Our Team

Not Accepting New Clients 

I am a wife, a mother, a professional, and I "wear many other hats" in my life. I can relate and understand the dynamics of how challenging and joyful each of these roles can play in one's life.  I want to help you to find your best self, so you can create the life you desire. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and I received my master's degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. While in the graduate program, I emphasized Substance Abuse and the Forensic Domain of the Social Work Program. The focal point of my training and career experience has been in the treatment of trauma that individuals have experienced in their lives whether as a child or an adult. I have specialized in the healing of sexual abuse and treatment of offenders. I have developed therapeutic skills addressing post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, women's issues and empowerment, and ways to communicate in a healthy and effective manner. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a form of therapy, with the focus always on empowerment of oneself to create the relationships and life one desires. I am trained in EMDR, and I am member of the LGBTQ- Affirmative Psychotherapist Guild. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters as well as my family, friends, and dog by doing activities such as traveling, camping, and experiencing new adventures .  In my spare time I  love to crochet and am always doing a project whether its a hat, blanket, stuffed animal, or anything that sparks an interest in me.   

Not Accepting New Clients 

As a psychologist, to put it simply I enjoy working with people to help live richer fuller lives. I believe that individuals and families hold the solutions to their concerns, and the power to reach their greatest potential. I see my work as a collaboration with you, and look forward to that journey with each of my clients.

Over the years I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, not-so-young adults, treating a range of concerns, problem behaviors and disorders. One area of expertise is working with people who struggle with anxiety and depression. I also really enjoy working with couples as they address problematic areas in their relationship and find ways to improve and reconnect with each other. When I am not at the office, I also teach undergraduate classes at SLCC, caring for and going adventures with my two children and energetic dogs. Some things we enjoy doing together are camping, hiking, playing at the park, and visiting museums (without the dogs), and when I need some "me time" I find cooking, crocheting, and enjoying nature relaxing hobbies.  

Dana completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at Sacramento State University. After raising her children, Dana decided to return to school to complete her Masters of Social Work from the University of Utah.  She also completed a Substance Use Disorder Counseling (SUDC) program
from Utah Valley University.

Dana’s clinical emphasis includes: EMDR, DBT, substance use disorders, addictions, trauma, PTSD, mental health, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and relationship difficulties. She has experience with children, adolescents, adults, couples and group therapies. She has a deep commitment to supporting clients through a journey of self-empowerment and self-discovery in creating the life they desire.

Dana brings to her clinical practice an understanding and empathy towards those she interacts with. She works from a strengths-based approach and believes everyone has within them the power of resiliency.

Telehealth Only

Born in California, Shara Preston spent her adolescent years in Washington preceding a multi-year nomadic period that moved her all across the West. She eventually landed in Oklahoma where she earned her Bachelor's degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in Sociology, with extensive study in the area of Special Education. She then went on to earn her Master's of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southern Nazarene University, located in Bethany, Oklahoma.  

Throughout her career, Shara has worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including programs for former prison inmates and homeless people; children, adolescents and families in the foster care system; couples; individuals struggling with mood difficulties, and most recently, with teen girls and their families enrolled in a residential treatment center program.  Clients faced challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, addiction, identity, self- harm, disordered eating and more.

Given her background as a trained trauma therapist, certified in mindfulness, Shara strongly believes in the transformational and healing power of self-compassion.  Working mainly from a relational framework, Shara uses her experience and training in multiple modalities of therapy to best serve her clients.
In her free time, Shara loves learning new forms of self-expression through creative outlets like writing, painting, and crocheting. She enjoys hiking, basking in the sunshine, hanging with Mouse, her borrowed dog, and spending time with her amazing grandson. Her passions include traveling, discovering newness and sameness wherever she goes, and visiting her family.

Telehealth Only

Spanish Speaking

In the course of my life I have had the opportunity to experience a variety of difficult situations that with time have made me stronger. These experiences led me to find my passion for clinical social work and psychology. I decided at a young age that I wanted to lend a helping hand to those around me who were struggling mentally, emotionally, and physically. My experiences showed me the benefits of going through the therapy process and living in the present leads to a more meaningful life. 

