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Learn more about the licensed professionals here to guide you.
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share, Tricare West, Medicare, University of Utah Health Plans, GEHA and Humana.
I have been practicing since 2013 when I graduated with a master’s in social work from Northwest Nazarene University. Since that time, I have focused on gaining additional certifications that would benefit my clients. I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Moral Recognition Therapy (MRT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Gottman Therapy which focuses on enhancing relationships.
I have served in many roles which I am very proud of including acting as the Behavior Health consultant for the Idaho National Guard, serving on the Idaho Behavioral Health Planning Council and serving as a mediator for the Idaho Supreme Court for family and child custody. Serving the men and women of our Armed Services was an honor and I still focus on helping the Military, Veterans and first responders every opportunity I get. These experiences made me a better Therapist and gave me the skills to help those suffering with trauma, depression, anxiety and family relationships.
I am fortunate to lead an amazing team of Therapists that have numerous specialties that range from children, family and marriage, trauma, depression, anxiety and LGBTQ+ support. I am confident we can help you live a better life and gain the skills necessary to make you more resilient throughout your life.
My Philosophy
We are all going to face hard times throughout our lives, and sometimes a professional Therapist can make things better. We have experienced Therapists ready to help you navigate through those tough times and come out on the other side ready to face the uncertainties of life more prepared. I have dedicated my life to helping my clients deal with even the most traumatic situations and I am here to help you. –Mel
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share, Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Hi. I’m Kayla Lesmeister. I am a student acquiring to become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor through my Master’s program. More importantly, I am someone who is passionate about sparking change in people’s lives and relationships.
When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My goal as a therapist is to elicit healing for people who have experienced these emotions come to the surface and help them recognize how to work through their stressful thought processes. I work with clients who include adolescent teens, adults, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe.
I have a deep understanding that no single approach is fitting for every individual and therefore have been trained in a range of modalities including Cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused therapy to treat anxiety, codependency, depression, and trauma recovery.
A part of my background includes achieving a BA in psychology at MSUM in my home state of Minnesota where I also gained experience working as a behavioral technician with adolescents. There, I excelled in observing patients’ behavior, listening to their concerns, and leading patients in therapeutic and recreational activities. Today, I continue to expand in my passion for helping adolescents and adults become more committed to making positive changes in their lives and relationships with others by providing tools and techniques so that they can reach their potential and ultimately no longer need therapy.
My Philosophy
I know that your time and money are valuable, so I aim to be as structured and goal-oriented as possible in order to ensure measurable success. The field of psychology is ever-evolving. I focus on keeping up with the latest research through reading books, articles, and training with the world leaders in the field of psychotherapy. I am proud to say I’m a lifelong learner and see the benefits in my therapy sessions. I enjoy hearing how well my clients are doing and seeing their progress in treatment. I am glad you are here to take the next step in your own growth and on behalf of Psychological Preventative Health, welcome!
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share, Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Katie Walter received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Brigham Young University – Idaho; a Master’s Degree in Conflict Resolution from the University of Massachusetts – Boston in 2014; and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 2021.
She began working formally in the mental health field in 2016. Early on, Katie volunteered at a local mental health clinic working with individuals who had dual diagnoses of substance use, abuse, and addiction. Since that experience, she has really enjoyed the opportunity to sit with individuals working through tough parts of their lives. Katie believes in constructive communication and conflict. While working on her first master’s degree she was able to work with groups and individuals on examining their process for talking to others – especially about difficult topics. Katie has continued to approach each session with the same dedication. She has appreciated the trust given her to be a part of her client’s journey as they work through the therapeutic process.
Through these experiences, Katie was able to develop her philosophy of life and serving others. She believes strongly in finding balance in life and that all people are made up of multiple parts and examining those parts will help people discover where work is needed.
She also has experience with emotional regulation and emotional literacy; DBT, EMDR; ACT; family therapy; parent education; suicide; self-harm; Polyvagal Theory; Somatic Experiencing, and body image issues.
My favorite thing to do is spend time with my dog Hugo. I am originally from the St. Louis, Missouri area (the Illinois side of the river). In a nutshell, I am an avid reader, winter lover (I LOVE COLD), animal-loving, favorite Aunt, creative painter, theatre lover, and nap time craver. And I promise to give the best I can.
Katie accepts self-pay and clergy-assisted payment, along with several insurances.
My Philosophy
I believe each individual holds the knowledge for their own healing; that each person has the capacity to create miracles in their lives. My only role is to facilitate their growth and help them utilize different tools to find contentment. When viewed as a whole person with capacity and knowledge – they can work to find balance and acceptance.
