction treatment stems from her personal journey of recovery spanning over 18 years. As someone who has experienced the challenges and triumphs of recovery firsthand, Lana finds fulfillment in guiding others on their path to freedom.

Outside of work, Lana enjoys spending time with her beloved husband and adult son (who lives in Austin, Texas). She finds joy in reading, golfing, camping, and traveling to beach destinations. Lana's heart is also filled with love for her two rescue dogs, Harper and Pebbles, who bring companionship and happiness to her life.

Robyn Baker is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner born and bred in Colorado.

Robyn's educational journey began at the University of Northern Colorado, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Healthcare Management. After gaining valuable experience as a provider relations rep for nine years, she attended CU Denver and graduated in 2012 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). In 2017, Robyn embarked on her journey to become a Nurse Practitioner, specializing in psychiatric care, and she proudly graduated with her master's degree in 2023.

Robyn's passion for addiction treatment stems from her personal experiences watching her father struggle with alcoholism. From a young age, she knew she wanted to help others overcome addiction and achieve long-term sobriety. With a compassionate approach, Robyn is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.

Outside of work, Robyn is a proud mother of five children, ranging in age from 3 to 16 years old. Her household is always bustling with activity, but she finds joy in the chaos with the support of her incredible husband and extended family. Robyn and her family enjoy outdoor adventures, particularly camping. In her free time, she indulges in binge-watching true crime documentaries.

Solomon Addison is a Primary Counselor originally from Charleston, South Carolina.

Solomon earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from South Carolina State University, and is currently a Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS). He is driven to further his education by pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling, with aspirations of becoming a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

Solomon's journey into addiction counseling was deeply influenced by personal experiences with addiction within his own family, including the loss of his brother. Motivated by his own life journey, Solomon is committed to providing compassion and respect to individuals seeking help and recovery, with a focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit.

In his personal time, Solomon is a self-professed homebody, indulging in movie nights with a preference for rom-coms and horror films. He finds relaxation in ordering food, online shopping, and scrolling through social media. Solomon's dog Ursula accompanies him on leisurely walks, bringing joy and companionship to his days.

Mark Blakeley is both an Army Veteran and a dedicated paramedic of 25 years, demonstrating a strong sense of discipline, integrity, and compassion. Graduating with a Masters of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Child and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix in 2008, Mark's passion for helping others led him to venture into the mental health industry, where he has excelled in various roles.

Throughout his career, Mark has worked as a therapist in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, private practice, and residential programs. He practiced as a therapist at Integrative Life Center (ILC) in Nashville, TN, where he was instrumental in designing their Men’s Intimacy Disorders program. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor, Mark brings a comprehensive approach to his counseling, enabling him to address a wide range of mental health issues. Mark is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and has also trained in Brainspotting and Level 1 Internal Family Systems, expanding his professional skills to encompass an impressive therapeutic toolbox. His versatility extends to being a skilled interventionist, capable of guiding individuals and families towards healing and positive change.