Outpatient Therapists
Tamra Parko, LCSW
Outpatient Program Director & DBT Program DirectorTamra Parko, LCSW, has dedicated more than 20 years to the field of social work, beginning her career in 2002 after earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Utah Valley State College. She later pursued her Master’s Degree in Social Work, which she completed in 2017. Throughout her career, Tamra has had the opportunity to serve individuals and families in a variety of roles, including four years as a case worker with DCFS and six years with the Office of Licensing.
Tamra has been part of Hopeful Beginnings since before its doors officially opened and has loved witnessing the growth of the organization and the community’s embrace of its in-home model of care. She initially worked in Skills Development while completing her master’s degree and transitioned into a clinician role after graduation. She currently serves as the Outpatient Program Director, where she supports clients, oversees outpatient services, and leads the Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Program alongside a dedicated team of therapists.
Tamra enjoys working with individuals across the lifespan but has a special passion for working with children. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), play therapy, sand tray therapy, trauma therapy, and DBT. Her approach is grounded in compassion, connection, and the belief that every person has the ability to heal, grow, and create meaningful change.
Originally from the Salt Lake area, with several childhood years spent in Kansas City (Go Chiefs!), Tamra values the importance of community and relationships. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and loved ones. She loves traveling, experiencing new places, warm weather, and especially spending time near the ocean, whether relaxing on the beach or scuba diving. Tamra’s favorite saying is, “Be the Change You Want to See in the World,” a philosophy that guides both her personal and professional life.
Margene Beckstead, CMHC
Margene started her career working with DCFS and did everything from CPS investigations, foster care worker, and even had 1 ½ years working in an adoption’s unit. While working at DCFS Margene went back to school and received her Masters in Counseling degree from University of Phoenix. She worked for Valley Mental Health for 10 ½ years where she worked with adolescents in residential units for substance abuse, day treatment programs, one that was specific to Autism Spectrum and Low Functioning adolescents, and also worked with Sex Specific Treatment children’s outpatient unit.
Margene has been with Hopeful Beginnings for almost 7 years working with all ages, just recently as Timely Access for DCFS Medicaid clients. She has specialized in Trauma, EMDR, Sand Tray and Attachment Therapy.
Margene has been a singer in several choirs, along with her husband, they spent 27 years singing and touring, which gave us the opportunity to go to many different states as well as Russia and Armenia. Margene and her husband have four children, their oldest has Cerebral Palsy and is totally disabled, he lives at home with us and is joy of our life. Their second son has four children, and she says "Being a Grandmother is my favorite job ever. I will probably never totally retire because I love what I do but I will be semi-retired in June to spend more time at home with family, especially my grandkids.
Ian Schiffman, LCSW
DBT Therapist & Tabletop Group TherapistIan Schiffman earned his Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Utah and is licensed to practice in both Utah and Oklahoma. He is passionate about creating engaging, client-centered therapeutic experiences that foster growth, confidence, and meaningful connection.
Ian has a special interest in working with neurodiverse individuals, particularly those on the autism spectrum, as well as clients navigating ADHD, grief and loss, religious trauma, and LGBTQ+ concerns. He believes therapy should be tailored to each person's unique strengths, interests, and goals, creating an environment where clients feel understood, respected, and empowered.
As both an individual therapist and therapeutic tabletop group leader, Ian developed two innovative therapeutic groups that use tabletop role-playing games and collaborative storytelling to help children and adolescents strengthen social skills, improve frustration tolerance, build interpersonal effectiveness, and increase cognitive flexibility. He is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), allowing him to help clients process trauma and build resilience through evidence-based care.
Outside the therapy office, Ian enjoys gaming, comics, reading, and spending time with his hedgehog, Bertrand "Bren" Danger Snufflebottom, and his two pugs, Flora and Fauna.
He believes that embracing each person's unique interests and identity can be a powerful part of the healing process and strives to create an affirming, welcoming space where clients can thrive.
Trevor Dubock, LCSW
DBT TherapistTrevor Dubock is a licensed therapist with more than six years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. He earned his Master of Social Work through the Advanced Standing Program at the University of Nevada, Reno and serves on the In-Home and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Team at Hopeful Beginnings.
Trevor utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to each client's unique needs, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy. His clinical expertise includes helping clients develop distress tolerance, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness skills while exploring meaningful and lasting personal growth.
