Meet the Team

Raffa Bari

CQC Registered Manager

PGCert, BSc, CertEd, Level 5 in Leadership and Management

Memberships: BAAT (associate), Addiction Professionals

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Raffa plays a key leadership role in overseeing the safe, compassionate, and effective running of Cassiobury Court, ensuring services align with CQC regulatory standards. Since joining in 2021, she has worked tirelessly with the team to raise the quality of care across the board and is committed to ongoing development ahead of future CQC evaluations.

Prior to her current role, Raffa successfully founded and registered Asana Lodge, a sister facility based in Towcester. She brings a wealth of experience and a collaborative spirit to her leadership, always striving to create a nurturing and supportive environment for both clients and staff.

Raffa holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling with the Arts from the Institute of Arts in Therapy and Education (IATE) and is currently training in Integrative Art Psychotherapy. She also possesses a QCF Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management and is an associate member of the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT).

With over ten years of professional experience in addiction recovery and her own lived experience, Raffa is deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate their recovery journeys. She is known for her empathetic approach, ability to build meaningful connections, and dedication to supporting personal growth and healing.

Raffa facilitates Therapeutic Creative Groups that incorporate a variety of client-focused methods, including psychoeducation, mindfulness, mentalisation-based interventions, compassion-focused approaches, and cognitive analytic therapy. Her work is grounded in socially engaged and inclusive practices, empowering clients at every stage of their recovery.

Dr Mosun

Consultant Psychiatrist and Addictions Specialist

Consultant Psychiatrist and Addictions Specialist

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Dr Mosun is a highly experienced Consultant Psychiatrist and a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych). She holds a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) and is listed on the GMC Specialist Register with accreditation in both General Adult Psychiatry and Substance Misuse Psychiatry.

Since qualifying as a doctor in 2000, Dr Mosun has developed extensive expertise in the assessment and treatment of individuals with drug and alcohol-related difficulties. Her clinical practice covers a wide spectrum, including the use of psychosocial interventions for addiction, both in individual and group settings. She is well-versed in managing inpatient detoxification for alcohol dependence, benzodiazepine dependence, and opioid dependence syndrome.

Dr Mosun has substantial experience in substitute prescribing, including methadone and Subutex, and works across both community-based outpatient services and residential rehabilitation environments. She is particularly skilled in the management of co-occurring mental health and substance misuse conditions, often referred to as dual diagnosis.

With over a decade of experience at consultant level, Dr Mosun also plays a key role in the supervision and training of medical and multidisciplinary teams. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based practice and a strong commitment to improving outcomes for individuals affected by addiction and mental health difficulties.

Dr Ola Otulana

GP and Addiction Specialist Physician

MBBS, DRCOG, MRCGP, DFSRH, MFMLM, FRSPH, MBA (Cambridge)

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Dr Otulana is a General Practitioner and a specialist in addiction medicine, based at Cassiobury Court. He has a particular focus on the management of substance misuse and brings extensive expertise in the assessment, treatment, including medical detoxification, and rehabilitation of individuals struggling with a wide range of drug and substance dependencies.

His core approach involves carrying out thorough assessments to identify each patient’s specific needs, helping to guide both medical detox and psychological support plans. He also has considerable experience working with patients requiring detox from both drugs and alcohol simultaneously.

Having qualified as a doctor in 2000, Dr Otulana has spent over ten years working in addiction treatment. He is recognised as an Advanced Practitioner Member by Addiction Professionals and holds a Part 1 Certificate in Clinical Psychopharmacology from the British Association for Psychopharmacology. Alongside his clinical credentials, he also holds an MBA from Cambridge University’s Judge Business School, demonstrating his broader expertise in healthcare management.

Alison Hipwell

Deputy Manager (Operations Officer)

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Alison has maintained her sobriety for six years and began her journey into the field of addiction support after volunteering at a rehabilitation centre, an experience she describes as the start of the most transformative chapter of her life. Her dedication and growth in the field have led her to her current position as Deputy Manager at Cassiobury Court.

Driven by a deep empathy for those facing addiction, Alison brings both passion and personal insight to her role. She plays an active part in day-to-day operations, including working alongside the catering team, addressing client concerns, leading community meetings, and supervising the night staff. She also liaises with external partners and oversees aspects of Health and Safety within the service.

In addition to her managerial duties, Alison offers acupuncture sessions to assist clients in managing stress and improving sleep, further supporting their overall well-being.

She is currently pursuing a QCF Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management to continue building her skills and knowledge in this area.

