Our experienced and compassionate staff is dedicated to caring for your loved one as if they were family. Get to know our team.
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Karen Abé
BrightStar Care of Conejo Valley & Simi ValleyThere comes a time in everyone’s life when they need a helping hand to overcome the challenges life throws at them, and the philosophy and systems BrightStar Care has in place allows my amazing team to provide the highest quality of care to our community. As specialists in the rapidly growing healthcare industry, we empower our caregivers and nurses to live our values and provide compassionate care and service, anytime, anyplace! We believe in personalized and integrated healthcare with RN oversight on all cases and we rarely find any case too challenging. BrightStar Care Conejo Valley provides local residents with care in Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Malibu, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Malibu, Moorpark, and Canoga Park. We may cover other surrounding environments with adult and elder home care/childcare, as well as supplemental healthcare staff to corporate clients such as hospitals, alcohol & drug rehabs, mental health and assisted or independent living facilities. BrightStar Care also provides high levels of medical care at home with skilled RN nursing services."
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Barbara West
Sales & Community Liasion ManagerHow long have you been working in healthcare? Describe your management experience?
I have worked in the Medical environment for over 20 years. I began my first working experience working in my dad's medical office, managing the front office, helping patients, and doing blood, lab work, and EKG's. I also had the opportunity to work as an EKG Technician at the Hospital during college. I loved the Hospital environment, and working with Professionals, so after graduating from Michigan State University, I enjoyed my career as a Sales Manager promoting hospital products to Maternity Departments nationally.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I have also been a Healthy Lifestyle Fitness Instructor teaching both Aqua Fitness, Yoga, and Senior Sneaker classes in our Community for the past 15 years. I have developed many wonderful friendships with seniors in our community and know the importance of healthy living. I have also worked as a private home care giver, and I know firsthand how vitally important it is to have the "Right Fit" in placing a Care Giver. I love that BrightStar offers Guaranteed Compatibility in matchmaking. I remember the stress of finding the right Agency for my parents when they needed care. I am privileged to offer that same caring help to families, and facilities who are seeking Professional Medical and Non-Medical Compassionate Care.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am a "Helper" and an "Educator". I am passionate about making a difference in peoples lives. I am resourceful, and creative, I like the challenge of finding solutions. I am excited to be a part of the likeminded Team at BrightStar Care providing a higher level of care to the families and facilities we serve in our community.
I am Making More Possible for our BrightStar Care clients by…
making meaningful connections, and touching hearts to make lives better. Going above and beyond every day to exceed expectations! -
Todd Adams
Director of Business DevelopmentHow long have you been working in healthcare? Describe your management experience?
I've been in Healthcare and Healthcare Management for over 35 yrs. First as a Medical Specialist in the US Air Force. Then receiving my Graduate Degree from USC in Healthcare Management and Marking. Then working in the Healthcare industry for 4 yrs before going back to school to become a Chiropractor and Clinical Nutritionist, building a huge practice, which I sold after 26 yrs. Then becoming a Healthcare Marketing Consultant.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I bring over 35 yrs of experience in the Healthcare industry. I’ve also been involved with several health related charities that are very important to me.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I believe that as our population lives longer the Senior should be able to live with dignity. The Senior will need help adjusting from being independent to needing assistance, this is what Brightstar does so well.
I am Making More Possible for our BrightStar Care clients by…
I believe that by making positive connections with the Brightstar community and exposing people that all the services Brightstar offers I can be a beneficial member of the Brightstar Team. -
Jamie Harding
HR & Talent Acquisition ManagerHow long have you been working in healthcare?