 Coming from a Hispanic heritage, I have made it a goal to provide therapeutic services in Spanish for those who may struggle to communicate in the English language. I believe culture plays a big part in our beliefs and behaviors, and that without the ability to fully express ourselves in our native language it is difficult to achieve our goals. Therefore, I enjoy every chance I get to work with the Hispanic community. In my practice I place emphasis on creating a relationship with each client as the foundation for a healthy therapeutic relationship, providing a safe and non-judgmental setting, and highlighting personal strengths that can help the individual conquer their obstacles.

I received a Bachelor’s in Science in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work degree from Brigham Young University. I enjoy using a variety of modalities which include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR. Throughout my career I have worked with those: struggling with addiction and recovery, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, self-harm, eating disorders, abusive relationships, marital problems, and stress management. I have learned a lot from my experience working with substance use for Utah County and am passionate about helping combat our opioid crisis in Utah.  In my free time I enjoy knitting, crocheting, sewing, photography, and spending time with my husband and three cats. Having grown up in Florida, I love anything related to sea life or the beach. I love to travel when I can. I enjoy a variety of tv shows which include: Dateline, The Bachelorette, The Good Place, Hell’s Kitchen, MasterChef, and The Office.  

Whether it is sand tray, board games, drawing, or finger paint, I love to use creative means to help both children and adults become more in touch with their emotions and find healing.

Play is the language of children, and toys are their words. I believe in providing a safe space for children to play and process the events and feelings in their lives. The playroom is a no-judgement zone where I strive to create a healing and meaningful therapeutic relationship with my clients to unleash both children’s and adult’s potentials and increase self-esteem.

I am particularly passionate about helping children who have experienced trauma or abuse. I have experience working with little kids, adolescents, and teens. I am trained in several types of play therapy, including Child Centered Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy, and TF-CBT. I have also worked with many adults using CBT, Experiential Therapy, and IFS.  I received my bachelor’s degree at Brigham Young University in Family Life and received my Masters of Marriage and Family Therapy at Converse College where I also completed a play therapy track. I have experience treating a wide range of disorders, including anxiety, PTSD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, and depression. I am working towards becoming a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist. In my free time, I like to draw, play the piano, dance, go exploring with my husband, and make cooking fails. I love animals and dream of owning my own personal petting zoo.   

 Jennifer is a published author, marriage and family therapist (LCSW), popular motivational speaker, and a single, divorced mom of three talented daughters.  She earned her Masters in Social Work from the University of Utah, where she was awarded the Blanche Scocroft Willie academic scholarship during her studies, in 2004.  Her books “In Flight With Broken Wings” (Cedar Fort, 2003) and the revised edition “Latter-day Divorce and Beyond: Surviving Singlehood” (Cedar Fort, 2006) have helped thousands heal after experiencing the trauma of divorce in the LDS culture.  Jennifer experienced divorce after her 20-year temple marriage ended, and felt the first-hand experience could help others gain strength and confidence.    

Jennifer is a veteran of 28 singles conferences, numerous firesides and Women’s Conferences across the USA, from Anchorage, Alaska to Washington D.C.. She loves to engage the audience in discussion about singles issues and healing.  Jennifer is a sought-after interview on radio, TV and print and was recently featured in the PBS TV series “Utah Conversations with Ted Capener” broadcast by KUED-TV in Salt Lake City.  https://www.pbs.org/video/utah-conversations-ted-capener-jennifer-james/

Jennifer and Ted highlighted the challenges of being single and divorced in the LDS Church and tried to “hasten the call” to educate the public on the needs of this marginalized population, along with being a dedicated advocate of pre-marriage relationship education/counseling, nationwide.  Jennifer has also been an advisor to online dating sites and has written dating articles for LDSSingles.com.

As a clinical researcher, Jennifer is currently working on two other books about relationships: “Rules of Remarriage” and “The Seven Deadly Enemies of Relationship.”  She has worked in private practice serving clientele in the greater Salt Lake area and excited to join her colleagues at Healing Steps.

Her specialties include:  Anxiety/Depression, Addiction, Bipolar management, Couples Counseling, Gender dysphoria/identification (LGBTQ), Divorce/Singles, Grief, Spirituality issues, Jennifer’s passion is to help people on their paths to healing.
In her private life, Jennifer has been a professional singer, plays guitar and piano, performs with her daughters, writing, motivational speaking, loves to play racquetball and ride horses, is adept at genealogy, interior design and enthusiastically enjoys her amazing family and friends.