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share, Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Melissa Child is a Licensed Master of Social Work, with deep roots and a long history in helping others. She has strong foundations and commitments to furthering her growth and development through personal experience and continued education. Melissa is also very dedicated to and involved in her community and the communities she serves.
Melissa’s educational and professional experience, as well as her commitments to her own growth and the commitments to communities she serves, makes her a valuable member of our team.
She grew up in Central Washington, showing horses in 4-H and team penning. She left her home and horses to find a new career path and found Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center in 2008. She became a Certified Registered Instructor through NARHA, now known as Path International, in 2009, Certified Mentor through Path Intl. In 2012 and completed the process to become a Credentialed Therapeutic Riding Instructor in 2019 through PATH International. Melissa has had the opportunity to work at some great therapeutic riding facilities in both Washington as well as Idaho.
In 2017 she finished her B.A. in Special Education Studies. In 2020, Melissa earned her Master’s in Social Work through Northwest Nazarene University and obtained her license as a Licensed Master of Social Work. During Melissa’s Master’s program, her research consisted of determining the effectiveness of equine-assisted services treating veterans with PTSD symptoms. She is currently attending Grand Canyon University’s Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology: Performance Psychology program to continue her research on the human-animal bond.
Melissa serves on the board of the Human-Animal Interaction, APA Division 17, Section 13. She is also working on her animal-assisted intervention certificate through Oakland University. She enjoys sharing her passion for life in assisting people in finding solutions to their problems. When Melissa is not busy with work, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and animal friends. Her hobbies include horseback riding, motorcycle riding, 4-wheeling, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Melissa’s Additional Certifications
Medicare, Tricare West, United Healthcare, UHC, AARP United-Medicare, SelectHealth Care, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share.
Cecilia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and specializes in Adult & Geriatric Mental Health. She received her Bachelor of Social Work from Texas A&M University in 2011 and graduated with her Masters in Social Welfare from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2014 with a specialty in Geriatric Mental Health and an emphasis in Military Social Work. Cecilia is also an Air Force Veteran, having served 4 years Active Duty.
Cecilia’s career began with working with foster children and their families in Los Angeles County but her path to working with older adults began when she worked for a non-profit organization providing in-home psychotherapy to low-income older adults with co-occurring mental illnesses in the North Hollywood area. That experience led her to continue working in the geriatric field working as a hospice social worker in Davis & Weber County for several years. While working in the field, Cecilia also provided therapy to those residing in Assisted Living Facilities and Skilled Nursing Facilities that needed brief mental health services, while also providing a community grief support group in Davis County.
Cecilia transitioned from working in hospice care to working with high-risk/vulnerable adults in Weber & Davis County providing mental health and case management services, along with working as a Trauma Social Worker in Emergency Departments in both Davis & Weber County. Cecilia is now working as a Psychiatric Social Worker in an Inpatient Geriatric Psychiatric Hospital in Salt Lake City. Cecilia’s experience working with children and adults covers a variety of issues including adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, trauma, personality disorders, military life, self-harm/injury and suicide.
My Philosophy
I know the importance as a Therapist to achieve and maintain my own positive mental health. I am a firm believer in self-care; it is my belief that without managing my personal and work life balance, I would not be able to provide the best care possible to those I serve to help. On my free time, I enjoy spending time with my children and family. I love to travel, take road trips and explore new places! I love live music and finding new, unique places to eat. My therapeutic philosophy is an integrative and holistic approach. I tailor the therapeutic approach to the individual and uniqueness of each of my clients.
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Nikki Killpack received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Brigham Young University Idaho in 2007 and was married soon after. After having children and working in various areas related to social services, Nikki realized she wanted to provide greater tools and support for people suffering from the effects of trauma. She returned to school to complete her Master’s degree in Social Work at Boise State University in 2022.
Nikki enjoys working with many different populations and specializes in working with individuals suffering from trauma, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and people faith-related concerns.
Nikki works from a trauma-informed strengths-based approach, recognizing that every person has developed skills to adapt to life and that this demonstrates resiliency. She is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR therapy. Her goal is to help individuals develop greater tools to manage and thrive in life, allowing individuals to process their unique experiences and become empowered. Nikki also provides Gottman therapy to those wishing to improve their relationships with their partner.
My Philosophy
People are doing the best they can with what they have been given. People do better when they realize their strengths, learn about their options, and use healthy tools to improve their life. Everyone can grow and do better. It may not be easy, but it is worth it. Therapy provides a safe environment to help a person reach their potential.
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share.
