There are different types of providers in the mental health field who perform different services. Their licenses depend on their level of education and training. Many people find this confusing.
MD (Doctor of Medicine):
Someone who has completed medical school. Psychiatrists hold MD degrees, have specialized training in psychiatric conditions and medications, and can prescribe medication, perform assessments and evaluations, and diagnose.
PNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner):
Someone who has completed a Master’s Degree in nursing and can prescribe medication. A PNPhas specialized training in psychiatric conditions and medication. They often do not perform assessments or evaluations, but can diagnose and sometimes also offer counseling.
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and PsyD (Doctor of Psychology):
Someone who has completed a Doctoral program. These providers are often addressed as “Dr.” but cannot prescribe medication. They often are trained in assessments and evaluations, can diagnose and often offer counseling.
LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker):
Someone who has completed a Master’s degree in social work (MSW). An MSW program focuses on a broad spectrum of issues and includes extensive training in advocacy, social justice, diagnostics, and person-in-environment. LCSWs cannot prescribe medication. They can diagnose, counsel, advocate, work in public policy positions or management and work in hospital settings.
LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist):
Someone who has completed a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). MFT’s are trained from a systemic perspective which means they work with individuals, couples, and families from the perspective of understanding how the client, or clients, are interacting with their environment and the relationships in their life. MFT’s approach treatment from the mindset of “context is key,” the more we can build an understanding of the relationships in your life, the easier it will become to identify ways to create and maintain lasting change. LMFTs cannot prescribe medication. They can counsel, as well as work in a variety of settings.
LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor):
Someone who has completed a Master’s degree in counseling (MC). LPCs cannot prescribe medication. They can counsel, as well as work in a variety of settings.
LCSW, LMFT and an LPC have undergone national testing, had years of clinical supervision, and have been required to log over 3,200 hours of client contact before being able to practice independently.
State Licensure:
All the levels of licensure listed above are governed by their respective Boards in the state of Arizona. You can easily look up any person who holds a license on their respective website (specific to their Board) and search for any disciplinary action against that provider, or to verify that their license is recent and in good standing. All providers are required to attend continuing education to maintain their licenses.To verify licensure and search for Board actions or complaints for LMFT, LCSW, and LPC, visit www.AZBBHE.us and search by license number, or name.
Born 6-19-19, ‘Keko (Kay-ko) is a 3 pound therapy dog in training who accompanies me to the office several days a week and is always happy to lie in someone’s lap
Lauren Jones Goldbach, LCSW, CCTP, Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician. Owner of East Valley Trauma Counseling.
(with Kira) & Takeko
Cost and Insurances:
$170 per hour in blocks of 1-3
CURRENTLY ONLY TAKING FIRST RESPONDERS
I am in network only with Aetna. A Superbill can be provided for you if you choose toself-pay, to submit to your insurance company and request reimbursement if you have an “out of network” benefit. Your insurance company will then reimburse you for part or all of the cost of your sessions.
Cost of sessions can be covered at 100% for first responders through HB2502 (Craig Tiger Act). This is a benefit covered by your department that can cover up to 36 sessions (per qualifying event) and you have a year to use them. To learn more about this, please visit the first responder page on this site.
Bio
I am married with five wonderful children, a daughter-and son-in-law, and four grandchildren. My family also includes English Mastiffs, Yorkies, cats, fish, and multiple desert tortoises.I am not a faith-based counselor, although I am a Christian.
I work with people from all walks of life and am an advocate for equality, including LGBTQ, although this is not an area of specialty for me.
The majority of therapists are over 20 years behind on neuroscience and rely heavily on ‘talk therapy’ and archaic modalities of treatment. I’m attend numerous trainings every year to stay informed and current on the latest research and most effective interventions for trauma healing. I absolutely believe that the brain has the capacity to heal itself.
I am a volunteer Board member (advisory) for P.I.S.T.L.E. and have had the amazing experience of volunteering with West Coast Post-trauma Retreat twice, helping first responders heal from trauma.