Telehealth Only 

I was born in Monterey, California, raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, and moved to Utah. I have lived her for six years and have grown to love Utah.  I have been married, divorced, and a single mom of four children. All my children are now adults and pursuing their own dreams and goals

Throughout my life I have learned that my past does not dictate my future. As a child I experienced my own trauma that impacted me, and I became a troubled teen. Although I had trauma I  believed because of my past it created the woman I am today and help me reach my goals.   

At a very young age I knew I wanted to work in the mental health field. I worked at a psychiatrist office at the age of 18, and he motivated and empowered me to follow my dreams. I knew I wanted to help people heal, grow, and understand their value in this world just as I had done. At 27 I decided to go back to school and start pursuing my  dreams. I was a single mom of four children working two jobs. There were many obstacles and setbacks and many times I wanted to give up, however I was determined to purse my dreams. I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Psychology with a Minor in Criminology from Regis University at the age of 37. I kept pushing myself and at 41 I realized my dream and graduated with my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University. 

Throughout my career I have worked with foster children and their families, supervised visits between parents and their children who were removed by DCFS, low-income families, as well as individuals and families that are struggling with communication, addiction, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem, abusive relationships, oppositional defiant disorder, attachment disorders, and stress management. I use many different modalities which include: Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential Therapy and Family Systems therapy.  I am passionate about empowering my clients, so they can reach their full potential. I am empathetic, open-minded, and authentic and strive to create a space where my clients can feel safe enough to explore themselves, heal, and grow.

Jay grew up in Southern California before heading to Utah for college.  He completed an Associates Degree in Business at Snow College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Arts at Southern Utah University, where he worked in several different capacities with the Utah Shakespeare Festival.  He recently had the pleasure to see his son also graduate from Snow College this past summer. 

Jay has completed additional trainings in Addiction and Substance Abuse and enjoys working with the LGBTQ+ community.  He utilizes a person-centered approach to therapy, in which the relationship between the client and the therapist is the most important part of facilitating change.  He incorporates interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change unhealthy thought processes, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to focus on the here-and-now experience, and Reality Therapy to identify an individual’s quality world and align their values and behaviors.

Jay is a fan of LA based sports teams, fantasy football, chocolate chip cookie dough, and find joy in spending time with his family.  He holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. 

Like most, I’m no stranger to the difficult, and all-around awful moments in life that can rob us of joy. These times may feel like an eternity. I hope to help you reach the other side of those times feeling empowered and reconnected with what brings you joy. 

I know it’s possible to find healing, growth and long-term change. Whether you’re struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety or you want to gain more insight into yourself, I would be honored to be part of that journey with you. Coming to therapy is one of the bravest things a person can do. I value helping those who come to therapy feel seen, validated and encouraged to move towards what’s most important to them in their lives. 

 I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Prior to Healing Steps I worked as a therapist in the Utah State Prison. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and my Masters in Social Work, both from Brigham Young University. My clinical focus includes substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, shame and guilt, and relationship issues. In treatment I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as Attachment theory. Outside of the office I am with my dog playing fetch, going on walks and teaching her tricks. I love hiking, exploring areas of Utah I’ve never seen before and finding the best nachos to eat after an excursion. If that sounds too outdoors-y, I also enjoy watching Jeopardy! while being crafty on my Cricut.  

AFCC Trained 

I have been working in mental health care since 1992. Because of this, I have a wealth of experience. I specialize in Reunification, Co-parenting, Family Therapy, Safe Harbor, Court involved therapy, Addiction, Sex Therapy, Divorce, Trauma and Adoption issues. I am also a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I am trained in EMDR as well as a AFCC court approved reunification therapist. I specializes in Solution Focus Brief Therapy as well.

I use a variety of modalities based on what best suits each client I work with. I also take a solution focus strength-based approach to Life Transitions and stress the importance of looking at the whole picture in someone’s recovery. I approach healing and recovery in a collaborative effort and meet my clients where they are at.

Whether you are struggling in your life or just need some help organizing your life goals I am here ready to help and meet you where you are at.

Brian holds a Master’s of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology and a Master’s of Science in Health Systems Management from the University of Connecticut.  He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from the University of Utah. He is a provider as a Licensed Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor. Brian enjoys traveling, college sports, golf and spending time with his family.

