Staff

Lisa Kauffman has been an integral part of Mercer Council since 2017, serving in various capacities, including her current role as Senior Support Specialist. She is passionate about making Mercer Council more visible in the community and enjoys engaging directly with the public to share evidence-based information that promotes wellness and informed decision-making.

Lisa specializes in educating older adults on appropriate medication use and management, equipping them with the tools to make healthier choices. She is also dedicated to teaching alternative approaches for managing chronic and acute pain, reflecting her commitment to fostering healthier lifestyles. In addition to her program coordination and support duties, Lisa plays a vital role in the organization’s outreach initiatives and fundraising efforts. She is trained in the following evidence-based programs: Strengthening Families Program, Botvin LifeSkills, Healthy Outlooks for Older Adults, and WISE. 

With a strong professional background in office management and a degree from Taylor Business School, Lisa brings invaluable expertise and organizational skills to her work. Her dedication to community health and education is evident in her efforts to build meaningful connections with individuals and organizations, furthering Mercer Council’s mission to promote wellness and support informed decision-making.

Lorenzo McCollum has been with Mercer Council since the Fall of 2023 as an Administrative Assistant of the leadership team. He is the first face that will greet those that walk through the doors of our agency, offering assistance and knowledge to visitors and fellow team members. Also, recently WISE certified, Lorenzo is excited to educate the community on better ways to care for yourself and loved ones with a healthier outlook on life.

Outside of the agency Lorenzo is a mentor for the Top Teens of America and a 2013 inductee Gentleman of the Urban League Guild’s Gentlemans Ball. He is also passionate about giving back to his community, providing tutoring under non-profits like Trenton Children’s Chorus and Young Scholars Institute of Trenton NJ. He is currently attending Rider University with a focus in Secondary Education and Mathematics to obtain a teaching career in the Mercer district. Lorenzo enjoys arts and crafts, specifically knitting, and is self taught for 15 years in piano partaking in plays, requested accompaniment, and personal enjoyment.

David (Dave) DeCamp has served as the Patient Navigator for the Opioid Overdose Recovery Program (OORP) for Mercer Council in Mercer County and the Director of Recovery Services since 2021.  Previously, Dave served as a full-time Certified Peer Recovery Specialist and Assistant Patient Navigator for OORP since 2019.   Before joining Mercer Council full-time, Dave also served as a “per-diem” Peer Recovery Specialist for the OORP program.  

Dave brings multiple years of experience working in the private SUD treatment field, having held operations positions at numerous facilities including Ambrosia NJ, Pinelands Recovery Center at Medford, and Princeton Detox and Recovery Center.  As a subject matter expert, he is involved in county and state-wide advisory boards. Before entering the SUD Treatment field as a career change, Dave was a Global Vice President in the Enterprise Information Technology Software sector for over 20 years.

Dave has been in continuous long-term recovery since 2016, after decades of struggling with alcoholism and addiction.  He sees it as both his purpose and passion to help others overcome their struggles with addiction through sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

Trina Nixon is an NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist that has been in recovery for nearly five years and has been a part of MCADA for almost a year. Trina brings to the table several various sectors of treatment in addition to working for the OORP program at MCADA.

She currently works in the (MOUD) field. She found that she is passionate about working with people with co-occurring disorders while working as a Behavioral Technician and overseeing sober living homes in Mercer County. While also gained experience with working with the homeless that suffer from Opiate substance when employed with Oaks Integrated as a CPRS with their Safe at Home program.

“I have a passion for helping others that suffer from the same disorder that I once experienced for many years of my life. I can share my past and present with individuals who need just a little hope to start them on a journey of recovery. Watching the light in someone’s eyes come back after being lifeless for so long makes this endeavor that I have been blessed with well worth every moment.”