I love to use humor as much as I can – and when appropriate – in my sessions. When you come in to my office, I want you to feel as welcome and comfortable as possible. I have water bottles on hand, snacks, and a Keurig machine for hot tea and coffee. There is a large massage chair in the back of our suite, reserved exclusively for first responders.
I believe coming to counseling should never feel like visiting a doctor’s office: clinical and cold. I strive for comfort, warmth, and safety. Come in uniform (we are 2A friendly – you will never be asked to leave your weapon in your car) or plain clothes and feel free to kick your feet up and play with any of the dozens of items I have in my office for nervous energy. I do have an antique electric shock machine for “nervous system disorder” on my shelf and don’t recommend that particular object…
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Arizona: LCSW-16034, Michigan License # 6801118566, Indiana License #34010813A) (NPI 148 7091948) a Clinical Supervisor, a Certified Emergency Responder and Public Safety Clinician, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional through IATP: IATP.
My training includes (click on highlighted for more information)
Certificate Course for Clinical Practice: Applying Neuroscience for the Treatment of Trauma, Anxiety and Stress Disorders
Neurofeedback (Trauma Research Foundation)
Level I, II and advanced / special populations EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) ( See listing in EMDRIA )
Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician, NERPSC (see listing)
Trauma-Focused CBT for providers working with firefighters
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Teens (MBSR-T)
Certified Darkness to Light Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Trainer
Art and Play therapy
Couple’s therapy (Gottman and Emotionally Focused Therapy)
LGBTQ issues
My experience includes
Psychiatric inpatient hospital setting
City of Phoenix and City of Chandler Fire Departments’ Crisis Response units
Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department working with at-risk youth at both Durango and Southeast Facility (parenting case manager, diversion programs, Program Coordinator)
Intensive outpatient programs for adults and adolescents
SMI (Serious Mental Illness) Clinics
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from University of Phoenix, where I graduated cum laude. I earned a Master of Social Work degree from Arizona State University, where I was a member of Phi Alpha Honor Society.
Iam the Owner and Founder of East Valley Trauma Counseling, LLC (EIN 82-2087659).
Sarah is in network with Aetna. For all other insurances, a form can be provided for you to submit for reimbursement if you have out of network benefits. Contact your insurance for more information.
Individual intakes: $120 for 55 minutes – in blocks of 1-2 (55 – 105 minutes).
Individual follow-up: $110 per 55 minutes – in blocks of 1-2 (55 – 105 minutes).
*Sarah is only available on Thursdays at this time.
Bio
I moved to Arizona from Ohio in 2006 for college and now call this beautiful state my home. I met my wonderful husband while in graduate school and we have three gorgeous children (from age 6 to under 1 year). I have known I wanted to be a Social Worker since I was a senior in high school and worked in a retirement community. That’s where I really understood that everyone has a story to tell, if we just listen. Since then I have focused on crisis work and have worked alongside first responders on a crisis response team, with doctors and nurses in a level 1 trauma hospital, and with numerous other disciplines along the continuum of care. Doctors, nurses, and various other healthcare workers are routinely exposed to traumatic events and the challenge of having a patient’s life in their hands. I have really found my passion in trauma work and am eager to keep continuing my education and enhancing my skills with up to date trainings and resources so that I may better serve my clients. I love making connections and want my clients to know they have someone they can trust on their team.
My current trainings are:
Brainspotting, Phase 1 and Phase 2
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Internal Family Systems
My experience includes:
Crisis Response Team with the Phoenix Fire Dept.
Emergency Room and Inpatient hospital work in Level 1 Trauma Hospital
I graduated from Arizona State University with my Bachelors of Social work in 2010. I went on to do the 1 year Advanced Standing Master’s program through ASU, graduating with my MSW in 2011. I am licensed and in good standing, with the AZ Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (LMSW-13457).
