Meet our Counselors
** Please note, Thriveworks Tucson is not in network with AHCCCS
Blanca Obregon, LPC
Hello and Welcome! My name is Blanca Obregón. I am a bi-lingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over 25 years experience working in diverse settings, from school-based counseling services, university centers, community mental health clinics, and in private practice. I also have experience working in multicultural settings within the Mexican/Latino, and on the reservations with Hopi, Navajo, and Havasupai cultures.
My approach to counseling is rooted in compassion, respect, and the belief that every person has the ability for healing and growth. My aim is to build a trusting relationship that will guide you to explore your own resolutions, find your strengths, and bring on change according to your life transition needs. I do this by providing a safe, compassionate environment, in which we explore motivation, process your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment.
Ages: 18+
Modalities:
- Person centered therapy
- CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)
- MI (motivational interviewing)
- Solution focussed therapy
- Compassion focussed
- Culturally sensitive
- Strength Based
- Mindfulness/Meditation
- Art therapy
Focuses:
- Child behavior problems
- Parenting support
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Self-esteem issues
- Coping skills
- Trauma
- Chronic illness
- Life Transitions
- Relationships
- Women issues
Whatever the reason for seeking counseling services, there is always space for hope and healing, you don’t have to navigate this alone. If you need someone to listen and support you, help you process thoughts and feelings, or create lasting behavior change, I am here to assist, and empower you with your goals.
Erica Wagner, LCSW
Hello, my name is Erica Wagner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of therapy experience. Originally from the midwest, I have lived in Tucson since the late 1990s, where I have worked in community mental health, education and prevention settings. I believe that everyone has a story and that everyone has strengths.
My goal as a therapist is to help you build on those strengths. With warmth, humor and respect, I will support you in developing ways to become fully present, to unhook from unworkable thought patterns, and to develop positive behavioral changes. Talking about problems and making changes to solve them can be difficult, but therapy can support you in this process. Change can begin to unfold when you are listened to and understood. My role will be to assist you in bringing mindfulness, commitment, and self-compassion into this change process.
Ages:
Adults 18+
Adolescents/Teens
Children ages 6-11 (parent/caregiver involvement in sessions emphasized)
Families
Clinical approaches:
- ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
- TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy)
- Solution Focused Therapy
- Schema Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Family Systems
- Psychoeducation
- Parent Training
Issues:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Self Harm
- Anger
- Relationships
- Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills/Communication
- Parenting and Co-Parenting issues
I draw from different clinical approaches and will seek feedback about what works best for you. I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and helping you to move in your chosen life direction.
Jennifer Hewitt, LMSW
Hi, I’m Jennifer Hewitt and I am an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker). In the last ten years, I’ve worked in a variety of mental health settings, learning and using multiple approaches/modalities to help clients reach their desired life’s goals. I’m a native Arizonan, receiving two Bachelor’s Degrees from Northern Arizona University and my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. Through my variety of experiences, I’ve cultivated an eclectic approach to my therapeutic work. This approach is fully based on my belief that each client is a unique human being that thrives best in a therapeutic approach and treatment that really matches their needs. I know the courage it takes to seek help and share one’s deepest thoughts, feelings and dreams with a therapist. My goal, first and foremost, is to create a safe environment through empathy and deep listening so all I’m honored to work with feel heard, validated and empowered to make the changes they seek.
Ages: 18+
Modalities:
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT)
- Dialectical (DBT)
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Family Systems
- Reality therapy
- Person-Centered Strength-Based
- Trauma Focused
- Parenting Modalities:
- Choice Parenting:
- Love and Logic
- 123 Magic
- STEP (Systematic Training for Effective Parenting)
- Choice Parenting:
Focus areas:
- Anxiety
- Women’s Issues
- Chronic Illness
- Coping Skills
- Depression
- Relationship Issues/Couples
- Life Transitions
- Marital and Premarital
- Parenting Stress
- Addiction
- Women'sIssues
- Peer Relationships
- Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
I would like the opportunity to provide a space for you to feel heard without judgment, while helping to create new patterns in your life. It would be my honor to help you find that version of yourself that you lost or dreamed of having.