Trevor provides therapy in the office, in clients' homes, and through telehealth. He works with individuals experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and serious and persistent mental illness. He is dedicated to creating a supportive, collaborative environment where clients can build resilience and work toward lives that align with their values and goals.
Outside of his clinical work, Trevor enjoys backcountry skiing in the winter, backpacking in the summer, and staying active through martial arts, windsurfing, hiking, and fishing. He also enjoys photography, spending time with his family and black cat, maintaining a strong sense of humor, and embracing the philosophy of continually building a life worth living.
Caitlyn Underwood, LCSW
Caitlyn Underwood, LCSW, earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Utah and is passionate about helping individuals heal from complex trauma while developing a deeper understanding of themselves. She believes that therapy is a collaborative process and brings a warm, authentic presence balanced with enough structure to help clients stay focused on their goals and make meaningful progress.
Caitlyn specializes in trauma recovery, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive (OCD)-related concerns, relationship and interpersonal challenges, and the unique experiences associated with older adulthood and aging. She is committed to creating a safe, compassionate environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and move toward lasting healing.
Her clinical approach integrates a variety of evidence-based therapies to meet each client's unique needs. Caitlyn is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy. She tailors treatment to each individual, helping clients build insight, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful change.
Outside of the therapy office, Caitlyn enjoys expressing her creativity through painting, knitting, and crocheting. She also loves camping and spending time in Utah's beautiful outdoors, believing that nature can be a powerful source of healing and renewal.
Victor Cotto, ACMHC
Crisis Team Therapist & EMDR CertifiedVictor J. Cotto is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas and a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) in Utah. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Austin Peay State University in 2003, his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University–Central Texas in 2021, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision at Capella University, with an estimated completion in 2026.
Victor works with adolescents and adults who are navigating trauma, depression, emotional stress, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions. He brings a calm, grounded, and direct approach to therapy, creating a space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment. His goal is to help clients build resilience, gain clarity, and create meaningful, lasting change.
With specialized training in EMDR-based trauma treatment, Victor has particular experience supporting veterans, men in high-pressure roles, individuals carrying overwhelming responsibilities, adolescents ages 15 and older, adults, and couples. He understands the impact of trauma, stress, and life demands and works collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and move toward greater emotional well-being.
Charity Totten-Beal, CSW
Charity Totten-Beal, CSW, earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Utah and provides both school-based and in-home therapy services. She is dedicated to helping children, adolescents, individuals, and families navigate life's challenges with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based care.
Charity has extensive experience working in crisis intervention, child welfare, juvenile justice, and outpatient therapy settings. She specializes in supporting youth and families experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, trauma, behavioral concerns, family conflict, and crisis situations. Her background also includes working with families involved in child welfare and DCFS-related concerns, helping them build stability, strengthen relationships, and develop effective coping strategies.
Her therapeutic approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and tailored to each client's unique needs. Charity incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, trauma-informed care, and family systems approaches to help clients improve emotional regulation, strengthen communication, and build resilience. She is passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful, lasting changes.
Whether working with children, adolescents, or families, Charity is committed to helping clients discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and develop the skills needed to thrive both at home and in their communities.
Courtney Folster Wilson, LCSW
Crisis Team Supervisor, Day Treatment Therapist, & DBT TherapistCourtney was born and raised in Sandy, Utah. She earned a scholarship to play division 1 soccer at the Utah Valley University where she attended for undergrad.
She then received a Master's degree in Social Work through the University of Utah. Courtney has wanted to work in the social work field for as long as she could remember.
Both of her parents have social work degrees she was lucky enough to have role models who value service, compassion, and kindness. Courtney says “My parents have been amazing examples to me and have taught me cherished lessons that I hope to bring to my own practice.”
Kevin Claunch, CMHC
Kevin Claunch is an in-home Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Westminster College. He also served as a 91X Mental Health Specialist in the U.S. Army Medical Department (AMEDD), an experience that continues to inform his work with individuals facing complex mental health challenges.
Kevin works primarily with adolescents and adults, helping clients navigate a wide range of concerns, including trauma, substance use disorders, personality disorders, psychotic and mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and issues related to military and law enforcement service. Although he has experience working with young children, his clinical focus is on teenagers and adults. His background includes extensive residential treatment experience with both men and women, providing care to individuals with diverse and often complex needs.
Kevin draws from several evidence-based and client-centered approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. He tailors treatment to each client's unique goals, strengths, and circumstances.
