Staff

Nancy Bohl-Penrod, Ph.D. (Director) is a Psychotherapist and trainer, who holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Masters Degree in Counseling/Education. She is the Director of The Counseling Team International (TCTI), which is also, The Southern California Critical Incident Stress Management Team. She is a member of the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) and a certified Master Trainer for the QPR Institute focusing on Suicide Prevention and Intervention for first responders. She is also a certified trainer for the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF), ICEMA for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), Peace Officer and Standard in Training (POST) and Standards and Training for Corrections (STC). She is an adjunct professor in the Criminal Justice Departments for Riverside and San Bernardino Valley Community Colleges. She has been a guest speaker for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Academies and she was honored to present at the United Nations to their Security Police. She is one of the past Presidents of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Psychological Services Section, as well as one of the founders of the Public Safety Peer Support Association (PSPSA).

Dr. Bohl-Penrod is certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is a technique she uses to help trauma survivors. She is known for her 5-day Basic Peer Support and Critical Incident Stress Management training that The Counseling Team International has taught to over 12,000 first responders throughout the United States and Canada. Nancy’s personal experience over the years has allowed her to develop a personal approach to helping first responder families by providing “Significant Other Survival” (SOS) training and the importance of Wellness and Behavioral Health.

Nancy has responded to more than 1,000 critical incidents in her career. Some of the major incidents she has responded to, are the ATF incident in Waco, Texas, the TWA Flight 800 disaster in Long Island, New York, the Typhoon disaster in Guam and the Alaska Air Disaster in Los Angeles. She led a team of Mental Health Professionals in assisting those severely impacted by the Terrorist Attacks in New York. While in New York she was sent by the FBI to the Pentagon to provide her services. Her team responded to the California Wildfires of 2003 and they assisted the U.S. Forest Service in the loss of Engine 57 firefighters in the Esperanza Fire of 2006. More recently her team’s services were used for the Big Bear Manhunt (Dorner Case), the Los Angeles International Airport TSA shooting, Seal Beach Beauty Salon shooting, assisted the U.S. Forest Service with the loss of three firefighters in Washington State. She also helped first responders with the San Bernardino Terrorist Attack at the Inland Regional Center, Las Vegas 91 Harvest Shooting, California Tubbs and Thomas wildfires and most recently the Santa Barbara County mudslides.

Over the past twenty-five years Nancy has developed over fifty public safety wellness divisions for departments of all sizes through her public safety “Behavioral Health and Wellness Services” program. Dr. Bohl-Penrod has written numerous articles and book chapters focusing on mental health issues for police and fire personnel. She recently worked with a team of mental health professionals who has created an APP to guide public safety peer supporters and supervisors in their endeavor to help each other. One of her greatest achievements was receiving the from the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) for her “Exceptional Service in the Public Interest” a certificate of appreciation.

Kathy Wellbrock, Ph.D., Assistant Director, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY17906). Dr. Wellbrock earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Psychology. Before joining TCTI, Dr. Wellbrock worked as a Law Enforcement Licensed Mental Health Professional (MHP) for Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department serving in various capacities. She provided therapy to department members, worked on-call emergency response, conducted critical incident debriefings, hostage negotiations, and was responsible for management consultation and training for sworn and civilian employees. In addition, Dr. Wellbrock was an Adjunct Professor at the University of La Verne where she taught various classes in the graduate and undergraduate program. Her related work experience allowed a seamless transition to her similar responsibilities now with TCTI. Her role includes handling the majority of our pre-hire psychological testing for law enforcement, fire personnel, dispatch and other service-oriented positions for agencies throughout California including the California Department of Corrections. Dr. Wellbrock provides training around the country for numerous agencies including the Federal Air Marshall Service. She also provides Critical Incident Stress Management Debriefings (CISD) and has responded to major incidents such as the LAX Shooting, Big Bear Manhunt in 2013 and the San Bernardino Terrorist Attack at Inland Regional Center. Dr. Wellbrock is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and currently serves clients for TCTI out the San Bernardino office.

Tiffany Atalla, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT47788). Tiffany earned her B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Marriage Family and Child Counseling from the University of San Diego. Before joining TCTI, Tiffany worked as a clinician for the Psychiatric Emergency Response Team in San Diego. During the 40 hours a week in a police unit, Tiffany learned a great deal about the needs of the law enforcement community, while gaining valuable hands on emergency response experience. Tiffany also has background as a community mental health provider and Clinical Director for inpatient psychiatric center. Her specialties include: PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, family/relational conflicts and working with adolescents/children. Tiffany is trained as a professional capable of risk and depression assessments, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and Critical Incident Stress Management. Tiffany also has years of experience as an Equine Assisted Psychotherapist (EAGALA). Tiffany teaches Crisis Intervention for the Human Service Department at California State University Fullerton. She values working with clients to find balance in their lives and often draws upon her background as a Yoga Practitioner to encourage clients to learn about relaxation and mindfulness techniques. Tiffany serves clients for TCTI in the Brea office.

Kristin Blaney, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT #80286). She has a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Loyola Marymount University. Kristin has previous experience working with foster and adoptive families through a shared contract with Kinship Center and Orange County Social Services. She provided ongoing therapy as well as parenting classes to this population. Kristin is training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and holds a certification in Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). She currently works with individuals, children, couples and families in private practice. Kristin specializes in military families, grief and bereavement, and PTSD/trauma. She has a passion for working with those who serve having grown up in in a law enforcement home. Kristin’s father was a United States Treasury Special Agent Investigator assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration and the San Diego Integrative Narcotics task force. Kristin serves clients for TCTI in San Clemente.

Emily Brennan, M.S.W. is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CA 65079). Emily joined TCTI in 2018. She practices in the greater Los Angeles area. Emily got her start in social services volunteering with For the Child’s Child Abuse Response Team in the South Bay in the early 2000s. She responded to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina and volunteered with a non-profit organization to assist in the clean up efforts. In order to become more effective in crisis response, Emily returned to school and earned her Masters Degree in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles, in 2010, with an emphasis in Children, Youth, Woman, and Families. Emily’s professional experience includes working for Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health’s School Threat Assessment Response Team conducting crisis evaluations and case management of students at risk for targeted school violence. Emily, then, transitioned to the Long Beach Police Department’s Mental Evaluation Team in 2011. The MET unit is a collaboration between law enforcement and mental health wherein a clinician and officer ride together in the field and are first responders to calls for service involving individuals diagnosed with mental illness and/or experiencing a psychiatric crisis. Emily is experienced in conducting psychosocial assessments and evaluating for involuntary psychiatric hospitalizations. Emily completed the FBI’s 40-hour Crisis Negotiation Course in 2015. Emily also responded to the recent Woolsey Fire to provide support to evacuees.

