Meet Our Team
Leadership
Celica Garcia-Plascencia
Vice President
Celica Garcia-Plascencia is a Vice President at TURN Behavioral Health Services, where she has dedicated over 13 years to empowering communities and supporting families. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Concordia University Chicago and began her career as a case manager with the Community Assessment Team (CAT) program. Her passion, dedication, and leadership led her to advance into the role of program manager, and today she proudly serves as a Vice President.
A proud Marine sister, Celica is deeply committed to serving military families. She advocates for their unique needs and works to ensure they have access to compassionate, culturally competent care. She understands firsthand that when one person serves, the entire family is affected—and her work reflects a deep respect for the sacrifices of service members and their loved ones.
Celica is also a devoted wife of 23 years, a proud mother to three amazing children and three fur babies, and a firm believer in leading with empathy and purpose. With the unwavering support of her family, she continues to inspire positive change and uplift the communities she serves.
Christina Pineda
Christina Pineda is a Navy Veteran who proudly served 12 years as an Operations Specialist before being honorably discharged. After her military service, she set out to continue serving her community, focusing on addiction and mental health. Christina brings over a decade of experience in addiction treatment, working in both military and civilian settings.
She earned her master’s degree in clinical counseling from Point Loma Nazarene University and joined TURN Behavioral Health Services in 2020 as a therapist, providing support to Drug Court participants through San Diego Center for Change. Christina is deeply passionate about the veteran and recovery communities and now leads a team equally committed to this vital work.
As a leader and Program Manager for Courage to Call, Christina prides herself on fostering a supportive, mission-driven team environment—encouraging her staff to care for themselves as much as they care for others. She is a firm believer that self-care is essential to sustaining the meaningful work they do every day.
Outside of work, Christina enjoys spending time with her husband, Tim, and is an avid supporter of local animal rescue groups. She finds her peace in nature and in the water, often seeking out quiet moments near the ocean or surrounded by the outdoors to recharge and reconnect.
Christina Pineda
Program Manager
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Roderick Gabriel
Roderick is an OIF/OEF Army Veteran. Roderick has achieved a Master’s in Healthcare Administration and holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health. Using his lived experience as a homeless Veteran while leveraging his professional experience and education, Roderick has pursued a career which offers him the opportunity to serve his fellow Veterans. With over 8 years of combined volunteer and professional experience, Roderick has inserted himself in the Veteran service community as a professional who embodies empathy and compassion in his work. As a father of 2 and a loving Husband to his wife, Jessi, Roderick spends his off time with family and friends often attending cultural events and activities which uplift his community.
Roderick Gabriel
211 Contact Center Manager
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John Lopez
Originally from San Diego, John is US Marine Corps veteran, serving 4 years in the Infantry specializing in Antiarmor assault, crew-served weapons, and demolitions. During this time, John was deployed on multiple occasions, including 3 long-length deployments, and several shorter length deployments. He was meritoriously promoted to Corporal, and received a Meritorious Mast for actions in combat during Operation Desert Storm, as a member of Task Force Ripper, under the command of then Lt. Colonel James “Mad Dog” Maddis.
After being honorably discharged, he worked in retail sales but continued a relationship with the military by supporting active duty and retired military and their families at the Marine Corps Exchange onboard MCRD San Diego, and as an electronics and computer representative at the 32nd St Navy Exchange.
He would move on into various client support roles, but continued using the leadership experience gained during his military service as a catalyst to management positions within call centers in the cable/internet, medical, finance, solar, and other public sector industries.
Fond on road-going activities past along by his Marine Corps veteran father, he could often be found enjoying driving along curvy local mountain roads. He is also an FAA licensed UAV (drone) pilot, an enthusiast of ancient mysteries and civilizations, and enjoys sunny days and exercising. John is a father of 2 adult children, and enjoys watching movies and other fun activities with them. He is very honored and humbled to have this opportunity to work with other veterans in support of others
John Lopez
Client Services Supervisor
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Steven Montejano
Steven Montejano, MBA, leads client services at 211 San Diego, bringing extensive experience in call center management and a deep commitment to compassionate service. Influenced by his family’s rich military history, including his uncle, Jesus Montejano, a decorated WWII and Korean War veteran who earned the Bronze Star and the Republique of France Diplome Freedom medal for his service. His father-in-law, Ignacio Rubio, who served in the US Air Force, and Cliff Lopez, who served in the US Army. His nephew, Armando Quezada, is currently in the US Navy, and another nephew, Frank Montejano III, is a US Marine sergeant who served in the Gulf War. At 211 San Diego, Steve is focused on ensuring the Courage to Call program delivers exceptional service to those seeking help, reflecting both his professional expertise and personal dedication to community service.
