Psychiatric Providers

  • Jennifer Treusch

    Jennifer Treusch, MD

    Medical Director

    Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology

    My focus is on treating the whole patient with individualized, and compassionate care. I approach each consultation with an open mind and I believe in allowing my patient to participate in their treatment planning.

    I have provided comprehensive, mental health care as an Outpatient Psychiatrist in Tucson since 2015. I have worked at the Crisis Response Center and Cornerstone Behavioral Health Hospital in Tucson in the past. I currently provide care at Sonora Behavioral Health Hospital as well as Palo Verde Behavioral Health Hospital and have ongoing admitting privileges at both facilities.

    I graduated from the University of Arizona Medical School and completed my Residency in Psychiatry at The University of Arizona.

  • Nshwah Ahmad, PA

    I believe that through compassionate whole-person healthcare, every treatment plan can be created to fit the specific needs and vision of each patient. This is because all patients are unique and deserve tailored care. The question isn't if they will get better but rather when they will get better.

    I graduated from ASU in 2016 with 2 Bachelor's in Science and later got my Master's in 2017 in the Science of Healthcare Delivery. Following that, I graduated from Northern Arizona University with an additional Masters in Physician Assistant studies in August of 2020 and later became a Certified Physician Assistant.

  • Steven Tebbs PA

    Steven has a passion for helping patients suffering from mental illnesses and aims to improve their quality of life. He focuses on their needs and provides treatment plans which are evidence-based. Steven received his Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science at the University of Utah in 2016 and later completed the Physician Assistant program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2022.

    In his free time, Steven loves being with his wife and two kids. They enjoy the outdoors, specifically swimming and hiking. Steven also enjoys watching and playing sports as well as exercising.

  • Nicola Lawrence, PA

    Nicola Lawrence is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant with 11 years' experience in mental healthcare. Her field of clinical expertise includes treating patients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and other psychiatric conditions. Nicola is responsible for conducting mental health evaluations and providing diagnosis, medication management, developing treatment plans, and referring patients to therapists. She earned her B.S. in Microbiology from Northern Arizona University in 2002, and a M.M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies from Midwestern University in 2005. Nicola belongs to the Physician Assistant Society of Tucson. In her spare time, she enjoys running, outdoor activities, hiking, painting, and writing.

    She is very passionate about treating patients with mental health challenges. She has advised and healed patients with mental health illness and addiction. She enjoys watching patients transform into their true selves. She has challenged her patients to recover their vigor in order to return to work or their loved ones. This leads to powerful outcomes. She would be honored to work with you!

  • Mrwah Alabbadi, PA-C, MPAS

    My approach to mental health is viewing each patient as a whole, recognizing that their mental health is intrinsically linked to their physical well being, relationships, and personal beliefs. I firmly believe that mental health care should be a collaborative effort, where patients actively participate in their treatment plans. By working together, we can explore various modalities, including therapy, medication management, lifestyle changes, and alternative approaches, to promote emotional well-being and personal growth. This holistic perspective guides my practice, allowing me to address the underlying causes and tailor treatments that resonate with each individual's unique journey.

    I graduated from Northern Arizona University PA Program, where I honed my clinical skills and developed a profound appreciation for the importance of comprehensive mental healthcare. I'm an avid advocate for mental health awareness, striving to reduce stigma and promote open conversations. I am committed to understanding the unique needs and experiences of my patients, fostering a safe and empathetic environment for dialogue and healing.

    I am currently Nationally Board Certified, and I look forward to partnering with you on your mental health journey and helping you achieve a state of balance, harmony, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a path toward mental and emotional wellness, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Therapists

  • Leandra Fifer LPC-S, PMH-C, CCTP, ERP-trained, MS, MA

    Director of Counseling Services

    On Leave 3/26/24-7/8/24 (email questions)

    BCBS, UHC, Self Pay (Psychotherapy 50 min- $140, Psychotherapy 75 min- $210)

    I have specialized focus on supporting individuals navigating the complexities of perinatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. My therapeutic approach extends to general anxiety, depression, OCD and personality disorders as well.

    I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for individuals facing the unique challenges associated with the perinatal and postpartum period. With a warm and empathetic approach, I collaborate with clients to explore and address the emotional and psychological aspects of this significant life transition.

    I understand the complex interplay of hormonal changes, societal expectations, and personal identity shifts that can contribute to feelings of overwhelm, sadness, irritability, intrusive thoughts and anxiety during the postpartum period.

