Medical Management
Adults
Medical Providers
Dr. Joel Hanson
Medical Director
Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Dr. Joel Hanson
Dr. Joel Hanson MD serves as Medical Director for Ascendant Behavioral Health Clinics. Dr. Hanson is Board-Certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine with extensive training in the treatment of Addiction. With a focus on Substance Use Disorder, he has created and directed numerous evidence-based programs. He has practiced in outpatient, residential and hospital treatment facilities including Highland Ridge UNI, St. George Detox Hospital and Wasatch Mental Health.
Having many levels of behavioral health and Substance Use Disorder treatment under one umbrella is what Dr. Hanson believes is the most appropriate approach for successful outcomes. In this way treatment options are available to address a range of client needs and co-occurring issues.
Dr. Hanson graduated from The University of Rochester School of Medicine in New York. He completed an internship with Columbia University of New York. He then completed dual residency programs in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at the University of Utah. He completed a fellowship in Addictionology.
For an appointment with Dr. Hanson at our Lehi Clinic call (801) 872-5516 option 1.
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Dr. Joseph Yau
Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Medical Management
Children, Adolescents, Adults
Dr. Joseph Yau
Dr. Joseph Yau is board certified in both General/Adult Psychiatry and in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He trained in Internal Medicine and in Emergency Medicine when he worked in Hong Kong. He completed his specialty training at the University of Utah Department of Psychiatry and has been in practice for 32 years.
He has board clinical experience, including issues in adults, children, substance abuse, specific disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety disorder, psychotic disorder and developmental disorders such as autism. This wide exposure was due to his previous work as the medical director of a large mental health organization which served 16,000 clients.
As he provides state of the art medication treatment for clients he deeply considers the riches of a client’s life and the impact of the past, the current and the anticipated future on the client’s beliefs, fulfillment and struggles. He incorporates these factors when providing interventions for his clients. Dr. Yau believes team work makes happenings happen. Dr. Yau, the client and the client’s therapist, and will work together to achieve the best possible progress.
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Elizabeth Harrop
APRN/PMHNP-BC
Medical Management
Children age 6+, Adolescents, Adults
Elizabeth Harrop
Elizabeth Harrop is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHNP-BC) working in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. Beth is a graduate of the University of Utah’s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program. She is board certified and experienced in treating clients of all ages across the lifespan with a specific focus on children and adolescents from age 6 and up.
She is experienced in working with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse disorders. She has many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. She has a unique ability to connect with her clients and views mental health treatment as a collaborative effort. She is an advocate of the combined approach of psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy. She has over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry, women’s health and working in the juvenile justice system, as well as a Master Degree in School Guidance Counseling.
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Licensed Mental Health Therapists
Susan Mitchell
Clinical Director/LCSW
Susan Mitchell
Susan Mitchell is the Clinical Director for Ascendant Clinics. Her director duties keep her busy, and therefore she does not provide individual therapy.
Susan has 22 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Her specialties include women’s issues; anxiety disorders, addictions, and mood disorders in adults and adolescents. She is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Susan also has over 10 years of experience in designing and developing clinical treatment facilities and administering clinical programming at all levels of care from residential treatment to outpatient clinics. Her passion is providing a clinic setting where clients receive outcome based specialized treatment for the issue they are presenting with from highly trained and experienced clinicians.
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Jesse Beebe
LCSW
CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Meditation, Solution Focused, Family System, Family Functional, REBT, Motivational Interviewing
Pornography Addictions, Substance Use Disorders
Military, Veterans, Teens, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors
Jesse Beebe
Jesse Beebe has been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the past 9 years. His specialties include working with clients who have addictions, depression and anxiety, suicidal ideation, and family function. Jesse works with teens and adults around all types of addiction and oppositional defiant behaviors. He also works with families of teens through family therapy. Jesse is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to work with both teens and adults who are engaging in maladaptive behaviors. Jesse has experience in treating men’s issues and also in working with the young adult population from age 18-27. He also specializes in stress reduction and treatment of clients dealing with work or family stress issues. He is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT).