I have been working in healthcare for the past 5 years. I started working for an in-home care industry as a scheduler in 2017 and became the operations and HR manager. With years of pervious administration and customer satisfaction experience in various fields, healthcare has been the most rewarding.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology in August 2022. I chose psychology because I am pursuant of a career that allows me to help others. My experience working in healthcare and my education in understanding human behavior has given me the tools to provide an approachable environment for those seeking guidance in the workplace. As a people person, I enjoy working with a team to provide employee appreciation and job fulfillment.What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I have a passion to make a difference in other’s lives. It brings me fulfillment to build relationships and see how they flourish. Further, I love seeing others receive care or help when they truly need it. I receive joy by seeing people grow and thrive in their atmosphere.
I am Making More Possible for our BrightStar Care clients by…
creating a welcome and approachable environment for people in the workplace. I am in the business of caring for others. I love working with people and have the experience to make Brightstar Care a fun and exciting place to work. -
Caitlin Walsh, RN
Director of Nursing (DON)How long have you been working in healthcare?
Previously getting my degree in psychology in 2014 and focusing on the clinical side of care, I graduated in May 2020 from California Baptist University in Riverside County. I moved back to Ventura County and now work as an OR nurse and home health care RN. I also serve my community volunteering regularly for the Ventura County Mission and for the Rape Crisis Center of VC counseling young women, two organizations very near and dear to my heart.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
A a new grad, I am fresh with knowledge and am proficient in the most up to date skills. I am an avid reader and am always staying up to date in new medical advancements. My experience in psychology has helped me tremendously in home care to treat the body as well as the mind, which I have found to be equally important.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I was born a people person and knew my heart was too big not to share it with others. I am passionate about people of all ages, race, and background. Nursing has encompassed everything that brings me joy, from being there for someone on Hospice taking their last breath to rejoicing when a patient finds out their going to be a grandparent. Building trusting and lasting relationships with people during a time in their life that may be unpleasant is what makes me most proud to be a nurse.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for out BrightStar Care clients by… actively listening to patients, being there for them physically and emotionally. I try to keep my attitude light and positive, being a warm presence while providing professional care. -
Jocelyn Gil, RN
Assistant Director of Nursing, Home CareHow long have you been working in healthcare/management?
Healthcare has always been a passion for me! I have a degree from CSU Channel Islands in Health Science with a certificate in Spanish medical interpreting. During that time I worked with Brightstar Care for a year. I then went back to school and attended West Coast University where I graduated this year. I have over 4 years of direct patient care experience as a caregiver. My experience as a caregiver as well as an occupational therapy aide has helped me to evolve into the RN I am today.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
Being a new grad can come with a few challenges. But I am proud that with my direct patient care experience I am able to provide high quality care.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
Being a nurse is not only about healing a person physically but it also entails healing emotionally and spiritually. When a person is sick they need support and compassion. I am very empathetic and can help the patient feel like they are family.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for our BrightStar clients by... making sure the client is content with the care I provide by helping them to reach their goals and communicate effectively. -
Jennifer Urban
Field Support and Training SpecialistHow long have you been working in healthcare/management?
I am a Field & Training Specialist. I have been working in the healthcare sector for 15+ years and serve to streamline processes and ensure top-quality service delivery to every client. I work directly with healthcare staff to help them adhere to best practices, adopt more efficient techniques, and deliver quality services on repeat
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I graduated from the College of Nursing & Technology and also have a MBA with a concentration in Marketing & International Business. I spent my early years working in management, marketing, and public relations in California. In these roles, I spearheaded a marketing team and used theoretical descriptions & creative thinking to drive engagement, build trust, and sell products. Next up, I moved to New York and worked as a Liaison responsible for streamlining communication between stock brokers & programmers. Ultimately, I entered the healthcare industry and worked as a Medical Liaison and Office Manager. Today, I blend my business experience, management skills, and technical expertise to help improve service quality and delivery in the medical industry.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about process improvement, delivering service, & helping people who have been in a similar position level up. I love to share the experience and knowledge gained along the way to guide & empower others to better their lives and accelerate growth. I enjoy being able to create an impact and help healthcare staff learn to manage their workload and serve better.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for our BrightStar clients by... providing evidence-based healthcare services and training the caregivers to address patients’ unique needs, preferences, and values. I strive to nurture a safe and healthy work environment and boost employees' and clients’ retention rates. Further, I help the team break challenges into actionable steps and achieve more. -
Julie Hanner, RN
BrightStar Care Lead Infusion Nurse, Skilled ServicesHow long have you been working in healthcare/management?
