Why.
It seems obvious to us that addiction and mental health treatment have been in desperate need of attention. Our “Why” is YOU! You deserve better! We set out to create a better experience with better results for you. We started with the environment where services are provided, next we revolutionized how we deliver services, then we changed how clients access services and connect with their community.
We always felt that traditional therapeutic environments were similar, with most being clean, cozy, and tastefully constructed. They featured soft music and colors and standard group chairs arranged in the formation of that undeniable group therapy circle. However, none of them seemed to possess the ability to capture and keep our attention.
When we designed our space at e-motion, we intentionally filled it with vibrant colors, wellness technology that supports neurochemical and physiological responses as well as media solutions that deliver information in a relevant manner to our client population.
First, we designed our space to invite movement and activity because we know that our emotions move us and they are the primary motivating force in our lives. Emotional energy is fundamental to our being. Anger moves us to defend ourselves, fear moves us to move, and sadness moves us to tears, which are cleansing and aid in resolving distress. Brain scientist Jill Bolte Taylor says it best:“Most of us think of ourselves as thinking creatures that feel, but we are actually feeling creatures that think.”
Second, we implemented advanced technology to track the treatment process of our clients in order to validate the program’s efficacy and to expose areas of our program that need attention to improve our clients’ experiences and outcomes. When clients struggle to make progress, our first reaction is to evaluate our process and improve it where necessary. We never deflect responsibility for a client’s lack of progress onto the client.
Lastly, we completely redesigned the approach and delivery of mental health and addiction therapy services. The idea of sitting in a chair for three hours, three times a week, for twelve weeks—you know, just typing this out is putting us to sleep. We’re sure you get what we are trying to say. Sitting around is part of the problem and can’t be the solution. We need to MOVE, and we need to do it in a dynamic environment where we are challenged to solve problems and, most importantly, connect with others. This has been the prescription for brain health for the human species since our beginning. We understand this thoroughly, which is why we developed a therapy model designed with our evolutionary history, physiology, and neuroscience as the basis.
Who.
Jason Turner
Founder
Jason Turner is a veteran, Tillman Scholar, LMSW, mental health and addiction specialist, athlete, neuroscience geek, and advocate for improving the addiction treatment model. He has worked in a variety of clinical settings with both adolescents and adults who suffer from addiction and mental health issues. Jason is passionate about serving others, especially those suffering with mental health and substance use disorders. He developed a framework and approach designed to capitalize on the brain’s developmental history, survival functions, and the process by which humans learn. Jason has spent 20-plus years mastering intentional and effective protocols to encourage the natural processes of the brain to foster healing and transformation.
Melisa Manninen
Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Melisa is an exceptional therapist who ensures that every patient she encounters feels deeply cared for, seen, and heard. She firmly believes that no one should be defined by their darkest moments, be it a result of trauma, legal entanglements, or substance abuse. In her view, we all possess the power to shape the narrative of our lives.
Melisa has honed her approach to tailor it to each client’s unique needs. She employs creative methods, such as using various instruments, physical exercise, walking, and engaging with her client’s support network. This remarkable ability to adapt is complemented by her approachable demeanor, combined with the adept implementation of evidence-based practices.
Over the years, Melisa has dedicated herself to learning and applying multiple therapeutic techniques. These include Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Melisa brings her own life experiences into her practice, drawing from her 24 years as an active-duty Army spouse, her role as a mother to four Yoopers, and her personal journey of recovery. She prioritizes taking the time and care required to ‘meet each client where they are at’ and equips them with the tools they need to thrive and grow.
Shelby McCormick
Clinical Director, LCSW, CADC
Shelby is a dynamic clinician and a valuable team member. Her primary expertise lies in providing mental health support to elite military members for the last 12 years. Shelby leads with precision and attention to detail, while also maintaining a compassionate and approachable demeanor. She takes pride in her relentless pursuit of learning the best practices for treating trauma and addiction. Shelby believes in meeting each individual where they are, tailoring her approach to their unique needs. To effectively achieve this, she has honed her skills in a variety of evidence-based practices over the years, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. Additionally, she has a background in DBT, MI, CBT, and CPT. Her unwavering belief in our capacity for positive change is reinforced with every client she guides towards a more values-aligned life. Shelby utilizes her unique skill set to support ongoing program development at e-motion wellness™, maintain continuous process improvements, and provide elevated care quality for all who visit our wellness center.
Casey Cunningham
Business Development
Casey plays an integral role in the San Antonio recovery community as a Business Development professional. His purpose is deeply rooted in a passionate commitment to community advocacy and outreach, with the goal of connecting individuals to the resources they need for their path to recovery.
Having personally experienced the journey of addiction and recovery, Casey is inspired by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who are grappling with substance use disorders and mental health issues. As a dedicated member of the San Antonio recovery community, he has dedicated himself to being a guiding light for those in search of help and support.
Casey is driven by the desire to promote collaboration, cooperation, and connection within the mental health and addiction communities in Texas. His unwavering commitment has led to the formation of strategic partnerships for e-motion wellness™, an organization devoted to empowering individuals on their path to wellness.
Jamie Corless
Hype Man
Jamie Corless faced a personal battle with addiction at an early age. His story of recovery is an inspiring one, making him a guiding light, particularly for adolescents who can relate to his struggles.
Following his dramatic transformation, Jamie became the house manager of the very same sober living facility where he had gained insights into the challenges of sobriety.
Fitness played a pivotal role in Jamie’s recovery. He earned a CrossFit Level 1 certification, fueling his passion for helping others. He has collaborated with various nonprofits, introducing CrossFit to treatment centers and providing holistic recovery support.
As a Peer Recovery Coach, Jamie utilizes empathy and understanding to guide others, drawing from his own experiences and challenges.
Meditation and breathwork are two of his favorite techniques, enabling him to assist others in finding calmness and clarity.
Jamie’s journey is a powerful testament to personal growth and compassion, serving as an inspiration for those on the path to recovery. Jamie is wholeheartedly committed to the mission of e-motion wellness™.
Partners.
Certifications.
