Our team at First City Recovery Center is a compassionate and dedicated group of professionals committed to providing exceptional care and support to those on their journey towards recovery. With a diverse range of expertise in rehabilitation, we offer a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of our patients. We believe in fostering a nurturing environment where trust, empathy, and understanding are at the forefront of everything we do. Through personalized treatment plans, ongoing education, and a commitment to holistic wellness, we empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Together, we are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Table of Contents
ToggleMedical Team
Dr. Vahid Osman | Medical Director
Medical Director at First City Recovery Center
Medical Director Board Certification by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Vahid Osman, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist serving as First City Mental Health Center’s Medical Director. Dr. Osman has over 32 years of experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Addiction and Substance Use Disorders.
Dr. Osman studied at Universite Hassan II, Faculte de Medicine and completed his residency at University of Texas, Austin State Hospital. He is affiliated with Prohealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital and is well known throughout the Kokomo community. Additionally, he is licensed to practice Telepsychiatry in California, Georgia, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
Dr. Vahid Osman
Chief Executive Officer
Lindsay Russell | Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP at First City Recovery Center
Lindsay serves as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is proud to be a part of the team at First City Recovery Center. Her primary goal is to be a supportive partner in the client’s journey to wellness. She crafts personalized treatment plans that put individuals in control of their healing process. She serves as their guide, assisting clients in reaching the positive changes they seek.
“I believe in collaborative decision-making, where we work together to ensure you’re comfortable and confident in the treatment choices we make. Your empowerment and achieving your desired outcomes safely are my top priorities.”
Lindsay specializes in medication management for a range of mental health diagnoses, catering to individuals ages 6 and older. With over 19 years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Her team includes nurse practitioners, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, all dedicated to meeting clients’ mental health needs. Lindsay is always available to make sure clients receive the very best care and support during and after their treatment stay.
Seeking mental health treatment can be a challenging and daunting process. She is there to listen with an open mind, provide the necessary resources, and help clients achieve their treatment goals. “We all need someone in our corner to confide in, and I’m eager to be that person for you.”
Remember “Tough times never last, but tough people do.” – Robert H. Schuller
Lindsay Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tara Gibson | RN Lead Nurse
RN Lead Nurse at First City Recovery Center
Tara Gibson is a registered nurse with 10 years’ experience in the healthcare industry. She is from Kokomo and obtained her bachelor’s degree in nursing science from Indiana University of Kokomo. During her career Tara has worked in a variety of settings, starting in medical imaging where she worked for Ascension St. Vincent. Her compassionate approach and patient-centered care is what sets her apart in the mental health and addiction field. Believing that empathy and compassion are key drivers to a fulfilling life of serving others, she is passionate about understanding the individual needs and preferences of each patient and tailoring her care accordingly. Tara loves working at First City Recovery Center because “it is a locally owned treatment facility that is providing a solution to our community’s struggle with addiction & Mental Health. The positive impact this center is bringing to our community and just being part of the solution directly aligns with both my professional and personal goals.” Deeply involved in her community, Tara is family-oriented and enjoys volunteering for local events.
Tara Gibson
RN Lead Nurse
Operations
Jacqueline Lazzaro | Compliance Director
Compliance Director At Sycamore Behavioral Health
Jacqueline is a highly qualified and experienced Compliance Director at Sycamore Behavioral Health Group, where she has been instrumental in the development and carrying out of innovative client programs and services. With over nine years of experience in the behavioral health field, Jacqueline is a respected leader dedicated to enhancing the lives of those battling mental health and substance abuse disorders. As our Executive Director, she oversees First City Recovery Center, ensuring regulatory compliance, utilization, effective interpersonal relations, and quality client care.
Jacqueline is an expert in developing programs and evaluation, quality enhancement, and staff training and development. She has committed herself to ensuring that the First City Recovery Center exceeds state and Joint Commission requirements and standards, and has a track record of meeting all specifications, standards, and measurable outcomes.
Jacqueline’s motivational leadership inspires the First City Recovery Center team to continue striving for excellence in service and care. She thrives in going above and beyond to ensure that all clients receive the utmost quality of compassion, services, safety, and care.
Jacqueline Lazzaro
Compliance Director
Jeff Lazzaro | Director of Operations
Director of Operations at First City Recovery Center
As a seasoned operator with 11+ years of experience in the behavioral healthcare industry, Jeff is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring that high-quality care is provided to clients, and that the organization runs smoothly and efficiently.