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Celeste Bennett
LCSW
CBT, DBT, REBT, Motivational Interviewing
Domestic Violence, Eating Disorders, Substance Use Disorders
Military, Veterans, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors
Celeste Bennett
Celeste Bennett has been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the past 8 years. She works in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and depression. Celeste has advanced training in conflict resolution and has also worked extensively with clients struggling to manage their anger. Her training also includes specialized treatment for eating disorders and food addictions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), domestic violence, and self-harm issues.
Celeste utilizes Mind-Body Bridging techniques for clients with PTSD and also has experience with combat PTSD treatment for veterans. She is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT).
Celeste is also a specialist in working with the 55 years of age and older population around issues such as grief and loss, depression, and substance use. Celeste is well suited to work with young adults age 18 to 28 years of age including college students, returned missionaries, and those struggling with anxiety and stressful life changes.
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Heidi Cheney
LCSW
CBT, DBT, Trauma, EMDR, Solution Focused, Family Systems, REBT, Motivational Interviewing, Art and Music Therapy, Sand Tray
Substance Use Disorder, Perinatal and Postpartum Mood Disorders
Military, Veterans, Children, Adolescents, Adults, Seniors
Heidi Cheney
Heidi Cheney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), counselor and therapist working in our Lehi clinic. Heidi has worked with a wide variety of clients in an outpatient setting. She has worked with the elderly, adult men and women, teens and children in individual, family, group and couples therapy. She has worked with a wide variety of issues including children suffering from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and neglect; boys and men struggling with pornography and/or substance abuse; those who have committed sexual offenses or experienced sexual abuse themselves. Heidi has also worked with girls and women struggling with the same addictions as the male population, and who have been victims of others. She has also treated all populations struggling with depression, trauma, and a variety of anxiety disorders, post- traumatic stress, personality disorders and symptoms.
Heidi utilizes several therapeutic modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR,) trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Sand Tray, and Art and Music therapies. It is very rewarding for Heidi to help people from all walks of life heal and move forward with their lives while having a more hopeful and positive outlook.
Through all of her professional work and personal experience, Heidi has learned that relationships are what matter most. Almost any problem can be resolved if there is a good relationship in place. Any relationship that is struggling can be mended if those involved are willing and committed to make it better.
Heidi attended school at Ricks College (now BYU Idaho) where she met her husband and married after her first year of school. She put her education on hold in order to focus on starting a family. She is the mother of five children (four girls and one boy), and grandmother of six. When her youngest daughter entered second grade, Heidi went back to school to achieve her dream of finishing a college education. She graduated with a Bachelor degree in Behavioral Science from Utah Valley State College in 2007 and went on to earn a Master degree in Social Work from the University of Utah in 2009.
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Tyler Cheney
CSW
CBT, CPT
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Suicide Prevention, Life Change, Adjustment Issues
Adults
Tyler Cheney
Tyler Cheney is a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with expertise in treating anxiety, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), trauma, depression, life transition, phase of life problems, and suicide prevention/intervention. he is working in Ascendant’s Salt Lake clinic Murray.
Tyler has worked with adults in hospital settings, the Veterans’ Administration, inpatient psychiatric units, and outpatient clinics. He places a strong emphasis on providing evidence-based therapy services and incorporating research into the therapeutic process. His primary therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. He has a dynamic approach with an emphasis on family and interpersonal relationships.
He has a Bachelor degree in Psychology from the University of Utah and a Masters Degree in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles.
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Marianne Daniels
CMHC
CBT, DBT, Trauma, Mindful Meditation, Solution Based, REBT, Motivational Interviewing, Family System, Child Centered Play
Children, Adolescents, Adults
Marianne Daniels
Marianne Daniels is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) with seven years of experience in the mental health field. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. She also has a Master’s degree in mental health counseling from Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, specializing in group therapy and individual therapy. Marianne works in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray.
Marianne’s professional experience includes group and individual therapy from a correctional setting, and from outpatient clinics throughout the Salt Lake City area.
Marianne works with individuals and groups on issues such as family, divorce, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger management, parenting skills, grief and loss, physical and sexual abuse, and adolescent issues.
Marianne’s work style is extremely relaxed, informal manner that is collaborative in nature. Her therapy sessions most resemble a warm conversation in a soothing office setting. She likes to use humor occasionally and takes careful consideration to make sure the office setting is a safe place for a client to feel free to laugh, cry, or express anger as needed.