In addition to his clinical practice, Kevin is actively involved in mental health education and crisis intervention. He serves as a Regional Mental Health Coordinator for CIT Utah, facilitates recurring Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) academies, and regularly teaches Trauma-Informed Policing to law enforcement cadets, helping strengthen collaboration between mental health professionals and first responders.
Outside of his clinical work, Kevin enjoys learning and is continually seeking opportunities to expand his knowledge and professional skills.
Sonnet Hintze, MFT
Crisis Team Therapist & Clinical SupervisorSonnet Hintze is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 11 years of experience helping individuals and couples build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. She serves as a Telehealth Clinician with Hopeful Beginnings, where she primarily works with adults to strengthen their sense of self-worth, develop healthy coping strategies, and learn practical cognitive-behavioral tools to create lasting change. Sonnet is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and has completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Sonnet earned her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University. In addition to her work with Hopeful Beginnings, she is the owner of Building Healthy Foundations for Couples, where she provides premarital counseling for engaged couples and facilitates in-person weekend relationship workshops. Through her practice, she equips couples with evidence-based communication skills and practical strategies to build strong, healthy, and enduring relationships.
Sonnet is passionate about empowering individuals and couples to recognize their strengths, improve their relationships, and create healthy foundations that support lifelong growth and connection.
Outside of her professional work, Sonnet enjoys spending time with her husband, their three sons, and their pit bull. As a family, they share a love of basketball and enjoy cheering on their favorite teams together.
Sarah Haderlie, MSW-I
Sarah Haderlie holds a Bachelor's degree in Art and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Weber State University. As an outpatient and in-home therapist intern, she is passionate about supporting individuals and families as they work toward healing, growth, and resilience.
In addition to her work in mental health, Sarah is an art instructor who enjoys helping children express themselves creatively while building meaningful connections through art. She believes creativity can be a powerful tool for communication, confidence, and personal growth.
Outside of work and school, Sarah loves reading fantasy novels, with a particular appreciation for the works of Brandon Sanderson. Her passion for storytelling, creativity, and helping others shapes both her personal interests and her professional approach.
Diana Cabrales, ACMHC
Diana Cabrales is a mental health counselor dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults better understand themselves and build more fulfilling lives. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Rice University, a Juris Doctor from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Westminster University.
Diana believes that every behavior has meaning and that many of life's challenges are rooted in experiences and relationships that shape how people cope and connect with others. Drawing primarily from a psychodynamic approach, she helps clients gain insight into these patterns while fostering greater self-awareness, resilience, and healthier relationships. She also incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to provide practical strategies for managing emotions, strengthening interpersonal relationships, and navigating life's challenges.
Diana strives to create a therapeutic environment that is both supportive and empowering, a place where clients feel safe exploring their experiences while developing the tools to create meaningful, lasting change.
Outside of her clinical work, Diana enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, embroidering, and sharing meaningful conversations with good company, especially on warm Utah summer evenings. A lifelong learner, she is always eager to discover new ideas and perspectives.
Briella Coca, LCSW
Briella Coca is a Clinical Social Worker who earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Utah and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Utah Valley University.
Briella believes that seeking support is a meaningful and courageous step, and she strives to create a safe, compassionate, and welcoming space where clients feel heard and understood. She works with children, teens, individuals, and parents who may be navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, OCD, ADHD, or significant life transitions.
Her therapeutic approach is individualized and strengths-based, drawing from Child-Centered Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), art-based interventions, and mindfulness techniques. Briella is passionate about helping clients better understand their thoughts and emotions, build resilience, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.
She views therapy as a collaborative process and is honored to walk alongside each client as they move toward greater clarity, healing, and hope.
Ellena Edwards, CSW
Ellena Edwards is a compassionate therapist specializing in family, individual, and couples therapy. She earned her Master's Degree in Social Work from Arkansas State University and is dedicated to providing evidence-based, client-centered care that helps individuals and families overcome challenges, strengthen relationships, and achieve lasting personal growth.
Ellena has experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and interpersonal relationship challenges. She believes in creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout their healing journey.
Her therapeutic approach is tailored to each client's unique needs and integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), talk therapy, and client-centered techniques. Ellena is passionate about helping clients develop practical coping skills, build resilience, improve communication, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Outside of her practice, Ellena enjoys painting, hiking, spending time at the lake, camping, and scuba diving. She also treasures time with her two beloved pets: Davina, her Belgian Malinois, and Silas, her Ragdoll cat, who are an important part of her life and bring her endless joy.