Jeff carefully guides First City Recovery Center’s team to strive for excellence in the continuity of care for all clients by promoting awareness of individual needs and by fostering excellent communication between the client, care team and their loved ones. Jeff ensures that First City Recovery Center continues to build the most sincere and exceptional quality service to fulfill the expectations of all clients and their loved ones.
Jeff is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. He is committed to providing the highest quality of care to clients and is deeply invested in the success of First City Recovery Center. He is a respected leader within the behavioral healthcare industry and is dedicated to helping the organization achieve its mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.
Jeff Lazzaro
Director of Operations
Rebekka Carmack | Administrative Assistant
Administrative Assistant at First City Recovery Center
Rebekka is the Administrative Assistant at First City Recovery Center, where she plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the organization. Rebekka is a skilled and detail-oriented professional who is committed to providing the highest level of support to First City Recovery Center and its clients. Rebekka holds an Associate of Business Management where she studied at Ivy Tech College. She is committed to ongoing professional development and training and is always looking for ways to improve her skills and knowledge. Rebekka’s expertise includes managing schedules, coordinating meetings and appointments, maintaining accurate records, and providing excellent customer service to clients and stakeholders. She is dedicated to ensuring that all administrative tasks are completed accurately and in a timely manner and is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure the success of the organization. In addition to her professional experience, Rebekka is a friendly and personable individual who is passionate about helping others. She is committed to providing exceptional customer service to clients, staff and visitors, and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Rebekka is a valuable member of the First City Recovery Center team, and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.
Rebekka Carmack
Administrative Assistant
Clinical team
Lindsie Bazzel, LMHC, CADAC V | Clinical Director
Clinical Director at First City Recovery Center
Lindsie Bazzel has been involved in the substance use disorder treatment industry for over a decade. Lindsie specializes in the leadership of clinical teams and the development of clinical treatment programs. She received her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University in 2008 and her Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2010.
Lindsie has treated diverse populations including juveniles, adults, and couples. Lindsie holds multiple professional licenses in various states and has experience coordinating with the local, state, and federal levels to develop treatment programs. Her extensive experience and dedicated passion to her work has allowed Lindsie to create treatment environments conducive to client sobriety and success.
Lindsie Bazzel, LMHC, CADAC V
Clinical Director
Amber Heath | Senior Case Manager
Senior Case Manager at First City Recovery Center
Amber is a dedicated and compassionate Senior Case Manager at First City Recovery Center. With 12+ years of experience in the medical field and 9+ years in the behavioral health field. Amber is a skilled professional who is committed to helping clients achieve their treatment goals and improve their overall quality of life.
Amber’s expertise includes working with indigent families, the elderly population, and with domestic violence shelters. She received her bachelor’s degree in human services from Grace College and is also a Certified Nursing Assistant. Amber oversees all case management services and assists with the intake coordination process. She helps clients identify the barriers that are keeping them from success and gives them the tools and resources they need to be liberated from those barriers. She has extensive experience working with diverse populations, including individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders.
In addition to her professional experience, Amber is a compassionate and empathetic individual who truly cares about the well-being of others. She is committed to providing the highest quality of care to each and every client and is passionate about making a positive difference in their lives. Amber is a valued member of the First City Recovery Center team.
Amber Heath
Senior Case Manager
Business development
Nate White | EAP Liaison/Group Facilitator
EAP Liaison/Group Facilitator at First City Recovery Center.
Nathan’s journey is a remarkable testament to the transformative power of recovery. Growing up in Kokomo, Indiana, he faced the challenges of active addiction for nearly two decades. However, on March 15th, 2018, Nathan made a pivotal decision to get sober, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Embracing recovery wholeheartedly, Nathan immersed himself in various support groups, including Celebrate Recovery, AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), NA (Narcotics Anonymous), and South Creek Recovery faith-based 12-step meetings. His commitment to sobriety and personal growth led him to discover a profound passion and purpose in helping others navigate the challenges of addiction.
In a significant milestone, Nathan joined First City Recovery Center on December 7th, 2020, becoming the first person from Kokomo to be hired at the facility. Serving as the Recovery Liaison and Group Facilitator, Nathan plays a crucial role both within the facility and in the community. His dedication extends beyond the walls of the recovery center, as he actively engages with people, aiding them in their journey toward freedom from active addiction.
Nathan not only facilitates recovery groups, but also shares his personal story, experiences, strength, and hope at recovery meetings and community events. His willingness to be open about his journey contributes to reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and inspires others to seek help.
