Meet The Team At
Awkward Recovery
We Don't Aim To Survive. We Aim To Thrive!
Our Leadership isn’t defined by titles—we’re people who walk alongside you, challenge you when it matters, and support you as you build a thriving life.
Sal Mancuso,
Recovery Success Manager
As a Recovery Success Manager - I’m proud to be someone that our clients can rely on; a consistent friend who helps solve problems, make decisions, and find rhythm in everyday life.
Having someone solid in your corner means everything- and I’m happy to take on the job.
Micah Sall,
Recovery Success Manager
Answering questions, helping solve problems, or simply being present on a tough day, I aim to show up consistently and with integrity.
II genuinely care about helping people succeed. I aim to be approachable and create a space where others feel comfortable coming to me and know they’ll be heard and supported.
Beniz Celebic,
Admissions Specialist
I’m usually the first person you’ll talk to when reaching out for help. I listen, try to ask the right questions, and help you figure out what the next best step looks like—without pressure, judgment, or rushed decisions.
Whether someone is a good fit for Awkward Recovery or needs a different level of care, my goal is to make sure they feel heard and supported.
Mike Stein,
CMO, CFO
Our motto: “Life’s a bitch. Sometimes we just need a little help.” Creating opportunities for connection in everyday spaces—online, in the community, and in moments when someone might not even know what they’re searching for yet.
My goal is to remove friction, confusion, and shame from the process of asking for help. When someone reaches out, It’s there, it’s clear, and it feels human.
Scott Smith
Partner, CEO
I believe leadership means listening to our team, paying attention to what our clients actually need, and making decisions that support long-term success.
Awkward Recovery exists to help people build lives that are stable and meaningful, and my job is to make sure we never lose sight of that purpose as we grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Awkward Recovery
What is an intensive outpatient program (IOP)?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a structured level of care that provides more support than traditional weekly therapy but allows you to live at home and maintain work and family responsibilities. IOP typically involves 3-4 hours of treatment per session, 3-4 days per week, for 12-16 weeks.
IOP is considered a step between traditional outpatient therapy (usually 1 hour per week) and residential treatment (24/7 care). It provides the intensity needed to address significant mental health or addiction challenges while preserving your ability to apply new skills in your real-world environment immediately.
How much does IOP cost in Austin?
IOP costs vary significantly based on insurance coverage, which is why we verify your benefits within 24 hours of initial contact.
Insurance coverage for IOP:
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We currently work with Tricare and are actively expanding our insurance contracts (Please Call and Ask! We might be In-Network already but have not updated the website.)
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Coverage typically includes 70-90% of treatment costs after deductibles
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Some plans require prior authorization, which we handle for you
For those without adequate insurance coverage:
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Sliding scale fees based on income and financial situation (Limited Availability)
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Payment plans that spread costs over time
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Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges
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Can I work while attending IOP in Austin?
Absolutely yes. Our Austin IOP program was specifically designed for working professionals who need intensive treatment but cannot step away from their careers.
How we accommodate Austin work schedules:
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Evening programs: 6:00-9:00 PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
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Accommodations for business travel and project deadlines
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Virtual participation: Telehealth options for individual sessions (Not group therapy)
Work-related support includes:
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Strategies for managing job stress without previous coping mechanisms
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Skills for professional networking and business social events
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Techniques for setting healthy boundaries between work and personal wellness
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How long does IOP treatment take in Austin?
Standard duration: 12-16 weeks is typical for most IOP programs, but length is individualized based on your specific goals, progress, and circumstances rather than predetermined timelines.
Factors that influence treatment duration:
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Complexity of challenges: Multiple diagnoses or long-standing issues may benefit from longer treatment
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Individual progress rate: Some people achieve goals more quickly, others need additional time
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Life circumstances: Major stressors or changes during treatment may extend beneficial treatment time
For detailed timeline information: How Long Does IOP Treatment Actually Take?
Preparing for the process: Preparing for IOP: A Real Guide for Austin Professionals
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What conditions does IOP treat?
IOP effectively treats a wide range of mental health and substance use conditions, particularly when these challenges are interfering with daily functioning but don't require 24/7 medical supervision.
Mental health conditions commonly treated in IOP:
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Depression: Including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder
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Anxiety disorders: Generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias
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Trauma and PTSD: Processing traumatic experiences with intensive therapeutic support
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Bipolar disorder: Mood stabilization and management during stable periods
Substance use disorders treated in IOP:
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Alcohol use disorder: From problem drinking to severe addiction
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Cannabis use disorder: Daily use that's become problematic or compulsive
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Stimulant use disorders: Including cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription stimulant abuse
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Prescription medication misuse: Opioids, benzodiazepines, or other prescription drugs
Dual diagnosis treatment: Many people have both mental health and substance use challenges simultaneously. IOP is particularly effective for integrated treatment that addresses both concerns together rather than separately.
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Do you accept insurance for IOP treatment in Austin?
