About Us

Meet our Clinicians & Staff

Aaron Hoffnung

MD an esteemed board certified specialist in both Addiction and Emergency Medicine, brings over 23 years of clinical experience to his role as a Founder, CEO, and Medical Director of Empower Recovery LLC.

In 2013, Dr. Hoffnung established Reintegrate, an outpatient Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) opioid addiction clinic in Madison, where he has successfully helped over 1000 patients in their recovery. Informed by his extensive experience treating patients with Substance Use Disorder, and driven by his passion to help people in crisis, Dr. Hoffnung broadened the reach of his impactful work by creating Empower Recovery, a comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment program able to reach all populations of Wisconsin, including those in underserved and rural communities.

Dr. Hoffnung’s dedication to Addiction Medicine and relationship-based patient care makes him a pioneering figure in the field. His leadership at both Empower Recovery and Reintegrate Clinics highlights his commitment to provide compassionate and effective treatment for patients in their greatest need.

Pamela Tas

PhD Co-Founder and COO of Empower Recovery blends her extensive experience in strategic management, program development, and operational leadership to enhance the organization’s position in the healthcare sector. Her expertise in grant writing, project management, and laboratory operations underpins the company’s commitment to innovative care in addiction and mental health. Dr. Tas’ strategic vision and administrative acumen are instrumental in steering Empower Recovery’s growth, ensuring both operational efficiency and the delivery of high-quality care. Her role is pivotal in establishing Empower Recovery as a leader in addressing the complexities of addiction treatment.

Sarah Villanueva

NP has extended her considerable skills in acute care, critical care, and palliative care medicine to the realm of addiction recovery. With her strong background in managing complex medical conditions and providing patient-focused care, Sarah has developed a keen insight into the challenges faced by individuals struggling with addiction. Her experience in acute care and emergency medicine, often dealing with patients suffering from substance use, has equipped her with a unique perspective and approach to addiction treatment. At Empower Recovery, Sarah applies her comprehensive medical expertise to support individuals overcoming addiction, offering both clinical and compassionate care tailored to each patient’s journey.

Jaime Kremer

 NP is a dedicated and experienced provider, specializing in the treatment of substance abuse and coexisting mental health disorders. With a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University and extensive experience at notable healthcare facilities like CleanSlate Addiction Treatment Center and Compass Behavioral Health Clinic, Jaime brings a deep understanding of addiction recovery. Known for a patient-first approach, Jaime excels in creating individualized treatment plans, demonstrating exceptional skills in diagnosis, medication management, and patient education. Her professional journey reflects a strong commitment to providing empathetic, comprehensive care, making her a valuable asset to Empower Recovery’s mission in combating opioid addiction.