Recognizing the importance of community involvement, Nathan serves as a council member of the Drug-Free Howard County Substance Abuse Prevention Local Coordinating Council (LCC). This council, a division of the Governor’s Commission for a Drug-Free Indiana Local Coordinating Council, plays a pivotal role in providing essential funding to substance abuse prevention organizations.
In summary, Nathan’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and community engagement. Through his work at First City Recovery Center and involvement in local councils, he continues to make a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction while actively contributing to substance abuse prevention efforts in Howard County.
Nate White
EAP Liaison/Group Facilitator
Allison Pugh | Community Recovery Liaison
Community Recovery Liaison at First City Recovery Center
With 18 years of experience in mental health and substance use disorder treatment, Allison Pugh currently serves as a Community Recovery Liaison at First City Recovery Center in Indiana. She played a crucial role in launching a groundbreaking trauma-informed and evidence-based treatment program for individuals in the criminal justice system, providing an alternative to incarceration. In addition to creating a federally qualified healthcare system catering to those without insurance and uninsured communities, Allison played a key role in revamping a program for homeless Veterans that specializes in treating co-occurring disorders.
During her senior year in college, she contributed to the development of an eight-week treatment program at the Plainfield Re-Entry Facility. With a versatile background encompassing non-profits, hospitals, correctional facilities, and behavioral healthcare facilities, Allison is dedicated to serving marginalized and underserved populations. Acknowledged for excellence, she earned a nomination as the Addictions Professional of the Year by ICAADA in 2018. Allison holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Indiana University, and her commitment to community service extends through volunteer work with organizations like Parke-Vermillion Humane Shelter, Big Brothers Big Sisters, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, and the Wheeler Mission.
Allison Pugh
Community Recovery Liaison
Admissions team
Riley Metz | Director of Admissions
Director of Admissions at First City Recovery Center
Riley brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to his role. A graduate in informatics and business from Indiana University, Riley initially ventured into the computer programming world with startups. However, recognizing the limited social interaction in this field, he transitioned into real estate development, working as a broker and marketer. During this time, Riley discovered his passion for working directly with potential clients and assisting them in taking significant steps in their lives. Concurrently, he became all too familiar with the challenges of addiction and its profound impact on individuals and families. Motivated by a desire to contribute to solutions in this area, Riley found his way to the admissions and intake side of treatment.
In his role, Riley works closely with potential clients, friends, and family members, guiding them on their journey toward education and recovery from drugs, alcohol, and mental health issues. Witnessing the devastating effects of addiction on families and their lives, he felt compelled to be part of an industry dedicated to creating solutions. Riley is committed to making a positive impact by assisting individuals along their path to recovery, embodying the mission of First City Recovery Center.
Riley Metz
Director of Admissions
Rachel Duhe | Admissions Coordinator
Admissions Coordinator First City Recovery Center
Rachel has been working with SBH for two years and brings six years of experience in the addiction and behavioral health field. Her job is to help people who are struggling with mental health and/or substance use disorders receive the help they need. As someone who is in recovery herself and suffered a great deal, she is very passionate about helping others achieve sobriety. “I know what the outcome is if treatment and recovery are not involved. I genuinely love what we offer at our programs. Nothing is more rewarding than being able to see numerous success stories daily as the result.”
Rachel Duhe
Admissions Coordinator
Michael Durham | Admissions Coordinator
Admissions Coordinator at First City Recovery
Michael Durham is an Admissions Coordinator for Sycamore Behavioral Health. He graduated from Florida State University and has been working in the substance abuse and mental health field for nine years in multiple roles and settings. He is a firm believer in second chances and that redemption is possible. What Michael enjoys most about his job is seeing the transformation that can occur in someone and the positive impact that person can have on their community. In his free time, he enjoys surfing, spending time with my family, and rooting for Florida State University sports teams.
“There’s no need to talk about it, because the truth of what one says lies in what one does.” -Bernhard Schlink
Michael Durham
Admissions Coordinator
Rebecca Helle | Admissions Coordinator
Admissions Coordinator at First City Recovery
Rebecca is a compassionate and dedicated Admissions Coordinator with Sycamore Behavioral Health.
She provides personalized support and assistance to clients and their families, helping them navigate the
admissions process with empathy and understanding. Rebecca’s commitment to fostering a supportive
and nonjudgmental environment makes her a valuable asset of the Sycamore Behavioral Health team.
Rebecca Helle
Admissions Coordinator
MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Vahid Osman, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Indianapolis, IN.
Dr. Osman completed a residency at Austin State Hospital. He has over 32 years of experience in Psychiatry & Behavioral Health. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
