When humans experience trauma, heartbreak, or serious stressors, it is common for their emotional wellness to suffer in the aftermath. Christina is passionate about helping people to move through this struggle and into healing.
Christina understands that every person is wonderfully unique, and that no single therapeutic technique fits all. Because of this, she is trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR and Lifespan Integration, both of which are holistic, brain/body/heart healing modalities.
As an existential therapist, Christina helps clients to resolve whatever symptoms may arise, such as anxiety, dissociation, shame, depression, anger, resentment and addiction. She empowers clients to move towards meaningful experiences such as mindful presence, courage, creativity, love, spirituality, authenticity and acceptance,
She has a special interest in marginalized populations, including the LGBTQ-IA+ community, and welcomes individuals from all walks of life. .
Jamie Jeffery MC, LPC
Licensed Professional
Counselor
Emily views the counseling process as a team effort where the counselor and client learn to trust one another in order to define and explore problem areas. Emily believes that all people are capable of success and she enjoys instilling hope in others through the healing process of counseling..
Emily has recently completed coursework for her Master’s in Professional Counseling at Ottawa University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents (female & male) ages 10-17 and families but also enjoys working with adults of all ages. Her areas of expertise are working with behavioral issues, substance use, depression, anxiety, conduct disorder and trauma. Emily has also facilitated a variety of evidence-based treatment groups, such as, Thinking for a Change, Seeking Safety & Substance Abuse.
While Emily understands that no single approach is the right one for every individual, Emily enjoys working with a variety of techniques & theories, such as, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based and Solution-Focused therapy as well as Client-Centered therapy.
Taylor Burke, LAMFT, is a Marriage & Family Therapist who specializes in working with young adults and couples. She received her masters from California Baptist University and her undergraduate degree from Arizona State University. Taylor has experience using Equine Assisted Therapy to help heal traumatic scars. She has also worked in a non-profit setting, assisting couples with healthy communication and skills to repair damaged relationships.
Taylor has extensive experience working with young adults and teens. She enjoys helping them with this challenging period in life. She is especially skilled at working with depression, anxiety and problematic relationships. Taylor implements Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an approach called EFT (emotionally Focused Therapy).
Craig@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Emily@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $50 / session
Jamie@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $100 / session
Taylor@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Kim graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. She has worked with men, women and children of all ages. She believes in a positive, multi-faceted approach to psychology and helps her clients to find ways to use both their strengths and weaknesses to create positive and desirable changes in their lives
Kim has worked with victims of abuse, depression, anxiety, court ordered clients, ADHD, Autism spectrum disorders, and specializes in trauma. She has also worked with couples and families in building better communication skills and strengthening their relationships. She believes that one of the most important aspects of a therapeutic relationship is trust and she aims to foster a feeling of safety, understanding, and clarity for all her clients. She believes that all the bumps and trials along life’s road give a person depth and teach us humility.
Jennifer Watson MC, LAC
Licensed Associate
Counselor
Juanita has been assisting clients for over 20years. She finds it a privilege to assist individuals in their journey toward self-awareness and personal growth. She believes that treatment must be structured specifically to the unique needs of each individual. She also views the therapeutic journey as an experience, where together, goals are identified and the client’s strengths are utilized in achieving these personal goals.
Juanita received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Arizona State University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is certified in EMDR and has specialized training in treating survivors of trauma and child abuse.
Juanita has been married over 30 years. She has four married children and 11 grand-children. Her family is and continues to be a top priority in her life
Jessica earned her Bachelors degree in Human Development and has completed her coursework for a Master’s Degree in Licensed Professional Counseling from Capella University.
Jessica appreciates learning about individual’s personal stories and unique life experiences. She has experience working with women, children, students, families and those struggling with addictions. She also has worked with sexual abuse from a prevention point of view with individuals from all walks of life and cultural diversities. Although there is not one theoretical approach that applies to everyone, Jessica encourages personal growth and healing with an emphasis on solution-focused and reality therapy while integrating one’s spirituality. She held the role of Assistant Director of Uniting Women’s Ministry in a Faith Based, non-profit Community Development organization.
She believes all people at some point in their life need help and non-judgmental support and are worthy of a life of mental and emotional wellness. It is her mission and passion to help her clients find that freedom.
Samantha graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Family and Human Development. She has completed coursework for her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Grand Canyon University. Samantha has a great passion for bringing hope and healing to others. She understands therapy can be a vulnerable place but takes pride in helping clients find joy and healing in the therapy process.