Steve Montejano
211 Contact Center Director
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Case Manager
Michael Johnson
Veteran Peer Case Manager
Michael J. served 6 years in the United States Marine Corps, working as a Jet Mechanic. He learned what team work really was and he currently uses that attitude as a Veteran Peer Naviagator. He enjoys working with fellow veterans to help other veterans and active duty with issues in their lives. He is fulfilling his passion to help others at Courage to Call.
Michael Johnson
Veteran Peer Case Manager
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Veteran Counselors
Douglas Alvarado
Lead Veteran Counselor
Douglas Alberto Alvarado is an Army Veteran who served as a combat medic in southeast Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2011-2012. Douglas discharged honorably after 6 years of service and continued to pursue his passion in social work education and field work. Douglas has personal lived experience through trauma recovery in combat readjustment and military separation. Douglas is a first-generation service member from Los Angeles who is bilingual in Spanish and recently relocated to San Diego. His experience is supported with an Associate degree in Social and Behavioral Health from Santa Monica College, bachelor’s degree in social work from Arizona State University, and master’s degree from California State University Los Angeles. Douglas also has extensive professional experience providing intensive case management, treatment planning, therapeutic evidence-based mental health counselling, and crisis intervention to various populations including veterans, active-duty military, reservists, National Guard, and their families. Douglas is dedicated to serving those who have served by giving back through trauma-informed care and providing strengths-based social services at Courage to Call. Douglas enjoys time outside of work off-roading in his Bronco, training in Muay Thai boxing, as well as snowboarding during the winter season.
Douglas Alvarado
Lead Veteran Counselor
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Crystal Anderson
Veteran Counselor
Crystal Anderson is a 10 year veteran in both the US Army and US Airforce. Crystal served in the Health Service Management field. Crystal has 5 children and 6 grandchildren and 2 wonderful dogs whom she refers to as her “boys”. Crystal graduated with her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix and will continue her education to obtain her Psy.D in Clinical Psychology. Crystal has extensive knowledge in helping veterans as she is coming from an in/out patient treatment facility for mental health and substance abuse.
Crystal Anderson
Veteran Counselor
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Nathaniel Hentschel
Hello, I’m Nathaniel, a graduate student at the University of Denver, currently pursuing my advanced studies in psychology. Originally from Spring Lake, Michigan, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology/Neuroscience from Hope College in Holland, MI. As a Navy Submarine Veteran, I have a strong passion for supporting the veteran community, and I hope to one day attain my licensure and have my own private practice doing mental health counseling. In my free time, I enjoy studying Japanese, coaching and playing beach volleyball, spending time with my cat, hiking, and traveling.
Nathaniel Hentschel
Veteran Counselor-Intern
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Outreach Team
Wilford “Wil” Smith
Community Liaison
Wilford (Wil) Smith, retired Navy Chief, with more than twenty years of military service. Wil has been stationed at Weapon Station NAVMAG Lualualei HI, USS Mobile Bay, USS Cowpens, NRD Atlanta, USS Halsey, USS Nimitz, NRD San Diego and USS Ingraham. Wil enjoys utilizing his strong problem solving and decision-making skills to take on whatever problems a veteran may have. He is very enthusiastic about being a Courage to Call Outreach Specialist.
Wilford “Wil” Smith
Community Liaison
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Gza Larican
Family Support Partner
Gza is a US Navy veteran that served for 12 years. She dealt with ammunition in the navy. She was stationed on the USS George Washington, USS Enterprise, NAWMU-1 and USS Carl Vinson. She is passionate about helping her fellow veterans with information about their benefits.
Gza Larican
Family Support Partner
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Mateo Montell
Originally from Southeastern Ohio, Mateo came to San Diego by way of the Marine Corps in 2004. After the completion of his service as an Amphibious Assault Vehicle Crewman, he obtained his bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University, and master’s degree from Point Loma Nazarene University with a concentration in Exercise Science. He began his career as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist working in preventive medicine helping others achieve their health and wellness goals. As the founder and program manager for Have A Ball Project, Mateo drives the projects mission of providing healthy, sustainable, and educational resources to youth and organizations around the world. When Mateo is not working on his nonprofit, you will likely find him living an active lifestyle camping, hiking, surfing, or grappling in Jiu jitsu.
