
Shannon Madden
Hello! Thank you for considering me as your counselor. Let me give you an overview of my counseling style, education, experience and personal background. Counseling Style: My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe our thoughts lead to our emotions and behaviors. Initially, I use worksheets to help you uncover underlying beliefs you have about events or issues that lead to uncomfortable emotions or self-defeating behaviors. I also like to tie in neurobiology to help you understand that we can manipulate the way our brains work to speed up change. I tend to use humor initially to break the ice and normalize behaviors. Education: I earned by Masters of Counseling at University of Phoenix in 2002. I also received a Master of Arts in Organizational Management in 2001 at University of Phoenix. I was pursuing my Doctorate in Neuropsychology at Argosy University from 2010 - 2013 but my life plan changed so I decided not to complete the degree. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Arizona University. I am required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain my license; therefore, I have extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Posttramatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), neuropsychology, depression and anxiety. Experience: I started in the mental health field as a Crisis Counselor for the Phoenix Fire Department for four years while I was getting my Masters degrees. After graduation, I became a Crisis Counselor in emergency rooms throughout the Valley for six years. I transitioned into a traditional counselor position specializing in PTSD with police officers, fire fighters, and military personnel. I also really enjoyed working with people in life transitions (careers, school, retirement, marriage, dating, etc.). I became the Director of Psychological Health for the Arizona Army National Guard in 2013 working with soldiers in pre- and post-deployment phases, suicide prevention, PTSD, and military sexual trauma. When that contract ended, I helped open Quail Run Behavioral Health Hospital as the Director of Intake & Assessment. I currently work for Arizona's state crisis system and am in a telecommuting position. I missed individual counseling and am thrilled to be a part of the Better Help team. Personal Background: I am a 3rd generation native Arizonan (my mom and grandmother were born and raised in Phoenix which is very rare). I grew up in Flagstaff and moved to Phoenix after graduating from NAU. I decided to pursue a counseling career after my aunt's experience in the emergency room when my uncle died suddenly and unexpectedly at 46 years old. I knew there was a compassionate way to deliver heartbreaking and life-changing information. I also had a wonderful counselor who helped me recover from PTSD after my brief stint in the military. I have been divorced twice and recently relocated to Phoenix to be closer to family & friends. I have 2 spoiled dachshunds and love to travel and am learning to crochet. Thank you for taking time to read my bio and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Deborah Valerio
Facing difficult emotional and interpersonal challenges in our lives can be frightening but can also be a time for growth and healing. Talking with someone who listens without judgment, understands your concerns, and helps clarify issues can be invaluable. I am a culturally competent therapist with experience working with various populations including children, adolescents, adults, couples, military families, and K-12 students. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Northern Arizona University in 1994 and received my Master's in Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 1998. I have over ten years of experience as a clinician working in a variety of community mental health settings and academia. I taught elementary school for 12 years and maintain my teaching certificate in early childhood education (Birth – Age 8/Grade 3). Currently, I work as a K-12 School Counselor in a public school. My therapeutic approach is solution-focused and strength-based. I utilize evidence-based therapy techniques, such as mindfulness-based interventions and CBT, to address symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relational problems, and/or other life stressors. My role as a therapist is to support you and to challenge you on your path to self-improvement and self-empowerment. Through a collaborative process, we can explore and address the underlying causes of problematic behaviors, beliefs, and feelings. Together, we can begin the process of healing.