Ken Lynch has been the Clinical Certified Peer Recovery Specialists Supervisor since 2023. He assists them with their wellness as they perform their challenging duties within the Opioid Overdose Recovery Program for the Mercer Council. Ken is a State and National Certified School Psychologist. He is a New Jersey Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience and is dedicated to helping people with their educational and psychological growth. His undergraduate work was completed at Rutgers University and his graduate studies and advanced degree (Ed.S) were completed at Rowan University. He continued his advanced studies in Clinical Psychology at Immaculata College: and, Early Childhood Assessments at Temple University. Ken recently retired after serving 31 years with the State of NJ Department of Children and Families.  Currently, he has a part-time private practice in Medford, New Jersey  

Over the years, Ken worked part-time as a Therapist for South Jersey Hospital Systems, and an In-Home Therapist for Families Matters Inc. Ken volunteers as a therapist for the City of Angels assisting disabled veterans. He also volunteers to feed and assist the needy through the St. Vincent DePaul Society. Ken has served on the Board of Directors at: New Hope Retreat in Pennsville NJ; the New Jersey Association of School Psychologists; Boys and Girls Club in Vineland NJ; and, the Starting Point in Westmont, NJ. Ken is grateful for over 41 years of continuous recovery from alcoholism.

Stacey Ross, CPRS is a NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist who has been in long-term recovery since 2015 and has been a part of the Mercer Council OORP Team since 2019.  In addition to her OORP work, Stacey serves as the Executive Director of a local non-profit organization that services a grant in the City of Trenton, which offers free outreach-based substance use interventions, education, referrals, peer recovery support, and case management to anyone seeking help, regardless of insurance status. 

She also voluntarily assists in running two non-profit female sober living homes in Burlington and Mercer County.  She is passionate about helping those most in need, with heavy involvement in law enforcement “deflection/diversion” programs in Mercer County.  “Everyone deserves a chance at recovery, and anyone is capable of achieving it with compassionate care and support.  We rise by lifting others.”

Marc North, CPRS is a NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with Mercer Council since 2019 and is in long-term recovery. Marc has focused expertise in Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) treatments and Peer Recovery work with Law Enforcement.  He currently serves as Director of Operations for a private treatment center located in Mercer County NJ.  His start to his career in the recovery field was as a behavioral health technician in several treatment centers.   “I found my calling when I began working with non-profit peer recovery programs, finding meaning for the life I once lived in active addiction.” “I now utilize my personal

Jon Macciocca, CPRS is a NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist who has been in long-term recovery for over a decade and has been a part of the Mercer Council OORP Team since 2017.  He has been involved in the private treatment industry for over 7 years. He also volunteers for a nonprofit that helps individuals throughout the Northeast find help and navigate the treatment process.  “I believe that when someone asks for help, there should always be a hand available to them, and I try my best to live up to that expectation daily.”

Michael Ziccardi, CPRS is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, CCAR Recovery Coach, and CCAR Recovery Coach Trainer. Mike is a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder who has been with Mercer Council and the Opioid Overdose Recovery Program since 2017. For over a decade, he has worked as a treatment advocate and is passionate about helping those who struggle with substance use disorder and mental health.

Miquia Delvalle-Davis, CPRS is our Spanish bilingual OORP Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. She joined our team in September 2022, as we saw a significant increase in Spanish-speaking clients who suffer from Substance Use Disorder. Outside of Mercer Council, Miquia works for The Council for Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey as an Education Specialist, and also at the local non-profit Recovery is Essential (R.I.E) as an Administrative Assistant. Miquia is also a Notary Public. Miquia loves to serve her community with empathy and compassion heart-driven to help others as someone did it for her. She just wants to reciprocate it by helping others. Miquia’s favorite statement is “We do recover”.

Amy Argiriou has been with Mercer Council as a Prevention Educator since 2017. She holds a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University and is a certified K-6 teacher. Before working at Mercer Council she taught for many years at the elementary school level as well as preschool. Amy is certified in the following evidence-based programs: Botvin’s LifeSkills Training, Teen Mental Health First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and Strengthening of the Families Program.

Empowering adolescents with knowledge and skills to guide them through their very complicated but exciting adolescent years is a true passion of hers.

Aliyah McRae has been with Mercer Council as a Prevention Educator since 2023. She advocates for alcohol and drug prevention among youth. Before being a Prevention Educator, she was an intern at Girls Inc. serving as a Health Educator regarding social developmental skills.