Cindy Brock, M.A. is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC4665). Cindy graduated from Bethel University with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology. She has extensive clinical experience working with children, teens and adults. Cindy is certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) through EMDR International Association, and trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). She utilizes a variety of counseling methods for each client’s counseling needs. Cindy specializes in trauma, mood disorders, substance abuse/addiction, family/relationship conflict and behavioral issues with children and teens. Prior to entering private practice, Cindy worked with adults in inpatient mental health hospital settings, crisis houses, and inpatient/outpatient drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities. With children and teens, she has worked as a Therapeutic Behavior Coach, supporting families and care-givers with their children diagnosed with mental illness. She provides services out of TCTI’s Temecula office.

Alejandrina Flores Burrell, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT34266). Alejandrina joined the team in 2008. She received her B.A. in Behavioral Sciences from the University of San Diego and her Masters in Counseling from San Diego State University. Throughout her career, she has provided mental health services to various school and treatment centers to include children, adolescents, and their parents as well as adult outpatient centers. Currently she provides counseling to governmental agencies, city personnel and their families as well as Victims of Crime. She is on the approved referral list for Riverside County parenting/co-parenting classes and provides this service in a 1:1 setting. She is bilingual (Spanish/English) and bi-cultural in her personal and professional life giving her first-hand experience in relating to a diverse population. Her personal life also includes the military, law enforcement and civil servant culture which makes her empathic when addressing issues specific to these groups. Alejandrina is certified in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and responds to crisis situations providing employee support. Alejandrina serves clients for TCTI in the Corona office.

Erin Campbell, M.A. is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT100740). Erin joined TCTI in 2019. Erin earned both her undergraduate and masters degree from the University of Southern California. She currently has a private practice in Manhattan Beach while providing school-based counseling in the Redondo Beach School District. Prior to joining TCTI, Erin has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. She has experience in a non-profit organization working with individuals with co-occurring disorders, an adolescent residential treatment center, and private practice. She has extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, and crisis intervention. Erin believes in providing a personal, nonjudgmental, multi-dimensional approach to assist clients with identifying their strengths and challenges, becoming more self-aware, and ultimately empowering individuals to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Audree Chapman, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 42249) joined TCTI part-time in 2014. She earned her B.A. in psychology and her M.S. in psychological counseling fron California State University, Nothridge. As EAP Coordinator for the FBI Los Angeles Division since 2000, she provided therapy to agents and high-level management, worked 24/7 on-call emergency response, and conducted CISM debriefings. She counseled agents and their families on issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, work stress, grief, trauma, marital issues, child issues, suicide prevention, and domestic violence. She responded to innumerable critical incidents and provided CISM debriefings for the Alaskan Airlines disaster, support for the 911 terrorist attacks, the Long Beach ICE shootings, the journalist Daniel Pearl kidnapping, the 2004 Glendale commuter train crash, Agent-involved shootings, kidnappings, body recoveries, and fugitive captures. She provided support and behavioral/psychological analysis for the 2013 Big Bear (Dorner) manhunt, and ran first responder CISM groups after the 2016 San Bernardino terrorist attack. She also was a member of the FBI CNT (Crisis Negotiation Team). She has provided therapeutic support and CISM to local law enforcement agencies in Glendale, Ventura County and Santa Maria after officer suicides and assaults. She single-handedly developed, implemented and managed the FBI’s first Suicide Prevention Program. The program continues to be in use in all 79 divisions of the FBI nationwide. Before the Bureau, she worked with veterans for seven years at the North Hills VA Medical Center and worked an additional five years with domestic violence perpetrators in a Mandatory Sentencing Program for batterers. More recently, she provided CISM groups for the Malibu Creek State Park murder, the Borderline Grill mass shooting, the Thomas fires, and individual support for the Montecito mudslides and the Santa Barbara dive-boat incident. She regularly provides CISM groups and individual support to the Juvenile Detention at Ventura County Probation Department. She currently provides services out of TCTI’s office in Ventura County.

Clint Christie, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT102855). Clint earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Born into a firefighting family where his grandfather, father, and brother have served the public for three generations, Clint followed in the “family business”. He has been a professional firefighter/paramedic for over 20 years. He understands the fire service culture, the impact that first responders’ careers place upon their families, and the unique demands of shift work and strike team assignments. He is passionate about public service and limiting the effects of a career as a first responder from negatively impacting his clients and their families. Clint has been involved in high-profile emergency incidents as a firefighter/paramedic such as the Salon Meritage Shooting in Seal beach, California. He also volunteered to help as a peer supporter to debrief the first responders in the days after the San Bernardino Terrorist attack. Clint has collaborated with the West Coast Post Trauma Retreat as a clinician in training assisting first responders on their path to wellness. He is experienced conducting individual, couples, and group therapy. He has led groups for Men’s Social Support, Grief & Loss as well as Anger Management. Clint is fluent in Spanish and is available to see Spanish-speaking clients. He currently serves clients in Laguna Beach for TCTI.

Andy Clack, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT96297). Andy earned his master’s degree in psychology with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy from Chapman University. He is trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Andy has extensive experience working with diagnosis and treatment of adults and children in all aspects of family issues, divorce, substance abuse, and domestic violence. In addition, he has worked with victims of crime and individuals suffering from complex trauma. He has facilitated groups for anger management, parenting, domestic violence relapse prevention, and introducing individuals to mindfulness-based therapy. Since arriving at TCTI Andy has been providing counseling services to employees in governmental agencies, including law enforcement, firefighters, emergency service personnel, and their families out of the Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino offices.

Meredith Craig, M.A. is a Licensed Mental Health Professional (MFT 41354) for TCTI, joining the team in 2006. She received her Bachelors in Sociology from Quinnipiac University and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego. Meredith’s clinical background includes work with San Diego Hospice and clients referred by San Diego Child Protective Services and Victims of Crime. She has treated first responders for the past 14 years and focuses on individuals, couples and families dealing with anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse issues and grief. Meredith serves clients out of TCTI’s offices in Carlsbad and La Jolla.

Sara DeLeon, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY21374). Dr. DeLeon graduated from the University of La Verne in 2004 with her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology. She has been conducting individual, family and group therapy in various agencies and centers since 2000. Dr. DeLeon provides Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) to contract and non-contract departments alike and conducts pre-employment psychological evaluations for law enforcement, probation and fire personnel. Dr. DeLeon is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR).

Kendra Devor, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY28397). Dr. Devor earned her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She works with individuals, couples and families, helping them to restore hope, find solutions and transform their lives. Dr. Devor works with a variety of first responders for TCTI, including a large percentage of Route 91 survivors. She is married to a police officer. Her personal experiences with law enforcement, military, and fire has been well received by all who know her. Dr. Devor currently provides services for TCTI out of our Rancho Santa Margarita office.

