Ed Oechslie,
M.A., ATR-BC, LCPC, CCS
Executive Director
Ed, a board certified art therapist and licensed clinical counselor, joined the staff as Executive Director in January 2006. He has extensive experience in the trauma-sensitive treatment of substance abuse and codependency. In his approach with clients he often uses expressive therapies, and has a gentle, client-centered focus.

Mary Veit, Ph.D., LCSW
Mary has over 30 years of counseling experience including mental health and substance abuse. Mary uses a holistic, strengths-based and solution-focused approach in working with clients to help them develop healthy goals and to learn and use effective strategies to make needed changes in their lives.

Kip Young, LADC
Kip began working in the field of substance abuse with adolescents and their families in 1990. He enjoys helping kids to overcome risks through knowledge, refusal skills, and building on personal and community strengths. In addition to his work in the schools, Kip provides individual substance use and addiction counseling for adults and adolescents.

Milja Brecher-DeMuro, MSW
Milja has worked in the field of social work for over 10 years. She is committed to empowering individuals and groups to recognize their personal ability to live fulfilling, peaceful and productive lives through resiliency, community connection and action. Milja’s approach is holistic and strength-based. She also works in the community alongside Rock Star Kip to share the philosophy of resiliency and put it into action through substance education, youth groups and community outreach.

Michele Marks
Director of Development
Michele joined the staff in 2002. Her work with both the Acadia Family Center and the former M.D.I. Alcohol & Drug Abuse Group puts her in the unique position to witness how the caring spirit of a community can have a life changing impact. She is humbled and honored by the courage and strength our clients show in their journeys from addiction to recovery, and therein finds her inspiration to reach out and develop philanthropic relationships in the community.

Laura Shelby
Billing Manager
In 2008 Laura joined the staff as the Receptionist and Front Office Coordinator. In 2010 she became the Billing Manager. Laura now takes care of all billing, accounts receivables, insurance authorizations and claims. Although working with Insurance companies can be challenging, Laura focuses on helping our clients get the treatment services they need approved and paid for.

Dawn Nuding
Administrative Assistant
Dawn came to AFC in 2009 as an art therapy intern working toward her Master’s degree. She officially joined our staff in 2010 as the receptionist while continuing her studies. In addition to front office duties she has many titles at AFC, including Safety Officer, IT tech, and Librarian. Her enthusiastic, artistic and creative energy is appreciated by both staff and clients. When not working or at school, Dawn enjoys hiking, zombie movies, and painting.