Tara Gill graduated from Weber State University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. She worked at Your Community Connection (YCC) as part of her schooling at Weber State University. She worked with women and children who were victims of domestic violence. Tara also worked with those suffering from chronic mental illness. Tara is currently in the Master of Social Work program at Utah State University. During her education at Utah State, she has worked with those suffering from substance abuse, and other forms of addiction. Tara has always been drawn to the study of human behavior and enjoys working to help those in need.
Tara worked in youth corrections for a few years prior to joining the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS). She has worked at DCFS for nine years, five of which were in the Family Drug Court Program, and four in Child Protective Services.
Tara has experience working with families that are impacted by domestic violence, abuse or neglect, substance abuse, and mental illness. She enjoys working with families, couples, adolescents, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe that in order to help others, I must be at my best. I enjoy spending time with my family and kids. Laughing is good for the soul, so I try to laugh as often as possible and enjoy the small moments’ life offers. In order to keep my mental health on track, I take time out of my busy life for some mindfulness. I work hard to keep myself grounded and in the here and now. When life gets difficult, I turn to my family and my animals to calm the storm. They help rejuvenate me and help me regain a fresh perspective.
I love to spend time with friends and family. Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies. I’m a huge sports fan with football being my favorite and baseball my second favorite. My family has season tickets to the Ogden Raptors where we spend the summer with our baseball family. A fun fact about me is that I love animals and spending as much time with them as I can.
My Philosophy
“Life is a journey and sometimes there are bumps along the way. I believe that sometimes we all need someone to talk to. There are things that may come along that are hard to understand, or painful that you may need someone to help you with. As a strengths-based therapist, I will help you through your journey with skills and changes that can improve your life. “
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share, Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Ashlie received her Bachelor of Social Work from Utah State University in 2018 and her Master of Social Work from Utah State University in their Advanced Standing Program in 2019.
Ashlie serves clients of all ages. Her passion is assisting individuals to improve their mental health, especially children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. Over the past few years, she has provided individual and group interventions to children and adolescents (ages 0-18). Ashlie worked for The Division of Child and Family Services, assisting with mental health crises among adults and adolescent clients from varying populations. While there, Ashlie also provided appropriate interventions to help stabilize clients and their families. She also has experience working for the non-profit, The Family Place, working as a high school social worker/therapist, and working with geriatric individuals and individuals with disabilities.
Through her work as a high school social worker, she gained extensive exposure to bullying and self-esteem issues. She led multiple “Girls Empowerment Groups,” and spent a substantial amount of time helping students as they started to navigate young adulthood, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and family and relationship difficulties.
Self-care and mindfulness are some of tools I use in my daily life to help my mental health. I enjoy walking, spending time with the ones I love. As a therapist I make it a priority to take care of myself so I can best assist the needs of my clients.
I love traveling and exploring new places with people that I love. I enjoy going to Broadway musicals and watching college football with my family. You will often find me reading, spending time outdoors gardening, and walking my Goldendoodle in my spare time. Most of all, I love being a mom.
My Philosophy
“Through my work, I hope to help those impacted by mental illness to increase their daily functioning by assisting them in processing and resolving personal, social, and emotional conflicts. I believe each person has the power to create change within themselves and that every client is deserving of support and compassion. I strive to provide the help they need and approach therapeutic interventions with a strengths-based and trauma-sensitive approach.
My therapy services utilize a range of treatment approaches to help those struggling with mental illness maximize their well-being. Treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), mindfulness, psychoeducation, and elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), among others. Every client has their own needs and circumstances. I believe there is no “one size fits all,” when it comes to therapeutic approaches and will adapt to the specific needs of each individual.”
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share.
Carly has spent her career working in the nonprofit and higher education sectors as a communications and fundraising specialist. But while volunteering in hospice care for the unhoused, she realized her true passion was in mental health and made the switch to social work. She is currently completing her Master of Social Work degree from Temple University in Philadelphia. Now armed with clinical social work skills, she is ready to provide compassionate mental health care in an accessible, safe environment.
One of Carly’s passions and specialties is providing care for people with complicated and/or chronic healthcare needs. She has a background in dementia care and caregiver support and is engaged in helping clients with issues related to aging. She is trained in dialectical and cognitive behavior therapy, narrative therapy, positive psychotherapy, and trauma-informed care.
I believe there is no health without mental health, so when I approach my own or my client’s mental health, I focus on the whole body. I make sure to get movement as often as possible and I try to get outside no matter the weather. I practice mindful meditation; I read, write, and cuddle my big furry dog as much as he will allow. I prioritize snacks, sleep, and connection with my friends and loved ones.
