Tanner Purser, WFR
Program Director
Coming from Concord, North Carolina, Tanner brings a diverse background rooted in service, teamwork, and the outdoors. Prior to joining The Willows, he spent summers as a mountain guide in the Coastal Ranges of British Columbia, leading high school and college students through challenging terrain, while also spending several years turning wrenches and volunteering at local high schools. A deep passion for helping others and supporting strong teams ultimately led Tanner to The Willows, where he began as a Behavioral Health Technician.
Now serving as the Program Director at The Willows, Tanner helps manage and train the team of Behavioral Health Technicians and collaborates closely with the clinical team to best support clients throughout their time. Known for a grounding and patient presence, he balances big picture thinking with attention to the details of day-to-day life, frequently assessing client needs and adjusting programming to support daily living.
Outside of work, Tanner enjoys spending time outdoors working in the yard and caring for his chickens and ducks. He also has a strong passion for off-road touring and has driven across the country and back three times, exploring remote areas, national parks, and reconnecting with friends along the way.
Madison “Maddy” MacLeod
Program Manager
Originally from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Maddy spent most of her formative years in San Francisco, California. She studied Psychology at the University of Miami in Florida, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree, and later received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah.
Maddy has lived in some of the most beautiful, nature-rich areas of the country, including Tahoe and various parts of Utah. These places have deeply inspired her passion for the outdoors. An avid adventurer, Maddy enjoys canoe camping, road tripping, off-roading (Jeeping—catch her on the Rubicon Trail!), and hunting for hot springs with her loyal dog, Tinsley, often with a canoe strapped to the top of her car. She has a knack for finding hidden natural swimming holes and embraces a lifestyle rooted in exploration and connection with nature.
Her professional background is just as dynamic, with extensive experience in aquatics—as a coach, instructor, manager, and director—as well as in ski coaching and instructing in Tahoe. She also led a summer adventure camp for kids, further combining her love for the outdoors with her dedication to youth development.
Maddy joined The Willows at Red Oak Recovery in August 2024 as Direct Care staff and quickly grew into the role of Program Manager. Through her own journey in recovery, Maddy discovered a profound sense of purpose and is deeply committed to supporting others on their healing paths. At The Willows, she has found a space where she can be her authentic self and hold space for others to do the same—helping clients discover their strength, resilience, and sense of self.
Contact The Willows Operations Team Today
When you’re ready to embark on your journey of healing and recovery, contact our operations team at The Willows. Our staff is dedicated to helping you achieve long-lasting positive change in your life. Call 828.518.6941 or complete our online form now.
Discover more about our unique approach to women’s addiction treatment and how we can help you or your loved one embark on a journey of renewal. Contact us online or call 828.518.6941 today. Everyone deserves a chance to thrive and live their best life.