James Donckels, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT43947). Jim joined the team in 2005 and has since provided 24 hour on-call Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) to contract and non-contract departments alike. He has responded to major incidents throughout Southern California including the Big Bear Manhunt in 2013 and the San Bernardino Terrorist Attacks in 2016. Prior to joining TCTI, Jim received his B.A. in Criminology from the University of California, Berkeley and spent five years as a police officer with the Berkeley Police Department. In 1969 he joined the F.B.I. and spent 32 years with them as a Special Agent and a Supervisory Special Agent. The last 25 years of his career was in the Santa Ana Resident Agency, ending his career as the Senior Supervisory Resident Agent. Prior to retiring, he returned to California State University, Fullerton, where he earned his M.S. in counseling. He received his certification as a Crisis Intervention Specialist following 120 hours of training with the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation of Baltimore, MD. He has also retired from teaching part time at the Criminal Justice Training Center and Golden West College in Huntington Beach, California.

Ann Marie Donnelly, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY11715) Dr. Donnelly graduated for the University of California, Los Angeles with a Doctorate in Personality/ Social Psychology. Prior to working for TCTI she worked in different law enforcement and correctional settings. She was also an instructor in the graduate Clinical Psychology program at Antioch University in Santa Barbara. She is EMDR trained, has experience in Crisis Negotiations, CISD, and is CIT certified. Her professional emphasis is in Positive Psychology. Dr. Donnelly provides services out of TCTI’s Pismo Beach office.

Jill Drenth, M.S.W. is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCS28979). Jill earned her Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California in 2008. Jill has 11 years of experience in Community Mental Health, with the last 5 years specifically treating people experiencing homelessness that have tri-morbidities (Severe and Persistent Mental Health issues, Substance Use Disorders, and Chronic Medical Conditions). She specializes in Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, and Grief. In her private practice she works with Sexual Assault Survivors, military veterans, Caregivers for the chronically ill, and men dealing with Childhood Trauma and Work Stress. Jill is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Certified in Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM – Somatic Therapy), and a Certified Anger Management Counselor. She also provides Clinical Supervision to various pre-licensed clinicians that work in Community Mental Health agencies. Jill serves Fire and Police personnel for TCTI in the San Fernando Valley. Jill provides services out of TCTI’s Granada Hills office.

Julia Fagan, M.S.W. is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Hawaii LCSW 4049, CA pending). Julia earned her Bachelors of Social Work degree from the University of Hawaii in 2012 and her Masters Degree in Social Work one year later in 213 from San Diego State University through the Advance Standing Program. Julia’s professional experience includes several years of trauma, oncology and end of life care in the acute medical setting, as well as outpatient psychiatric care. Julia has worked conducting telephonic crisis/triage/response in the state of Hawaii, as well as Emergency Room Psychiatric evaluations. In addition to her civilian employments, Julia was also commissioned as a Lieutenant in the US Army Reserves in 2016 and continues to serve as a Behavioral Science Officer, working extensively with service members and their families. She is currently employed by TCTI as the Mental Health Intake Clinician/Security Officer for the DEA’s Employee Assistance Program.

Kristin M. Haas, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY29777). She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University – California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. She also provides Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and has responded to major incidents including the Terrorist Attack at the Inland Regional Center. She has been in the mental health field since 2001 and served populations from adolescents with emotional disturbances to adults managing psychiatric crisis and mental health concerns, often with co-occurring substance abuse. Her research was selected for presentation at national and international conferences. The research explored how police officers seek services for occupational stress as well as the encouraging and discouraging factors that influence their decision to seek mental health treatment. Prior to joining TCTI, Dr. Haas worked alongside police officers for seven years, gaining insight into the world that police officers work in, the people who surround them, and the community they serve. She also works with intellectually and developmentally delayed adults who are at risk of becoming involved in or are currently involved in the Criminal Justice System. She provides individual and group psychotherapy while supporting improved collaboration and continuity of care across systems. She has worked with the Chadwick Center – Kids and Teens in Court to increase children’s ability to competently and effectively participate in the courtroom experience. At the University of California San Diego Pain and Palliative Services, she served individuals managing chronic pain by offering psychological evaluation and individual group psychotherapy. She has experience conducting and interpreting psychological testing in the inpatient and outpatient setting as well. Dr. Haas has a passion for working with and supporting individuals in finding their potential to live each day with physical, mental, and emotional balance. Dr. Haas serves clients for TCTI in the San Diego office.

Natasha Hause, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 94355). She practices in Santa Barbara and is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Natasha earned her Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. She has provided counseling to adults, adolescents, children and couples in many settings; including private practice, elementary school, and a partial hospitalization program. Her approach is integrated, but draws from Cognitive Behavioral and Schema Therapy. Natasha is trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, life transitions, eating disorders, couple’s issues, and family conflict. Natasha has a deep understanding of how life transitions can affect emotional well-being and strives to support clients in their transformation during these times. Natasha Hause serves TCTI clients in Santa Barbara, CA.

Shonna Hill, Psy.D. is a Clinical Forensic Psychologist (PSY31517). Shonna received her doctoral degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Hill has 14 years of law enforcement experience working in several divisions, which included patrol, high risk entry teams, and task force assignments. She has extensive experience working with military veterans in the reintegration process as they make the mental transition back from war. Her work with veterans also includes facilitating veteran groups on anger management and coping skills. Dr. Hill’s research on the impact of social support on an officer’s willingness to report suicidal ideations was selected for presentation at the International Conference & Summit on Violence, Abuse & Trauma. In addition, Dr. Hill created the Perceived Support of Suicide Ideation Scale which has been implemented during her extensive research on social support factors of law enforcement officers. Her professional experience has focused on the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. She is currently a part of the TCTI’s 24hr Critical Incident Stress Management team, responding to various types of critical incidents including the most recent San Bernardino terrorist attack. Dr. Hill is passionate about arming public safety personnel in law enforcement with the appropriate emotional and mental tools to live out a balanced and safe life, both personally and professionally. Shonna currently provides services out of the Brea office.

Beth Holder, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She completed her undergrad in Sociology with an emphasis in Social Problems at San Diego State University and completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Cal State Dominguez Hills. Her background includes working in a variety of settings including a community medical clinic, emergency children’s shelter, and agency work. She is certified in EMDR and brainspotting. Beth has specialized training in working with military, first responders, adolescents as well as training in Trauma, PTSD and CPTSD. She is an adjunct Psychology professor at Saddleback Community College and Speaker Coordinator for the San Clemente Therapist Network. Beth also volunteers her time with the Trauma Recovery Network providing EMDR services to members of the community with acute trauma. She provides services out of TCTI’s office in San Clemente.