Gaye Adams, LPC
Hi, I’m Gaye Adams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a registered Art Therapist. I had finished my art degree when I discovered "art therapy," the marriage of my two greatest interests: psychology and art. My early work was with children, teens and their families, which inspired and informed my current trauma skills. A lot of my work was with military families, two local Nations, and, more recently, with adults in private practice. I was adjunct professor for University of Arizona's graduate Art Therapy Program, supervising students in a work setting.
I believe we have within us the seeds of our own healing, but sometimes we get off course. My experience has been that growth is not a straight line but occurs when we prepare the ground. My skills are intended to facilitate your process, whatever that may be. In my office, you will be heard.
Ages:
- Adolescents 15+
- Adults
- Families
Modalities:
- Clinical Art Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Techniques
- Behavioral Modification
- Non-verbal Techniques
- Psychodrama
- Rational Emotive Therapy
Focus:
- Trauma Resolution Depression
- Anxiety
- Life Planning
- Parenting and Childhood Development
- Anger Management
In reviewing this, you have taken the first step toward the life you envision. I hope you take the time to make an appointment to meet with me and gauge if it’s a fit for what you want to accomplish. I can't promise what will happen if you engage in therapy, but it has brought immense relief to many people.Turns out we're still human, but with much more understanding of oneself, and able to make better choices.
Jeffrey Pollack, LCSW
Hi, I’m Jeff Pollack and I’m an LCSW and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I graduated with my Masters from the UIC Jane Addams School of Social Work in Chicago, culminating in my LCSW and fulfilled my interest in working with addictions, by obtaining my Certification in Addiction Counseling. I am also a Registered Nurse, rounding out my full commitment to emotional and physical healing. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field and enjoy using the blend of my education and training to facilitate healing with all clients I have the honor of working with. Whether struggling with depression, anxiety, relational/family dynamics or the shadow of addictions, I believe my client is important and capable of creating a new way forward. My role as a therapist is to facilitate that process, pave that new way forward and reach their goals.
I utilize a wide variety of interventions and modalities to promote personal growth, empower clients and eliminate negative patterns.
Ages:
- Adults 18+
Modalities:
- Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical
- Psychodynamic
- Motivational Interviewing
- Mindfulness Based (MBCT)
- 12 Step
- Family Systems Interventions
- Eclectic
- Emotionally Focused
My focus areas:
- Addiction/Substance Use
- Depression
- Anxiety
- LGBQT
- Mood Disorders
- Anger Management
- Relationship Issues
- Trauma/PTSD
- Individuals
- Couples
- Families
Please know that the decisions you may have made in the past will be heard without judgement. We make the best decisions we can with the information available at the time. Maya Angelo says it all; “I did then what I knew how to do. Now I know better, I do better.” As hard as it might be, please take the next step to get the help you need, you deserve.
Accepting:
- BCBS
Jesus Magana, LMSW
** Now offering Online TeleHealth services
Hello, I am Jesus Magana. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working with youth and adults who have suffered trauma. I’ve worked in various settings, including community mental health, residential facilities and psychiatric units. Through this experience, I have been exposed to and trained in an array of therapeutic techniques, but the core of my approach is client centered and client driven. Creating an empathic and safe space for clients to begin healing is my top priority as a licensed clinician.
I have come to believe that all of us are shaped and molded by everyday experiences that begin even before birth. Because of this and regardless of our backgrounds or upbringing, we experience some sort of trauma. Some are capital “T” traumas and others are small “t” traumas, but all impact our ability to live happy, thriving lives. Instead, we struggle in our lives, questioning why we can’t make sense of it all. And no wonder, considering science has now proven that trauma also physiologically changes the makeup of our brains. This understanding helps me in working with all my clients, many of whom suffer with PTSD, Acute Stress, Major Depression, Anxiety and Personality Disorders.
The modalities I most draw from include:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCBT)
- Sand Tray Therapy
- Motivational Interview (MI)
If you are reading this and feel inspired to begin the journey to healing, please reach out. I am here and ready to join the team effort to create a happy and thriving life.
