Clinical Staff:

Timothy Chapman, CSAC, Msc.D.
Founder, Executive Director

Dr. Tim Chapman, founder of Chapman House, has decades of experience helping adolescents and adults overcome substance abuse issues and any co-occurring mental, psychological or emotional disorders.

Tim has received training at the Johnson Institute in Minnesota and the University of California-Irvine, where he received advanced credentials in Alcoholism counseling. His prolific career has earned awards many times over, as well as international recognition as a foremost expert. He has developed and directed four major inpatient substance abuse treatment programs for Orange County area hospitals, and also established Hong Kong’s first adolescent drug rehab.

Tim writes a weekly column for the Orange County Register and hosts the popular radio program, “How Do You Feel About That?” on 97.1 FM, L.A.’s top-rated talk station. He is author of two books. His third book, currently in production, will focus on problems and solutions for parents who are supporting their adult child due to drug abuse or emotional problems.

Tim developed the “6 BASIC FEELINGS” theory, the foundation of the successful treatment model used at Chapman House adult programs and Teensavers program for children. His approach is also used in hospitals, clinics and corporations throughout the United States and abroad.

George H. Tucker, Ph.D., ABPP
Consulting Clinical Psychologist

Dr. George Tucker, a licensed, board-certified diplomat of the American Board of Professional Psychology, has over 30 years’ experience working with children and adolescents addicted to drugs or alcohol. Dr. Tucker is a strong advocate for early diagnosis of learning problems that may affect a child’s ability to succeed in school. His book, “Problem Children: It’s Not Always the Parents’ Fault,” is based on the premise that more effort is needed to diagnose and treat learning problems before they become teen drug addiction problems. If learning issues are not addressed, Dr. Tucker likens it to taking adults in the midst of recovery and returning them to a job they hate or a marriage they cannot tolerate. In short, horrible life circumstances make sobriety exceedingly difficult.

An affiliate of Chapman House since 1988, Dr Tucker’s psychological testing and expert input have been invaluable in helping numerous young people on the road to recovery.

Valarie Patterson, CADC-I
Adolescent Program Supervisor

Valarie Patterson is a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She has more than 17 years’ professional experience in social services and more than 5 years’ experience specializing in teen drug rehab and alcohol treatment. Valarie’s various professional titles have included Alcohol and Drug Studies Instructor, Crisis Team Director and Counselor, Family Interventionist, Psychiatric Intake Coordinator and Group Facilitator.
Valarie earned her degree in Alcohol and Drug counseling at the California Paramedical and Technical College, where she graduated valedictorian of her class.

Kristen Gaborno, MA
Adolescent Program Director

Kristen Gaborno joined the TeenSavers team in 2001, but has worked in social services for a total of more than 10 years. She earned a graduate degree in psychology from Chapman University and is currently a Marriage and Family Therapist registered intern. Kristen is a certified administrator through the California Department of Social Services. Her passionate concern for the wellbeing of teens and families has guided many to change their lives for the better.

Kristen is a calm, guiding presence in the storm of emotions seen so often among TeenSavers youth and their families. Her peaceful, compassionate approach helps pave the way for clients to enjoy a life-changing experience. Her enthusiasm, determination, and skills make her a vital and valuable asset to the TeenSavers team.

Danielle McGruder, LCSW
Clinical Director

Danielle is a licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years’ experience working in Mental Health and Teen Substance Abuse Treatment. She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from California State University-Northridge, and her graduate degree in social work from California State University-Fresno. She has worked in several teen drug rehab facilities, including the Los Angeles-based Erikson Center and Penny Lane, and the Reedley-based Kingsview Center.

Danielle also spent five years as an Intensive Intervention Specialist for Riverside County Department of Mental Health, Children and Adolescent Services. She has provided clinical treatment services to numerous residential treatment facilities throughout Riverside County. She currently provides individual therapy for the Adolescent Treatment Program at Chapman House, and works as a Psychiatric Social Worker for a major medical facility in the Orange County area.