Our Staff - Leadership Team

Phyllis is the regional CEO of Casa Palmera, overseeing the operations for both Del Mar and West Los Angeles locations. Phyllis joined Discovery Behavioral Health, the parent company of Casa Palmera, in 2024, and brings with her more than 35 years of experience in the healthcare industry.

She started her career specializing in substance use and eating disorders, gaining experience and advancing to chief executive officer leadership roles. She has held leadership positions in both healthcare facilities and health plans across multiple locations and states. Phyllis has served in a wide range of executive roles in psychiatric hospitals, residential facilities, manage care companies and medical groups.

She prides herself on her management style, which she has honed throughout her career by working closely with individuals of all academic backgrounds and life experiences. Her goal as a leader is to mentor and encourage her team to reach deep within themselves to make the most of their gifts and talents when helping individuals find recovery from substance use and co-occurring disorders.

Phyllis earned a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science with an emphasis in personnel management. She has an MBA with an emphasis in organizational leadership. Both degrees are from National University in San Diego. She is also board-certified in healthcare administration as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).

“It is an amazing gift to see patients and families whose lives have been negatively affected by substance abuse or behavioral health concerns finding recovery, leading productive lives and giving back to their communities,” said Phyllis. “It is difficult but rewarding work we do, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of that process.”