Elsie Tolutau, CSW
Susan Goddard, CSW
Epi Garcia, CMHC
BilingualGeorge Lotubai, SSW
Heather Baxter, CMHC
Parent Child Interactive Therapy SpecialistHeather A. Baxter is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) who is passionate about helping children, parents, and families build stronger relationships and discover their unique strengths. She specializes in working with children, families, and parents across a wide range of developmental stages, providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each family's needs.
Heather earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Utah State University in Logan, Utah, and her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in Salt Lake City, Utah. Since beginning her counseling career, she has focused on supporting children and families through life's challenges while fostering healthy communication, emotional growth, and lasting connections.
Heather is trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and PCIT-Toddler for children ages 8 months to 3 years. She also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, and family systems approaches to help children and caregivers develop practical skills, strengthen relationships, and improve emotional well-being.
Born and raised in Utah's beautiful Cache Valley, Heather has a deep appreciation for the people and outdoor lifestyle that make Utah special. Outside of her practice, she enjoys biking, walking, paddle boarding, crocheting, and working on puzzles. Heather is also an avid animal lover who grew up around cows and hopes to have them again someday. Most of all, she treasures being an aunt and spending quality time with her family.
Heather believes every child and family has inherent strengths. Her goal is to provide a supportive, encouraging environment where families feel empowered to grow together, overcome challenges, and build healthy, lasting relationships.
Jan Lerwick, LCSW
Jan Lerwick is an in-home therapist with both a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Utah. Her practices focus primarily on supporting children and families, with a special interest in helping children navigate learning differences, developmental challenges, and social-emotional needs.
Jan has extensive experience working with children who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and other learning or developmental needs that may impact their academic, social, and emotional well-being. She is passionate about helping children build confidence, develop coping skills, strengthen relationships, and feel supported as they work through their unique challenges.
As a mother and grandmother, she has a deep appreciation for the experiences, strengths, and needs of children at every stage of development. She truly enjoy spending time with children and feels honored to support them as they grow, learn, and discover their individual abilities.
Jan's approach is compassionate, patient, and child-centered. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment where children and families feel understood, respected, and empowered.
Jordan Judd, CSW
Jordan Judd, CSW, is an in-home therapist who believes that healing begins when people feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood. She approaches therapy with compassion, authenticity, and the belief that every individual has the capacity for growth and healing. Recognizing that no two journeys are the same, Jordan meets clients where they are and works alongside them at a pace that feels comfortable, collaborative, and empowering.
Jordan earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Social Work and an emphasis in Religious Studies from Utah State University before completing her Master of Social Work at Walden University. Her clinical experience includes crisis intervention and trauma-informed care, with a focus on supporting individuals who have experienced complex trauma and adversity. She has worked extensively with clients navigating substance use, special needs, homelessness, anger management challenges, involvement with the criminal legal system, and the lasting effects of sexual violence.
Jordan understands that many individuals seeking therapy have experienced situations where trust has been broken. She is committed to creating a therapeutic environment that is emotionally safe, nonjudgmental, and built on trust, respect, and genuine human connection. Her goal is not to rush the healing process, but to help clients explore their experiences, recognize their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change that aligns with their values and goals.
Jordan considers it a privilege to witness the resilience of the people she serves and believes everyone deserves the opportunity to heal, rediscover their strengths, and build a fulfilling life. Whether someone is navigating a current crisis, processing past experiences, or simply looking for a space to be heard, she is dedicated to providing compassionate support every step of the way.
Outside of her clinical work, Jordan owns a dog services business and spends much of her free time training and caring for dogs, including her two rescue dogs. Working with rescue animals has deepened her appreciation for the patience, consistency, and trust that healing requires. She often finds that many of the same principles that help traumatized animals learn to feel safe also apply to helping people heal. When she is not working with clients or dogs, Jordan enjoys hiking and spending time in the mountains, where she finds renewal in nature.
Ken McCauley, CMHC
Ken McCauley earned his Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Utah, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix.
After a rewarding career with the State of Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS), he transitioned into mental health counseling, bringing with him his extensive experience supporting individuals and families through challenging circumstances. Since April 2019, he has been with Hopeful Beginnings, where he currently provides outpatient counseling services to clients working through a variety of mental health needs.
Ken's therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helping clients recognize patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful change in their lives. He has also completed basic training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and incorporates trauma-informed principles into his work.