When I was 18, I started as a CNA at Motion Picture Hospital in Woodland Hills. I come from a long line of nurses including my grandmother, mother, aunt, sister and daughter. As a result, I always knew I would become a nurse. I graduated from Pierce College with an AA degree in 1980 followed by working in the hospital and was immediately trained in ICU with ALS certification. I was also on their code team and remained working in the hospital for 14 years. On the side I did platelet pheresis. The Hospital closed in 1994 which lead me to home health where I did wound care, IV antibiotics, post-op cases etc. I started to work with biologic meds in 1997 and had extensive training in all specialty infusion inducing; IVIG, Alpha 1 Antitrypsin, all enzyme replacement therapies and factors. I have continued to perform specialty infusions until present. I enjoy working patients and families of all ages, this year marks 40 years and I still enjoy what I am doing!
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I bring many years of experience in many areas. I have excellent IV experience with all central lines, epidurals and subcutaneous infusions. I have extensive training in biologic medications and years of experience teaching in facilities and in the home with patients and their families.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about serving the clients assigned to me and making sure they receive the best care possible. My passion is building relationships and assisting patients and families with all aspects of the disease process management.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for out BrightStar Care clients by… communicating effectively with clients and their families to clearly understand what the clients need in order help them achieve their health goals. -
Terry Kyle
Client Care ManagerHow long have you been working in healthcare?
I graduated from college in 1994 with a degree in Culinary Arts. I worked as an executive chef in Louisville, Kentucky until moving to Kissimmee, Florida in 1997 after working at a Walt Disney World Resort for a couple of years, I began my career in Healthcare at HCR ManorCare in Naples, as an Activity Assistant for a skilled nursing facility. Using my degree and experience, I was able to move up into a director role as a Certified Dietary Manager. From there I was also a Certified Activity Director as well as a Certified Social Service Director.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
Moving to Simi Valley, California in 2010 I worked another 3 years in skilled nursing until moving into a marketing position with a Home Health, Home Care and Hospice agency. Here I was responsible for scheduling, marketing, and sometimes caregiving until just over 2 years ago when I was a home health/hospice administrator.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I came to Brightstar in October and am very happy to be part of such an amazing group of hard working and compassionate professionals. My caregiving experience also includes taking care of my mother who lived with my wife and I for many years. I love taking care of people that need help and am very happy where I have landed in my present career. -
Tanya Hughes
Client Care CoordinatorHow long have you been working in healthcare?
I am new to working in the healthcare industry, but given past experiences navigating healthcare systems and supportive services for my family members, I’m excited to work to help our clients have their healthcare needs met with respect and compassion.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
My experience and skills that are helpful in this role include outstanding organizational abilities, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, tireless problem-solving expertise, and a profound passion for helping people.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about many issues connected to our work, but most important is helping our clients feel supported in identifying solutions for their caregiving needs, so that they are heard, understood, and know they have a team here at Brightstar Care ready to help.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for our BrightStar Care clients by... ensuring that scheduling of caregivers for clients works as seamlessly as possible, and by effectively problem-solving to provide the best possible service for our clients. -
Sandra Borja
Billing and Payroll ManagerHow long have you been working in healthcare?
I have been in the healthcare industry for a little over 6 years. I started my career in the healthcare industry in 2015 after a successful career in the banking industry of over 20 years.What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I worked for a chemical dependency facility where I learned the ins and outs of medical billing followed by learning the insurance appeals and collections process.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about providing excellent service and being part of team that works together to provide excellent service and letting our clients and staff know how important they are to us.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for out BrightStar Care clients by… always making myself available when our clients have questions about their invoices or when someone in our staff calls inquiring about payroll concerns. -
Honey Lou Majorenos
RecruiterHow long have you been working in healthcare?
