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.

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.

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!

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.

I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with a passion for mental health and patient-centered care. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment, addressing both the mind and body to support overall well-being. In addition to traditional treatments, I value alternative therapies and work closely with patients to explore options that fit their unique needs.

I earned my Master of Clinical Medical Science and Physician Assistant Studies from Barry University in Miami, Florida in 2020. Since then, I have spent several years in primary care, where I developed a strong focus on mental health management. My goal is to provide a supportive and compassionate environment where patients feel heard, empowered, and confident in their path to better mental health. 

Director of Counseling Services

UHC/BCBS/AETNA/MEDICARE

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

BCBS/UHC/MEDICARE, 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.

UHC/BCBS/AETNA 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.

AETNA/BCBS, sliding scale self pay

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Spanish speaker) with over 18 yrs of experience providing therapy to mid- to-late teens, adults, groups, and couples from diverse cultural backgrounds suffering from (but not limited to) the following issues: PTSD, ADHD, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, unhealthy relationship, self-harm, body image, parenting struggles and domestic violence. I have provided therapeutic services in a variety of settings (outpatient, residential group homes and correctional facilities). Modalities I commonly use are CBT, ACT, Person Centered and EMDR.

I am committed to providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment with genuine feedback in order to help guide you through your healing process. Together we will explore coping and problem solving skills to manage your stress, build resilience, nurture healthy relationships and improve your quality of life. I will provide a safe place where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

UHC/BCBS/AETNA/MEDICARE

Self Pay (Psychotherapy 50 min- $100)

Available Friday nights and Saturdays

In life, we often encounter challenges that test our resilience. Choosing to embark on a therapeutic journey is a courageous step towards self-discovery and personal growth. My mission is to walk alongside you, providing support, understanding, and tools to navigate these experiences.

Whether you are dealing with past traumas, current stressors, or future uncertainties, I am here to help you navigate these experiences with empathy and compassion. My experience spans over 20 years in behavioral health assisting individuals and couples with life events such as grief, loss, substance abuse, domestic violence, and trauma. Together, we will address your concerns and develop strategies to overcome obstacles, empowering you to lead your fulfilling life.

I aim to foster an environment that allows you to express yourself freely, explore your thoughts and feelings, and uncover the root causes of your challenges. With a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Attachment and Mindful-based therapies, I am dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. 

Self pay (Psychotherapy 55 min - $100)

UHC/BCBS/AETNA/MEDICARE

Available weekday nights, with prior request.

Hablo Español, a sus ordenes.

Hello, Hola, Ya'at'e'eh, my name is Genesis and I have over 10 years of behavioral health experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialized in trauma-informed therapy, substance abuse, anxiety disorders, and life coaching. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), but I also integrate mindfulness and somatic techniques to foster holistic healing. I am passionate about empowering individuals to navigate challenges, build resilience, and foster a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. I am committed to providing personalized care, tailoring my approach to each client's unique needs and goals. Outside of my practice, I enjoy spending time with my family, pets, Powwows, exploring Tucson, and reading.