You and I can work together to tackle a variety of life’s challenges. I believe that change is possible as we set goals, identify helpful coping skills, and explore negative thoughts that may be standing in your way of success. I am passionate about getting to the root of unhealthy core beliefs that may hinder your ability to see yourself and your life clearly. As you strive to improve your life, I will be there to listen, support, and guide you. I will help you identify your strengths needed to solve your problems and reach your goals. I hope to provide a safe space for you to fully express your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Please reach out so that you can begin to find relief from your current suffering.   am a Certified Social Worker (CSW), and I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Brigham Young University. I have worked with a variety of clients of different ages and backgrounds, and I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I have spent the last two years working with mostly college students as they navigate challenges related to relationships, depression and anxiety, perfectionism, and faith and identity crises. As a young person myself, I understand how chaotic and uncertain young adulthood can be. 

In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, especially my cute nieces and nephews. My favorite hobbies are tennis, pickleball, and dance fitness. I love to get out and be active, and I will always make time for fun. 

I am an associate mental health counselor who believes in the power of change. With clients, I strive to create a safe space where you will feel seen and heard as we navigate through suffering, whether from the pain of disaffiliating from religion, trauma, the ravages of addiction, or working with you and your partner to reconnect, communicate and emotionally attune.

I have a Master’s of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Westminster College, a Bachelor’s of science degree in Psychology from UVU. I’m trained in psychodynamic, interpersonal and group therapy. I’m a member of the LGBTQ+ Therapy Guild of Utah. I’ve completed research in religious disaffiliation and designed a Religious Disaffiliation Group for those leaving high-demand religious institutions. Look for more details on this group should you wish to take part in this supportive, educational, and transformational group. 

My therapeutic orientation is an interpersonal process approach with an existential psychotherapy lens. I use trauma-informed, reality-based approaches along with DBT, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness-based stress reduction and other relevant evidenced-based therapies. I have experience counseling clients suffering from complex trauma, religious trauma, identity and existential crises, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, Perfectionism, OCD, ADHD and substance abuse. 

I will work alongside you as you embark on the powerful transformation that can happen within the therapeutic relationship. I value your authenticity and individual story and will empower you to build a life that honors both. I believe deeply in the power of compassion, mindfulness, and being a therapeutic witness to your pain, healing and development. I would be honored to work with you.  

Regardless of wherever reading this bio leads you, you are worthy of support. You are worthy of love, connection, joy, and meaning. It takes immense courage to take that first step and begin searching for a therapist. I honor that. Whether or not that is me, I hope you walk away from this page empowered in your search. You deserve it.

My name is Emily. I am a mother, a wife, an advocate, an avid reader, a therapist, and a friend. I am honored to be a part of your journey.
 

I believe that my clients are the experts in themselves. My role is to aid you in recognizing unhelpful thinking patterns, honoring your strengths, cultivating resilience, and practicing coping skills. Together, we will come up with interventions that will meet your needs. I am empathetic, warm, laugh easily, feel emotions deeply, and will create a safe space for you to be vulnerable. I cannot say that opening up won’t be difficult, but it will be worth it. In the words of Joseph Campbell “the privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.”

I have worked with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. I’m experienced in faith transitions, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, pregnancy and postpartum support, sexuality and sex, women’s issues, OCD, and trauma.

To reiterate, you are worthy. I’m glad you are here. Life can get better, and I’d be honored to work beside you and determine how we can make it so. 

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Currently a Master’s Candidate at UVU
• Member of LGBQ+ Affirmative Therapists Guild of Utah
• Certified through the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition 101 and 102
• Certified in Rape Crisis Advocacy and Hospital Response
• Attended trainings in sex therapy, postpartum/birth trauma, racial literacy, and LGBTQ+ support

My name is Maren and I am a Clinical Social Work Therapy Intern and am currently getting my master’s degree at Boise State University in their advanced standing program. I graduated with honors and received my Bachelor degree of Social Work at Utah Valley University I have worked with adults in mental health as well as in outpatient treatment for addiction in a group therapy setting.  I have always been passionate about giving everyone a voice. I am an advocate for weight-inclusive care and destigmatizing mental illnesses. I welcome people of all sexual orientations and am passionate about offering a safe space as an LGBTQ+ informed therapist. 

I help my clients remember they are enough and worthy of what it is they are seeking. I love helping people navigate disordered eating, poor body image, anxiety, depression, spirituality, faith transitions, self-esteem, and low self-worth, trauma, and women’s issues. I feel called to help everyone find their purpose, calling and true self-worth. I am open minded, empathetic, and accepting which facilitates me to create a safe space where you feel comfortable to be vulnerable and allow healing. ​