Our Team

  • Deanna Farnell
    Deanna Farnell
    CEO / Founder
  • Lisa Harris
    Lisa Harris
    Outreach Coordinator and Program Director
  • Rachel Farnell
    Rachel Farnell
    Marketing and Brand Director
  • TCM Chef Raphael
    TCM Chef Raphael
    Culinary Director
  • Stacy McNeal
    Stacy McNeal
    Clinical Program Director
  • Dr. Todd Hill
    Dr. Todd Hill
    Medical Director and Psychiatrist
  • Dennis Noev
    Dennis Noev
    Case Manager and Facilitator
  • Jeffrey Harris
    Jeffrey Harris
    Facility Manager and Facilitator
  • Melissa Paulo
    Melissa Paulo
    Facilitator and Social Media
  • Cassidy von Kronemann
    Cassidy von Kronemann
    Facilitator
  • Ashley Student
    Ashley Student
    Primary Therapist
  • Kristina Beck
    Kristina Beck
    Facilitator
  • Samantha Whittle
    Samantha Whittle
    Facilitator
  • Russell J. Miller
    Russell J. Miller
    Investor Relations and Outreach Director
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Deanna Farnell | CEO

Deanna is a licensed CPA (inactive) with 25 years of experience in growing companies from the ground up.  Recognized as the 2018 CFO of the year in Los Angeles County, she is highly regarded in the Real Estate industry.   Diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder and working to manage her own health and stress through positive wellness solutions is the impetus for this journey.  Deanna ran a successful event planning and coordination business for 15 years. She currently owns and operates a successful holistic healing center and out-patient mental health and addiction recovery center in Agoura Hills, CA.  Deanna lives and raises her family in Westlake Village.

Photo of Deanna Farnell, CEO of Highlands in Bloom
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Photo of Russel J. Miller, Investor Relations and Outreach Director of Highlands in Bloom

Russell J Miller | Investor Relations and Outreach Director

Russell has over 30 years of experience as a professional that has played key roles in the development of numerous high-profile companies on the OTC, AMEX, and NASDAQ that have generated billions in sales and market capitalization. He has raised Capital in the real estate, technology, energy, bio tech, and defense industries. Mr. Miller has assisted a multitude of companies by developing their strategic plans for funding, modeling & valuation, development, growth, liquidity, and return on equity by facilitating relationships with investment bankers, government relations, legal, accounting, financiers, press, media, marketing, and public relation firms. Russell relies on his broad range of worldwide contacts throughout the investment banking Community, which includes many accredited investors and investment institutions.

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Rachel Farnell | Marketing and Events Coordinator

Rachel has a double major (Marketing & BHP) double minor (Quality Assurance & Management) from California State University, Northridge magna cum laude graduate. As an Asset Manager in the multifamily sector, she has been responsible for meeting monthly and YTD financial operating goals that will maintain sufficient liquidity to support operations and capital projects while ensuring investor return goals are met. Rachel is multi-talented in growing businesses and brings a diverse set of skills that will ensure event coordination and wellness goals are not only met but exceeded.

Photo of Rachel Farnell, Marketing and Events Coordinator of Highlands in Bloom
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Photo of Antonio Lipari, Culinary Director of Highlands in Bloom

Antonio Lipari | Culinary Director

Antonio, an alumnus of Saint Joseph’s University, holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, enriched by a profound culinary journey. His educational ventures continued at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, where he graduated from the Accelerated Culinary Arts Program. His professional tapestry is woven with a decade of culinary artistry, starting as a Line Cook at Bang Bang at The Berkeley Hotel in Asbury Park, NJ. His culinary quest then led him to refine his skills as a Sauté Chef at the renowned Morimoto in Napa, CA. Further honing his expertise, he embraced the role of Sous Chef at Eagle Oaks Country Club in Farmingdale, NJ. Antonio’s culinary lineage, drawn from a family of cooks, informs his exceptional ten-year career, still in its ascendancy. In his role as Culinary Director, he channels his passion for gastronomy and his extensive experience to curate exquisite and high-caliber culinary experiences. His commitment is not only to satiate the palate but also to nourish both body and spirit.

