Tony Comerford, Ph.D., CEO
Tony Comerford, PhD is an accomplished executive, consultant, and clinician with expertise in behavioral healthcare leadership, and the delivery of psychological services. As New Hope’s CEO, he has led strategic initiatives to modernize institutional systems, expand services, and enhance the organization’s impact on substance use and co-occurring disorder treatment outcomes. Dr. Comerford holds advanced degrees in Human Development and Organizational Psychology and is licensed to practice as a psychologist and professional addiction counselor. He continues to have an influential voice on treatment, policy, advocacy, and professional education issues through his participation in research initiatives and service on multiple advisory boards.
David Roden, LCSW, LCADC, President & COO
Dave Roden is a dedicated leader in addiction and mental health treatment, bringing decades of expertise in clinical care, program development, and grant management. As President & COO of New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care, he has played a pivotal role in expanding services, securing funding, and ensuring compliance with state and national accreditation standards. With a strong background in counseling, policy advocacy, and juvenile justice initiatives, he has contributed to numerous state committees and advisory boards focused on improving behavioral healthcare. A recipient of multiple awards for his contributions to addiction treatment, David also serves as a guest lecturer at Rutgers Medical School and continues to shape the future of mental health and addiction recovery through his leadership and innovation.
Marge Ruchaevsky, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
With over two decades of financial leadership experience, Marge serves as the Vice President & CFO of New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care, overseeing financial strategy, budgeting, audits, and contract management. Her expertise in financial analysis, compliance, and strategic planning has been instrumental in optimizing organizational efficiency. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Monmouth University, Marge brings technical proficiency to the behavioral healthcare sector.
Penelope Morris, Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer
Penny Morris serves as the Vice President and CHRO at New Hope, where she has led human resource operations since 2002. With expertise in talent acquisition, employee relations, compliance, benefits administration, and strategic planning, she plays a key role in shaping the organization’s workforce. A certified Human Resource Generalist from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an active member of SHRM and JSAHR, she brings a strong commitment to employee development and organizational excellence.
Deidre Stamos Lonza, LCSW, LCADC, Vice President & Chief Clinical Officer
Deidre Stamos Lonza is the Vice President & Chief Clinical Officer at New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care, where she oversees clinical services, ensures quality standards, and leads staff development. With extensive experience in substance use treatment, grief counseling, and mental health care, she has played a key role in shaping clinical protocols and policies in compliance with state and accreditation standards. Deidre holds a Master of Social Work from Monmouth University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Vanderbilt University. Certified in clinical supervision, leadership development, and multiple therapeutic approaches, she is dedicated to advancing behavioral health services and fostering professional growth within the field.
Francesca Giammona, BSN, RN, Director of Nursing
With over six years of dedicated experience in addiction nursing, Francesca is a passionate and committed healthcare professional specializing in the care and treatment of individuals battling substance use disorders. Before transition into nursing, Francesca earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, which has proven invaluable in leading teams, streamlining operations and optimizing healthcare services. This combination of insight and clinical expertise allows Francesca to approach addiction care with a strategic mindset, focused on both patient outcomes and operation efficiency. Francesca is driven by a deep compassion for those in recovery, with the ultimate goal of helping individuals rebuild their lives and achieve lasting recovery.
Meredith LoBuono, MA, Administrative Director of Adult Services
Meredith LoBuono is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in substance use disorder treatment and mental health services. Holding both a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College, she has steadily advanced in her career, currently serving as the Adult Unit Director at New Hope IBHC. With a background in counseling, clinical supervision, and program management, she specializes in developing treatment protocols, supervising multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring compliance with state and accreditation standards. Her expertise spans inpatient and outpatient care, crisis intervention, case management, and policy development. Additionally, she has contributed to community discussions on addiction treatment and has been involved in drug court team meetings, reinforcing her commitment to behavioral health advocacy and recovery support.
Adelle Hickman, LCSW, Adolescent Unit Director
Adelle Hickman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a strong background in substance abuse treatment and mental health care. She holds a Master’s in Social Work from Monmouth University and has progressed through various roles at New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care, where she currently serves as the Director of the Adolescent Unit. With expertise in clinical supervision, case management, crisis intervention, and program development, she ensures high-quality care and compliance with state and accreditation standards. Her experience also includes in-home therapy, teaching, and safety supervision, demonstrating her adaptability, leadership, and dedication to client well-being.
Kristina Bloodgood, MSW, LCADC, Senior Director of Admissions & Phillip House
Kristina Bloodgood is an experienced social work professional specializing in substance abuse treatment, admissions, and program management. A Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) With a Master’s in Social Work from Monmouth University, she has held multiple leadership roles at New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care, where she currently serves as the Senior Director of Admissions & Men’s Halfway House and Outpatient Services. Her expertise includes individual and family therapy, intake coordination, crisis intervention, and community outreach. She has contributed to various committees, training programs and public speaking engagements related to trauma-informed care, youth services, and overdose prevention. Kristina’s strong leadership, communication skills, and dedication to behavioral health make her a vital advocate for client rehabilitation and support.
Sylvia James, MSW, LCADC, Administrative Director of Epiphany Houses
Sylvia James is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 17 years of experience in substance use disorder treatment, including seven years in administrative leadership. Holding a Master’s in Social Work from Monmouth University, she currently serves as the Director of Women’s Halfway House and Outpatient Services at New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care, where she oversees clinical standards, staff supervision, budget management, and contract compliance. With expertise in trauma-informed care, crisis management, and strategic planning, she is dedicated to improving client outcomes through evidence-based interventions. Sylvia also facilitates education programs for DUI offenders and has a strong background in community outreach and volunteer service.