Ken is passionate about meeting clients where they are, providing compassionate support, and helping individuals build resilience, insight, and the skills needed to navigate life’s challenges.
Lindsay Robinson, CSW
Marlene Honeycutt, ACMHC
Marlene Honeycutt is a Mental Health Therapist who earned her Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She works with clients of all ages, with a particular focus on supporting teens through the unique challenges of adolescence.
Marlene is trained in EMDR, mindfulness, Sand Tray Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She is also a licensed high school counselor with a strong understanding of Utah high school graduation requirements, career exploration, and college readiness. This experience allows her to support young people not only with their emotional well-being, but also as they navigate important academic and future-planning decisions.
Marlene believes in meeting each person where they are and creating a supportive environment where growth can happen at an individual pace. She is especially passionate about incorporating mindfulness and movement into the therapeutic process, and walk-and-talk sessions are one of her favorite ways to connect with clients.
Outside of her professional work, Marlene enjoys creating delicious recipes for people with food sensitivities, gardening, and spending time with her family. She and her family also enjoy life on their small farm, which over the years has been home to chickens, goats, cats, dogs, turkeys, fish, and parakeets.
Merrilee Frank, CMHC
DBT TherapistMerrilee Frank is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and member of the Outpatient Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) team. She earned her master's degree in Counseling Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University and is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents and adults ages 10 and older.
Merrilee specializes in working with neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, as well as clients navigating trauma and other mental health challenges. Her therapeutic approach is individualized and collaborative, drawing from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to help clients build resilience, develop effective coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Her passion for helping others began during her adolescent years while chaperoning troubled youth on outdoor therapeutic excursions and working with youth involved in the juvenile justice system. These experiences inspired her commitment to supporting individuals facing complex life challenges. Throughout her work with the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) and the Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD), Merrilee recognized the need for interventions that extended beyond traditional case management. While at DSPD, she discovered a passion for behavior intervention and Applied Behavior Analysis, but her lifelong dream of becoming a therapist led her to integrate behavioral science with evidence-based counseling approaches such as ACT and DBT.
Merrilee is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and affirming environment where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to improve their emotional well-being and achieve their personal goals.
Sasha Low-Harmstead, LCSW
Sophia Ward, MSCMHC-I
Sophie Ward is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern currently completing the final year of her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Westminster University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Westminster College in 2023.
Her graduate training has included specialized coursework in grief counseling, child and family counseling, and trauma and crisis counseling. Prior to returning to graduate school, Sophie worked with children in the foster care system, an experience that deepened her passion for supporting children, adolescents, and families as they navigate life's challenges.
Through her education and clinical internship, Sophie has gained experience working with children, teens, and adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, behavioral concerns, and a wide range of other mental health challenges. She is committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative, and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to build resilience and create meaningful change.
Outside of her clinical work, Sophie enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, knitting, and playing the guitar.
Amanda Magleby, MSW-I
Amanda Magleby is an MSW Intern and outpatient therapist who provides services in both office and in-home settings. She earned her bachelor's degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Gerontology and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Utah State University, with an anticipated graduation in May 2027. Amanda also holds certification as a Crisis Worker.
Amanda is committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Her warm, collaborative approach is guided by genuine curiosity and a belief that meaningful healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship.
Since earning her bachelor's degree in 2006, Amanda has worked with a wide range of populations across multiple areas of social work. She began her career in hospice care, supporting individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and their families through the emotional challenges of serious illness and loss. She has also gained valuable experience in crisis intervention, providing compassionate care and safety planning for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation. Amanda especially enjoys working with children and adolescents, helping them build emotional awareness, resilience, and confidence while recognizing their unique strengths.
Outside of her clinical work, Amanda enjoys spending time outdoors with her children and dogs. Whether backpacking, hiking, or exploring new trails, she values the peace and perspective nature provides and brings that same sense of calm, authenticity, and compassion into her work with clients.
Gina Lloyd, ACMHC
Gina Lloyd earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human and Family Development from the University of Utah, her Master’s degree in School Counseling from the University of Phoenix, and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rocky Mountain University. She provides both School-Based and Outpatient Therapy services, with a focus on supporting children, adolescents, and female adults as they navigate life’s challenges.
As a therapist, she is passionate about helping individuals gain clarity, develop confidence, and build the skills needed to move forward. She strives to create a supportive, collaborative environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. She especially values working with children and teens, helping them develop practical, lifelong skills that promote emotional growth, resilience, and healthy relationships.