Sarah is an independent contractor and currently receiving clinical supervision under Lauren Jones Goldbach, LCSW
Rhanda is in network with Aetna. For all other insurances, a form can be provided for you to submit for reimbursement if you have out of network benefits. Contact your insurance for more information.
Individual intakes: $150 for 55 minutes – in blocks of 1-2 (55- 105 minutes)
Individual follow-up: $140 per 55 minutes – in blocks of 1-2 (55 – 105 minutes)
Bio
Helping others has been my passion since I was a child, as I always helped those who were sick and listened to others when they needed it. I truly do love people, animals, life and consider myself spiritual and a Christian. When I’m out of the office, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my fiancé, family and friends, cooking, and exercising. I’m very interested in overall health and wellness, and practical ways to incorporate these into my life. The mind and body are connected and both need to be addressed in order to obtain overall good health. I do have a history of working in the medical field, so I enjoy working with medical professionals. I also come from a family of first responders and am passionate about helping those who put their life on the line for our safety and freedom. My grandfather was a proud, yet humble WWII veteran and froze his feet during the war. My father was in the army and National Guard, and my uncle is a retired firefighter. From a young age, I was taught to respect all men and women in uniform and this has fueled my passion to this day.
Regardless of your profession and/or background, I hope that I can help you heal and decrease any primary issues or concerns you’d like to work on. My highest priority is your safety and comfort. I enjoy helping others learn more about themselves, while I guide and support them through life’s challenges. My hope is for you to heal and overcome any traumas or stressors you’re experiencing. Going to therapy takes courage and it can be intimidating to start with someone new. I’d love to assist you with your healing journey and advocate for you and your progress along the way.
I graduated with my Bachelors in Social Work in 2015. Through the Advanced Standing Program at University of Nevada, Reno I received my Masters in Social work where I graduated magna cum laude. I’ve been a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society since 2015. I’m committed to continuing my education with the most recent trainings and research to expand my knowledge and to provide the most up to date therapy approaches and modalities to my clients.
My training includes:
Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist (IATP)
Emergency Responder and Public Safety Clinician (NERPSC See listing)
Conducting Annual Wellness Visits for Law Enforcement Officers – Nancy Ryba Panza, PhD, ABPP
Brainspotting
Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dr. Sue Johnson
Trauma Competency for the 21st Century – Dr. J. Eric Gentry, LMHC
Mindfulness and Self-Compassion, Dr. Kristen Neff
International Conference on Trauma and Addiction
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dr. Steven Hayes
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Internal Family Systems, Dick Schwartz
Unspoken Legacy Reverberations of Trauma Within the Addicted Family – Claudia Black, PhD
Shame and Dignity – Peter Levine, PhD
Sexually Compulsive and Addictive Behavior – Stefanie Carnes, PhD
Healing the Fragmented Selves of Trauma Survivors – Janina Fisher, PhD
Food and Mood: The Role of Nutrition and Diet in Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders, Trauma, and PTSD: A Personal Journey – Jenni Schaefer
What We Have Learned: Four Decades of Addiction, Neurobiology, Relationship Trauma Repair (RTR) – Mark Gold, MD
Hungry for Love – Alan Downs, PhD
The Neurobiology of Trauma – Ruth Buczynski, PhD; Bessel van Der Kolk, MD; Pat Ogden, PhD; Ruth Lanius, MD, PhD; Dan Siegel, MD; and Stephen Porges, PhD
Working with Emergency Services and Public Safety Personnel – Jaime Brower, Psy.D., ABPP; Sgt. Michael Pitrusu; & Rhonda Kelly
Cultural Competency: Working with First Responders – Dara Rampersad, Ph.D., LPC, NCC – BluePaz, LLC
First Responder Health and Wellness – Amy Morgan, MSC, CFRC(D), CPSL-T(D), TECC-LEO, CEO & Founder, Academy Hour
My experience includes
SMI (Serious Mental Illness) population
Domestic Violence Victims
Relationship Issues
Grief/Loss
Career Issues
Anxiety
Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Personality Disorders
Chronic pain
Trauma
Stress
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LCSW-21452). I am licensed and in good standing, with the AZ Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Rhanda is an independent contractor and is owner of Wellness and Vitality, LLC (EIN 85 0605280).