Marianne believes that most people not only experience stress and anxiety by unfortunate events, but that they also construct their views of reality in the stories they tell about themselves after the incident of trauma or stress. While as therapists, we rely on different counseling techniques, Marianne’s primary focus is with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). Both of these types of therapies can help most people overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought processes that tend to add additional emotional strain, trauma, and tension to life stressors. She also has experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
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Allie Diamond
LCSW
CBT, Positive Psychology, Humanistic Psychology, Strengths and Resilience Based
Crisis Intervention, Suicide Prevention, Grief and Loss, Aging, Chronic Pain/Health Conditions, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use
Adults, Seniors
Allie Diamond
Allie Diamond, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), is a therapist in Ascendant’s Salt Lake clinic in Murray. She is a graduate from the University of Utah College of Social Work. She has worked in the human services field since 1993.
Allie considers herself a life-long social worker. She has been involved in volunteer activities and community activism since the age of ten. Allie has a specialization in working with the geriatric population and was one of the first graduates of the University of Utah’s “Aging and Health Care” certification, which she earned along with her master’s degree in 2013. While Allie enjoys working with the senior population, she is happy to work with anyone who is eighteen or older. Allie’s approach has been called, “positive psychology” or “strengths based.” She prides herself on seeing her clients from a perspective of capable versus helpless. She believes firmly that the answers to one’s problems lies within. She is simply a catalyst to facilitate the process of finding the “answers.”
Allie completed training in Resiliency Based Therapy in 2019. She also has in depth experience working with those experiencing mental health crises, people who have been affected by suicide and those who are processing grief. Allie’s doesn’t limit herself to any particular method of therapy and feels comfortable working with people of all backgrounds. Her relaxed and friendly style has been appreciated by her clients. Allie might be accompanied by Berklee, her Boston Terrier who is her service animal. If you enjoy a bit of pet therapy in your sessions, they might just be the team for you!
Allie is a therapist who believes in the inherent values of the human being and knows that we all have the capability to be the best versions of ourselves. Allie primarily serves Adults 18 and older, but has made allowances based on a client’s situation to work with adolescents and younger children.
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Anne Doubek
CMHC
CBT, DBT, Trauma, Mindfulness Meditation, Yoga Mind-Body Technique, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing
Military, Veterans, Couples, Families, Adolescents, Adults
Anne Doubek
Anne Doubek is a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) working in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. She has experience treating kids, adolescents, adults and couples with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and recovery from or adjusting to illness or physical disability. Anne specializes in person-centered therapy and particularly enjoys helping women manage the complexities of living a full and satisfying life.
Anne graduated from Bastyr University in Seattle in 1992 with an Master degree in Social-Behavioral Sciences. Her specialty is systems work with couples, youth, and families and treating individuals as they relate to challenges in their environments. She has worked in various settings including outpatient and inpatient treatment settings. Anne is a registered yoga teacher and utilizes body-mind techniques in her work to facilitate a holistic approach that treats the whole person. She is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
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Laura Durrant
LCSW
CBT, Interactive Guided Imagery, Level III Reiki Master
Depression, Anxiety, Parenting Issues, Relationship Issues, Religion/Faith Crisis
Adults
Laura Durrant
Laura Durrant is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience counseling adults and teens in a wide variety of settings. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Health from the University of Utah. She works in Ascendant’s Salt Lake clinic in Murray.
Laura’s practice areas include: Spirituality, Religion/Faith Crisis, Self-Actualization, Personal Growth, Relationship Issues, Parenting, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Management.
She is a Level III Reiki Master and is certified through the Academy of Guided Imagery as an Interactive Guided Imagery Guide.
Laura enjoys working with clients who want to experience more peace and joy in their life and move forward with greater awareness and confidence. Clients who work with Laura can expect the support of a warm, caring, non-judgmental therapist who honors their unique path.
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Laurie Elkins
LCSW
CBT, DBT, Trauma, ACT, Mindfulness Meditation, Gottman Couples Therapy, Art, Sand Tray
Military, Veterans, Couples, Adolescences, Adults
Laurie Elkins
Laurie Elkins is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in our Lehi clinic. She graduated with her Masters from Brigham Young University. Her practice is grounded in the importance of self-determination and in the vital nature of genuine regard for each person. She believes that we find our greatest strengths in personal challenges and that we are constantly moving toward balance and healing.