She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health with a concentration on Social and Behavioral Sciences from The College of New Jersey. Aliyah is a Certified Health Education Specialist with the focus on aiding in the prevention of risky behaviors using the eight areas of responsibility. She is also a Certified Teen Mental Health First Aider, specializing in preparing youth for the leadership ability to recognize mental health challenges and provide resources for peers. Along with her other youth-oriented certifications, she is also trained in the following evidence-based programs: Botvins Life Skills and Strengthening Families facilitator.

She is passionate about engaging individuals in their health with a lighthearted approach using her creative and witty abilities.

Smriti Singh has been a Prevention Educator with the Mercer Council since 2022. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Teaching from India and is a certified Botvin’s LifeSkills Training facilitator. Additionally, Smriti is trained in the “Protecting You and Protecting Me” program as well as the “WISE” (Wellness Initiative for Senior Education) program. Before stepping into her role as a Prevention Educator, Smriti worked at the Council as an Administrative Assistant for seven years, starting in 2009. Throughout her tenure, she has remained an ardent believer in the mission of the organization.

In her role as a Prevention Educator, Smriti is passionate about empowering youth to make informed decisions about alcohol and drugs while equipping them with essential tools for life. She has successfully conducted prevention education programs in diverse schools across Mercer County, ensuring the content is tailored to be age-appropriate. Smriti consistently strives to understand the unique challenges facing today’s youth in our rapidly evolving world and works tirelessly to provide them with the support they need.

Wil Kauffman officially became a member of Mercer Council’s Prevention Team as a Prevention Educator in July 2024, though his connection to the organization dates back to 2017 when he began volunteering. 

A graduate of Trenton State College (now The College of New Jersey), Wil has spent many years as a certified teacher, serving in schools across New Jersey. His extensive experience in education fuels his passion for teaching and empowering communities through prevention and awareness programs. 

Wil is trained in Botvin LifeSkills and plays a vital role in Mercer Council’s outreach initiatives and fundraising efforts. Known for his dedication and willingness to support the team, Wil is always ready to lend a hand wherever needed, making him an invaluable asset to the organization.

Alyssa Scaglione joined the Prevention Team at Mercer Council as a Prevention Educator in July 2024. She is trained in Botvin’s Life Skills and teen Mental Health First Aid. Alyssa graduated with her Masters of Arts in Teaching in 2022 along with her ESL certification and a Bachelor of Science in 2021 from The College of New Jersey.

While being a former teacher, Alyssa is passionate about educating and working with youth, especially in developing social-emotional learning skills. She incorporates daily affirmations and meditations to her own and her students’ routines to promote a positive and healthy mind. Alyssa is excited to continue educating about topics that are important to our overall mental and physical health.

Charlene Phelps joined Mercer Council in March of 2024 as the Director of the Advocacy and Prevention Coalition. She holds an MBA in Organizational Leadership from Eastern University and a BS in Business Administration and Management from Chestnut Hill College. She has a passion for DEI work and is a licensed Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualified Administrator. Charlene has 20 years of community engagement and political experience, having served as a Campaign Manager in the 2022 Trenton City Council At-Large political race. 

In her role as the Director of Advocacy and Prevention Coalition, Charlene will lead the efforts to increase awareness of the Council in its efforts to collaborate with all groups advocating for Prevention Activities. She will also coordinate the County Substance Abuse Regional Prevention Coalition.

Caitlin Allen joined Mercer Council in 2023 and serves as Mercer Council’s Coalition & Community Engagement Coordinator, after starting as the agency’s Program Assistant Intern. She is passionate about strengthening communities and enjoys fostering collaborations and deepening relationships with local partners to expand Mercer Council’s reach and impact. Caitlin earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Nonprofit and Community Development from The College of New Jersey. She is certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid and trained in the Strengthening Families Program. With the support of her colleagues and the agency, Caitlin is pursuing her Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) credential to deepen her expertise in the field of substance use prevention.

In her multifaceted role with the agency, Caitlin focuses on connection with members of the community and the Prevention Coalition, and also manages key agency-wide projects and initiatives, like social media presence, the annual scholarship program, and the year-end impact report. Caitlin believes in the work that Mercer Council is doing and is glad to play a part in promoting healthier, safer, and more responsible communities across Mercer County.

