David J. Beesley, MPH           
President/Chief Executive Officer

Responsible for oversight all of First Step’s operations and funding streams, David Beesley brings more than 20 years of experience in healthcare management to his position at First Step. Beesley has a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Minnesota and has dedicated most of his career to working for non-profit healthcare organizations.

Brenda Asher, CPA
Chief Financial Officer

Brenda Asher joined First Step in 2006 as Chief Financial Officer. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, Asher worked in Operations Accounting for Sun Hydraulics prior to joining  First Step.

Phillip “P.J.” Brooks, MA, LMHC           
Vice President, Outpatient and Youth Services

P. J. Brooks is Vice President of Outpatient and Youth Services. He has more than 17 years of counseling experience, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and has a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of South Florida.

Marlene Minzey, MS, CPHQ
Vice President, Special Services

Marlene Minzey has more than 25 years of experience working in the substance abuse and mental health field.  She holds a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling, and is a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality.  Under her direction, First Step has earned two “Best Practices” awards by the Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association (FADAA) and the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Robert Piper, MA, LMHC           
Vice President, Residential Services

Bob Piper holds a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of South Florida and a license in mental health counseling. Currently serving as President of the Florida School of Addiction Studies, Piper has been with First Step for more than 10 years.