Suicide Prevention Staff
Suicide Prevention
Androniki Bida
(She, Her, Hers)
Suicide Prevention Coordinator, QPR Instructor, ASIST Trainer
Androniki Bida, also known as Niki, is a compassionate professional originally from Salem, Massachusetts, now residing in Lafayette, Louisiana. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a focus on Thanatology from the University of Rhode Island.
Niki’s dedication to helping others has been deeply influenced by her own life experiences. Having worked with diverse populations, including grieving children, survivors of abuse, and incarcerated individuals, she understands the importance of empathy and support in times of crisis. Currently, Niki serves as a Suicide Prevention Coordinator, providing evidence-based suicide prevention trainings to adults and children in communities across Louisiana.
With a passion for healing and a commitment to making a difference, she is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at LSU. Niki is an avid reader, nature enthusiast and loves cooking. She values spending quality time with family, friends, and her pup, Bubs.
Dez Arvie
(He, Him, His)
Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Resource Developer
Dez is originally from Opelousas, Louisiana but currently resides in Lafayette, Louisiana. He attended Louisiana State University in 2019 and received their Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a Concentration in Criminology in 2022. He aspires to pursue a Master’s in General Clinical Mental Health Counseling. What truly motivates Dez is his unwavering commitment to creating a positive influence and offering assistance to others in every possible manner. Dez possesses experience collaborating with individuals spanning various age groups, from adolescents to the elderly. Dez finds immense joy in spending time with loved ones and two fur babies, whether it’s watching television or learning new things.
Skasa Rideau
(He, Him, His)
Zero Suicide Prevention Specialist, ASIST Trainer
srideau@acadianafamilytree.org
Skasa Rideau was born in Mamou, LA, and raised the majority of his childhood in Lake Charles, LA. Skasa attended McNeese State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management in 1999.
Since graduation, Skasa has taken on various management, supervisory and support roles helping to build his desire and ability to lead, mentor, and coach people of various backgrounds and experiences. After getting married in 2001, Skasa relocated to the Lafayette area where he has resided for the last 22-plus years. He and his wife are the proud parents of two exceptional kids, one boy and one girl. Spending time with his family in any capacity is his top priority.
When not working or going from one extracurricular event to the next, Skasa enjoys reading, writing, and influencing people in
a positive manner. He has written one book of poetry, published in March of 2022, addressing anxiety, trauma, and toxic mindsets among other topics. He is a strong advocate for those who struggle with past or current trauma, particularly from loss of any type and/or lack of parental
involvement.
From February 2023 to January 2024, Skasa worked with the Healthy Start Fatherhood Program in an effort to help improve birth outcomes and curve negative impact(s) associated with the lack of father involvement. Skasa is now excited to create a positive impact in his role as a Zero Suicide Prevention Specialist with the Jacob Crouch Suicide Prevention Services. He hopes to bring a unique perspective and understanding that will encourage others as certified QPR Gatekeepers. He sees providing hope, support and intervention as vital elements in the effort to save lives.
Esthela Villarreal
(She, Her, Hers)
Suicide Prevention Specialist, ASIST Trainer
evillarreal@acadianafamilytree.org
Esthela Villarreal, originally from Detroit, Michigan, has called Louisiana home since the age of 12. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling from the University of Louisiana at Shreveport (2022). Currently, on the path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor, Esthela has experience working with adult and geriatric populations facing serious mental illnesses.
As a first-generation Mexican American, Esthela is passionate about combating mental health misconceptions within the Hispanic community. Fluent in Spanish, she aims to bridge gaps in access to mental health services and challenge stigma.
Outside of work, Esthela treasures time with loved ones, indulges in baking, immerses herself in books, engages in trivia, and enjoys sports with her boyfriend.