Jane Pearce

Deputy Manager (Clinical Lead)

DipHE, Nurse Associate, Level 5 in Leadership and Management

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Jane holds a DipHE and is a qualified Nurse Associate, currently undertaking a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management. In her role as Deputy Manager and Nurse Support, she leads the nursing team and works in close collaboration with the on-site specialist doctor and other service doctors to ensure that clients receive safe, high-quality care in line with CQC standards for substance misuse and alcohol rehabilitation services.

She also monitors any existing health conditions clients may have and works alongside the Therapy Lead to support each client’s personalised care plan throughout their treatment journey.

With a strong background across nursing, care, and management roles, Jane brings a wealth of practical experience. Known for her proactive and compassionate approach, she is deeply committed to client welfare and often goes above and beyond to provide support. In addition, Jane facilitates relapse prevention groups, where she draws on her own extensive life experience to engage and inspire clients in recovery.

DR Misbah Sadiq

Doctor in Psychiatry

MBBS

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Dr Misbah Sadiq is a committed medical professional, fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC), with four years of clinical experience. She is known for delivering compassionate, high-quality care and maintaining a strong focus on patient well-being.

Alongside her clinical work, Dr Sadiq has a strong interest in medical education. She has previously taught undergraduate medical students, sharing her knowledge and helping to shape future doctors through her supportive and engaging teaching style.

More recently, Dr Sadiq has chosen to focus her career on psychiatry, with a particular interest in alcohol and drug addiction. She is passionate about understanding the complexities of addiction and supporting individuals on their path to recovery.

Her patient-centred approach and commitment to continuous professional development reflect her dedication to both psychiatry and the wider medical field.

Seth Bolton

Counsellor / Mindfulness / CBT / ACT

Counsellor / Mindfulness / CBT / ACT

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Seth Bolton is an experienced Counsellor at Cassiobury Court, specialising in Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support individuals in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

CBT is a structured, evidence-based approach that explores how thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes influence emotions and behaviour. It helps individuals develop practical strategies to manage a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and schizophrenia. By identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns, CBT encourages healthier emotional responses and behavioural choices.

Seth integrates these therapeutic approaches to help clients better understand their experiences, build resilience, and move forward in their recovery with greater self-awareness and coping skills.

Laura Smart

Integrative Therapist

MBACP, MNCPS Accr, Dip Hyp

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Laura is an accredited counsellor with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). She specialises in supporting individuals affected by substance misuse and addictive behaviours.

With over ten years of clinical experience, Laura brings a wide-ranging and integrative therapeutic approach. She is trained in Gestalt Therapy (via the Gestalt Centre, London), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), and also holds a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy.

Laura believes in the individuality of each person’s recovery and therapeutic journey. Her work often incorporates mindfulness techniques and Inner Child Therapy, focusing on healing developmental and attachment wounds. She helps clients identify and release deeply held traumas and maladaptive behavioural patterns often linked to emotional disregulation, dissociation, cognitive distortions, and limiting core beliefs.

Deeply committed to supporting lasting change, Laura helps individuals reconnect with their inner child and move beyond past pain toward a more fulfilling life. In addition to her private practice and consultancy work, she runs DBT-based skills training groups in residential addiction treatment settings and facilitates an online aftercare group for people in recovery.

Laura draws on both SMART Recovery and 12-step principles and creates personalised treatment plans tailored to each person’s unique needs and therapeutic goals.

Keshia Mellis

Recovery Counsellor

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Keshia is an Integrative Psychotherapist whose work draws on a range of therapeutic approaches, including Attachment Theory, Person-Centred Therapy, Person Centred Experiential Counselling for Depression, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Gestalt. She has clinical experience within the NHS IAPT service and is particularly interested in improving mental health access for underrepresented groups. Her current research explores how members of the BAME community engage with mental health support and psychotherapy.

Keshia holds a BSc in Education and Psychology and brings a wealth of experience supporting young people, including those leaving care, in school settings, community environments, and those experiencing mental health challenges.

Her professional passion lies in understanding the link between mental health and addiction. She is especially focused on how improving mental health and emotional resilience can support long-term sobriety and personal recovery. Keshia brings empathy, insight, and a holistic perspective to her work, helping individuals build a foundation for sustained well-being.

Martin Clifton

Recovery Practitioner

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Martin brings a unique perspective to his role in addiction and recovery support. His own recovery journey began in a residential rehab much like Cassiobury Court, giving him a deep, personal understanding of the process and challenges involved.

Through treatment, Martin came to realise that his brain had learned to view substances and compulsive behaviours as essential for survival—even when they were the very things causing harm. This realisation led him to study addiction in depth, focusing on the mind, body, and emotional patterns that underpin addictive behaviours. He explored how early life experiences and developmental stages can increase vulnerability to addiction and came to understand addiction as a learned behaviour—one that becomes deeply ingrained over time.