Deana Kahle, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT99258). Deana earned her Master’s degree in counseling psychology from California Baptist University. She is certified in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Police Officer Standards of Training (P.O.S.T.) instruction. Deana provides Basic and Advanced Peer Support training and many other TCTI class offerings around the country for numerous agencies including the Federal Air Marshal Service. She provides Critical Incident Stress Debriefings (CISD) for law enforcement and fire personnel and has responded to many major incidents including the LAX shooting, Big Bear Manhunt and Route 91 Harvest Festival. Working for TCTI, Deana provides couples and individual therapy to first responders and their families out of the San Bernardino HQ office and over Telehealth.

Barbara Kloos, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT32764). Barbara received her M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the Antioch University in Santa Barbara, California. She is a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist and a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Barbara is trained in Trauma Recovery and has experience in debriefing critical incidents for first responders. She provides counseling and psychotherapy for older teens, adults, young adults, couples and seniors. Barbara serves TCTI clients in Santa Barbara, CA and the surrounding areas.

Nels Klyver, Ph.D. is a trained Industrial/Organizational Psychologist. He has been with The Organizational Network since 1996. In other venues he has provided results-oriented consultation to both public and private organizations for over 30 years. Over the years, he has developed a number of tools and strategies that produce highly effective results for his clients. Dr. Klyver’s emphasis is on problem analysis and problem-solving, leadership development, executive coaching, team building, strategic planning and change strategies for organizations.

Cherylynn Lee, Ph.D. is a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in Police Psychology. She received her Master’s Degree and Ph.D. from the California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego with an emphasis in Health. In addition to being a TCTI clinician, Dr. Lee is the Behavioral Sciences Manager for the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s office, the first-ever psychologist hired by that organization. Prior to working with law enforcement, Dr. Lee completed training at the UC San Diego Metabolic and Bariatric Institute; UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness, UC San Diego Department of Psychiatry and Preventative Medicine; and the Department of Psychiatry at San Mateo Medical Center where she provided both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric consultations, outpatient therapeutic services, palliative care consultation and acted as a consult liaison for the medical floors of the hospital. Recently, Dr. Lee was asked to work with POST as a subject matter expert on an Officer Wellness training video. Dr. Lee is passionate about her work with first responders and believes that strong, supported first responders are a good measure of how healthy a community is. Dr. Lee has been working with TCTI since 2017. Dr. Lee serves in the Santa Ynez and surrounding areas.

Carl Mascarella, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT29791). Carl began his counseling career 42 years ago working in outpatient, inpatient, and residential profit and non-profit community mental health programs. In the 80’s he became a post certified reserve and regular officer in Orange County before heading back to school to earn his master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Hope International University. Carl has extensive experience working with adults, couples, and children in multiple modalities and environments. He is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and has over 28 years of experience utilizing EMDR to help stop the pain and suffering of those exposed to trauma. In addition, he has worked with first responders, school personnel and medical caregivers that have been exposed to traumatic events. Carl also spent 15 years as the assistant pastor over adult singles programs, international missions, and local church outreach at a large church in the Inland Empire. He currently provides services out of TCTI’s San Bernardino office.

Wayne C. McAfee, Ph.D. is the Director of Organizational Development and has also provided professional services for TCTI since 1984. He provides training workshops and in-services for a variety of organizations, such as, Critical Incident Stress Management and Supervisory Skills for Management Personnel. He specializes in Organizational Development, Team Building, and Executive Evaluations, which give organizations the necessary skills and tools to maximize the full potential of their work force. As a mental health professional for TCTI, Dr. McAfee also provides critical incident stress debriefings. Dr. McAfee has been with TCTI from its beginning and has played an active part in TCTI’s pursuit of excellence.

Tammy McCoy-Arballo, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY28762) who provides counseling to first responders. Dr. McCoy-Arballo earned her doctorate degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from the California School of Forensic Studies in San Diego. She is a hostage negotiator who works with several agencies in Southern California. She specializes in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress management. Tammy responded to numerous mass shootings including the Gilroy Garlic Festival shooting in 2019, the 2018 Pathway Homes shooting in Yountville, the Route 91 Harvest Festival attack in Las Vegas in 2017, and the 2015 San Bernardino Terrorist Attack. Dr. McCoy-Arballo also does pre-employment screening of law enforcement and fire candidates. She continues to do research on pre-employment screening of law enforcement candidates. Her research with Dr. Robin Inwald won them the Bob Davis Award for their work at the 2017 national conference for Society of Police and Criminal Psychology, of which she is an active member. Dr. McCoy-Arballo currently provides services out of TCTI’s San Bernardino and Murrieta offices.

Stacy McLain, Ph.D. joined TCTI as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY 17699) in 2001, with her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. She has worked with clients in our San Bernardino, Victorville, and Temecula offices. She currently conducts pre-hire psychological interviews for law enforcement, dispatch and fire personnel. Her additional responsibilities include providing 24-hour Critical Incident Intervention. She is trained in Critical Incidents and Risk Assessments. Her professional experience has focused on crisis intervention and the treatment of abused and/or traumatized children and adults.

Jennifer Mercer-Castro, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT114358), practicing in South Orange County. Jennifer earned her Master’s Degree in Marriage, Family and Couples Counseling from Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling in Portland, Oregon. Jennifer has worked in a variety of settings ranging from, non-profit work, school-based programs, community-based programs, Intensive Out-Patient treatment and private practice. Jennifer is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and working towards Certification. Her approach stems from the variety of clients and issues she has worked with, blending an attachment focused framework with EMDR. Jennifer is passionate about working with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment disruptions, and family conflict. She provides services out of TCTI’s Laguna Hills office.

Dorothy Miyaoka M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT77992). She received her B.A. in Psychology from San Diego State University in 1988 and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2006. Additionally, she is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). Dorothy started her career working with adolescents involved in gangs in the community. Her professional experiences also include working with adults suffering from chronic mental illness at hospitals and residential facilities. She has facilitated group and individual therapy, taught anger management techniques, relaxation skills, emotional coping skills and personal life management skills. She has extensive experience working with adults who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. She works with individuals to identify dysfunctional reoccurring patterns that are holding them back, and helps them change the way they look at themselves and relate to others in a healthier way. She also focuses on stress management and helping people create a healthy balance in their life. Her goal as a therapist is to create a supportive environment where her clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome their obstacles. She utilizes a compassionate, collaborative and goal oriented approach in therapy to support her clients. She also works with couples to develop increased intimacy, communication and connectedness in their relationships, utilizing attachment theory to bring couples closer together. Dorothy serves TCTI clients at her office in Newport Beach.

