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Our Clinical Team

Authentic. Empathetic. Relatable. Effective.

The team at Brain Repair bring together a diverse range of expertise and a shared commitment to creating a compassionate, engaging, and transformative therapeutic experience. With backgrounds in psychology, social work, addiction counseling, and trauma intervention, each clinician brings a unique blend of professional training and personal insight. Whether through Doug’s relatable approach, blending real-world experience with humor, or Briant’s authentic, client-centered connection informed by his own journey in recovery, the team creates a safe, non-judgmental environment for healing. Tracy’s mindfulness and warmth, combined with her expertise in CBT and DBT, help clients navigate life’s challenges with clarity, while Dr. Ruta’s compassionate creativity supports those experiencing significant life transitions. Together, they offer a holistic and empathetic approach, helping clients build lasting change and thrive in their mental and emotional well-being.

Doug Pleiman, LCSW, LAADC, clinical director of Brain Repair in San Clemente

Clinical Director

Doug Pleiman
LCSW, LAADC

With over a decade of experience, Doug specializes in making skills development both engaging and effective. He blends real-world experience, humor, and concrete examples to help clients grasp abstract concepts in a relatable way. Having personally navigated many of the challenges he addresses in therapy, Doug creates a non-judgmental space where clients feel understood and supported. A Certified Addiction Specialist, he combines expertise with compassion to guide clients toward lasting change. Doug holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Virginia Tech and a Master’s in Social Work from USC. He is committed to making the journey toward healing both meaningful and enjoyable. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (California LCSW #107943) and Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC #LR05621120).

Briant Stringham, CATC-II, certified clinical supervisor at Brain Repair in San Clemente

Certified Clinical Supervisor

Briant Stringham
CATC-II, CSS

Briant’s personal experience with mental health and substance use shapes his compassionate, authentic approach to therapy. Having faced the challenges of these struggles firsthand, he understands the importance of real connection and empathy in the healing process. Frustrated by past clinical interactions that felt impersonal, Briant is committed to providing a space where clients feel heard and understood. Now sober and thriving, he offers a genuine, professional approach that empowers clients on their path to wellness. Whether you're dealing with addiction, mental health issues, or both, Briant’s experience and personal insight can help you not just cope—but thrive. Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor II (CATC-II #21849).

Tracy Marshall, CADC-III, certified clinician at Brain Repair in San Clemente

Certified Clinician

Tracy Marshall,
CADC-III

Tracy helps clients navigate their path to healing and transformation with a strong foundation in psychology and a focus on evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Drawing from her own experience in long-term recovery, Tracy brings a compassionate, non-judgmental presence that empowers clients to see their potential and embrace a life of growth and fulfillment. Her warmth, mindfulness, and dedication to creating a safe, open space for healing make her a trusted ally on the journey toward mental wellness. Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor III (CADC-III #B00003420624).

Dr. Ruta Sternbergs, clinical psychologist and CADC-II, at Brain Repair in San Clemente

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Ruta Sternbergs
Ed.D, PsyD, CADC-II

Dr. Ruta began her career as a registered nurse before discovering her true calling in psychology. She earned her doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Boston University and is certified by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP). With experience in both Trauma Intervention of Orange County (TIP) and an accredited addiction treatment center, Dr. Ruta has developed a compassionate and creative approach to therapy. She specializes in helping clients navigate life’s losses and transitions, providing a supportive environment for healing and personal growth. Her holistic, client-centered approach empowers individuals to move through challenging times with resilience and clarity, helping them reclaim a sense of purpose and direction. Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC-II #A042821016).

3551 Camino Mira Costa

Ste K

San Clemente, CA 92672

info@brain-repair.com

(949) 415-4204

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Mon: 9am - 5pm

​​Tues-Wed: 9am - 7pm

​Thurs-Sun: 9am - 5pm

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In crisis? Call or text 988, or call 911.  |  © 2024 Brain Repair Therapy Group

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Call or text (949) 415-4204