Samantha enjoys working with teens and young adults. She has experience treating depression, anxiety, mood swings, behavioral issues and parent / child relationships.
Juanita@TotalLifeAZ.com
Veronica Ezop BHPP
Behavioral Health
ParaProfessional
Kim@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $100 / session
Taylor Burke, LAMFT
Marriage & Family
Therapist
Josh acquired his bachelor’s degree in psychology from ASU and has completed all the necessary course work for his masters in professional counseling from Grand Canyon University. Josh has professional clinical experience working with clients that suffer from a variety of substance abuse addictions, as well as anxiety and depression related disorders. He enjoys providing hope and optimism to the down trodden and suffering. He believes that everyone’s life has value, meaning and purpose and that often the path to hope and healing is found in the untapped potential or resources available to the client. His compassionate, friendly and nonjudgmental approach to therapy helps to establish an environment where clients feel safe to work through sensitive and difficult problems. Josh feels strongly about spirituality in the counseling process which he believes brings balance and sustained healing in the lives of those he works with.
Jordan@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Jessica Reid
Behavioral Health
ParaProfessional
Emily Beard
Behavioral Health
ParaProfessional
Kari Gorbous BHPP
Licensed Associate
Counselor (pending)
Bonnie@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Michelle received her Master of Science in Clinical Counseling degree from the University of Phoenix and is a licensed associate counselor. Michelle works with individuals and couples experiencing a range of challenges involving life changes, depression, conflict resolution, and serious mental illness. Michelle is trained in emotionally focused couples therapy (http://www.iceeft.com/), and loves to watch couples transform their relationship to one of deep and loving connection.
Michelle uses a person-centered theoretical approach to counseling. She believes that in an environment of unconditional positive regard, genuine responsiveness, and empathic listening each person is able to identify his or her true needs and experience insight for desired change.
Michelle is also able to provide a spiritually based atmosphere rooted in Catholicism and 12-step recovery, while always respecting the faith and worldview of every client. As a recovering alcoholic with 26 years of sobriety, Michelle has experienced the hold of addiction on her life and believes it is a privilege to share the joy and freedom of sobriety with others.
Josh received his Bachelor's degree in Psychology and his Master's in Counseling. He is a licensed professional counselor with experience in working with adolescents and adults. His approach to therapy combines a cognitive behavioral model along with behavioral modification. When appropriate, Josh also prefers to use spirituality in the counseling process.
Josh has spent time working with adolescents through the Anasazi Foundation. He has also facilitated addiction recovery groups as well as aftercare support groups at Banner Behavioral Health. Through these experiences he has had the opportunity to assist clients through struggles such as addiction, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and other behavioral issues.
Josh is married to his lovely wife Jodi and they have 4 children. He loves the outdoors and traveling with his family.
Jordan is a graduate of Arizona State University, and has completed the coursework for his Master’s degree in professional counseling from Grand Canyon University. He is passionate about his job and enjoys working with all individuals from all walks of life. Jordan has experience working with victims of physical and mental trauma, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
Jordan focuses on achieving a balanced, simplified life and in order to decrease anxiety and unnecessary stress. Adolescents and young adults respond well to his non-threatening manner and approach to therapy. He utilizes evidence based practices such as; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, as well as solution-focused therapy in a non-judgmental environment.
Jordan has many hobbies but loves spending time with his wife, 2 children and his German Shepherd.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes overwhelming. Everything a person experiences creates an image of how one views oneself, others, and the world.
Bonnie believes that everyone has the power within oneself to live a productive, meaningful life, full of purpose and peace. She has experience working with children, adolescence, adults, couples, and families. She has assisted children, adolescence, and their families overcome traumatic experiences, develop effective communication skills, and cultivate healthy relationships.
Since each individual responds so differently, Bonnie uses a variety of therapeutic techniques such as, EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, Mindfulness and Spirituality.
Bonnie has first-hand experience with divorce and blending families. She and her husband love to travel and spend time with their family. She is a mother to fourteen children and seven grandchildren. Her greatest joy is her family.
Megan Smith BHPP
Behavioral Health
Paraprofessional
Jessica@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $50 / session
Taelor Emmert MC,
Licensed Associate
Counselor (Pending)
Megan@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $50 / session
Kari graduated from Utah State University as a member of Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology. She earned a Master’s of Science Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix as a member of Chi Sigma Iota Honor Society. Kari is dedicated to guiding individuals to develop their full potential while using an empathic and motivating approach to inspire hope for change in the therapeutic setting.