Laurie enjoys working with couples, groups, and individuals of all ages. She has extensive experience in the area of trauma due to life experience or to maltreatment. She recently completed intensive work with the Air Force, with active military and their families. She was responsible for casework, individual and couples therapy, group therapy and she led groups in domestic violence and anger management. She found her work with the military to be honorable and highly rewarding.
In her therapeutic practice Laurie guides her clients to healing through her training and experience with evidence based practices as appropriate: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Trauma Focused-CBT; and Mindfulness, Sand Tray, and Art Therapy; as well as Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method for Couples therapy. She has training and experience with Play therapy, and is currently working toward certification in “Child-Centered” Play Therapy.
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Norma Farris
ACMHC
CBT, Insight Oriented Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy
Grief and Loss, Relationships, Women’s Issues
Children, Adolescences, Adults
Norma Farris
Norma Farris is an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC) working in Ascendant’s Lehi clinic. She works with children, adolescents and adults. Norma’s approach with clients is client centered with an emphasis on self-acceptance, problem solving and coping skills using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Insight Oriented Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
Norma specializes in grief and loss, improving relationships, and Women’s issues including emotional abuse. Her passion is helping people overcome obstacles in their lives that are preventing them from moving forward and reaching their goals. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from the University of Utah and a Master’s degree in Counseling from Walden University.
Aside from her work, she loves spending time with her daughter, watching her in dance and musical theater. She also enjoys being outdoors, swimming, hiking, going to the movies or live theater, traveling and watching her nephews play sports.
For an appointment call (801) 872-5516 option 1.
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Wendy Francis
LCSW
CBT, DBT, Trauma, ACT, Insight Oriented, Motivational Interviewing, REBT, Family System, Family Function, Child Centered Play, Sand Tray
Perinatal and Postpartum Mood Disorders, Substance Use Disorders
Children, Adolescences, Adults
Wendy Francis
Wendy Francis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in our Lehi clinic. She has been providing mental health therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families since 1999. She uses a variety of therapeutic techniques with individuals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Child Directed Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Trauma Focused CBT, and Insight Oriented Therapy as well as others. Wendy works with families using various family therapy techniques and focuses on helping the whole family improve functioning. She has worked in a variety of settings, including providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults in outpatient clinics, in residential treatment centers, in substance abuse rehabilitation programs, in programs focused on improving parenting skills, in a children’s hospital setting, in crisis worker role for many hospitals, within the foster care system, and within the youth probation system. Wendy is currently licensed in the states of Utah, Idaho, and Alaska and is able to provide services for clients in all of those states. Wendy assists clients and families by developing a therapeutic relationship so that each unique individual can feel safe working toward improving relationships, developing coping skills, and having improvement in many areas of life.
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Gail Hilton
LCSW
CBT, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders
Adolescents, Adults, Seniors
Gail Hilton
Gail Hilton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. She has many years of experience in the Mental Health Field. Gail worked with children and families through the Division of Children and Families at the Utah State Department of Social Services. She also worked in the In-patient Psychiatric Unit and in Crisis in the Emergency Department at LDS Hospital.
Gail enjoys working with patients age 16 to 90 plus. She specializes in anxiety disorders, depression, psychosis and bipolar disorder. She also helps clients with gender identity concerns, victims of sexual and physical abuse, trauma and substance abuse in a group or IOP setting. For management and control of anxiety and panic symptoms, she uses behavioral methods. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as supportive therapy and education are the mainstays of her practice. Her approach is eclectic; fitting the type of therapy to the need of the patient.
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Ryan Judson
CMHC
EMDR, Trauma, Substance Addiction, Pornography Addiction
Adolescents, Adults
Ryan Judson
Ryan Judson is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) working in Ascendant’s Lehi clinic. He has extensive experience treating trauma and addictions, including pornography addictions. He works primarily with adolescents and adults. Ryan’s approach with clients is always client centered with an emphasis on acceptance and the effects of life experiences.
He has 8 years of experience specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). He has worked at several substance abuse clinics, both inpatient and outpatient, where the population is among the highest traumatized in mental health. He also has experience with inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. Ryan received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from BYU and a master’s degree in counseling from Southeastern Louisiana University. His passion is helping people. Aside from his work he enjoys sports, movies, and spending time with his kids.
