On January 24, 2022, Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health opened its doors with a clear and vital vision: to create a sanctuary where healing is possible, dignity is protected, and every individual is met with compassion, skill, and hope.
Today, as we mark our 4th Anniversary, we are looking back on a journey defined by resilience—both from the patients we serve and the dedicated team that supports them.
11,663 Stories of Recovery
Since our first day, we have had the profound honor of caring for 11,239 inpatients and 424 outpatients. That is a total of 11,663 lives that have intersected with ours at moments of deep vulnerability.
To us, these are not just statistics. Every number represents a person, a family, and a turning point. We are incredibly grateful to our community for trusting us to be part of these vital chapters in your lives.
Our Vision for the Future
While we celebrate how far we’ve come, we are even more excited about where we are going. Our mission continues to evolve as we strengthen trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and affirming care. We are building a future where mental health services are not only accessible but equitable—deeply respectful of each person’s lived experience.
Celebrating Excellence: Our 2025 Award Winners
A hospital is only as strong as its people. To celebrate our anniversary, we are proud to announce our 2025 Staff Shining Stars, as nominated by their peers for their extraordinary heart and expertise:
- Nursing: Josephine Chen
- Clinical: Jasmin Casica
- Ancillary Department: Wendy Pianta
- Support Staff: Araceli Zuniga
- Outpatient: Gustavo Alvear
- Administrative Support: Rylee Kaczynski
- Provider of the Year: Dr. Abraham Maaz
Special Recognition
Beyond our Shining Stars, we want to highlight two additional honors that represent the spirit of Aliso Ridge:
🌻 The Sunflower Award | Kirstie Walker Celebrating the warmth and dedication Kirstie provides our patients daily. She truly acts as a “bright light” within our halls.
🐐 The G.O.A.T. Award | Mental Health Workers Recognizing the team with our highest patient satisfaction scores. They earned the top spot for five months in 2025—an incredible testament to their hard work!
A Heartfelt Thank You
To our patients, our partners, and our incredible staff: thank you for these first four years. Thank you for the sacrifices you make, the teamwork you embody, and the humanity you bring into this hospital every single day.
Here is to many more years of healing and hope.