She has worked with men, women, adolescents and children in a variety of areas including adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, stress management, coping strategies, dysfunctional thought processes, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, self-acceptance, and couples counseling. Kari appreciates the great worth of each individual and believes that the struggles and challenges of life can be an avenue to personal growth and progress with the use of positive, productive thought patterns and perspectives.
Kim Palmer MC, LAC
Licensed Professional
Counselor (pending)
Sarah Smidstra MS, LAC
Licensed Associate
Counselor
Samantha Bailey
Behavioral Health
ParaProfessional
Juanita Adams MC, LPC
Quality Management
Supervisor
Veronica@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Jordan Miller MC
Licensed Associate
Counselor (pending)
Sarah received her bachelors degree in psychology from Arizona State University and then went on to Grand Canyon University where she completed her master of science in professional counseling. She is also a certified clinical trauma specialist through trauma institute international.
Sarah is a licensed counselor who is committed to walking beside her clients in their journey of self-discovery and healing. She has experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples in a variety of areas, including trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, addiction, and grief/loss.
Sarah is married to her amazing husband Alan and they have two children. Sarah enjoys music, travel and spending time with her family.
Therapy & Outpatient Treatment
Jeff is a Licensed counselor who enjoys working with adults, teens and children. Jeff has a Bachelor’s of Elementary Education from ASU and Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University.
Jeff taught and was an administrator in a middle school for 14 years. His work as an educator included working with student behavior modifications, academic counseling, socialization skills, organization, and developing and implementing individualized educational plans for students.
As a therapist, Jeff believes that we all have untapped potential to overcome life’s challenges. Jeff has experience helping individuals who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, behavior issues and other mood disorders. Jeff’s approach to therapy is using a variety of therapeutic modalities with his clients. These include: CBT, Motivational interviewing, solution based therapy, EMDR and play/sand tray therapy. Jeff helps his clients develop strategies/coping skills to deal with their challenges and find peace and happiness in their lives.
Kayla Byrd BHPP
Behavioral Health
ParaProfessional
Kayla received her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and has completed coursework for a Masters in Counseling from Arizona State University. Kayla has clinical experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and child-centered/play therapy. She has also worked in an inpatient setting with children, assisting with facilitating groups for psycho-education, emotional processing, and learning coping skills.
Kayla understands that growth is a process. She is passionate about walking alongside others as they move toward healing. She values the process of transforming consciousness, acknowledging the ways in which pain shapes a person, and developing and acting on personal agency.
Kayla enjoys fitness and athletics, traveling, and art, among other hobbies.
Jamie is a licensed counselor who is committed to helping her clients gain satisfaction in their lives. Jamie has the unique ability to quickly identify dysfunctional thought and behavior patterns. Once these patterns are known, solution-focused and cognitive behavioral techniques can be used to elicit change.
Jamie has had great success in working with adolescents. She has experience and specialized training in working with teens who struggle with depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues. Using motivational interviewing and other techniques, Jamie helps teens create the necessary desire for change.
Jamie received her Bachelor’s degree from ASU and her Masters in Counseling. She enjoys spending time with her family and two daughters.
Bonnie Yardley MC, LAC
Licensed Associate
Counselor
Josh@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $100 / session
JoshH@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Sarah@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Jennifer@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Josh Harrold MC, LAC
Associate Counselor
(pending)
IOP Facilitator
Taelor is an Arizona State University graduate with a Bachelors Degree in Family and Human Development and a Masters Degree in Counseling. Taelor has years of experience working with children and families and developed a deep-rooted love for the culture of children and the unique culture of each family. She has clinical experience working with children, teens, young adults and families with a variety of struggles including family disruption, trauma, anxiety, grief and depression.
Taelor has witnessed the healing process of play therapy for children, adults and families and the importance of healing the family unit as a functional system. She understands that therapy can be a scary process and believes in the power of play to create a safe and warm healing environment. Taelor approaches the therapeutic process by incorporating many modalities into therapy that fit the needs of each client.
Jeff Fulkerson MC, LAC
Licensed Associated
Counselor
Kayla@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $50 / session
Jennifer is focused on helping clients achieve personal potential through authentic healing & recovery, she approaches collaborations with adults, adolescents and children from a somatic, neurogenic perspective, working to increase clients’ understanding and control of their systemic responses to the environment. Because she believes growth and well-being are best accomplished within safe, supportive relationships, Jennifer prioritizes compassionate connection with clients and builds upon their strengths, creativity and spirituality to design individualized treatments.