Accepting:
- BCBS
- United HealthCare
Bethany Riley, LCSW
Hello, I am Bethany Riley a LCSW. I received my Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University. In the last 7 years as a therapist, I have worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults in a variety of settings such as outpatient clinics, in-home, and in- community settings. I believe that everyone has greatness and purpose, but at times we need a little extra help to see and realize how to achieve that greatness and find our purpose and to find ways to go in those directions.
Ages:
- Children 6-12
- Adolescents 13-17
- Adults 18+
Modalities:
- Family systems
- DBT
- ACT
- CBT
- Play therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Trained in EMDR
Focus areas:
- Trauma
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Children/adolescents
- Emotional dysregulation struggles
- Family conflict
- Attachment issues
- Life changes/adjustment issues
- Identity and self-esteem struggles
- And more
I look forward to meeting you where you are within this journey we call life with a kind, genuine, light-hearted, and collaborative approach.
Accepting:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- United Healthcare
Dominique Kundrat, LCSW
** Dominique will be available to schedule on October 15th, 2020
** Now offering Online TeleHealth services
Hello, I am Dominique Kundrat, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with individuals from many different backgrounds, facing different struggles, striving to overcome obstacles and move forward with the goals they have for their lives. My past experience includes working in the community in various social services settings. I have always loved working directly with people and building relationships. I am passionate about people receiving the help they need to live their lives to the fullest.
I have experience working with:
- Trauma
- Grief
- Stress/Anxiety
- Depression
- Chronic Illness
- Substance Abuse
- Relationship Issues
- Family Dynamics
- Children, Teenagers, and Adults
I draw on various therapeutic modalities including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
My goal is to listen to what you need, assist in overcoming barriers that are not serving you and help you accomplish your goals. I take a person-centered approach, treating the whole of who you are. I am here to listen and guide you toward the meaningful and fulfilled . I understand that deciding to seek therapy is a big decision, and I am here while you take that big step, and will be with you along the journey.
Accepting:
- BCBS
- United Healthcare
Kay Henderson, LPC
** Now offering Online TeleHealth services
Hello, I’m Kay Henderson. I honor and respect the search that you are on, as you look for someone who can help you navigate the changes you want to make. It’s hard to reach out for help and trust that you will be truly received. As an experienced therapist, my first goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where we can look honestly at patterns and behaviors that hold you back and create the best path for you to move through and beyond them.
We begin by exploring honestly where you are in the trajectory of change and the motivation you have to meet your goals. I draw from a unique blend of modalities that meets you where you are, drawing on solution focused mindfulness, empathetic support, creative modalities and powerful questions that challenge you when stuck. I put these together to create an approach and treatment that is unique to your needs.
I have over 20 years of experience in various settings, including school-based counseling, adolescent Day Treatment, international universities, outpatient and private practice. My experience and training in Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness meditation and DBT. I apply this experience and these tools in my work with:
- Adolescents
- Young adults – particularly college age in transition
- Adults struggling with anxiety/depression/recovery from trauma
I look forward to connecting with you! If you are ready to take this journey, I’m here!
Accepting:
- BCBS
- United Healthcare
Snaha Patel, LPC
Hello, I’m Snaha (Snay-ha) Patel, LPC and I’m thrilled to be able to offer my services to you through Thriveworks! I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling from Ottawa University. I believe in a client centered approach that is direct, honest and transparent.
I’ve worked in a variety of settings with numerous populations that include:
- Adolescents
- Adults
Within my own life and work experiences, I’ve come to realize that, while all of us relate to a certain group (race, culture, etc), we also have our own unique beliefs and way of doing things. While I believe this highlights our true diversity, it can also make getting along with others and sometimes even ourselves difficult. Differences can divide, with the result leaving us lonely and in need. When our needs are not met, we may seek solace in unhealthy coping skills, such as addiction, substance use, materialism, etc. I focus on helping you understand the root issue of your current struggle. Together we can untangle and expose unhealthy beliefs, leaving you free to explore what your true beliefs are.