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Kyung-Ran Koh
CMHC
CBT, DBT, Trauma, Mindfulness Meditation, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Family System
Adolescents, Adults
Kyung-Ran Koh
Kyung-Ran Koh has been practicing as a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) for the past nine years. She works in our Lehi clinic. She has extensive experiences in treating mood disorders, addiction, co-dependency, substance dependence, trauma and victims of domestic violence. Kyung-Ran also works with couples who struggle with their relationship issues. Her treatment modalities are based on evidence based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness Meditation. She also practices the use of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to help clients alleviate emotional, psychological and physical pains that have created dis-ease in their system. Kyung-Ran received a Master’s degree from the University of Utah.
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Kim Mack
LCSW
LGTBQ issues, ACT, CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing.
Adolescents, Adults
Kim Mack
Kim Mack is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and specializes in LGTBQ issues, particularly as they relate to religion and spirituality. She has experience in working with adolescents and adults surrounding depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. She is skilled in Mindfulness and helping with relationship concerns, as well as a variety of other issues.
Kim has worked with adolescents in an acute psychiatric setting, on trauma crisis lines and spearheading email based support to more than 300 people for 15 years. After obtaining her degrees, she spent seven years working with vulnerable adults in abuse situations by connecting families to resources and helping them find safety and relief from trauma. She worked with the elderly regarding the aging process. She also worked for two and a half years with the University of Utah Mobile Crisis Outreach Team assessing people in crisis, connecting them to helping community partners, assisting in creating safety plans, and facilitating inpatient stays when required.
Therapies that Kim uses include Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.
Kim is excited about helping people find their own paths to healing, growth, and changes they desire. She loves watching people reach their goals and find peace and meaning in their lives while following their own life paths. She is passionate about seeing people discover self-acceptance and mindfully journeying toward their goals and dreams. Kim loves to assist others in learning to excel in life and in relationships. She also enjoys spending time with her spouse, children, and grandchildren hiking, camping, and reading.
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Patricia Merkley
LCSW
CPT, Trauma, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, Existential Therapy
Domestic Violence, Women’s Issues, Family Function, Aging
Adults, Couples, Families
Patricia Merkley
Patricia Merkley has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and therapist for over 30 years providing individual, couples, and family therapy in Utah, Ohio, and Texas.
Pat is a humanist interpersonal therapist. She has developed an expertise with women’s issues, trauma work, complicated family systems, cultural diversity and aging. Pat worked many years with intimate partner violence in domestic violence shelters and with young mothers dealing with the impact of trauma on substance abuse. Pat also has worked with the Utah Attorney General on the Safety Net Committee and provided therapy to those from an insular, religious culture.
Pat’s areas of specialization include:
- Trauma
- Domestic violence
- Existential and Spiritual concerns
- Family of origin complexity
- Life changes—marital adjustment, new employment, relocation, starting college, divorce, retirement, death and loss
- Women’s Issues—individuation, self-esteem, assertiveness, depression, parenting, divorce, loss, perfectionism, and life span developmental and transitional issues
- Interpersonal Skills—communication enhancement, conflict resolution, connecting on a deeper level, having difficult conversations
- Gay and Lesbian Identity Development
- Aging
Pat received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Sociology from Brigham Young University. She received a Masters of Social Work at the University of Utah. She completed a year of postgraduate studies at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio.
Pat’s therapeutic modalities include: Humanism, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Trauma Informed, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, and Existential Therapy. Pat is trained and certified in CPT (preferred by the military for PTSD), Attachment Theory, domestic violence treatment, EMDR, and trauma treatment.
Pat has extensive experience with spiritual dynamics impacting relationships and counseling complicated family systems.
Pat believes that therapy is a gift you give yourself. Counseling can heal lingering wounds, help solidify identity, assist with the grieving process, bring about deeper interpersonal connections, increase emotional regulation, cultivate inner peace, expedite conflict resolution, untangle religious expectations, and enhance overall life satisfaction and meaning. Pat can help create a safe space for this deeper journey into self-awareness, healing, and personal transformation.
Pat is an avid outdoorswoman, writer, art enthusiast, the mother of 6 children and 7 grandchildren and hails from Heber City, UT.