Paula is in network with Aetna and Public Safety Crisis Solutions. While she is currently not in network with other insurances, a form (Superbill) can be provided for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if you have out of network benefits. Contact your insurance for more information.
Individual intakes: $150 per 55 minutes, in blocks of 1-2 (55-115 minutes)
Individual follow-up: $140 per 55minutes, in blocks of 1-2 (55-115 minutes)
Bio
I moved from upstate New York in 1994 and remained in Arizona because of its hiking trails and beautiful weather with no snow. I am passionate about helping others and have been since I was a child. I am married with a son and three rescued dogs. My interests include: spending time with family and friends, hiking with my son and my dogs, enjoying the outdoors and volunteering in the community. I am not faith-based counselor, although I am a Christian.
Connecting with clients in helping them reach their true potential in a supportive and safe environment is a goal of mine. I use a strength-based, non-judgmental, trauma- informed approach to therapy. Utilizing different forms of therapy techniques to assist clients in an holistic approach is how I like to approach therapy. I understand the importance of a client’s background and/or upbringing in therapy. I enjoy watching a client’s growth transition in therapy and I am grateful for the chance to be a part of that transition.
I continue evidence-based training through out the year to ensure I am up-to-date and well-rounded in my therapy approach. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
My training includes:
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP) from IATP
* EMDR trained, phases I and II
* Brainspotting Phase I
* Cognitive Behavior Therapy
* Dialectical Behavior Therapy
* Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
* Mindfulness
* Substance Abuse
* Veterans issues
* LGBTQ issues
* Play Therapy
* Family Therapy
* Working with families in the Department of Child Safety-Certificate from ASU
My experience includes:
* Psychiatric inpatient hospital setting
* Call center crisis operator
* Intensive outpatient programs for adults and adolescents
* Crisis pregnancy center setting
* Department of Child Safety setting (investigations unit)
* SMI (Serious Mental Illness) Clinics
* Veterans issues
* LGBTQ issues
* Self Esteem issues
* Relationship issues
* Stress Issues
* Trauma Issues
* Working with refugees
I attended University of Phoenix and completed my Bachelors of Social Sciences in Human Services 2015. During my time at University of Phoenix, I was a member of the National Organization of Human Services Association and was a part of the Chi Beta Chapter Honor Society. I received my Masters from Arizona State University in 2017. During my time at Arizona State University I was a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society for both years.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Family Trauma Professional and trained in EMDR.
I have experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Veterans, LGBTQ, and adolescents. I offer blocks of 1-2 hours. *I have immediate openings and offer telehealth/ video sessions.
Paula is an independent contractor with East Valley Trauma Counseling and owner of Encouraging Hand Counseling Center (EIN 85-1915613).
I was born and raised in Arizona and although I’ve traveled all over the world and lived in the rainy Washington State, I am proud to call the desert my home.
I am married to an awesome guy. We spend most of our time chasing our two cats and brilliant baby daughter around.
I attended the University of Arizona where I double majored in psychology and creative writing. Later, I went back and earned my Masters of Education. During the day, I teach in a local public high school where I spend my time teaching kids to think critically and communicate clearly. I love watching my students grow and showing them their voices have the power to change the world.
My truest passion is helping others succeed in whatever their goals may be. I am a certified Master Life Coach through Transformation Academy and am happiest helping my clients become their best selves.
When I am not teaching or coaching, you can catch me trying to recreate my favorite restaurant meals, running in a themed 5k, or watching movies with my family. If you are looking to make a change, either big or small, and want to work toward living your best life, I would be honored to be the one to help you get there.