Martin embraced structured recovery programmes, particularly the 12-step fellowships (including AA, CA, NA, and EDA), and continues to attend meetings regularly. He maintains a daily recovery routine, stays connected with peers, and works closely with a sponsor to support his own ongoing sobriety. Helping others on their recovery journeys is a deeply rewarding part of his day-to-day life.

Over the years, Martin has worked in various residential treatment settings as a recovery and addiction specialist. He strongly believes that Cassiobury Court offers a truly supportive and effective environment, giving clients the best possible foundation for long-term sobriety after treatment.

In addition to working with clients, Martin is passionate about educating and supporting families, helping them understand the nature of addiction and how they can best assist their loved ones after leaving treatment.

Rebecca Crouch

Recovery Practitioner

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Rebecca has been in recovery since 2017, following her personal battle with alcohol dependency and prescription painkiller addiction. Since beginning her recovery, she has transformed her life, returning to education to study counselling and completing both Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications. Her recovery is rooted in the 12-step programme, which continues to guide both her personal and professional life.

At Cassiobury Court, Rebecca supports through the 12-step model, delivering group sessions and one-to-one work that focus on building a solid foundation for lasting recovery. She plays an active role in aftercare planning, helping people prepare for life beyond treatment. Rebecca also organises weekly client share sessions, inviting former clients to return and share their stories, offering current residents encouragement, inspiration, and a sense of hope.

Currently training to become a certified Recovery Coach, Rebecca brings lived experience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of recovery.

Gerard Brown

Recovery Practitioner (12 Steps)

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Gerard, who is in long-term recovery, has been clean for over 16 years following a 23-year struggle with heroin addiction. His past was marked by time in prison and deep feelings of shame and guilt, giving him a profound understanding of the pain and hopelessness that accompany addiction.

Since beginning his recovery journey, Gerard has dedicated his life to helping others. He has travelled to Romania to assist in building orphanages and to Africa to support children in need. More recently, he has taken on the role of foster carer for his grandchildren, working to rebuild the relationships that were impacted during his time in active addiction.

A strong advocate of the 12-step recovery model, Gerard credits this approach with playing a key role in his own healing. He remains actively involved in the fellowship community, sponsoring others and facilitating both group sessions and individual key-working sessions. He also supports clients by accompanying them to external fellowship meetings.

In addition to his recovery work, Gerard is a certified Pastor and provides pastoral care to both clients and staff, offering spiritual and emotional support as part of his holistic approach to recovery.

Shipra Dhingra

Psychologist - Therapy Lead & Care Coordinator

Shipra Dhingra is a dedicated Clinical Psychologist with a strong passion for promoting mental health and emotional well-being. Licensed through UNESCO-CID, she is also trained in Expressive Arts Therapy, bringing a rich blend of therapeutic tools and experience to her work.

Her academic foundation was laid at Amity University in India, where she earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Driven by a deep interest in innovative therapeutic practices, Shipra participated in a research study exploring the psychological benefits of art therapy for young adults experiencing anxiety and depression. This experience affirmed the powerful role of creative expression in emotional healing and inspired her to make expressive arts an integral part of her therapeutic practice.

Shipra believes that healing is deeply personal, and that each individual’s journey requires a flexible, tailored approach. Her commitment to honoring each person’s uniqueness is reflected in her therapeutic style, which encourages self-expression and self-discovery.

Beyond her one-on-one sessions, Shipra provides daily psychoeducational and body movement-based well-being sessions to support clients consistently throughout their treatment. She also works closely with the Deputy Manager and Nursing Support team to coordinate client care, ensuring that both pre-arrival planning and ongoing support are responsive to each individual’s evolving needs.

Combining her expertise in psychology with a background in journalism and advocacy, Shipra champions mental health awareness and the importance of individuality. Her multidimensional perspective and compassionate approach continue to inspire others to pursue healing, growth, and personal fulfillments, even during life’s most difficult times.

Patricia Szucs

Recovery Practitioner & Assistant Psychologist

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Patricia began her career in psychology by supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder through Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). She later extended her work to children facing psychosomatic challenges, often stemming from illness, complex family dynamics, or trauma. In these settings, she employed a range of therapeutic techniques, including art therapy, psychodrama, relaxation methods, music therapy, and fairytale-based metamorphosis therapy.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, where her research explored how international students perceive resilience and coping strategies during their reintegration into post-pandemic life.

