Meet Our Team

The leadership team at Long Island Treatment Center consists of a wide range of leading addiction treatment professionals that come from many walks of life. Several of us are in recovery ourselves, and are now giving back by helping others struggling with addiction.

Written by the The Long Island Treatment Center Editorial Team

Daniel Schaffer

Chief Executive Officer

Daniel Schaffer has over fifteen years of experience in various leadership roles within the healthcare industry. He holds a JD from Brooklyn Law School with a focus on Health Law and is also a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator.

Liam McElwee

Chief Revenue Officer

Liam McElwee brings extensive expertise to our team, drawing from a rich background in the treatment field and a strong dedication to helping others. As our Chief Revenue Officer, he leverages his diverse experience to drive our mission forward.

Joel Wishnia

Chief Operating Officer

Joel Wishnia is the Chief Operating Officer of Recreate Behavioral Health Network, where he has been a driving force since 2016. Over the course of his time with the organization, Joel has developed a deep understanding of both client care and organizational growth.

Dr. Eugene Vortman

D.O., FACEP, FASAM

Medical Director

Dr. Eugene Vortsman is a dual board-certified physician in Emergency Medicine and Addiction Medicine, dedicated to humanizing addiction care. He employs a holistic approach to Substance Use Disorder, fostering a safe, supportive, and comprehensive environment for recovery. With a deep commitment to evidence-based treatment and harm reduction, Dr. Vortsman integrates medical, psychological, and social strategies to help individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.

Dr. Tildabeth Doscher

MD, MPH

Consulting Medical Director

Dr. Doscher is double-boarded in Preventive Medicine and Addiction Medicine. She completed both her Medical Doctorate and her Masters in Public Health at UCLA.

Carly J. Gutierrez

MS, LMHC-D, CASAC-M

Clinical Director

Carly is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor–Diagnostic Privilege and Master Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor with 9 years of experience in substance use treatment. She takes a warm, person-centered, resilience-informed approach to care and values balance and reflection, often finding grounding in Long Island’s natural spaces. Carly is committed to continued learning and thoughtful clinical practice in service of accessible, compassionate recovery.

Lorena Donayre

CASAC-T

Director of Operations

Lorena earned her Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling from Grand Canyon University. With a hands-on approach, she warmly welcomes every client - offering a safe space for them to embark on their new life journey.

Holynn Johnson

Director of Admissions

Holynn has been working in the behavioral health field since 2019. She started as an Admissions Coordinator, guiding individuals and their families through the admissions process. She feels that helping them navigate the difficult path to recovery is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

Jamie Lastihenos

MS, LCAT

Primary Therapist

Jamie received her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from SUNY Oneonta, and later obtained her Masters of Science in Creative Arts and Expressive Therapies from Sarah Lawrence College.

Samantha Barone

LCAT

Primary Therapist

Samantha received a Master's degree in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling from Hofstra University. With a person-centered approach she strived to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore emotions and experiences through creative expression.

Gwendolynn Denny

CASAC-T

Admissions Therapist

Gwendolyn has earned her certification in substance abuse/mental health counseling at OTI in Brentwood NY. She has worked in the field of addiction for the past 15 years starting as an administrative assistant at various outpatient/inpatient residential facilities. Gwendolyn has joined the team here as an Assessment therapist and is looking forward to bringing hope, support and inspiration to the clients that we serve.

Vincent Davis

Case Manager

Vincent began his journey in the field as a chemical dependency technician at Long Island Treatment Center, where he developed a strong foundation in client care and recovery support. With a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate their treatment journey, he transitioned into the role of Case Manager, where he now coordinates care plans, advocates for clients, and supports their progress toward long-term wellness.

Christina Scherer

Family Services Advocate

Christina began her professional career in behavioral health in 2019, dedicating herself to working directly with individuals struggling with substance use disorders. She now uses her personal and professional experiences to guide families through their loved one’s recovery process.