Deanna Farnell
CEO / Founder

Deanna is a seasoned business leader with over 30 years of experience in corporate management, financial strategy, and operational excellence. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), CEO, CFO and COO she has built a distinguished career with a proven track record of success across various industries. Her deep expertise in business operations, coupled with her innate ability to lead teams and innovate, has made her a respected figure in both the corporate world and the wellness sector.

In the midst of her thriving career, Deanna was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, an experience that profoundly transformed her perspective on health and well-being. Facing the challenges of her diagnosis, she turned to holistic healing practices to regain her health and vitality. This personal journey led her to transition from the corporate world into a passionate advocate for integrated wellness. Drawing on her business acumen and her newfound commitment to holistic health, Deanna founded a Holistic Healing Center to help others achieve balance, wellness, and recovery.

Building on this success, Deanna expanded her vision to include a Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Center, focusing on providing compassionate, comprehensive care for those struggling with mental health challenges and substance use disorders. Her approach emphasizes the importance of treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—creating a healing environment that nurtures recovery and empowers individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Most recently, Deanna has launched a Residential Facility for Community Healing, furthering her mission to support and uplift individuals in need of long-term care. This facility is designed to provide a safe, nurturing space for healing, with a focus on community wellness, auto immune and mental health support. Under her leadership, the facility fosters a holistic approach to rehabilitation, integrating medical treatment, therapy, and natural healing methods.

Deanna’s journey—from a successful corporate executive to a pioneering force in holistic health and recovery—reflects her unwavering dedication to healing, empowerment, and community transformation. She continues to inspire others through her work, advocating for a compassionate, integrated approach to mental health and wellness.

Lisa Harris
Outreach Coordinator and Program Director

Lisa is from Ventura, California, where she spent her formative years. With a rich administrative specialist background and comprehensive operations/management expertise, she leads a dynamic life filled with family, friends, and exciting escapades. Her greatest achievement lies in discovering her self-value and achieving equilibrium, allowing her to wholeheartedly embrace self-love. She regards this as pivotal for her ability to serve others to the fullest extent, as her true passion resides in making a meaningful difference in their lives.

Rachel Farnell
Marketing and Brand Director

As a magna cum laude graduate from California State University, Northridge, with a double major in Marketing and the Business Honors Program, and minors in Quality Assurance and Management, my academic achievements, coupled with professional experience as a Director of Asset Management for a multifamily private equity firm, provide a robust foundation for my role. Managing a billion-dollar portfolio has uniquely prepared me for my current position as Director of Marketing Assets and Event Coordination, especially as we explore the holistic healing and event space.

My past responsibilities, centered around achieving financial objectives and boosting operational efficiency, are now pivotal in managing marketing resources and orchestrating events effectively. This expertise is invaluable as we develop a versatile and adaptive space within a medical residential in-patient facility. This specialized healthcare center, offering continuous medical care alongside event spaces, aims to be a sanctuary for guest celebrations and healing experiences.

In this innovative environment, my aim is to seamlessly introduce our brand to individuals seeking solace and positive experiences. Through strategic marketing and meticulously planned events, we are dedicated to making a significant, positive difference in people’s lives, fostering a sense of wellbeing and connection.

I am enthusiastic about leading Highlands in Bloom into this new era, focusing on healing, community, and creating events that have a profound and lasting impact.

TCM Chef Raphael
Culinary Director

The cornerstone to TCM Chef Raphael’s culinary passion is mixing two traditions: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Traditional French Cuisine. We all have a desire for healthy living, but surrounded by synthetics and living in a polluted world, we realize we must change. The origin to his unique passion started after this Swiss Culinary Graduate visited Southern France where through a chance encounter with the French Culture Minister, Jaques Lange, he cooked at the Palais Royal in Paris!

Raphael’s Buddhist upbringing early on familiarized him with a deep-rooted respect for the five elements and the powers that nature offers us. The GardenToTable concept was an integrated norm in his culinary development. Chef Raphael is world leading combining the plant based medicinal researches confirmed by fusing food and lifestyle adjustments with an individual client profile that benefits recovery and preventative living.