We currently work with Tricare and are actively expanding our insurance network to include additional providers. We're in the process of contracting with more insurance companies to make our services accessible to more Austin residents.
Tricare coverage includes: • Active duty military and family members • Veterans with Tricare benefits • Prior authorization handling (we take care of the paperwork) • Clear explanation of your specific benefits and coverage
For other insurance plans: • We're actively working on contracts with major providers • Call (512) 872-4605 to check on the status of your specific insurance • We can verify whether your plan has out-of-network benefits that may apply
If insurance doesn't cover everything: • Payment plans: with no interest • Sliding scale fees: Reduced rates based on income documentation • Transparent pricing: You'll know exactly what you'll pay before starting
How do I start IOP treatment in Austin?
Getting started is straightforward and typically happens quickly because we understand that when you're ready for change, waiting weeks for treatment can derail motivation.
Step 1: Initial contact
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Call: (512) 872-4605 during business hours for immediate response
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Online form: Submit contact information for callback within 24 hours
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What to expect: 15-20 minute conversation about your situation and needs
Step 2: Assessment and planning
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Comprehensive assessment: Usually scheduled within 2-3 days of initial contact
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Treatment planning: Collaborative development of goals and approach
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Insurance verification: Benefits checked and costs explained clearly
Step 3: Program start
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Orientation: Introduction to facility, staff, and other participants
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First sessions: Begin with supportive focus on comfort and engagement
Timeline from first call to treatment start: Most clients begin IOP within 3-7 days of initial contact, depending on insurance authorization requirements and your schedule preferences.
Ready to get started? Read our step-by-step guide: What to Expect in Your First Week of IOP
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For family members: Family Guide to Supporting Someone in IOP Treatment
Crisis Resources - Available 24/7
If you're experiencing a mental health emergency:
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
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Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
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Austin Crisis Hotline: (512) 472-HELP (4357)
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Emergency services: 911
Local Austin Crisis Resources:
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Austin-Travis County Integral Care Crisis Services
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Dell Children's Medical Center Crisis Services
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University of Texas Counseling and Mental Health Center (for students)
National Resources:
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SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-6264
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National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Crisis support is available immediately. Don't wait if you're in danger or experiencing thoughts of self-harm.
Getting Started with IOP Treatment
Starting IOP treatment in Austin should be straightforward and supportive. We've streamlined our process to connect you with appropriate care quickly while ensuring thorough assessment and planning.
1. Call Our Admissions Team
Phone: (512) 872-4605
Email: Contact form available on our website for non-urgent inquiries
Response time: Within 24 hours during business days (Monday-Friday)
What to expect: A genuine conversation with someone who understands what you're going through. No sales pressure, no minimizing of your concerns, just honest assessment of whether our Austin IOP program matches your needs.
2. Initial Assessment
Your first conversation covers:
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Current challenges and what brought you to consider IOP treatment
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Your goals and what you hope to achieve
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Practical considerations like schedule, transportation, and work obligations
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insurance coverage and payment options
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Any immediate concerns or urgent needs
If our program isn't the right fit, we'll help you identify better options. Austin has good treatment resources, and we're familiar with which programs serve different needs.
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3. Benefits Verification and Planning
We verify your insurance benefits within 24 hours of initial contact and explain your coverage in clear terms. If insurance doesn't cover everything you need, we'll discuss payment options and financial assistance before you commit to treatment.
4. Begin Treatment
Most clients start within a few days of initial assessment. Our program structure allows new participants to join existing groups while maintaining therapeutic progress for everyone.
Before your first session:
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Brief intake appointment to finalize your treatment plan
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Orientation to our facility and community guidelines
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Introduction to your individual therapist
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Any immediate questions or concerns addressed
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Questions About Getting Started?
"What if I'm not sure I need IOP?" The assessment conversation helps clarify whether our program matches your needs or if other options might be more appropriate.
"I'm worried about taking time away from work." Our evening and weekend options work around most Austin professional schedules.
"What if I don't connect with the group?" Group dynamics matter, and we can adjust placement or timing to improve fit.
Ready to take the next step? Call (512) 872-4605 today to speak with our admissions team.
Taking this step today means you could begin treatment this week.
Community Focused. Culture Driven.
Awkward Recovery
Our team lives the same values we ask of everyone here—honesty, accountability, compassion, and integrity. These aren’t just words on a wall; they guide how decisions are made, how people are treated, and how challenges are handled every day.
We believe that trust is built through consistency, transparency, and doing the right thing even when it’s uncomfortable.
We listen before speaking, owning mistakes when they happen, and holding ourselves to the same standards we expect from the rest of the community.
At the core, everything our team does is rooted in purpose. Every decision is filtered through one question: does this support real, sustainable recovery? By staying grounded in our values and connected to the people we serve, our team helps shape a culture where growth is encouraged, integrity is protected, and people are supported in building lives that are meaningful and worth protecting.