Our Team

Founder/LADC

Margotis the driving force behind our Recovery Revolution and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with years of sobriety and unwavering dedication. A native of Bemidji, she is deeply committed to helping every person who walks through our doors in their fight against addiction.

Margot’s own long journey in recovery has inspired her to earn her LADC through Bemidji State University, open an outpatient clinic, and ultimately establish our inpatient facility. Her passion for saving the community she loves shines through in everything she does.

Known for her infectious laugh and radiant smile, Margot has a unique ability to brighten the day of everyone she meets, making her both a compassionate leader and a beacon of hope.

Founder/ Art Supervisor

Michael Kelsey is one of the founders of our facility and is affectionately known as our resident philosopher. He leads our art program with passion, using creativity as a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.

Michael deeply values connecting with clients, generously sharing his vast wisdom and heartfelt guidance. His presence brings joy and inspiration to everyone he meets, reflecting his genuine care for the recovery and well-being of each individual

Head Honcho

Mini is the real head honcho around our facility. She can usually be seen leading or following KP and Margot around the facility. Mini has supported KP and Margot through many triumphs as well as difficult times and keeps Mom and Dad feeling sane and loved. Don’t let her small appearance fool you, she is the big dog around here but with a simple “hey pretty girl” you might just be able to get an acknowledgement from our resident diva.

Beloved House Dog

Ellie-Felony “Ellie” is our beloved live-in companion and heart of the facility. With a keen intuition for when something’s amiss, Ellie can often be found loyally following her favorite humans—Kevin, Cathy, or Sven—throughout the day.

Ellie has called NMAWC home since she was a tiny pup. Though she’s growing older, she’s forever young at heart, loving to run, play, and bring joy to everyone around her. Her presence creates a warm and welcoming environment that brightens the days of both staff and clients alike.

Health Service Technician Manager

Ana joined our team in 2022 as a Health Service Technician and quickly rose through the ranks to become Day Shift Supervisor. Thanks to her hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence, she was promoted to HST Manager in 2024. Ana holds both our clients and technicians to high standards because she believes in their potential and pushes them to achieve their best.

With over four years of sobriety, Ana draws on her personal experience and professional knowledge to connect deeply with clients and support their recovery journeys. Her compassionate approach makes a lasting impact on those she works with.

The only real downside? Ana is a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan—and she never misses an opportunity to remind Kevin of that rivalry!

Peer Recovery Navigator

Arlan Medicine is a Traditional Native American man from the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians & Rainy River First Nation, Ontario, Canada. Arlan joined our team in December 2024 and is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (C.P.R.S.) from the Minnesota Certification Board since 2021 & was recently certified as a Treatment Coordinator from Eden’s Group in 2024. He has also served in the addictions field for well over 26 years as a certified Alcohol Drug Counselor, ADC-III from (U.M.I.C.A.D) delivering culturally specific treatment services to diverse populations. Arlan is a former LADC from 2010-2018, former certified Prevention Specialist (CPS-1) from (U.M.I.C.A.D), certified Rule 25 Assessor: Assessing & placing individuals with chemical use problems from 1999-2023. Arlan continues to follow the elders teachings that came before him, that if you “bring the addict to the culture, sobriety will follow”. He enjoys attending powwow’s locally and internationally, singing on the drum and grass dancing professionally in his free time and learning his Native languages (Chippewa / Ojibwe) and attending ceremonies when he isn’t helping others.

LSW/LADC

Caitlin was born in Wyoming and relocated to the Duluth area as a child. After spending several years exploring different parts of the country in her twenties, she eventually settled in Bemidji to be closer to her grandparents—a decision that also led her to pursue her passion for helping others.

She attended Bemidji State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work. Caitlin went on to become both a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). She first joined our team as an intern in January 2023, and after completing her internship and earning her licensure, she transitioned into a full-time LADC role in August 2023.

Caitlin brings not only professional training but also her own lived experience with addiction and recovery, making her a deeply empathetic and valuable resource for our clients and community. Known for her sharp sense of humor and compassionate nature, Caitlin is also the proud dog mom of Gus, her long-haired Chihuahua, who occasionally visits and brightens everyone’s day at NMAWC.

Accounts Payable / Purchasing Manager

Cathy has been a valued member of our team since we opened our doors in 2020. With years of experience in kitchen service, she now leads the operations of our newly renovated kitchen, ensuring that both clients and staff are well taken care of.

Cathy plays a vital role in the day-to-day functioning of our facility, managing supply orders and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. She has truly elevated our meal program by providing clients with fresh, home-cooked meals every day—bringing comfort, nourishment, and a personal touch to their experience.

Married to her husband for over 16 years, Cathy is not only a dedicated team member but also a key contributor to our success at NMAWC. Her hard work, care, and consistency make a lasting impact on everyone who walks through our doors.

Chief Financial Officer/Founder

Charles grew up in North Minneapolis and married his high school sweetheart, Merilee. He earned a degree in Accounting and Mathematics from Bemidji State University before embarking on a distinguished career in finance.

