About. |
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We are a premier Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program specializing in treatment of Adolescents and Adults. At Main Line Addiction Specialists our philosophy is to live in integrity, lead by example, and create a strong sense of self and community. We are committed to helping the members of our Community to restore balance and integrity in their family, academic and social situations; strengthening character helps our clients feel healthier and encourages a change in behavior.
Our clients are considered teammates rooting for each other’s success, relying on one another and our staff for support. We begin the process of community in the evaluation and continue through pizza night and other outside activities, including community service, to encourage the concept of community and mutual support. |
Our Team.
Patti Anne McAndrews, MHS, LPC, CAADC Founder/Program Director Patti Anne McAndrews has more than 30 years experience working with families and individuals in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. She is the founder of Adolescent Advocates (A2), an innovative private practice with qualified professionals who treat teens and young adults with a variety of social and mental health issues in an “Outpatient Therapeutic Community.” She and A2 are affiliated with some of the country’s leading drug and alcohol treatment centers, including Caron Family Treatment, Promises, The Ranch and Newport Academy. Patti Anne has also worked with some of the top independent schools and colleges in the Philadelphia area. She works with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia on their Fellowship Training Program. She was awarded “The Addiction Professional Award” by the Caron Treatment Center in 2007. 
Troy Jackson, MSS, LSW Primary Therapist Troy Jackson, who supervises the College Team, brings to Adolescent Advocates a wealth of knowledge and experience in working with adolescents, supporting them in overcoming life’s challenges to follow their life plan and dreams. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Shippensburg University and a Master’s degree from the Bryn Mawr College Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. Troy has worked with adolescents at Glen Mills Schools, Children Crisis Treatment Center, Northeast Treatment Center and Northwestern Human Services. He served as a student representative on the Bryn Mawr College Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research Board of Advisors. Troy was awarded the 2014 Unsung Hero Award, presented by Caron Treatment Center. An avid yoga practitioner and an accomplished yoga instructor in addition to being a therapist at Adolescent Advocates, Troy believes a healthy body is one of the many doorways to a sound mind and spirit, helping individuals “build bridges rather than walls.” |
Francesca Santacroce, MA, MFT Facility Director Francesca Santacroce earned her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Lasalle University and her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from West Chester University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. Francesca led the Family Service Coordination Program at Chances while also providing therapeutic services for women with mental health and substance abuse issues. Francesca also worked as a Marriage and Family therapist at the Family Therapy Treatment Program and has experience working with at risk children, young adults and families. Francesca was recognized by the National Honors Society for academic achievement and is a member of the international honor society in psychology (Psi Chi). 
Liz Ferris, BA, MSS, Intern Therapist Liz Ferris is originally from Brooklyn, New York, and has a true passion for helping others. After managing a sober living home in New York, Liz took her experience to Philadelphia, where she obtained an undergraduate degree at Drexel University. Liz is currently working toward her MSW at Bryn Mawr College, and her scholastic achievement is only part of several other accomplishments. The recipient of an award from the Caron Foundation, Liz has facilitated and developed connections with young adults in the recovery community. |
Kaitlyn Harkins, MA. ED Primary Therapist Kaitlyn Harkins, earned her Masters of Education in Counseling from The Pennsylvania State University. Kaitlyn is a Chi Sigma lota member and was part of many organizations at Penn State including Rehabilitation and Human Services, THON benefiting pediatric cancer, and Lifelink where she was a mentor for students with intellectual differences. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor and has experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including in the community, correctional facilities, and universities. Kaitlyn is the lead therapist in our High school groups and also works with our college students. 
David Uosikkinen, CADC Therapist Most people know David Uosikkinen as a rock star from the internationally known Philadelphia band The Hooters. In 2010, he created his own band with a rotating line of Philadelphia’s most respected musicians, David Uosikkinen’s In The Pocket. A portion of the proceeds of his band benefits the Settlement Music School in Philadelphia. To a very fortunate group of young people at Adolescent Advocates, Dave is their therapist. Dave started devoting time several years ago to help young people with addiction. He is a Certified Addictions Counselor working at Adolescent Advocates with individual clients and groups. His gift for music is second to his compassion for people suffering from alcoholism and addiction. A2 is blessed to be sharing with others our gift of David Uosikkinen. |