Caitlyn Munger, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT107219) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LPCC6398). Caitlyn earned her B.A in Psychology from California Baptist University and M.A. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Before joining TCTI, Caitlyn worked with first time youth offenders through Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Caitlyn also worked at an agency that allowed her to see an expansive range of clients. She treated children, individuals, couples and families with a wide range of presenting problems. She has facilitated classes in parenting, victims of domestic violence and anger management. Her specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, relational conflicts, and working extensively with children and adolescents. Caitlyn comes from a dance background and draws upon her experience in teaching children to connect with children and teens in the therapy process. Caitlyn is married to a firefighter which gives her a unique perspective of living within the first responder community and family, while adding to her education and professional experiences. Caitlyn has undergone special training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and currently provides services out of TCTI’s San Bernardino and Corona offices.

Alana Negroni, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT #85936). She has a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology and a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. Her professional experience focuses on the treatment of trauma as it relates to first responders and their families. Alana is EMDR trained and has worked with survivors, first responders, and family members of victims of mass violence. Her trauma work includes major incidents such as the San Bernardino Terrorist Attack and the Route 91 Las Vegas Mass Shooting. Alana has been with the Counseling Team since 2008 and has served in various roles within the company. She is a POST certified instructor and is currently a member of the 24-hour critical incident stress debriefing team. Alana’s office is located at TCTI’s headquarters in San Bernardino.

Jeffery E. Oostyen, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY26998). Dr. Oostyen earned his doctorate degree from Alliant International University/California School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on child, family and relationship therapy. Prior to working for TCTI Jeff gained experience working with law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical, and emergency dispatch agencies as an intern and later as an employee of Focus Psychological Services. He has been with FPS for over 11 years. FPS has been the psychological services provider to the San Diego Police Department since 1990. Dr. Oostyen also provides 24-hour Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) to contract and non-contract departments, is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and holds a certificate in Hostage Negotiation from the FBI. Jeff has extensive experience working with adolescents and individuals with Autism, has been a semi-annual guest speaker at Palomar College’s Emergency Medical Department and a program supervisor for the STAR program. Dr. Oostyen currently works for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Correctional Psychologist where he is on the CDCR Peer Support Team. At CDCR Dr. Oostyen works closely with a caseload of psychiatric inmates, as well as, performing Mental Health Evaluations and taking on-call assignments for psychiatric emergencies. Working for TCTI, Dr. Oostyen provides marriage, family, child and individual therapy to governmental agencies, city personnel and their families, assists the training department as an instructor on various topics and responds to critical incidents. Dr. Oostyen serves clients for TCTI in the San Diego office.

Jennifer O’Toole, M.S. is a Clinical Counselor Associate (APCC5602). Jennifer earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Loma Linda University in 2018 and also has a duel specialization as a certified school counselor (Credential Document #180217508). Jennifer specializes in grief, trauma, family therapy, couples therapy and adolescent/child therapy. She has led many support groups for individuals facing loss or traumatic situations and has facilitated social groups for high schoolers and elementary students. As part of The Counseling Team International, Jennifer has undergone special training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and Basic Peer Support. Jennifer serves clients for TCTI in the San Bernardino office.

Davida Price, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT53045). Davida earned her M.S. in Counseling from the University of Phoenix. She has worked both in agency and private practice settings with children, teens, adults, and families. Davida has been the program director of an adolescent outpatient program, a military family life counselor at an elementary school, and a primary therapist at several adult treatment facilities. She is also a Board-Certified Music Therapist, Certified Yoga Teacher, and is fully trained in EMDR trauma therapy. In her individual work, Davida combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, energy psychology, shame resilience, mindfulness, and body awareness from a trauma informed point of view to target the needs of each client in a creative and comprehensive manner. She currently serves clients out of TCTI’s office in El Cajon.

Alison Ramirez, M.S. is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT103339). She works out of TCTI’s new Corona office. She earned her B.S. in Human Development at Hope International University and her Master’s in Psychology from Brandman University. Alison is a trained EMDR therapist and her own clinical background ranges from treating individuals with depression, PTSD, grief and loss, anger, adolescent conduct issues and spiritual growth. She also has experience working with couples by providing assistance in premarital counseling, family/relational conflict and co-parenting. She has facilitated classes in Family Dynamics, Victims of Domestic Violence and Anger Management.

Elizabeth Ramquist, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY28252). She specializes in treating adults and older adolescents who want to pursue a life of health and psychological wellness. In addition to working with people who desire internal and relational growth, for the past 15 years. Dr. Ramquist has been working with people who experienced trauma in their childhood or more recently as adults. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California and Indiana and a member of the American Psychological Association, Division 56: Trauma Psychology. Dr. Ramquist completed her pre-doctoral training in PTSD at the VA Puget Sound. There, she worked with combat veterans from the Vietnam conflict, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. She went on to practice as a Staff Psychologist at the University of Notre Dame, providing treatment to individuals with a breadth of concerns, including those who experienced war trauma, traumatic death of a loved one, sexual and physical violence, and childhood abuse and neglect. Dr. Ramquist works collaboratively with her patients to provide interventions that are evidence-based (i.e., scientifically proven to work well with people who have had similar difficulties in life). She currently provides services out of TCTI’s Newhall office.

Julie Rathbun, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY21135). Dr. Rathbun earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at The Graduate School of Psychology Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. She first joined TCTI as a mental health professional in 1995. Before coming to TCTI, Dr. Rathbun worked for Didi Hirsch Community Mental Health Center in Culver City and developed a strong background in crisis intervention. Presently, Dr. Rathbun provides individual and couples therapy to governmental agencies including law enforcement and fire service personnel, city employees, and their families. Her specialties include treatment in the areas of trauma, PTSD, crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, stress management, anger, and relationships. Dr. Rathbun is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. She is the current manager of TCTI’s 24-hour Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team and provides CISM services with appropriate follow-up counseling to law enforcement, firefighters, emergency service personnel and other agencies. She has responded to many types of critical incidents, including officer involved shootings, line of duty deaths, baby deaths, suicides, school shootings, workplace violence, and bank robberies. Dr. Rathbun has provided services following major critical incidents such as the Columbine school shooting, the Big Bear Manhunt (Dorner case) for Riverside and San Bernardino, and the recent San Bernardino terrorist attack at Inland Regional Center. Dr. Rathbun serves clients for TCTI in the San Bernardino and Claremont offices.

Gina Reynoso, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT107106). Gina received her Masters in Marriage, Family, and Children Therapy from Phoenix University and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She has been in private practice since 2018. Gina currently works with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department as a Detentions Mental Health Clinician assessing inmates for suicidal and homicidal ideations, as well as providing crisis intervention and clinics to treat their childhood trauma and addictions. Prior to working with San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Gina served as a peer support member for the National City Police Department. Gina is aware of the unique challenges faced by public safety professionals and the impact it can have on their families. She has experience working with trauma through Child Welfare Services as an emergency worker abuse investigator. While there, Gina worked with abused children and the underserved population in the South Bay area. Gina over 15 years experience with domestic violence survivors and has responded to domestic violence calls within the police departments in Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, and National City. In addition to specializing in relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and couples therapy, Gina has taught parenting classes and facilitated domestic violence groups for children and women survivors of domestic violence. She also facilitated groups on healthy relationships and women’s empowerment groups. Gina is fluent in Spanish and is available to see Spanish-speaking clients. Gina has been working with TCTI since January 2015 and is currently serving clients for TCTI in Chula Vista office.