After being invited by Asia’s most respected Traditional Chinese Medicine research Pharmacy, Eu Yan Sang Int., he trained and successfully launched the world’s first TCM fusion French restaurant in Singapore.

Today Chinese Medicine is a well-respected treatment worldwide to aid physical and mental health as it has for thousands of years. With small changes, everyone can recondition their immune system. Old and young can adjust their wellbeing and longevity. Unlike modern medicines, these old methods have been studied on millions of people with no toxic side effects. Today, research can verify with nano-technology what water soluble essences aid people with complex complications and how with lifestyle training and food knowledge everyone can make significant changes to their well-being.

You are, indeed, what you intake through the eyes, nose, ears, skin and your mouth.

Stacy McNeal
Clinical Program Director

Dr. Stacy McNeal is a licensed marriage and family therapist and yoga teacher. She has extensive training through research and clinical practice with treating symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Stacy believes that sustainable healing approaches incorporate biological, psychological, and social/environmental factors, and addressing these includes a mind-body focus. She has experience with somatic approaches and mindfulness, which recognizes the body’s cues and uses grounding techniques to regulate the nervous system. Stacy also uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychoanalysis, Gestalt Therapy, and Family Systems approaches in individual, couples, and group sessions. These techniques can complement each other and have been clinically effective in treating several disorders.

Dr. Todd Hill
Medical Director and Psychiatrist
Dr. Todd Hill has been a psychiatrist for over 22 years. He is board-certified in General Psychiatry by the Academy of Psychiatry and Neurology. He moved to Southern California 3 years ago and has served as medical director for two psychiatric practices in Westlake Village and Encino. Prior to coming to LA, he owned his own private practice in Kansas City, Missouri for 10 years, was on staff as a consultation psychiatrist for multiple Kansas City hospitals and served as the Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at one of the largest hospitals in the Kansas City Metro area. As a psychiatrist who believes in education, he served as Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Psychiatry at his alma mater, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.  Dr. Hill believes in common sense and compassionate care which includes educating his patients as much as possible about their illness and treatment.
Dennis Noev
Case Manager and Facilitator

Dennis comes from a diverse background, primarily from the nonprofit sector. He began his studies in Political Science and Studio Art, two subjects that has inspired his journey for healing from the devastations of war in his country and the residual effects of generational trauma. His passion to work for underserved and marginalized communities has led him all over the world, from Union campaigns in NY to mentorship work in India and volunteer stints in major parts of SE Asia. He possesses personal knowledge within the recovery community ranging from sober living management to detox and residential care support. Throughout his journey back to the self, he has offered services as a Reiki Master, Sound Healing Practitioner, and Chakra Balancing Certified Coach with a holistic approach. His goal is to help others regenerate the body and mind in order to reconnect with the soul for a purposeful recovery.

Jeffrey Harris
Facility Manager and Facilitator

A California native, Jeffrey is known for his unwavering commitment to lending a hand whenever needed. Transitioning from a background in construction, he redirected his career path toward the mental health sector, driven by a desire to engage in work that feels inherently fulfilling. This shift has ignited a profound sense of purpose within him, cultivating personal satisfaction and an insatiable drive for self-improvement. Jeffrey’s newfound calling fuels his passion to continue evolving and making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Melissa Paulo
Facilitator and Social Media

Originating from Los Angeles, Melissa is a proponent of expansion and growth, drawing constant inspiration from her passion for travel and exploration. Her global travels have exposed her to numerous exquisite locales, yet she considers her inward journey to be her most significant expedition. This internal exploration guided her to the practices of Meditation, Yoga, and the transformative power of Sound Healing.