To accomplish this, I use these modalities:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Expressive Arts
- 12 Step Philosophy
- Family system theories
- Brief Solution Focused Therapy
- Mindfulness
- Positive Psychology
I have experience working with:
- Relationship issues: Parenting
- Substance Abuse/Addiction
- Grief/Loss
- Trauma & PTSD
- Depression
- Anxiety/Stress
- Codependency
- Anger Management
- Self Esteem & Adjustment issues
- Cultural issues & Identity
- Sexual Abuse
- Suicidal ideation
I believe that you are capable of making the changes that you desire and that you can decide what solutions work best for you. After all, you are the one that knows yourself the best. I look forward to working with you in a safe and nonjudgmental, therapeutic environment.
Accepting:
- BCBS
Virginia Pope, LAMFT
** Offering Online TeleHealth Services Only
Hello, I’m Virginia Pope and I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. My therapeutic approach is integrative and based on the unique needs of each client I work with. I received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University and my Bachelors in Family Studies and Human Development from the University of Arizona. GO CATS! I’m also honored to have received my Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from Capella University.
The main therapies I draws on in my work are:
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- CBT
- Strength-based
- Experiential
I specialize in systemic work and enjoy working with:
- Couples
- Families
- Adults
- Children
- Teens
In all my work, I strive to create a nurturing and safe environment for our therapeutic work and take pride in building a positive therapeutic relationship with all my clients. I look forward to our work together!
Accepting:
- BCBS
- United Healthcare
Kiera Aboul-Nasr, LMFT
** Now offering Online TeleHealth services
Hi, my name is Kiera Aboul-Nasr and I am an LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) with over six years of experience working with couples, children, families and teenagers in non-profit community mental health. In this experience, I was able to use a wide range of approaches, modalities and techniques that I call upon in my therapeutic work. I was also able to clarify the personal and professional value I hold in this very important work of helping others reach their goals by letting go of internal obstacles. I believe that trust is the foundation of all healing and approach the therapeutic relationship with warmth, humor and respectful challenges that honor the natural rhythm of process
My training is focused in marriage and family work and I use the following modalities:
- Emotionally Focused
- Brief Solution Therapy
- Gottman (couples)
- Narrative
- Strategic
- Structured
- Family Systems
- Experiential
And I work with:
- Children
- Pre-Teens/Teens
- Young Adults
- Adults
- Couples
- Families
Take a moment, take a breath….and feel free to reach out for the help you need to live the life you want. I’m here and await the opportunity to walk with you on this journey.
Alanna Boyd, MA, LPC-S, CCTP
** Now offering Online TeleHealth services
Hi, I am Alanna Boyd, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. For over 11 years I have worked in a variety of settings assisting clients in their goals to achieve wellness. These settings have included: Community Mental Health, Residential treatment for eating disorders and survivors of sexual assault.
I have experience working with issues related to anxiety, disability adjustment issues, depression, grief and loss issues, relationship issues, self-esteem, sexual assault.
My approach is collaborative, heart-felt, and client-centered. I believe that clients recovering from any form of trauma guide the therapeutic process in order to feel safe and that it’s my role to create an environment where that sense of safety is maximized. I am committed to establishing a solid foundation of ongoing trust and offer coping skills that will make life a little easier right away. I believe in all my client’s resilience and their ability to recover no matter what pain they have been through in life. No matter what.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities that include:
- Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT)
- Brief Solution Focused Therapy (BSFT)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
If you are looking to fully heal & let go of whatever has made your life difficult, I would consider myself a proud member of your team and look forward to cheering you on in that recovery!
Linda J. O’Keefe, MSW, Transition Coach
** Now offering Online TeleHealth services
“The only constant in life is change”
How true this is, though it’s missing a vital component. It’s how we deal with change that matters. That’s the true work and what I’m most interested in helping you navigate.
In the 30 years I’ve been practicing, either as a counselor or a Coach, I have witnessed over and over the aftermath of life changes that were not reconciled. These transitions, usually, unexpected, have left a person, couple or family, stuck in the trauma and unable to move forward with life. Spinning in a world of the unknown, choices are made that just keep leading them down a path to more pain, doubt and fear.
As a Transition Coach, my gift is to offer insight into the deeper meaning of the transition, structure ways to move forward without repeating the past and eventually thrive in life on the other side.
My Transition Coach specialties are:
- Couples facing relationship transitions/challenges/divorce
- Moving through a life changing loss
- Facing a crossroads about the future that overwhelms
- Family systems navigating challenging dynamics.