Angelika Robinson, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY18385) who earned her doctoral degree in 1997. She has provided therapy services in inpatient and outpatient settings and has directed several residential treatment facilities for adults and adolescents. Dr. Robinson specializes in trauma, grief and loss, and eating disorders. She joined TCTI in 2006 and has been providing therapy and Critical Incident Stress Debriefings (CISD) for law enforcement, paramedics, firefighters, and other agencies. Dr. Robinson also provides training for the Federal Air Marshall Service as well as psychological testing for the California Department of Corrections. She is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) and currently sees clients out of TCTI’s Murrieta office.

Vanessa Rodriguez, Psy.D. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 511545) currently serving TCTI clients in the county of San Diego. Dr. Rodriguez earned her B.A. in Psychology at the University of Hawai’i and went on to receive her Master’s and Doctorate in Marital and Family Therapy in her hometown of San Diego at Alliant International University. Dr. Rodriguez has worked alongside the El Cajon Police Department in patrol as a clinician with PERT (Psychiatric Emergency Response Team). As a PERT clinician, Dr. Rodriguez co-responded with law enforcement to mental health related emergency calls and collaboratively conducted in field psychiatric assessments to determine 5150 involuntary confinements. Her dissertation, “The Impact of Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) on Law Enforcement Officers on Time and Disposition Responding to Mental Health Related Emergencies in Urban, Suburban and Rural Communities” utilized data from the San Diego Sheriff’s Office and has been published on ProQuest. Dr. Rodriguez specializes in trauma and relationships as she has worked with foster youth in a residential setting, juvenile offenders at the Chula Vista Police Department, as well as victims and offenders of sexual assault and domestic violence in an individual and group setting. She currently provides counseling, training, and critical incident stress management (CISM) services for The Counseling Team International (TCTI) in the San Diego Mission Valley office.

Angela Ronan, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY17942). Dr. Ronan graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology with her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Prior to working for TCTI she gained experience working in many different capacities including a community mental health center, university counseling centers and a hospital setting doing both group, individual and family therapy. Dr. Ronan is certified by the FBI in crisis negotiations and is EMDR trained. Dr. Ronan provides marriage, family, child and individual therapy to governmental agencies, city personnel and their families, focusing on a myriad of issues and problems. She is trained in critical incident stress debriefings and has assisted in many critical incidents including the recent terrorist attacks at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino. Additionally, Dr. Ronan assists the training department as an instructor on various topics. Dr. Ronan increased her role with TCTI by conducting pre-hire psychological testing for law enforcement, fire personnel, dispatch, and other service-oriented positions. Dr. Ronan serves clients for TCTI in the Carlsbad office.

Debbie Rubright, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT84377). Debbie earned her Master’s degree in counseling psychology from California Lutheran University. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), family mediation, and is a Gottman trained couple’s therapist. She is also a member of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). Debbie specializes in anger management and parent education, having been a court-ordered instructor. She has experience working with adults and adolescents with specific expertise in the areas of substance abuse and addiction as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) intervention. Debbie’s previous career was as a law enforcement officer with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department for 21 years, where she received her advanced Peace Officers Standard of Training (P.O.S.T.) certificate. During her law enforcement career, she worked a multitude of assignments including: Detention Services, Patrol Services, Sex Crimes, Robbery, Assault, and finished her career in homicide before medically retiring. Debbie currently provides services out of TCTI’s office in Camarillo.

Tammy Runge, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT48084). She received her master’s degree in Marital and Family therapy from the University of San Diego in 2004. Her earliest work involved working with children with autism and their families. She spent the next several years working with at risk youth trying to help prevent incarceration by providing therapy to the youth and to their families. She then transitioned into providing therapy to individuals of all ages, couples, and families. She is firmly rooted in the systemic approach and draws from other practice theories as needed including cognitive behavioral therapy, brief strategic therapy, and EMDR. Her main passion and focus for the last 8 years have been with trauma work and she is certified in EMDR. Tammy is strongly committed to facilitating change for the clients she serves. Tammy serves clients for TCTI in the San Diego office.

Peter Salerno, Psy.D. is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT98654). He earned his Doctor of Psychology degree from California Southern University and his master’s degree in clinical psychology from Vanguard University. Dr. Salerno has worked in a variety of clinical settings. He has years of experience treating substance use and trauma in residential and outpatient facilities for adults and adolescents, and he treats individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Salerno is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and is certified in Family Trauma and Complex Trauma through the International Association of Trauma Professionals. Dr. Salerno is certified in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). Dr. Salerno grew up in a firefighter family. His father is a fire captain, and his brother is a firefighter. Dr. Salerno is dedicated to utilizing his clinical background to help heal those who serve and their family members. He serves clients for TCTI in the Corona office.

Gina Sickels, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT36485). She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Ecology at the University of California, Irvine in 1991. She had a double emphasis in Psychology and Criminal Justice. In 1995, Gina completed her Master’s degree in Counseling at California State University, Fullerton. While working toward her licensure hours, Gina spent numerous hours at an outpatient clinic where she received valuable experience with various populations. This is where she realized her passion to work with people such as first responders to improve the quality of their lives. Gina spent the next 14 years from 1996 – 2010 at a residential treatment facility, Crittenton Services for Children and Families. While there, she had the privilege of working with abused and neglected children and adolescents who trusted her to guide them through the healing process. For the first 7 years, she has worked with abuse, neglect, dual diagnosis, family conflict, adolescent and young adults issues, crisis management, addiction, depression, anxiety and behavioral problems. Additionally, Gina has worked in recovery at different intensive outpatient drug and alcohol programs where she has been able to blend a holistic approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Gina enjoys helping her clients achieve relaxation, mindfulness and guided imagery techniques are practiced in session. Gina has completed Reiki Level I certification and currently working toward becoming a Certified Yoga Instructor and will be certified in December 2017. She has been practicing yoga for 20 years. Gina’s experience with first responders and public safety personnel will be a great asset to The Counseling Team International. Gina is now available to serve clients at her office in Huntington Beach.