Charles has worked with KPMG Peat Marwick and served as CFO for Chartwell Reinsurance Company. He also held various leadership roles at AIG, gaining valuable experience in both New York and London. In 2014, Charles returned to his home on Long Lake and has been an integral part of running the facility since 2020.

Human Resources

Biography Coming Soon- It is being typed on Island Time.

LADC Supervisor

Danielle is a compassionate and dedicated professional who stepped into the role of LADC Supervisor at the end of 2022. She has been with our team since we first opened our doors in 2020 and has played an integral role in our growth and success.

Danielle earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology after attending the University of North Dakota and graduating from Bemidji State University. Her educational background, combined with her genuine care for others, makes her an invaluable asset to our organization.

Known for her warm smile and kind heart, Danielle brings positivity and light to the facility every day. Her commitment to supporting both clients and staff continues to inspire those around her.

Let me know if you'd like to make it more personal, more formal, or adjusted for a specific platform li

Registered Nurse Manager

Denise is a highly experienced Registered Nurse Manager with over 40 years in the nursing field. She spent 30 years in hospital settings, specializing in Obstetrics and Medical-Surgical units, where she provided compassionate, high-quality care to patients across a wide range of needs.

In addition to her hospital work, Denise brings 12 years of experience in assisted living homes, group homes, and juvenile detention centers. Her responsibilities have included medication setup, medication administration training, and conducting mandatory annual training for staff. She is also skilled in reviewing and updating healthcare policies to ensure compliance and best practices.

Denise’s depth of knowledge, dedication to patient care, and commitment to staff development make her an invaluable leader on our team.

MA, LADC, LPC

Biography Coming soon

LADC, Compliance Officer

Ken has been working in the field of substance use disorder treatment since 2002 as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). He earned his undergraduate degree from Bemidji State University and went on to complete a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology.

In addition to his LADC, Ken became a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and later achieved his Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credential in Minnesota in 2010. Over the years, he has worked with various treatment facilities across the state, bringing a wealth of knowledge and clinical expertise to each role. Ken is also licensed in addictions in the state of Utah, further expanding his reach and impact in the field.

With decades of experience and a strong educational foundation, Ken brings both professionalism and compassion to his work with clients and colleagues alike.

Maintenance Manager

Kevin is our dedicated Maintenance Manager and has been with us since the day we opened. He plays a crucial role in keeping our facility clean, safe, and running smoothly, always ensuring everything is in top shape for both clients and staff.

Known for his positive attitude and ever-present smile, Kevin brings a sense of warmth and reliability to the team—just don’t touch his mop! He’s often accompanied by his loyal sidekick, Felony (affectionately known as “Ellie”), who’s become a beloved part of the NMAWC family.

Kevin’s hard work, attention to detail, and great sense of humor make him an essential part of our community and a daily bright spot for everyone at the facility.

Chief of Operations

KP is our Chief of Operations and manager of shenanigans—a key figure who keeps everything running smoothly with a big dose of heart and humor. Often one of the first friendly faces you’ll see at our facility, KP steps in to assist with intake transportation whenever needed, ensuring clients arrive safely and comfortably.

When he’s not focused on the safety and operations of the facility, KP leads therapeutic recreation sessions—often dancing his way into everyone’s hearts, tutu and all. Alongside Margot, he helped launch our “Recovery Revolution,” bringing innovation, compassion, and an open mind to supporting our clients on their journeys.

You can usually find KP being followed—or sometimes led—by the true boss of the facility, Mini, who adds an extra touch of charm to our daily routine.

Admissions/Treatment Coordinator/ Billing Liaison

Rebecca joined our team in 2022, beginning her journey as a Health Service Technician and Client Driver. Since then, she has grown into a key member of our Intake and Billing department. In addition, she oversees Marketing, Admissions, Billing, and serves as our Treatment Coordinator and staff photographer—truly wearing many hats with dedication and pride.

Rebecca moved to Bemidji in 2017 and quickly fell in love with the area and its welcoming community. Before joining our team, she worked in juvenile corrections for over five years, bringing with her a wealth of experience and compassion.

Known as our go-to person for navigating county and insurance paperwork, Rebecca is always ready to lend a hand. Her warm personality, easy laughter, and ability to connect with clients make her a valued presence in the office. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, riding motorcycles with her husband, and making memories with her children.

LADC

Terriejoined our team in 2022 as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Women’s Issues from St. Mary’s University and completed her LADC licensure through Bemidji State University.

Terrie brings both professional knowledge and personal insight to her role. Now celebrating eight years of sobriety, she uses her lived experience to connect deeply with clients, offering understanding, empathy, and real-world guidance. Her journey in recovery has shaped her into a compassionate, knowledgeable, and highly effective counselor.

Terrie is committed to helping clients achieve a responsible and functional lifestyle, and she continues to be a source of support, hope, and encouragement to those she works with every day.