Jennifer has utilized techniques from SE, DBT, TRE, ACT and EFT in her clinical experience with those recovering from trauma, abuse and addictions. She is also EMDR trained, employing this and other therapies to address depression and anxiety as well as trauma. Jennifer additionally enjoys working with artists, performers, students and professionals seeking performance enhancement.
Allison received her Master’s Degree in Counseling from ASU and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has worked with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, transition difficulties and trauma. She is trained in EMDR, a model of therapy that seeks to bring adaptive resolution to adverse life experiences. She has also worked extensively with adolescents spending the last several years of her 30+ years in education as a junior high and high school counselor. She brings a strong understanding of this age group and the unique struggles faced by students today.
Allison views the counseling relationship as a partnership where her skills simply complement the strengths her clients bring to the process. She approaches each client with “unconditional positive regard” and structures each session with the individual’s needs in mind. She encourages clients to find balance and healing through meaningful spiritual practice and healthy lifestyle choices. Allison has been married over 30 years. Her greatest joy is spending time with her family consisting of two sons, a daughter-in-law and an adorable granddaughter.
Craig Dalton received his Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Grand Canyon University in 2012 and completed his Masters in Professional Counseling through Grand Canyon University.
Craig enjoys working with adults and young adults in a group setting as well as individually. He has co-facilitated recovery groups and currently runs his own adult dual-diagnosis program at Total Life Counseling. Craig has a thorough understanding of how addiction works and also how to treat it using spirituality, connection and mindfulness.
He is a strong believer in cognitive behavioral therapy combined with behavior modification which allows him to effectively work with issues such as depression, anxiety, mood swings and adjustment disorders.
Kierstin Almstrum MC
Behavioral Health
Paraprofessional
Craig Dalton MC, LAC
Associate Counselor
IOP Facilitator
Taelor@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Kierstin@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $50 / session
Josh Adams MC, LPC
Program Director
Michelle@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Allison Dukat MC, LPC, NC
Clinical Supervisor
Jeff@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Kari@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Michelle Goodwill MC, LAC
Licensed Associate
Counselor
Veronica received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and has completed the coursework for Master’s in Clinical & Mental Health Counseling. Veronica has clinical experience working with anxiety, substance use, depression, trauma, sleep disorders, adjustment disorders, couples therapy and infertility.
Veronica understands that each client has unique qualities and needs. She believes in creating a partnership with her clients that works towards accomplishing balance and wellness in their life. Veronica treats her clients with unconditional positive regard while encouraging growth and exploration through facilitating self-actualization.
Veronica is passionate about supporting the couple and family unit as she believes marriage is the foundation of the family and family is the foundation of society. She takes a strengths-based approach while challenging her client to reach a new level of fulfillment and autonomy in one’s life.
Allison@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $100 / session
Christina@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $70 / session
Samantha@TotalLifeAZ.com
Cash rate: $50 / session
Christina Parker MA
Licensed Associate Counselor
(Pending)
Kierstin graduated Summa Cum Laude from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a minor in Christian studies and has completed her coursework for her Master of Science in Christian Counseling at Grand Canyon University.
Kierstin has a holistic approach to therapy and believes the body, mind, and soul are intimately connected and involved in the therapeutic process. Each individual is unique and has individual needs in therapy. She believes by helping individuals address pain from the past, they can then work to change their mindset and develop positive coping strategies to facilitate hope for the future.
Her therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral therapy combined with emotion focused activities. Kierstin believes spirituality is an integral part of the therapeutic process and uses this approach, as needed, to facilitate growth towards wholeness and healing with her clients. As one who values wholeness in all areas of life, Kierstin is excited and honored to journey towards healing with you.
Megan earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University. She spent five years teaching elementary school with Gilbert Public Schools. Through this time, Megan began to see how her student’s mental health was affecting their academic progress. She believed if she could guide parents and children work through their emotional struggles that they would be able to perform better in school as well as social situations. Megan decided to leave her career as a teacher and pursue a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Northern Arizona University.
Through her own experiences as well as her professional training, Megan has seen how trauma can get trapped in the body. She takes on an experiential and solution focused approach to counseling allowing her clients to lean into and work though their trauma. Megan believes the most important aspect of healing is creating a safe space for her clients to work through their struggles.
Megan is certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) in 2014. She has seen the lasting effects of equine therapy with her own healing as well as clients she has worked with.