Deborah Silveria, Ph.D. is a Licensed Psychologist (PSY14637). Dr. Silveria earned her Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern California. She has maintained a part-time private practice since 1993. Dr. Silveria is an EMDR Part One Trainer for Trauma Recovery Network. She is a Certified Eagala, Equine Assisted Therapist and Approved ICISF Instructor for Individual Crisis Intervention and Peer Support and Comprehensive Crisis Preparation and Response in the Workplace. She is also an Approved Instructor for Continuing Education for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Silveria consults and teaches workshops for continuing education on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), child abuse and group psychotherapy. She also provides workshops for corporate clients and EAPs on various topics such as stress management, anger management and trauma preparedness. She teaches at Cerritos College in their Foster and Kinship Program, is an Adjunct Professor at National University, and teaches Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). She is part of TCTI’s CISM team and has responded to the San Bernardino terrorist attacks and the Big Bear Manhunt. Dr. Silveria serves clients for TCTI in the Costa Mesa office.

Joyce E. Smith, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT50195). She earned her MFT degree from Phillips Graduate University and her BA in Music from Sonoma State University. Joyce is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Havening Techniques and Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM). Drawing on her musical background, Joyce composed bilateral music that is used in the EMDR and Brainspotting community for trauma processing and amygdala desensitization. She specializes in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma. As a PTSD survivor herself, she understands the healing process from the inside out and strongly believes in these modalities as a way to heal. She has worked extensively with issues such as sexual assault/abuse, physical assault/abuse, emotional abuse, panic attacks, phobias, vicarious traumatization, dissociation, divorce, chronic pain, migraines, depression, addictions, infertility and infidelity. She developed an eight-week curriculum that was used at an in-patient addiction facility addressing the correlation of trauma and addiction. She has worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children. She is passionate about helping her clients regain a sense of wholeness and empowerment. Joyce is a third generation Los Angeles native and currently provides services out of TCTI’s Hollywood office.

Nita Smith, M.S.W. is licensed as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 64689). Nita earned hew BSW from Azusa Pacific University and MSW from California State University, Long Beach. Nita’s professional experience has included working for Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health for eight years as a psychiatric clinician on the Psychiatric Emergency Team, a temporary shelter for abused and neglected children and youth, and provided crisis intervention at several outpatient mental health clinics in the Los Angeles region. She became licensed as a clinical social worker. During her role as a psychiatric clinician, Nita gained a great deal of experience and her specialties included: individual therapy to clients with PTSD, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, family/relational conflicts and working with adolescents/children. Nita was a group facilitator for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and conducted several art therapy groups which facilitated anxiety reduction and relaxation techniques. Nita is also trained as a professional capable of safety, risk and depression assessments. Following her role as a mental health clinician, Nita worked as a Child Abuse Investigator, Court Dependency Social Worker, Lead Court Officer and Supervisor with Riverside County Child Protective Services for 11 years. During these years, Nita participated in forensic medical examinations, forensic interviews, testified in Juvenile Court cases and she participated in multiple trainings in child abuse/neglect/effects of abuse/dual diagnosis/trauma on victims of domestic violence. Nita collaborated daily with local law enforcement and County Counsel by writing/formulating/serving warrants and petitions for detainment of abused and neglected children based on the Welfare and Institutions Code. Nita also worked closely with the District Attorney’s office, Probation Department, along with several Juvenile Court Judges and Commissioners and served as a liaison for victims of abuse and neglect. Nita was selected as a child welfare trainer through Riverside County and provided on-going State mandated training to various child welfare systems in California. Additionally, Nita is experienced in providing psychosocial assessments, involuntary 5150 hold certification as a medical social worker while she worked at Desert Regional Medical Center and end of life care as a hospice medical social worker at Kindred Hospice. Nita serves clients for TCTI in the Palm Desert office.

Stan Speck, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT28113) with over 30 years of treatment experience including individual, couples and family therapy. He has extensive treatment experience with adolescents and elementary school age children and has years of experience working with co-occurring disorders and substance abuse including the impact it has on significant others, families and the community. Stan is a long-term resident of Santa Barbara with a B.A. degree in Psychology from Westmont College and an M.A. degree from Antioch University Santa Barbara in Clinical Psychology. In addition to his experience as a therapist he also has helped to develop and manage quality treatment programs in non-profit and hospital settings. Mr. Speck has extensive experience in Residential Treatment Administration and he is an advocate for best practice treatment and coordinating treatment care with local resources. Stan is now available to see TCTI clients in Santa Barbara, CA.

Amanda Steiger, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT84761) Amanda earned her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco in 2005. Amanda’s professional experience has included over seven years as a Child Abuse Investigator, then a supervisor with Riverside County Child Protective Services. During that time, Amanda developed key relationships with and worked collaboratively with local law enforcement, victim witness advocates and the District Attorney’s Office. Amanda also worked closely with the Drug Endangered Children’s Team of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Coachella Valley Narcotics Task Force and the Indio Police Department on countless child abuse investigations involving crimes against children. Amanda has observed hundreds of forensic interviews, forensic medical exams, has testified in Juvenile and Criminal Court cases and has received countless trainings in child abuse/neglect, de-escalation, trauma, motivational interviewing, the effects of abuse/trauma on victims and domestic violence.Amanda became a certified Team Decision Meeting facilitator in 2007 through the Annie E. Casie Foundation, and also has experience providing individual and milieu therapy for adolescent girls, providing individual therapy for female victims of domestic violence, educational research, involuntary 5150 hold certification, crisis intervention, de-escalation, psychosocial assessments, end of life care and medical social work at JFK Memorial Hospital. She is part of TCTI’s CISM team and has assisted in many critical incidents including the recent San Bernardino terrorist attacks, Palm Springs line-of-duty death, and the Route 91 Festival where she debriefed both first responders and civilian employees. She is the lead Administrative Clinician for the DEA Employee Assistance Program.

Niki Stepanian, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT96376). She received her Bachelor’s of Art degree in English from the University of LaVerne and Master’s of Art degree in Psychology from Chapman University. Niki has been in private practice since 2012. As the wife of a firefighter, she is aware of the unique challenges the profession can have on relationships and family. She also has experience working with the effects of compassion fatigue, accumulated stress and work place burnout, and PTSI/PTSD. She specializes in working with various forms of trauma and she is a Certified Trauma Therapist trained in EMDR, domestic violence and Crisis Intervention Stress Management (CISM.) Niki is part of TCTI’s 24 hour on-call team and has worked with individuals, including first responders, affected by the Las Vegas Route 91 shooting, the San Bernardino school shooting, and the Montecito mudslides. In addition to the on-call team, Niki is also part of our training staff, teaching courses such as Significant Other Survival, Burnout and Compassion Fatigue in the Workplace, and Peer Support. Currently, she is providing counseling services to employees in governmental agencies, including law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency service personnel. Niki serves TCTI clients out of our Rancho Cucamonga office.

