max@claritymhr.com

Max Whipple

Program Supervisor

RN, PMHN, SUDP, MHP

Max supervises the Bellingham PHP program, bringing more than 35 years of nursing and healthcare experience and a background in psychiatric nursing and substance use treatment.

A board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse, Max has worked in hospital and clinic settings across acute and ongoing care. His approach emphasizes compassionate, nonjudgmental support, personal awareness, emotional growth, and stronger communication skills.

chelsy@claritymhr.com

Chelsy Branch

PHP Counselor

SUDP, AAC

Chelsy is a Substance Use Disorder Professional and Certified Peer Support Specialist with over nine years of experience supporting people in recovery. She joined Clarity in April 2026.

Her experience includes detox services, a PACT team, and inpatient care for people with severe mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Human Services in 2024 and a certificate in Substance Use Disorder Counseling in spring 2025.

Chelsy brings a compassionate, person-centered approach to PHP counseling, helping adults and adolescents build resilience, discover purpose, and develop skills for lasting recovery.

Jennifer Christiansen

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Jennifer (Jenn) Christiansen supports individuals on their path toward improved mental health and overall well-being. Her work includes psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, with individualized treatment plans that reflect each person’s needs, goals, and experiences.

Jenn brings a compassionate, whole-person approach to psychiatric care, emphasizing collaboration, respect, and open communication. She works alongside clients and the broader treatment team to support wellness and recovery.

john@claritymhr.com

John Novotny

Support Counselor • Mindfulness Skills

SUDPT, AAC

John supports the PHP group and teaches mindfulness skills that clients can practice in daily life. He brings nearly two decades of Buddhist practice in Tibetan and Zen traditions, along with a two-year training cohort at Mindfulness Northwest.

John is pursuing his Substance Use Disorder Professional certification at Skagit Valley College. His background in business and lived experience in recovery inform a compassionate, practical approach to supporting others.

Outside of work, John enjoys cooking, art, music, and time with family, friends, and his dog, Trekker.

Tyanna Couture

Peer Support Intern

Tyanna joined Clarity in September 2026 as a Peer Support Intern in the PHP program and is working toward becoming a Certified Peer Support Specialist.

Her lived experience includes a 10-year journey with addiction and nearly six years in recovery. These experiences, along with overcoming challenges in her upbringing, inform an authentic, compassionate, and nonjudgmental approach to supporting others.

Tyanna walks alongside adults and adolescents as they navigate mental health, substance use, recovery, and personal growth. She meets people where they are, helps them recognize their strengths, and offers hope as they build meaningful lives.