Ms. Johnson joined the Mercer Council team in 2018, with optimism and expertise in post-secondary education. She is a long-time resident of Mercer County and a graduate of The College of New Jersey with a degree in Business.  She is the Director of ASYSST(Available School Youth Support Services Team) which is the DCF-funded SBYSP(School Based Youth Service Program) housed at Ewing High School.

Before becoming the Director, she was the Youth Development Specialist(YDS) at ASYSST. As the YDS, she taught life skills and evidence-based prevention programming. She is trained in the following evidence-based programs: Strengthening Families, Botvins, and Too Good for Drugs.  She is a NACCP member of the Trenton Chapter, a Doula, CPR/AED certified, a Connections Matter Certified Trainer, Motivational Interviewing, and a certified Suicide Bereavement Teen Support Group Facilitator. 

Ian Smith has worked as the Mental Health Counselor/Therapist at ASYSST (Available School Youth Support Services Team, New Jersey State-funded School Based Youth Services Program) at Ewing High School since 2022. He started at Mercer Council in 2013 and served as a Program Coordinator/Prevention Educator for over six years. Ian has been working in the behavioral health field since 2011, with experience in prevention education, substance abuse/addiction group counseling, and mental health counseling in individual and group settings.

Passionate about delivering positive support, building connections, and advocating for others, Ian brings creativity and authenticity to his work with students. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Rider University and a Master’s Degree from The College of New Jersey’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Ian is a New Jersey Licensed Professional Counselor and Student Assistance Coordinator.

Cristabel Acquah joined the Mercer Council team in 2025 as a passionate advocate for youth development. She is a recent graduate of The College of New Jersey, where she earned a degree in Sociology.

Cristabel serves as the Youth Development Specialist (YDS) for the DCF-funded School-Based Youth Services Program (SBYSP) at Ewing High School. Before stepping into this role, she worked with the Kidsbridge Program of CHSofNJ in Ewing, NJ. During her time there, Cristabel taught socio-emotional development skills to children in schools across Mercer County, fostering their personal growth and resilience.

With a deep commitment to supporting youth and child development, Cristabel is driven to make a meaningful impact in their lives. She is excited to continue contributing her skills and passion to help young people thrive.

Rodrigo Molineros is Mercer Council’s Substance Abuse Evaluator for the Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) and has been with our agency since 2011. Rodrigo provides assessments for JJC primarily at the New Jersey Training School for Boys in Jamesburg, NJ. He is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kean University and is bicultural and bilingual. He started working in the field of substance abuse in 1995. “Most of my experience comes from outpatient facilities and methadone clinics.” “I also have experience working with DCP&P, Family Court of Mercer County, and Work First New Jersey.”

Denise Higgins is a certified job coach and wellness coach that lives by the motto of being proactive and creative. Denise has successfully coached and advocated to help individuals identify and use their strengths to achieve their goals by making productive decisions that come from an individual’s natural gifts and abilities with a growth mindset.

Denise has experience working for and with a variety of agencies, corporations, offices, non-profits, higher education, and in an outpatient setting for mental health and substance use disorders. She created a program called “Empowering You to Manage Your Own Career,” which was used to broaden organizational career management consulting services.

Denise continues to serve on the boards of many non-profit organizations including The Rescue Mission of Trenton, The Citizens Campaign, and Trinity Episopal Cathedral, and remains invested in supporting and empowering individuals to be their best selves.

David Petersen holds a Masters degree from Seton Hall University in Counseling. He is a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP). He is also a Qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). In addition, David is a Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). His certification is from The Center for Anger Resolution, Inc.

David received his CEAP in 1987. He was named Employee Assistance Professional of the Year (2001) by the NJ Chapter of EAPA. He is a member of the International Employee Assistance Association (EAPA). From 2000 to 2010, David was the Director of the EAP at Saint Clare’s Health System in Morris County, NJ.

As a Qualified SAP, he has conducted SAP evaluations since 1996. He has also conducted Critical Incident Stress Debriefing services within the business community since 1997. David received his Basic and Advanced Trainings from The International Critical Incident Stress Foundation.