I love being in nature and think Utah is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I think we have the best access to hiking, biking, and birdwatching. I love to bake and plan my weekly bakes around what is in season at Ogden Farmers Market. I also love watching comedies, standup, and cartoons and have a secret talent for mimicking obscure cartoon characters.
My Philosophy
“My focus and priority in mental health are to help facilitate well-being. The client is the expert of their own experience and I aim to create a collaborative partnership in finding the best tools and skills needed to cope with life’s challenges and stressors. I have an eclectic approach, ensuring treatment is always addressing and responding to the individual’s needs. I practice trauma-informed care and always apply a strength-based approach. As a lifelong student, I am committed to ongoing training to bring the client the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatments available. “
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share, Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Karlinda graduated with her Masters Degree from Arizona State University in 2022. She has worked in public mental health for more than six years where she works with youth, adults, and families to help address their mental health needs.
Karlinda has experience working in substance use, as well as individual and family therapy. Karlinda has received training in the treatment of depression, anxiety, conduct, ADHD, and trauma. As well as family relationships and parenting.
I find that when I am faced with personal challenges, I try to look at each experience as an opportunity for learning and growth. I reflect on how I got there and then work to recognize things I can change to address the current situation. I strive to show myself grace as I recognize that we are all progressing and becoming someone amazing, and most importantly I remind myself that life is a journey not a destination.
I love to spend time with my husband Scott, he is by far my favorite human! I also enjoy spending time with our children. We enjoy doing triathlons, boating, whitewater rafting, hiking, and rock climbing. We also love a big bowl of Scott’s awesome popcorn, ice cream and a good movie. On a quiet day I love to knit and read whatever book I can get my hands on. I also love audio books and power tools. A good DYI project is cleansing for my soul.
My Philosophy
“My therapeutic approach is simple, no one person is the same. We are all on our own personal journey and if I am able to meet someone wherever they are on their path and make things a little easier for them as they work to carry the load they have been given, then I count myself blessed. I love to see the look in someone’s eyes when they realize their personal power and the strength they have inside. I believe we all have the resilience and power to become whoever we choose we just need to be reminded at times.”
DMBA, EMI – Health West, PEHP, SelectHealth Care, Choice, Med, SelectHealth Value, SelectHealth Share.
Lakyn is getting her Master’s Degree in social work from Our Lady of The Lake University. Lakyn has chosen this career path because she loves helping people and wants to help them better their lives. Lakyn has spent time working in addiction and recovery with women and children. She the time she spent with this population, but has the desire to serve others as well, she would love to work with military members and their families, young adults, teenagers, families, and many others as she wants to strive to help all better their lives. Lakyn has been trained in DBT and studied Gottman’s practices. She has the desire to specialize in military, trauma, addiction, abuse, mental health, and general life issues.
My Philosophy
I rely on my religious beliefs, exercise, baking, travel, and my family to help keep myself mentally healthy. I also love to write when I am stressed, as it helps me get my feelings out. Some of my hobbies are sports, reading, water activities, hiking, game nights, and trying new foods with my friends. I love to travel and have been to 27 states and around 7 countries, I love trying things that scare me in order to overcome my fears. My therapeutic approach is to first listen to my clients so that I can understand where they are at and after that, we will come up with a treatment plan together. I want my clients to be comfortable with me and know that I am here to help them get where they want in life.
Shelby Voreis received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Capella University in 2019. She went on to pursue her Master of Social Work from Capella University and is on track to graduate September of 2023. Shelby spent several years working in the Adult Inpatient Psychiatric Unit at McKay-Dee Hospital developing skills related to crisis interventions, coping mechanisms and conflict resolution. Shelby has been passionate about mental health from a young age and is especially committed to serving individuals and couples looking to improve their view on sex and intimacy, as well as LGBTQ+ individuals.
Shelby has experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety and recognizes how debilitating these issues can be. She is skilled in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, which are valuable in helping individuals as they manage day-to-day life and significant life transitions.
Boundary setting and clear communication are two important aspects Shelby works with individuals to outline and refine. Through advocacy for self and future planning, Shelby hopes to help individuals recognize, shift and achieve a life of fulfilment and happiness.
My Philosophy
Happiness is a rare commodity and one that I believe is achievable for everyone. Advocacy, self-reflection and behavior changes can make all the difference in understanding and striving for the best version of yourself and the life you want. While we can’t control those around us, I do believe that individual self-awareness, honesty and cooperation can facilitate meaningful connections and powerful problem-solving.