Currently, Patricia is pursuing a Master’s degree in Health and Clinical Psychological Sciences. Her academic interests are centred on trauma, addiction, and clinical and neurological assessment. Deeply curious about the many dimensions of mental health, she is committed to understanding trauma and addiction not only through clinical frameworks but also through the lived human experience.

Patricia brings both academic dedication and practical experience to her work, with a strong passion for exploring diverse therapeutic approaches and fostering recovery through empathy and evidence-based care.

Ayo Okekunbi

Recovery Practitioner

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Ayoyinka Okekunbi is a committed Recovery Support Worker whose empathy, resilience, and dedication to supporting individuals through their recovery journey have made a meaningful impact.

Originally from Nigeria in West Africa, Ayo was raised in a community that placed high value on compassion, mutual support, and service to others. These early influences sparked his interest in contributing to the wellbeing of others, eventually guiding him toward a career in health and social care.

His academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology, both completed in Nigeria. He later moved to the UK, where he earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare from the University of Hertfordshire. These diverse academic experiences have given Ayo a well-rounded perspective on healthcare systems and client support.

Motivated by a growing interest in mental health and substance use recovery, Ayo pursued further professional development. He undertook specialised training, including NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care, to deepen his understanding and refine his practical skills in this field.

Ayo’s commitment to recovery work is also deeply personal. Having faced addiction himself, he understands the emotional toll and isolation it can bring. His own journey through recovery has been a source of strength and motivation, allowing him to relate to others with genuine empathy and insight.

Now working in the substance misuse sector, Ayo plays an active role in supporting clients on their path to sobriety. He facilitates recovery groups, offers one-to-one support, and provides both emotional and practical guidance to those facing the challenges of addiction. His approach encourages individuals to build resilience, rediscover hope, and work towards a fulfilling, substance-free life.

Ayo stands as a powerful example of how lived experience, combined with professional training and a compassionate outlook, can transform lives. In his role, he continues to inspire and support others as they take steps toward lasting recovery and personal growth.

Alan Thompson

Head Chef

Based at: Cassiobury Court

Alan Thompson has served as Head Chef at Cassiobury Court since October 2021 and, in that time, has made a noticeable and positive impact on the unit’s catering service.

With an extensive background in catering and nearly two decades of personal experience living with addiction, Alan brings a unique and empathetic perspective to his role. He understands firsthand how essential good nutrition is during recovery, not just for physical health, but for emotional and mental wellbeing too.

Alan is a firm believer in the importance of “food in recovery.” He recognises that learning how to plan meals, manage a food budget, and choose foods that support healing is a valuable part of the recovery process. In fact, he is currently developing a workshop aimed at helping clients better understand nutritional needs and dietary choices during recovery.

Working alongside a dedicated kitchen team, Alan ensures that all dietary needs and preferences are accommodated with care and attention.

Alan maintains a strong and friendly presence with the clients at Cassiobury Court. He actively engages with them not only to make sure their food requirements are met, but also to create an open and welcoming kitchen environment. This encourages clients to feel comfortable discussing their dietary concerns or simply dropping in for a friendly chat.

Through his lived experience, culinary skills, and person-centred approach, Alan plays a vital role in supporting the overall well-being of clients as they progress through their recovery journey.

Madissar Iqbal

Operations Manager

Based at: Asana Lodge

Madissar brings over two decades of leadership experience in the substance misuse and criminal justice sectors, with a strong background in supporting individuals involved in offending behaviour.

He began his career in 2000 as a prison officer, where he quickly developed a keen interest in substance misuse support within the prison system. His work included delivering short-term rehabilitation programmes and ensuring that individuals were linked to community-based treatment services upon release. In 2006, Madissar played a key role in establishing the Drug Intervention Programme across Bedfordshire, a success which led to his appointment as a service manager and the development of the Drug Rehabilitation Requirement Order.

Over the years, Madissar has held a range of senior management roles in the field, working closely with Integrated Offender Management teams and the police to help reduce drug-related crime. His collaborative work across sectors has strengthened partnerships and improved outcomes for those facing addiction and repeat offending.

His career has included positions at respected organisations such as Adapt, RAPT, Addaction, Westminster Drug Project, Hertfordshire County Council, the NHS, and Next Step Support. He holds a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management and has significant experience leading multidisciplinary teams.

More recently, Madissar has expanded his focus to include mental health, taking on senior leadership roles within residential rehabilitation and supported living services. He now oversees support for adults (18+) with a range of complex and diverse needs, bringing the same dedication and passion that have defined his work throughout his career.

Madissar is deeply committed to helping services achieve excellence and to supporting individuals in making lasting, positive change in their lives.