Jessica Roberts
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Arizona. I have been working in the field of behavioral health since 2006 and specifically as a counselor since 2012. I've worked with clients of all ages who were facing challenges in both urban and rural settings. I aim to be accepting, compassionate, and nonjudgmental no matter what you are going through. The last thing anyone needs when they are struggling is more shame. (We tend to do an awfully good job of shaming ourselves, don't we?!) I believe in a strengths-based approach. I will work with you to identify your positive qualities, passions, and natural supports and use them to assist you in your current difficulties. You are stronger than you know! :) I can give a lot of practical suggestions and "homework" -- or I'm happy to just listen. What I won't do is tell you what to do (unless it's a safety issue). I'm pretty down to earth and practical. I try to stay away from clinical jargon and just speak plainly. I do think it's helpful to understand how our brains and bodies react to events in our lives. One of my core beliefs is that "there is nothing wrong with you." It's been my experience that feeling better is often a matter of practicing new skills and habits, such as self-compassion; gratitude; setting healthy boundaries; connecting with others; or learning appropriate ways to soothe yourself when distressed. Of course, there are also times when more services, such as medication or substance abuse treatment, are appropriate and we can discuss that together. I'm here to support and encourage you in your efforts to change. I'm generally available for live sessions Monday/Wednesday/Fridays between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. I look forward to connecting with you!

Rhiannon Cruz
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My years of experience comes from a variety of settings: outpatient treatment institutions, inpatient treatment institutions, and community based settings which have included one on one sessions. I utilize the following therapeutic approaches: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Strength based therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness. I have training and experiences working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger issues, and addiction. Everyone has their own narratives/perspectives and I understand it can be challenging to be vulnerable with your thoughts and emotions but the reward of validating yourself can be most healing. I am confident I can teach you to identify and validate your emotions in a healthy manner. I can help and/or be that listening ear. Change is possible when you are willing to make a commitment to the process. I challenge you to be open minded and be courageous with me....

Dr. Meredith Mitstifer
I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience working with the cancer community, grief and loss, as well as providing empowerment and support to those looking to make intentional progress towards life / career goals. As a cancer survivor myself, adjusting to a diagnosis and treatment can be difficult. Not only are their physical side effects, but often emotional and relational effects as well. Additionally, grief and/or loss is difficult. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, as grief is unique to each individual. All too often do many suffer in silence. If you are looking for support to help navigate the waters, I can help. I also enjoy assisting individuals with setting intentions and making forward steps to meeting their goals. If you are looking for a change, but are not sure where to start, I can also help you organize your efforts, provide resources, relieve stress, ease tension and afford a safe space to problem solve through education, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivation and humor. My clients receive education and training in mindfulness skills, relaxation practices, decision-making, mood management, and interpersonal effectiveness. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Gwendolyn (Gwen) Peacock
I am licensed in Arizona with 20 years of professional work experience. I am currently not taking any new clients through BetterHelp.

Marissa Geraci
I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Brook Linenfelser
I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Tara Walters
I am licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Arizona with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! However, I am presently only working with clients who are suffering with PTSD and are looking for an evidenced-based psychotherapy to help them heal.

Tanya Morrow
Hello perspective! If you are reading this, you are probably searching for a mental health professional to team up with for yourself or someone you love. Maybe I can help! I have been a practicing Social Worker since 1982 when I graduated earning a Bachelor’s Degree from Ohio Wesleyan University. Then, earned a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) from Case Western Reserve University’s MSASS program. Much of my career focus has been on children and their families in the community mental health sector with the longest tenure being 24 years at Beech Brook. Now, in private practice since 2017, my service is to individuals 12 to 112 years of age. Although I certainly welcome males both cis and trans to my practice, I must admit a special passion to impact the self growth and empowerment of those who identify as female/women and those who identify as minority or disenfranchised in any form. My clinical expertise include treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, mood instability, self improvement, self empowerment, self esteem, life transitions, coping skill , life stage adjustments, adolescence, women’s issues, and LGBTQI+ focused concerns. Treatment modes include CBT, TF-CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, EMDR, PCIT, The Serenity Prayer Concepts and good old fashioned reality/facts therapy. pronouns: she/her
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Types of therapists available to clients in Tusayan
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Tusayan that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Tusayan available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Tusayan therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Tusayan therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Tusayan region and in the state of Arizona.
How a therapist can help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want
Therapists in Tusayan can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Tusayan may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.