Following a pivotal decision to undertake a 200-hour RYT yoga teacher certification at Inner Power Yoga, Melissa’s life trajectory has evolved in unexpected ways, allowing her the privilege of instructing her own classes. Certified as a Level III Holy Fire Reiki (energy healing) practitioner and possessing intuitive expertise in Sound Healing, Melissa’s goal is to disseminate the knowledge and techniques she has acquired and continues to absorb as she progresses both personally and spiritually. In 2020, Melissa expanded her professional focus to include working within the realms of mental health and addiction, where she facilitates treatment groups employing an integrative approach that combines Eastern and Western methodologies to nurture healing of the body, mind, and spirit. She aspires to create a therapeutic, supportive, yet empowering environment, hoping to motivate others on their personal journeys toward discovering the inherent peace and joy within.

Cassidy von Kronemann
Facilitator

Fairy brings a wealth of experience to Highlands in Bloom, nestled in the picturesque Ojai Valley. With over ten years dedicated to the healing arts, Fairy’s expertise spans massage therapy, energy healing, chakra balancing, sound healing, and a passion for herbalism. She is deeply committed to providing a sacred space where individuals can find rest, healing, and a moment to embrace their inner divinity. Fairy embodies the spirit of healing and transformation, inspired by the wisdom of Rumi: “If everything around you seems dark, look again, you may be the light.”

Ashley Student
Primary Therapist

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, compassionate, evidence-based care is provided to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With experience working with both adults and adolescents, the focus is on helping clients manage mental health concerns and build a path toward healing. Utilizing approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Systems therapy, treatment is tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs.

Healing is viewed as a connection between biology, psychology, and social factors. By exploring the past, clients gain insight to create meaningful change in the present and future. With a warm and collaborative style, a safe space is fostered where clients feel heard and empowered. The goal is to support the development of resilience, strengthen relationships, and promote lasting well-being.

Kristina Beck
Facilitator

Kristina Beck, a vibrant 44-year-old originally from Oklahoma, has embraced the California lifestyle for the past 24 years. With a rich background spanning over 23 years in health, fitness, and life coaching, she has dedicated her life to helping others navigate the complexities of personal transformation. Her expertise extends to endurance running and obstacle course preparation, where she empowers individuals to push their physical limits while fostering mental resilience.

Kristina holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business, which complements her practical approach to coaching. Her education includes advanced training with Dr. Joe Dispenza, where she delved into the intricacies of personal change and the science behind transformation. This unique blend of business acumen and psychological insight allows her to convey competence and inspire those seeking to break free from detrimental habits and cycles.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Kristina is a passionate advocate for holistic well-being. She finds joy in animals, gardening, and music, and she has a keen eye for personal style and home design. Her love for wine and travel reflects her appreciation for life’s finer pleasures, while her interests in hiking, running, and flower design highlight her commitment to a balanced lifestyle.

Kristina’s intentions are clear: to lead with compassion and empower others to create lasting positive change. Through her work, she fosters a supportive environment where individuals can learn to embrace their potential and embark on transformative journeys. Her leadership is characterized by deep empathy and a genuine desire to uplift those around her, making her a beacon of hope for many on the path to personal growth.

Samantha Whittle
Facilitator

Sam leads the somatic therapy activities at Highlands, creating immersive, educational, and healing experiences that help individuals reconnect with their bodies and build confidence in movement. With a background in kinesiology, experience as a physical therapist aide, and work as a yoga instructor, Sam has guided people in strengthening their bodies through mindful movement and body science. Currently pursuing a graduate degree in somatic therapy, Sam continues to deepen their understanding of the mind-body connection and the healing properties of movement. Committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment, Sam tailors sessions to individual needs, helping participants cultivate strength, resilience, and balance. It is a privilege to be part of each person’s healing journey at Highlands.

Russell J. Miller
Investor Relations and Outreach Director

Russell has over 30 years of experience as a professional that has played key roles in the development of numerous high-profile companies on the OTC, AMEX, and NASDAQ that have generated billions in sales and market capitalization. He has raised Capital in the real estate, technology, energy, bio tech, and defense industries. Mr. Miller has assisted a multitude of companies by developing their strategic plans for funding, modeling & valuation, development, growth, liquidity, and return on equity by facilitating relationships with investment bankers, government relations, legal, accounting, financiers, press, media, marketing, and public relation firms. Russell relies on his broad range of worldwide contacts throughout the investment banking Community, which includes many accredited investors and investment institutions.