Rick Bloomer

Registered Manager

Based at: Asana Lodge

Rick is a Registered Mental Health Nurse with extensive experience in the field of addiction and mental health services. Over the years, he has held a range of roles across drug and alcohol services, including managing detox units, residential rehabilitation centres, and structured day programmes for individuals struggling with alcohol dependency.

His professional background also includes the development of services tailored for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues, including those related to cocaine and cannabis misuse. In addition to his clinical work, Rick previously ran a private psychotherapy practice in both the Midlands and Devon, offering support for a variety of mental health and addiction-related concerns.

Rick has shared his expertise through teaching as well, having lectured at the University of Birmingham on key topics such as relapse prevention and motivational interviewing in the context of addiction. His contributions to the field also include serving on the national committee for residential rehabilitation with Alcohol Concern, where he helped shape approaches to recovery care on a broader scale.

At Asana Lodge, Rick plays a vital role in overseeing the day-to-day delivery of safe, compassionate, and effective care. Alongside the wider team, he is dedicated to supporting each client’s recovery journey and upholding the highest standards of service.

Ashleigh Walker

Lead Therapist

Based at: Asana Lodge

Ashleigh is an experienced Integrative Psychotherapist and Lead Therapist at Asana Lodge, managing the therapy team and delivering one-to-one client sessions. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Counselling and a Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. Ashleigh is registered with the BACP and follows strict ethical standards.

Her training includes Person-Centred Therapy, CBT, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, allowing her to tailor her approach to each client’s needs. Ashleigh has worked extensively in mental health and addiction, supporting clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bereavement, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance misuse.

She focuses on helping clients develop resilience and healthier coping strategies, guiding them towards greater emotional wellbeing and personal growth.

Richard Gregory

Therapist & Counsellor

Based at: Asana Lodge

Richard Gregory is a qualified and accredited Level 5 Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with over eight years of experience as a support worker for Milton Keynes Council. Throughout his career, he has primarily worked with young people, focusing on boosting self-esteem and encouraging positive personal development. His experience includes mentoring both adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, and self-harming behaviours.

He also has a strong musical background, holding an honours degree in composition and performance. This creative foundation informs his holistic and empathetic approach to counselling, enabling him to connect with clients on a deeper level.

Richard has a particular interest in supporting individuals dealing with low self-worth and substance use. His personal experience gives him valuable insight, helping him provide compassionate, understanding, and non-judgemental support.

Committed to helping people overcome difficulties, he combines professional expertise with genuine empathy to assist clients in building resilience, self-awareness, and healthier coping mechanisms, guiding them toward improved mental health and overall wellbeing.

Chloe Hammond

Head Chef

Based at: Asana Lodge

Chloe is the Head Chef at Asana Lodge, bringing a genuine passion for food and a strong commitment to supporting people through nutrition. Since leaving college, she has built a wealth of experience working professionally in the industry and has been fortunate to train under some highly respected chefs, which has greatly influenced her culinary style and skills.

Chloe’s love for her craft shines through in everything she prepares, particularly in her speciality with pastry and desserts. She has developed a reputation for her delicious and creative sweet treats and frequently receives dessert requests, which she is always happy to accommodate.

Beyond simply preparing meals, Chloe places great importance on getting to know everyone at Asana Lodge. She takes a personalised approach to ensure that everyone’s dietary needs and preferences are met, and she encourages an open, welcoming atmosphere where people feel comfortable discussing their requirements. Her approachable nature encourages clients to engage with her directly, creating a strong rapport that enhances their overall experience.

Chloe firmly believes that food plays a crucial role in the recovery journey, not only as a source of nourishment but also as a means of bringing people together. She sees shared meals as an opportunity to build community and connection among clients, helping to create a supportive environment around the dining table.

Her dedication to culinary excellence and client wellbeing makes Chloe a vital part of the Asana Lodge team, where she continuously strives to enhance the catering service and contribute positively to the recovery process.

Phil Grimes

Recovery Worker

Based at: Ocean Recovery

Phil is a committed and experienced recovery worker who has been a valued member of Ocean Recovery since 2016. Drawing on his own 25-year history with addiction, Phil has been clean and living a fulfilling life since 2008. This personal journey fuels his passion for supporting others through their recovery.

He is a skilled group facilitator and holds qualifications as a life coach, specialising in evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and relapse prevention. Phil applies these approaches to empower clients in developing sustainable coping strategies.

With extensive experience working with diverse and often complex populations, including young offenders, people experiencing homelessness, prolific offenders, and individuals with mental health challenges, Phil brings valuable insight and empathy to his role. He thrives in the recovery setting, recognised as a passionate, forward-thinking, and pragmatic team member dedicated to making a positive difference.