    Driven by a passion for postpartum mental health, I am dedicated to raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

    leandra.f@deserthealthclinic.com

  • Anndrea Terry LPC-S, ERYT, MA

    BCBS, UHC, Self Pay (Psychotherapy 50 min- $140, Psychotherapy 75 min- $210)

    As an Integrative Wellness Counselor, my focus is to create a personalized experience tailored to each individual’s unique needs throughout treatment. I offer therapy services to support the treatment of anxiety, depression, relational issues, trauma and life transitions. I take a collaborative approach with the intention of empowering emotional well-being.

    Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Strength-Based Therapy, Solution-Focused and Trauma Informed Care in collaboration with complementary wellness techniques and healing practices such as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), meditation, breathwork and yoga to cultivate meaningful and lasting change.

    I am also a certified yoga, meditation and breathwork teacher.

  • Diljot Drachman LPC, MA

    On Leave Starting 5/1/2024

    BCBS/UHC, self pay (Psychotherapy 50 min- $140, Psychotherapy 75 min- $210, EMDR -$140)

    Compassion and empathy are the foundation of my practice. I believe it is vital to promote a safe and trusting environment due to therapy requiring vulnerability. I strive to empower individuals to encourage change, acceptance, and strength. Each person has specific needs and therapeutic approaches are modified to fit the preferences of the individual. Some of the evidence-based practice modalities I implement are the following: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Eye movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and solution focused.

    I have experience (but am not limited to) treating individuals with eating disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and trauma.

  • Ashlee Welsh LPC, PhD Candidate

    UHC/BCBS Self Pay (Psychotherapy 50 min- $140, Psychotherapy 75 min- $210)

    Hello! My name is Ashlee and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am from Colorado but have recently moved to Arizona to get my Ph.D in Counselor Education at the University of Arizona. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including family systems issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, relationship issues, and more. I also am a licensed School Counselor and have experience working with adolescents and their families.

    I would describe my therapy style as welcoming and calm, with a little hint of humor. I love to get to know my clients and make them feel heard and understood. I also believe that therapy should be client-led and client-centered. I look at therapy as a partnership and I will adapt my approach to best fit their needs as our counseling relationship grows. My approach is a mixture of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and person-centered therapy.

    I strongly believe in self-actualization, that every person has the capability to make the best decisions for themselves and make the necessary changes they need in order to lead a happy, healthy life. Just sometimes we need a little bit of help to organize our thoughts, work past the trauma in our pasts, and gain the confidence in ourselves to fulfill those capabilities. My goal is to be the helping hand that supports my clients through that process.

  • Susana Villa, LPC, MC, HDFS, B.S.

    BCBS, UHC, Self-pay $140

    Dedicated and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience offering support to adult individuals, groups, and couples from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQ community, suffering from PTSD, ADD/ADHD, grief, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, personality disorders, self-harm, parenting, domestic violence, self-esteem, and marital/relationship issues. Possessing a strong foundation in various therapeutic modalities like CBT, ACT, EMDR and Reality Therapy. My bilingual proficiency allows me to offer counseling services in Spanish, ensuring accessibility and cultural sensitivity. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment to guide people through their healing process and utilizing coping skills to manage stress, build & nurture healthy relationships, explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I am adept at tailoring therapeutic strategies to meet the unique needs of each individual.

  • Brandi Jaworski LAC, CRC, NCE, MA

    Psychotherapy 50 min- $110

    Psychotherapy 75 min- $165

    I offer both individual, couples, and group counseling sessions utilizing DBT techniques to help clients gain new skills and strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors. With years of experience and specialized training, I have the expertise necessary to guide you through the challenges you are facing and help you achieve your goals. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, dysregulated moods, or relationship issues, my approach to therapy will provide you with the support and guidance you need to make lasting changes and live a more fulfilling life.

    I am a licensed therapist who specializes in helping individuals overcome relationship issues and manage their emotions through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). While I have an eclectic style that draws from various evidence-based practices, DBTis at the heart of my approach.

    I graduated from the University of Arizona in 2022 with a Master’s in counseling with an emphasis in Mental Health and Rehabilitation.

    brandi.j@deserthealthclinic.com

  • Laura Ember MA BHP

    Self Pay $85

    As a compassionate and dedicated counselor, my motivation stems from a commitment to authenticity and an extensive understanding of the human experience. Collaborating with you to achieve your goals is central to my counseling approach, emphasizing your autonomy and self-determination.

