WHAT TYPES OF PROVIDERS ARE THERE?

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.

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

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

​LCSW-16034

NPI 148 7091948

Cost and Insurances: 

$160 per hour in blocks of 1-3

• CURRENTLY ONLY TAKING FIRST RESPONDERS

Lauren is in network with: Aetna. She is in network with Compsych *only*  for police and firefighters with City of Phoenix, as well as Public Safety Crisis Solutions and 100 Club. A Superbill can be provided for you to submit self-pay 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.

Bio

I am married with five wonderful children, a daughter-and son-in-law, and three granddaughters. 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.

Helping people has been a lifelong passion for me and I am honored and excited to be a part of my patients' healing process. I enjoy success stories and hearing from former clients as they progress and grow. I work with people from all walks of life and am an advocate for equality. I work with LGBTQ clients, although this is not an area of specialty for me. I have years of experience both raising and working with adolescents and love this age group! When selecting a counselor, ask if they are current with the latest research in trauma treatment. The majority of therapists are over 20 years behind 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'm certified in Brainspotting and am currently pursuing certification in Internal Family Systems.

I am a volunteer Board member (advisory) for P.I.S.T.L.E. and have had the honor of volunteering with West Coast Post-trauma Retreat two years in a row helping first responders with trauma heal. After internships with Phoenix and Chandler Crisis Response, I gained a strong sense of respect, witnessing first hand the terrible dangers and pressures that these brave men and women of our community face daily to protect and serve us.  When people are running out, they are running in. This is what fueled my passion for serving this population. I was also raised by a proud US Marine officer and come from an extensive family of law enforcement and military persons. I am immensely grateful for those who serve and protect, and feel honored to help this population.

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. 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 or sweats 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 (LCSW-16034), a Clinical Supervisor, a Certified Emergency Responder and Public Safety Clinician, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional through 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)
• Levels 1 and 2 Internal Family Systems
  
• Internal Family Systems Trauma and Neuroscience
• Certified Brainspotting (Phases 1, 2, 4)   (Directory listing)
• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy for OCD (Cognitive Behavior Institute)  (What is ERP?)
• Treating Trauma in First Responders (Tapia)
• Mental Health Needs of Law Enforcement (Arizona Trauma Institute)
• Certified First Responder Counselor Training (Academy Hour)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• CBT-I (Insomnia)
• Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
• Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
• 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.

Lauren is Owner and Founder of East Valley Trauma Counseling, LLC (EIN 82-2087659).

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

Kayleigh Sampanes, Life Coach

Kayleigh is not in network with any insurances 

Bio

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

Rhanda Pretzer, LCSW, CCTP

LMSW-17898 NPI 1659861151

480-360-4238

Ages 18+ and First Responders

Cost and Insurances:

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).

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

Sarah Anderson, LMSW

LMSW-13457 NPI 1669013116

480-530-5355

Ages 18+

Cost and Insurance:

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