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Robert Miller
CMHC
CBT, DBT
Depression, Addiction, Anxiety
Families, Couples, Teens, Adults
Robert Miller
Robert Miller is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) working in Ascendant’s Lehi clinic. He has ten years of experience specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction and other debilitating issues such as those stemming from work, family and relationships. He uses proven treatment methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Robert strives to have a caring and interpersonal connection with his clients, treating them with respect and dignity. He creates a working environment that feels safe and non-judgmental. His passion is to help people re-discover or develop new coping skills to help combat everyday difficulties. He likes to work from a client strength base perspective and enjoys working with clients age 13 to 99.
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Petra Pallos
CMHC
DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness
Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Eating Disorders, Addictions,
Adults, Couples
Petra Pallos
Petra Pallos is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) working in Ascendant’s Salt Lake Clinic in Murray. She’s has worked in a variety of settings including eating disorder clinics, crisis residential settings, and, most recently, in Salt Lake County felony drug court working with drug court clients.
She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, addictions, eating disorder, relationship issues, and grief and loss. She uses Mindfulness techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help her clients realize their full potential and create positive changes in their lives. She believes that her clients have the answer within themselves to reach their happiness and can overcome obstacles with proper guidance and positive regard.
Petra is a devoted yogi and yoga teacher and is influenced by that philosophy and spirituality which accepts everyone from all walks and journeys of life. One of her favorite quotes is “No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.” Buddha.
She received her graduate degree in 2010 and has over 8 years of experience treating behavioral health concerns.
Petra is available evenings and Saturdays. For an appointment call (801) 872-5516 option 2.
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Jodi Petersen
LCSW
DBT, CBT, EMDR, Gottman Couples Therapy
Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Parenting and Teen Issues, Sexual Addiction, Trauma
Couples, Families, Teens, Adults
Jodi Petersen
Jodi Petersen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in Ascendant’s Behavioral Health Clinic in Lehi. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting support, women’s issues, teen issues, sexual addictions, sexual betrayal trauma, and anger and stress management.
Jodi enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. She uses a strength-based holistic approach incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)), Gottman Couples Therapy, and other therapeutic models. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
In her practice, she seeks to create an atmosphere where her clients feel at ease as she offers guidance using research-based interventions in a confidential, non-judgmental atmosphere. She strives to help her clients gain a better understanding of themselves and receive the necessary skills to help them cope with their various life struggles.
She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Brigham Young University and She has worked in inpatient facilities (Psychiatric hospital units in both Utah and California and substance abuse inpatient in Utah) and in private practice.
For an appointment with Jodi call (801) 872-5516 option 1.
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Georgann Ranks
CMHC
CBT, DBT, Trauma, EMDR, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, REBT, Solution Focused, Art, Family Systems, Child Centered Play, Sand Tray
Perinatal and Postpartum Mood Disorders
Military, Veterans, Families, Children, Adults
Georgann Ranks
Georgann Ranks is a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) working in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. She has a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Westminster College and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Utah. She has treated a variety of individuals with mental health and/or relationship problems with a focus on trauma. Georgann has an array of experience in individual therapy and family therapy including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) for children who have trauma. She is experienced in leading substance abuse and process groups.
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Pat Ringold
CMHC
Trauma, EMDR, ACT
Military, Veterans, Adults
Pat Ringold
Pat Ringold is a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) with more than 20 years of experience as a counselor. She works in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. Pat has appreciated contributing to clients in varied environments. She has experience with a broad range of life challenges. She has worked in crisis settings, on military posts, in community mental health clinics, and with groups. She supports those who have trauma history and attachment disruptions, as well as challenges with anxiety, depression, and substance use.
She is a certified Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist who is trained in resource building, imagery, Seeking Safety, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Her clients experience success in building on and expanding their strengths using individualized combinations of evidence based approaches. Pat received her Masters from the University of Dayton.
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Alina Schmelzer
LCSW
Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, CBT, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory
Life Transitions, Teen Issues, Adolescents, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Families
Pat Ringold
Alina Schmelzer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in our Salt Lake Clinic in Murray. After graduating with her Master’s in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis in 1999, she went onto to obtain her LCSW. She has over 12 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and their families in a variety of mental health and medical environments, including Primary Children’s Medical Center. She is most passionate about helping teens and young adults overcome the challenges that can emerge during a significant transitional time in their lives. She enjoys working with clients 12 years and up, including families and couples.