Gina's experience in both school and clinical settings allows her to meet clients where they are and provide accessible, individualized care. She uses a trauma-informed approach and incorporates a variety of therapeutic techniques, including play therapy strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She tailors treatment to each client’s unique needs, strengths, and goals.
Outside of her professional work, Gina enjoys spending time with her family and staying connected with my siblings, nieces, and nephews. She loves cheering them on at their sporting, drill, and cheer events. In her free time, she enjoys exploring the outdoors through walks and hikes, appreciating nature, and finding quiet moments to recharge through activities like watching a good show, creating diamond art, and coloring.
She truly loves the work she does and feels honored to support clients both in schools and in the office as they grow, heal, and thrive.
David Koldewyn, LCSW
Day Treatment DirectorDavid Koldewyn went to the University of Utah where he earned is MSW in 1995. He has spent the majority of his Social Work career working with children and adolescents in day treatment settings.
He finds fulfillment in seeing the growth clients make when they learn new skills and address and overcome past traumas. Dave enjoys working with an incredibly talented, knowledgeable, and committed day treatment team.
In his personal life, Dave enjoys being outdoors whether hiking, trail running, mountain biking, or snowshoeing. Dave has lived in Utah for the majority of his life. He has three amazing daughters, and one dog - that likes him sometimes.
Dave's personal belief is that we are all doing the best we can and that we can do better when we know better.
Kelli Michanowicz, CMHC
Kelli is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families. She has a particular passion for supporting teens and young adults as they navigate increasing independence and the transition into adulthood.
Kelli earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Peace Studies from Westminster College in Pennsylvania. Originally drawn to Utah by her love of skiing and the outdoors, she went on to earn her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Westminster University and ultimately made Utah home.
Kelli has extensive experience supporting individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs, including youth transitioning from psychiatric hospitalization and other higher levels of care. She helps bridge the gap between intensive treatment and community-based care through collaboration with clients, families, treatment providers, schools, and other supports.
Her experience includes working with trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and crisis-related needs. Kelli takes a holistic, strengths-based, and relational approach to therapy, recognizing the importance of relationships, past experiences, and the broader context of each client’s life. She incorporates psychodynamic principles and draws from evidence-based practices, including TF-CBT, DBT, and ACT, tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs and goals.
Outside of work, Kelli loves unplugging and spending time outdoors with her family and two dogs. No matter the season, you’ll likely find her camping or hiking in the mountains, skiing in the winter, or playing soccer. The outdoors is one of her favorite ways to recharge and spend meaningful time with the people she loves.
Krista Petersen, CMHC
Internship Program Director & Respite Program DirectorAs the Clinical Director of Clinical Internship and Respite Programs, She is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care while mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals. She believes in fostering a collaborative environment that supports both clinical excellence and meaningful client outcomes.
Krista Petersen earned her Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Weber State University and completed her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Phoenix in 2014. Throughout her career, She has worked with adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of therapeutic settings, helping clients navigate behavioral concerns, trauma, family conflict, and life transitions.
Krista's clinical experience includes working extensively with individuals involved in the criminal justice system, supporting both adolescents and adults as they address legal involvement, reintegration challenges, and emotional well-being. She also provides affirming and inclusive care for members of the LGBTQ+ community, creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where clients can work toward healing and personal growth.
She is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and client-centered, tailoring treatment to each individual's unique experiences and goals while helping clients build resilience, strengthen relationships, and create lasting positive change.
Kate Strong, MSW-I
Assistant Office Manager & Billing SpecialistKate Strong is an intern at Hopeful Beginnings and a social work student with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Minor in Business Administration from the University of Utah. She is passionate about supporting children and families and is excited to continue developing her skills through hands-on experience and mentorship from the professionals around her.
Kate believes that every child and family deserves to feel heard, supported, and valued. She is especially drawn to working with children and families because she finds meaning in being a source of encouragement and support during challenging times. She hopes to build genuine connections, learn from the experiences of those she works with, and help individuals and families feel less alone as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward their goals.
Through her internship, Kate looks forward to deepening her understanding of social work practice while contributing to a positive, welcoming environment at Hopeful Beginnings. She is grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families she serves.
Outside of work, Kate enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring Utah’s natural beauty. She is also an avid reader who especially enjoys fantasy and science fiction. At home, she has two beloved cats whose unique personalities keep her entertained.