Phyllis Stroud, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT53166). Phyllis earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and is trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). She currently works on the TCTI 24-hour CISM team. Before coming to TCTI Phyllis had extensive experience in treating and diagnosing issues related to depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, PTSD, gender dysphoria and attention in outpatient and residential treatment centers for adults, adolescents and children. She has provided Critical Incident Stress Debriefings (CISD) with various entities such as law enforcement, hospitals and governmental agencies involving officer involved shootings, deaths and suicide. She has extensive training in Disaster Relief and has worked in the San Bernardino Fires, in Haiti after the earthquake, and in Mali, Africa. Phyllis serves clients in private practice in her Upland office providing individual, family and couple’s therapy. She uses various modes of therapy treatment including CBT and Trauma Resiliency Model. She has provided training on bullying, parenting and self-care.

Wisconsin Sturm, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT45190). Wisconsin has a Master’s degree in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California. She completed a three-year postgraduate professional training program at the IBP Institute in Los Angeles and she is a certified Integrative Body Psychotherapist (IBP). Wisconsin is in private practice in Palm Springs and has over 14 years of experience as a therapist. In addition to specializing in all relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and couple’s therapy, she has taught parenting classes and facilitated groups in men’s anger management and women’s empowerment. Wisconsin is currently becoming certified in Somatic Experiencing (SE) a form of therapy that works specifically with trauma. She serves clients for TCTI in the Palm Springs office.

Christine Sumpter, M.S. is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT19217) who earned her masters degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Christine has been helping individuals and families navigate the difficulties of life for over 35 years. Her diverse background as a psychotherapist has allowed her to develop expertise in a wide range of areas effecting individuals and families. Christine is experienced in working with individuals from all walks of life, particularly first-responders and their families. Her experience working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents gives her the ability to understand the current need while helping prioritize and process the challenges being faced. She has served as instructor and counselor in high school and college programs. She has worked with individuals and families during grief and loss crises. Her experience with Law Enforcement, First Responders, and current/former military makes her particularly qualified to assist police, fire, and military personnel and their families with their unique challenges. Additionally, Christine has specialized training and experience in helping couples work through the process of Affair Recovery. She has extensive experience in dealing with ADD/ADHD and brain health/wellness issues. She is a skilled communicator, able to help individuals and families develop the skills necessary to work through the issues they are currently facing. Christine provides services out of TCTI’s office in Corona.

Michael Uthoff, Psy.D. is Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY27619). Dr. Uthoff earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology. He is certified in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and provides these services during crisis situations. Dr. Uthoff joined the team in 2014 providing in office therapy serving individuals, couples, adolescents, and families. His professional experience includes having worked at the Greene County Sheriff’s Office in Springfield, Missouri. There he facilitated crisis intervention, clinical interviews, comprehensive psychological evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and conducted trainings for public safety officers dealing with the mentally ill and suicide prevention. Dr. Uthoff has also worked as a member of the interdisciplinary team at Mercy Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri. During his time at Mercy he provided psychological care to patients and their families by addressing and treating emotional and mental distress brought on by a medical condition and worked with individuals on the behavioral health unit manage and cope with anxiety related issues to reduce risk taking behaviors. In addition, Dr. Uthoff has held adjunct professor positions at the university level teaching various psychology courses. Throughout his professional and academic careers Dr. Uthoff has led numerous trainings on such topics as anxiety management, coping with stress, processing traumatic grief and loss, family communication, and motivational interviewing. He has worked in a variety of community mental health centers serving children, individuals, couples, and families. Currently, he is providing counseling services to employees in governmental agencies, including law enforcement, firefighters, emergency service personnel, and their families, as well as 24-hour critical incident stress management services. Dr. Uthoff’s serves clients for TCTI in the San Bernardino and Claremont offices.

David A. Vest, M.S. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT103919). He earned his Masters of Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. He has received basic level EMDR training, is a certified Prepare/ Enrich marriage therapist, FBI trained Crisis Negotiator (CNT) and has been an adjunct professor for undergraduate level classes at California Baptist University. He is currently working towards a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and wants to specialize in forensic psychology working with victims and first responders in court processes. He has experience in working with mindfulness, marriage counseling, individual, child therapy and religious integration of therapy. In addition to being a Navy Veteran, David retired as a police officer and holds 16 years of police experience including: CNT, Detective, FTO, OIC, CIT, Arson/ Post-Blast investigation, and patrol. David Vest serves clients for TCTI in the Anaheim and Victorville offices.

Christa Wallis, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 48068). A life-long public-school educator, Christa received her Master’s degree in Psychology from Chapman University in 2005. Since arriving at TCTI she has been providing psychotherapy to adults, families, children and couples with a focus on employees in governmental agencies, educators, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, paramedics, and dispatchers. She is married to a retired law enforcement officer and has many family members who are first responders. She also provides 24-hour Critical Incident Debriefings and has worked a variety of small and large-scale critical incidents including, but not limited to, the Esperanza Fire and the San Bernardino Terrorist Attack at Inland Regional Center. She is certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. Her specializations include treatment of: depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma recovery, stress, grief and loss, and children. She is fluent in Spanish and is available to see Spanish-speaking clients. She is available to teach various classes for our contracted departments and currently provides services for TCTI out of the San Bernardino office.

Jeff White, M.A. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 104008). Jeff earned his B.A. in Anthropology from the University of California, Santa Cruz and his M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies. Before coming to TCTI, Jeff worked as a therapist for several community mental health organizations and schools. He previously worked in public health and was an infectious disease researcher before beginning his long career in mental health. Jeff has several family members and friends that are first responders, and he is knowledgeable of the lifestyle and the issues they may face. Jeff’s specialties include: relationship conflicts, communication issues, anger, stress, anxiety, family dynamic issues, depression, work related issues, trauma, medical concerns, divorce/separation, PTSD, sex therapy and family therapy. Jeff has additional training and experience in: crisis de-escalation, suicide assessment & prevention, psychiatry, neuroscience, mindfulness, working with the LGBTQ community, and mood/personality disorders. Jeff is passionate about working with kids and teens. Jeff is great at helping young people and their families living with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, learning disabilities and special education needs. Jeff offers therapy that is sincere, competent, and realistic. Jeff is a TCTI clinician that is easy to talk to and skillful at helping clients heal and create meaningful change in their lives. Jeff works with adults, couples, groups, children, and families of all ages and backgrounds. He currently provides services out of TCTI’s Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino offices.

Sarah Wilkinson, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY24115) for TCTI. She has been providing counseling to children, adults, and couples, in both an inpatient and counseling center setting. Sarah also has experience in the health psychology field doing a rotation at Loma Linda University working with individuals diagnosed with Cancer and ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Sarah currently provides counseling services to emergency personnel such as firefighters, police officers dispatchers and first responders. She also specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and in working with individuals with depression, anxiety, and stress management. Sarah also provides 24 hour critical incident stress debriefing, and currently works out of the San Bernardino office.