    My client-centered approach strives to create a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration that values every aspect of your identity. Utilizing evidence-based modalities like, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, strength-based approaches, and mindfulness interventions, I tailor my methods to meet your unique needs to develop a personalized and effective counseling experience.

    I have experience addressing a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, substance abuse, relationship challenges, trauma, and grief. With a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling and pending licensure as a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), I am eager to embark on a collaborative journey with you, fostering growth, resilience, and empowerment in pursuit of your well-being.

  • Brian Clarke, LAC, PhD

    Psychotherapy 50 min- $110

    Psychotherapy 75 min- $165

    My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and relational, focusing on your strengths and developing resilience. Together we can identify and address your concerns related to mental health, relationships, life purpose, career issues and more.

    I use cognitive behavioral, existential, and mindfulness based interventions to both empower clients to make changes and improve their well being, as well as to explore the more deeply rooted concerns that can give rise to emotional distress. I have successfully worked with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds by emphasizing the dignity and worth of all people. I have experience with a wide variety of concerns from depression and anxiety, to serious mental illness and personality based issues.

    I am a licensed counselor and graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My work experience is diverse, from community practice and crisis counseling to providing clinical supervision and training. In addition to counseling, I am a PhD student in Counselor Education and an instructor at the University of Arizona.

  • Jackie Zemper Intern

    Self Pay $25

    I am a passionate, empathetic counselor in training working toward a master’s in clinical mental health counseling at the University of Arizona. For my therapeutic approach, I integrate different therapies and tailor treatments based on my client’s specific needs. Using mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength-based approaches, I identify and address harmful thought patterns and behaviors and help clients cultivate a powerful sense of self.

    I have years of experience working in the mental health field and have worked with diverse populations with a variety of concerns such as trauma, depression, attention-deficit disorder, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, family problems, eating disorders, relationship issues, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and more.

    My goal is to empower clients and help them come to their own conclusions about what they want and need. I use humor and creative thinking where appropriate, but providing compassionate listening and creating a safe space for clients to process are my priorities.

Wellness Services

  • Emily Farabaugh, MSC, CPC

    Self Pay (Individual $80, Couple/Group $100)

    I provide an individualized and eclectic approach to meet the needs of each client and their focus for their life. I guide adolescents and adults through transitional challenges in life; including jobs, stress, relationships, school, etc. It is time to navigate your path and seize opportunities for your future success. Together, we will assess your strengths, and locate and utilize available resources; to propel you towards a life of fulfillment with tangible results. Step into the world of possibilities with belief in yourself and confidence in your abilities; to unlock your successful mindset, empower your inspiration, and achieve your goals.

    I can help you embrace and/or accept changes in any stage of life; in the direction you choose. I provide tools, action steps and accountability to help streamline your ambitious process. I will guide the process of exploring ideas and creating transformation with structure, wellness, connection, self-value, direction, self-care, communication and empathy.

    I have worked in the behavioral health field in multiple capacities for over 10 years. I graduated from ICF accredited school as a Certified Professional Life Coach. I have a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University and completed my bachelors from Northern Arizona University in Psychology and Religious Studies.

  • Erica Martinez, LMT

    Available on Thursdays

    Call or text (520) 222-7639

    https://ericamartinezlmt.square.site/

    Integrative Massage

    Massages are tailored to your needs based on communication with the therapist. May include

    Swedish strokes, grounding holds, or deep tissue techniques, to name a few.

    Pricing

    30 min $45

    45 min $60

    60 min $80

    75 min $100

    90 min $115

    Many of us go too long without ever checking in with our bodies. Our minds may be constantly racing, always thinking about the past or future, but hardly ever right here, in the present. We may hold tension or pain in the body, and it may often be a sign of our mental and emotional states.

    Research has shown that massage can be greatly effective in treating PTSD, anxiety,depression, eating disorders, and addiction, among many other things. I am of the belief that you cannot treat mental and emotional dysfunction without treating the physical body

    As part of the LQBTQI+ community, I know how important it is to remain keenly aware of others’ needs. I seek to provide a safe and respectful environment for people of all body types andgender expressions, and to be especially considerate of all backgrounds of trauma.

    I value good communication throughout my sessions, and I like to make my client feel empowered to speak up at any point so that they may get the most out of their session. My goal is to hold space for my clients to come into their bodies and feel at peace and at home there.