I was in the contact center industry for more than 8 years. I worked on several campaigns including health care. I am into customer service, data entry of laboratory records, appointment setting, scheduling, and administrative tasks. My main goal is to treat our customers like family and provide the best service possible which I aim to do at BrightStar Care!
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I have developed skills and gained experience over the years which I can impact the growth and processes in BrightStar. Being able to work in different industries has taught me to always understand and provide our clients satisfactory services based on what the client needs are.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am very passionate about helping people and being able to work with an awesome team! This has made my job easier. I am tasked with doing the administrative role of recruiting and helping make sure that we hire the right people and give our clients the best care staff possible.
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for out BrightStar Care clients by… making sure our care staff is compliant and is worthy of our clients trust! Not just our services but, also with the kind team. I am very happy to be part of the BrightStar Care family and can't wait to see OUR GROWTH! -
Adel Mercado
Administrative AssistantHow long have you been working in Health Care?
This is my first healthcare account and I am very grateful to be part of BrightStar Care. I’m responsible for scheduling and some administrative tasks.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
I’ve been in the customer service industry for over 8 years. I have plenty of experience listening carefully to the needs of my customers before efficiently working to solve their problems. I’m confident that I can provide a high level of customized support to ensure customers are happy with the service offered.
What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
My biggest passion is to help people. And with BrightStar Care, I feel like I’m spending my time working on helping people with something that’s important, and that motivates me to do great work.
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Alexandra (“Lexy”) Vicich
Social Media & Strategic Planning ManagerHow long have you been working in Healthcare?
I have been working on the administrative side of Healthcare for the past 4 years. I worked at the BrightStar Care of Conejo Valley office a couple of years back where I gained great knowledge regarding the industry and this wonderful company. I then moved to Santa Barbara for college and worked for that office for two years, assisting with HR, skilled case management, and billing. As I conclude my college studies remotely at UC Berkeley, I am back at the Conejo Valley office to help assist our amazing clients and continue building the company through creative marketing efforts.
What experience do you bring to BrightStar Care?
As the marketing & strategic planning manager, I need to be creative, yet analytical everyday. When combining my diligent work ethic with my interpersonal skills, I manage to be focused and analytical with my tasks, yet innovative and energetic when collaborating on various projects. I have gained these skills throughout my difficult school courses and social events my entire life. As a marketing associate for the Haas Student Government at UC Berkeley this past year, I have had great practice with social media marketing and engagement, which has never been more important for building a business in today's world. With over three years of experience with the BrightStar franchise, I understand the importance of prioritizing our clients' needs and promoting a healthy work environment for our staff.What aspect of your job are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about building relationships with our clients! It is very rewarding to be a part of a clients' journey from the moment they begin care with us, and seeing their family's appreciation for our great efforts to provide excellent care. I find great joy in following up on the promises we make to our clients!
I am making MORE POSSIBLE for our BrightStar Care clients by…
promoting an enjoyable and stress-free environment! I do this through strategic planning between our care team and field staff. I aim to excite new clients about the quality of our services and assist them throughout the process of beginning care with us. In addition, I help ensure that our employees are compliant people that our clients can trust to care for them through various screening and interviewing efforts.
In order to provide the highest quality private duty home care and skilled nursing in Conejo Valley and Simi Valley, we must hire the best employees! We are proud of our outstanding team of care professionals. Our employees undergo a rigorous screening process including telephonic and in-person interviews, written competency testing, live skills testing, background check, and drug testing. Each employee is dedicated to providing the best possible in-home care for our clients.
Our Caregivers and Nurses
Our team of care professionals thoroughly screened and trained to provide the highest quality care to your family or your patients. Learn more about our compassionate and trustworthy nurses and caregivers.
Contact Us
Please contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation or call BrightStar Care Conejo Valley at 805.233.3800.