She believes that her first job is to provide a safe, therapeutic space where a person can express themselves without any judgement. Only then can a person begin self-awareness and the door for change can open. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory.
She is also an avid dog lover and feels strongly in the power of animal assisted therapy for those who love animals. She and her first dog were a certified therapy team for over 7 years. Her current Bernese Mountain Dog, Fischer, is a therapy dog in training and he is available to be present in sessions if desired.
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Stacey Rich
CMHC
CBT, DBT, Trauma, EMDR, Seeking Safety, ACT
Military, Veterans, Children, Adults
Stacey Rich
Stacey Rich is a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and has been practicing psychotherapy for the past 10 years. She has extensive training in working with trauma clients utilizing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)). Stacey also has experience with providing many other types of trauma informed care. She is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which is utilized to help people heal from past issues and learn to live fully in the present. DBT is an outcome based treatment highly recommended for clients struggling with severe anxiety. Stacey utilizes DBT in her treatment of substance use disorders. Stacey also specializes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT).
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Janet Sessions
LMFT
DBT, EMDR, Family Therapy, Mindfulness Practice, Gestalt Therapy
Early Development Trauma, Family Systems, Relationship Issues, depression, Anxiety
Families, Children, Teens, Adults
Janet Sessions
Janet Sessions is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) at Ascendant’s Salt Lake clinic in Murray. She has over 15 years of experience in the mental health field.
Janet has extensive training in family therapy, mindfulness practice, and Gestalt therapy. She has also completed trainings in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). She believes that an authentic, emotionally safe relationship is the catalyst to change. Janet knows that healing is possible, depression and anxiety do not have to be life sentences, and that emotions live in the body. She is passionate about helping people heal from the affects of early developmental trauma and unstable family systems so that they can develop the awareness and skills necessary for attracting, building and maintaining fulfilling relationships.
In 2000, while living in the San Francisco Bay Area, she worked at a group home with children, and also provided in-home support for struggling families. In 2007, Janet finished graduate school at the California Institute of Integral Studies with a Masters in Integral Counseling Psychology. She chose this school for its non-pathologizing model, experiential learning and Buddhist influence. She trained in Gestalt therapy, and throughout graduate school worked at a therapeutic residential program for teens. Since graduate school, Janet has worked in schools, private practice, with adults on probation, and children and teens in an outpatient therapy setting.
Janet has been in Utah since 2016 and enjoys exploring the mountains and natural beauty this state has to offer. Her dog, Louie, is often in the room while she works.
For an appointment call (801) 872-5516 extension 2.
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Leigh Ann Stambaugh
CMHC
CBT, Trauma, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Meditation, Solution Focused, Brief Therapy
Mood Disorders, Trauma, Grief
Adults, Seniors
Leigh Ann Stambaugh
Leigh Ann Stambaugh is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) working in Ascendant’s Lehi Clinic. She has over 23 years of experiencing working with varied populations whose ages range from adolescent to senior.
Her specialty areas include mental health issues associated with mood disorders, trauma, and grief. She works best with adults. She has also worked extensively with crisis situations ranging from domestic violence, suicidal and homicidal ideations, and substance abuse. Her primary treatment modalities are Brief, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Meditation, and Person-Centered Therapy. In Brief Therapy there are usually 10 to 20 sessions focused on helping a person to resolve or effectively manage a specific problem or challenge, or to make a desired change.
Leigh Ann graduated from Southern Utah University in 1994 with a Bachelors of Arts, majoring in Psychology and Sociology. She subsequently moved to Arizona, where she lived for 20 years. While in Arizona she returned to school and completed her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Ottawa University. Leigh Ann returned to Utah in 2015 and continues her career helping others identify their strengths and determine what course of action would be best suited for their current stressors.
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Chris Taylor
LCSW
ACT, CBT, Mindful Self-Compassion, Motivational Interviewing
Depression, Anxiety, Stress,
Adolescents, Adults, Seniors
Clifton Uckerman
Chris Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Ascendant’s Salt Lake clinic in Murray. He has 4 years of clinical experience working with varied populations whose ages range from adolescent to senior.