What People Say

About Dr. Hoffnung
Cheyenne Stonkey
Cheyenne Stonkey
2024-02-20
I first met Dr. Hoffnung while I was at my rock bottom as a 22 year hard drug addict. I met him over the phone and started treatment the very next morning because it was after pharmacy hours. He is such a caring Dr. He is honest to God passionate about helping people. He helped me pick my self up and put myself back together and since then I have come such a long way. Mind you, I was homeless and still fighting very hard with my addiction so he helped me out immensely by working with me payment wise. Had it not been for meeting him and starting treatment I honestly believe, no I would be... I'd be dead now and this was almost two years ago. He works with me as money is very tight and meds are kinda costly. I don't know where I'd be had I not met him. He is the only doctor in this world I've met so far that cares enough to call on a Sunday, he's even done a Saturday for me, I'm not sure if he ever takes a day off. I was lower than low...and now I'm just about on top with a lead job and getting my kids every single weekend because I have a doctor like him. One who gave me the tools to get myself straight and even more than that . I'm in control now. I highly recommend Dr. Hoffnung to anyone who wants to get their life back. He is truly amazing.
Jessie Long
Jessie Long
2024-02-06
I started seeing doctor Hoffnung a little over two years ago. He is an amazing doctor, he really cares about people. He is there for you 24/7 365 I started seeing him on a holiday weekend I had my appointment over the phone and got medication sent to the pharmacy. He is very understanding and all he asks in return is honesty. Doctors like him are hard to find I only wish I could have him as a primary doctor as well. Thank you so much Dr Hoffnung for saving my life and getting me off opioids. *Update* I've been a patient of Dr Hoffnugg's for a while now and I really wanted to stress how amazing he is. He's very compassionate and understanding. He's not judgemental at all. If you're struggling and you want help Dr Hoffnugg is an amazing doctor. Call him, he truly can help.
Matthew “Neuta” Tenuta
Matthew “Neuta” Tenuta
2024-02-05
I have been seeing Dr. Hoffnung for a long time now, and am so very grateful that he is the Dr. I ended up seeing. He truly is not in it for the money. He REALLY does care about his patients, and there success. Doc has worked with me a lot with my payments, and has NEVER made me feel bad about not being able to pay. That is why I say that he is not in it for the money, and that he truly does care about his patients. Thank you Doc for ALWAYS having my 6!!!!!!
Panther Platform
Panther Platform
2024-01-29
Dr Hoffnung has been my OUD doctor for several years now and it's worth the 8 hour round trip once every 3 months to stay on a medication I can trust prescribed by a doctor I can trust. I recently watched the movie "Rob Roy" and couldn't help but notice how much Dr Hoffnung looks like Tim Roth, the movie's villan, or it could be the other way around. Fantastic movie btw.
Mateo Anonymous
Mateo Anonymous
2022-05-09
Dr Hoffnung is very professional, caring, intelligent and down to earth… I looked around at a lot of places and this was by far the BEST PLACE in Madison!!! Thank you for all of your help and care!!! I highly recommend Dr. Hoffnung to anyone struggling and seriously looking to overcome their addiction. There is a reason that this doctor has the best reviews all around and it shows!
Eric Frymark
Eric Frymark
2022-04-17
I just want to thank doctor Hoffnung for saving my life. He was very understanding and realistic about my problem. He was able to get me the meds I needed the same day as my intake appointment. And since ive been under doctor Hoffnung's care I've been able to get my life back. I'm back in the gym, and going on runs with the family. I would highly recommend doctor Hoffnung to anyone dealing with opioid addiction. I know they say you can never truly beat an addiction, but since being under his care this is the closest I've ever felt to beating it.
Wisco Kidd
Wisco Kidd
2022-02-03
I started seeing Doctor Hoffnung in 2014, the man saved my life and helped me become independent and free from opiates, and helped me become a man. Not only was he very professional but was also extremely caring and supportive. He opened my eyes In ways that I was blind to before. His prices were the most reasonable out of all the doctors I looked at, and he was very forgiving and flexible of late payments and still saw me even through hard times. If you need help Doctor Hoffnung will definitely be great for you. I love the man, and have the most respect for him. All I can say is thank you Doc. From Tim R
Emily Pulkowski
Emily Pulkowski
2021-12-07
What a wonderful clinic! Dr Hoffnung is extremely professional and knowledgeable. He is supportive and understanding, I feel important, couldn't imagine a better clinic! He is a Doctor that genuinely cares about his patients and their well-being; which is a rare find when you’re in recovery!
Camila Gutierrez
Camila Gutierrez
2019-03-31
I've been seeing Dr. Hoffnung for many years now, and he's definitely supportive and understanding. He's someone you can be honest with no matter what that's how the program works. Honesty is very important. He's intelligent, straight forward and doesn't look down at you for being an addict. He's very organized and .compassionate about his work so that his clients live a healthy and better life. He helps you reach that goal. I've never met any doctor that's always on point and especially caring. Has a wonderful team. He's very professional and just a wonderful doctor. Thank you Dr.Hoffnung! 👏👍😃
Jackie Wilson
Jackie Wilson
2019-03-11
I have been seeing Dr. Hoffnung for about 4 years now and i feel extremely lucky to have found a provider with such a genuine care for his patients. A lot of doctors are just in it for the money, but it's evident that Dr. Hoffnung truly has passion for the work that he does, and he genuinely has his patients best interest in mind. He is easy to talk to, incredibly knowledgeable, and kind. The progress I've made under his care has been monumental, and though I know I am responsible for my recovery, his continued positivity, encouragement and support has truly made a difference. I highly recommend Reintegrate, LLC.
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