Mateo Montell
Outreach Specialist
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Luna & Delilah
At Courage to Call, healing isn’t just about services—it’s about connection, presence, and unconditional support. Our Emotional Support Animals, Luna and Delilah, play a vital role in bringing comfort and care to the veterans, service members, and families we serve.
Luna, with her wise eyes and signature mohawk, is the steady and intuitive half of the duo. Her gentle presence and empathetic nature provide grounding support during difficult moments. Whether she’s sitting quietly beside someone in need or simply being her calm, reassuring self, Luna brings peace wherever she goes.
Delilah is our soft and soulful companion with a calm and gentle demeanor. Though naturally shy, she is deeply loyal and quietly supportive of the Program Manager, often seen by her side during meetings and community events. Delilah may not seek the spotlight, but her quiet strength and comforting energy are felt by everyone around her.
Together, Luna and Delilah remind us that emotional support comes in many forms—and sometimes the best therapy has four legs, a wagging tail, and an open heart.
Meet Luna & Delilah
Courage to Call’s Emotional Support Animals
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Administrative
Stephanie Rodriguez
Stephanie is a former Marine Spouse who grew up in a military family. She’s actively involved in the community and helps local non-profits with Social Media Exposure, like the Veteran’s Art Project. She has even inputted ideas to the new Veteran’s Memorial that being built in Carlsbad, California. She connected with Courage to Call, in 2022, for Humana’s Veteran’s Health Resource Fair and has collaborated with Courage to Call since then. Fast forward to today Stephanie helps local Veterans gain insight on health options outside of the VA and assists two organizations, Courage to Call and the Veteran’s Art Project in assisting as many Veterans as possible.
Stephanie Rodriguez
Administrative Assistant
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Peer Specialists
Jay Antes
Military & Veteran Specialist
Jay Antes, a proud United States Army Veteran, brings a unique blend of military expertise and community dedication to his endeavors. Born and raised in the San Diego, Jay’s journey has been defined by service, education, and a profound commitment to uplifting his community.
Jay holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from Fresno State, a testament to his commitment to understanding the intricacies of law and justice. This educational background serves as a foundation for his multifaceted approach to community service.
Since 2016, Jay has been actively engaged in giving back to the community that shaped him. His focus extends beyond mere involvement; it is about making a tangible impact on the lives of those around him. Jay brings experience from key organizations such as CoreCivic & Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD), channeling his efforts into providing essential resources for the community to thrive in the dynamic environment of San Diego.
Jay plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the people of San Diego have access to the necessary support systems. His work encompasses a wide range of initiatives, from aiding veterans in their transition to civilian life to assisting individuals in need through the diverse services offered by the organizations he partners with.
Jay Antes’s story is one of resilience, education, and a relentless commitment to community welfare. Through his efforts, he exemplifies the spirit of service, embodying the notion that true strength lies in the ability to uplift others.
Jay Antes
Military & Veterans Specialist
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Guillermo Elizondo
Military & Veteran Specialist
Guillermo has served for several years in the US Navy, with a significant portion of my tenure stationed in San Diego, where I held the position of Boatswain Mate. Guillermo’s responsibilities included collaborating with small boat units on anti-piracy and force protection operations. Currently, Guillermo resides in San Diego, having grown up in Central Valley California. Guillermo became a part of Courage to Call in October 2020. Guillermo’s dedication lies in assisting and supporting military veterans and their families.
Guillermo Elizondo
Military & Veterans Specialist
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Thomas Watson
Military & Veteran Specialist
Thomas Watson III is a Marine Corps Veteran, serving 4 years in the Supply/Logistics field from 2016-2020. Thomas discharged honorably after 4 years of service to pursue a life outside of the Marine Corps with his wife. He has previously worked on MCRD San Diego, helping with the Property Accountability of all serialized equipment on the base. Thomas is incredibly passionate about helping the Veteran and Military family communities, and has always wanted to be apart of something in service of others. Thomas likes to spend time outside of work with his wife, Guiselle, often doing activities such as going to the movies and going on dinner dates. Thomas’ hobbies include Exercising, Cooking/Baking, Video Games, and playing with his two dogs.
Thomas Watson
Military & Veterans Specialist
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