Chris has a calm, kind-hearted presence that invites genuine connection and sharing. He believes in the power of empathetic listening combined with current psychological interventions to help individuals be more understanding and compassionate with themselves and others, reduce suffering and ultimately live a life they value.
His specialty areas include Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindful Self-Compassion, and Motivational Interviewing. Chris aims to increase levels of self-compassion, mindfulness, social connectedness, life satisfaction, and sense of purpose, and to lessen symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Chris graduated from University of Denver in 2014 with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Before getting his degree Chris spent 10 years as a competitive snowboarder and sponsored athlete. This experience exposed Chris to a variety of successes and challenges that inspired him to help others heal and grow. Chris has also worked as a physical therapy aid, snowboard coach, and yoga teacher.
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Clifton Uckerman
LCSW
CBT, Affirmation Therapy
Trauma, Substance Abuse, Addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, LGBTQ+
Adolescents, Adults
Clifton Uckerman
Clifton Ukerman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. Clif has nearly 20 years of experience in trauma-informed prevention and the treatment of substance abuse, addiction including pornography and sexual addiction, and mental health disorders. He specializes in working with males and females that are in late adolescence and throughout their adult lifespan.
Clif first uses empathetic strategies and motivational enhancement techniques to strengthen the attachment and therapeutic relationship with the client. He has a warm regard and is not judgmental. Next, he delivers an intensive and scientifically-based treatment planning process to prepare each client for their own unique therapeutic journey with identified outcomes and measurable results.
His mastery in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including metacognitive analysis and change behavior, allows clients to work through anger, obsessions and compulsions, depression, anxiety, mania, complex trauma and other emotional-behavioral disruptions and impairments to a higher quality of life and overall well-being. Clif is also very attuned to affirmation therapy with the LGBTQ+ community and communities of color. Additionally, he has success in working with suicide attempt survivors, court-ordered clients, and clients that have co-occurring disorders (dual diagnosis) as well as clients that are in a medication maintenance or recovery stage of change.
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Jenny Vasquez
LCSW
CBT, DBT
Life Changing Illnesses, Grief
Groups, Teens, Adults
Jenny Vasquez
Jenny Vasquez in a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in our Salt Lake clinic in Murray. She has been practicing psychotherapy for the past 11 years. She completed intensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) training in Seattle from July 2013-September 2015 and she has a specific focus on evidence-based therapies. She currently runs DBT groups to help with emotional regulation for both teens and adults. She also specializes in anxiety, trauma; grief and loss, women’s empowerment, suicidal ideation self-harming behaviors, and substance use. In addition, Jenny has expertise in working with clients with life-changing illnesses through her work as an oncology social worker with Intermountain Medical Center from October 2009 to September 2014.
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Vivian Vonk
CMHC
CBT, DBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Interpersonal Violence, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, LGBTQ Sensitivity
Children, Adults
Vivian Vonk
Vivian Vonk is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor providing mental health therapy in our Lehi clinic. She believes in the power of the relationship, focusing on attachment and safety while creating reparative experiences that allow for growth.
She uses therapies such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship, Insight Oriented, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She has been trained in many other types of therapy including Trauma Informed Therapy, Interpersonal Violence, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety and LGBTQ sensitivity.
Vivian has experience with chemical dependency, addiction and working with homeless young adults.
She received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Roosevelt University in Chicago and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from Westminster College. In her personal life, Vivian enjoys spending time with family. She loves to camp, hike, fish, climb and anything to do with the outdoors. She’s ran over 100 half and full marathons as well as Alpine Climbed various mountains including summiting Mount Rainier.
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Call today for an appointment
801-872-5516
Option 1 for Lehi Clinic, Option 2 for Salt Lake Clinic in Murray
Comprehensive Treatment Center
for Addictions
(801) 212-9591
4179 Riverboat Rd., Ste. 220
Taylorsville, UT 84123
Behavioral Health Clinics FAX:
(801) 880-0069
Comprehensive Treatment Center FAX:
(385) 831-2980
Behavioral Health Clinics:
(801) 872-5516
Lehi Clinic
3051 Maple Loop Dr., Ste. 210
Lehi, UT 84043
Salt Lake Clinic
5383 S. 900 E., Ste. 103
Murray, UT 84117
Layton Clinic
1133 N. Main St., Ste 128
Layton, UT 84041
©2016 Ascendant Behavioral Health