Our Team

Our goal is to help you meet your goals, nothing else.

Dr. Joseph Savon, MD

FOUNDER/CEO

Dr. Savon achieved his medical degree at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. After completing his internal medicine residency at Thomas Jefferson University, and his gastroenterology fellowship at Penn Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia, Dr. Savon went on to become an esteemed gastroenterologist in Marlton, New Jersey. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine in the Subspecialty of Addiction Medicine, the American Board of Addiction Medicine, and the American Board of Internal Medicine in the Subspecialty of Gastroenterology.

Kristen Misyak, LCSW, LCADC, CCS

CLINICAL DIRECTOR

Kristen earned her dual licensure after achieving a Master’s Degree from Stockton University in 2017 for social work. Kristen has been in the field of addiction and mental health treatment services for over 8 years holding roles such as call center associate, family services specialist, and primary therapist. Her clinical approach is client-centered, with an emphasis on interpersonal relationships, self-actualization, and positive psychology. Kristen continues to drive therapeutic interventions through evidence-based research. 

Joanna Garcia

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS

Joanna Garcia is quick to smile, easy to talk to, and eager to find solutions. Her strong work ethic and ability to multi-task is highly appreciated by fellow team members and patients. Joanna graduated from The Harris School of Business in 2002 and has over 17 years of Medical Office Administration experience. She ensures the best experience for patients from the moment they enter our doors. She is the backbone of the team and helps ensure every patient is heard and understood like family. Joanna ensures each patient’s needs are thoroughly explored. 

Loraine LaPorte, LCSW

THERAPIST

Lori sees counseling as a collaborative process; a journey towards achieving results through practical skills. She achieved her master’s degree in social work from Temple University, specializing on both substance use disorders and anxiety-related concerns. She has experience working with Pennsylvania Hospital, Friends Hospital, Women in Transition, and The Joy of Living Recovery program. Her dedication to the field has awarded her the DentaQuest HealthCare Hero title. Lori is also a standout recipient of The Quell Foundation scholarship program. 

Kathleen Zielinski, LCADC

THERAPIST

Kathleen grew up in southern New Jersey and achieved a Master’s level of education in 2008 from Towson University for Counseling Psychology. Since 2009, she has worked primarily with adults for treating both substance abuse and mental health issues. Kathleen specializes in therapy modalities including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Kathleen obtained her clinical license in 2019 and began her journey with New Life that same year. 

Joanne Urbany, MHS, LCADC

THERAPIST

Joanne is a Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor in New Jersey, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Trauma Professional. Joanne has 26 years of experience, including over a decade within the criminal justice system, direct practice at various levels of substance abuse treatment, and family support programs. She continues to fulfill her life’s calling to help people to recover from addiction and find meaning and purpose in life. 

Kelly Newton, CADC

COUNSELOR

Kelly graduated from 2013 with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology. Kelly obtained her CADC in 2025 and is also working forwards becoming an ICGC-1 (International Certified Gambling Counselor). Kelly has been working in the field for over 4 years, holding positions as an admissions counselor, substance abuse counselor, and case manager. Kelly’s commitment to her clients is best seen through their progression at regaining control over their lives. 

Dawn McCormick

COUNSELOR

Dawn grew up in Philadelphia and is currently enrolled in classes through the NJPN working towards a CADC license for addiction. She began at New Life in January 2021 as an administrator and transitioned to a counselor role in June 2023. Dawn takes pride in her own recovery, and finds her purpose in life is to help others who struggle with the disease of addiction. Dawn strives to find the best in every patient, helping them reach their own potential. Her lived experiences foster a relationship built on trust and accountability.