Sierra Tucson Staff

Note: The following is a partial list of the professionals who compose the Sierra Tucson staff. For specific information about any staff member — or for any other information about Sierra Tucson — complete a contact form on our Contact Us page.

Direct links to staff divisions on this page
Medical | Clinical | Clinical/Integrative | Alumni | Outreach

Administrative Staff

Stephen Fahey, M.S.W., M.B.A.
Executive Director

Sierra Tucson welcomed Stephen Fahey, M.S.W., M.B.A., as Executive Director in January 2012. A leader in the behavioral health field for over 20 years, Stephen began his professional career as a psychotherapist and has served as a senior executive in a number of top healthcare settings, most recently as Director of Business Development at a comprehensive, multidisciplinary center focused on cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention.

His experience includes CEO of the National Deaf Academy in Mount Dora, Florida, and President and CEO of a private, not-for-profit, full-service healthcare organization in Westport, Connecticut. He was appointed to the Mental Health Strategy Board by the Connecticut Senate Minority Leader, tasked with creating a strategic plan to provide assistance for adults and youth with mental illness. For his significant work on this board, Stephen received the Connecticut Secretary of the State’s 2003 Public Service Award. Also during this time, he was elected as a board member to the National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems (NAPHS).

As Regional Director with Charter Behavioral Health, he oversaw 12 hospitals in Charter’s Eastern Division. While at Charter he also had tenure as CEO of the Westbrook facility in Richmond, Virginia, and was recognized as “Outstanding CEO” among 92 hospitals for his strong leadership and performance results. Stephen has been Administrator of Behavioral Health at a 5-hospital medical system in Central Florida, CEO of a 100-plus-bed psychiatric hospital and residential treatment center for children and adolescents, and Director of a substance abuse treatment program in Massachusetts.

With an M.B.A. in Healthcare Management from Boston University, an M.S.W. in Clinical Social Work from Boston College School of Social Work, and a B.A. in Psychology from Providence College, Stephen has served on numerous boards and taught continuing education at Boston College School of Social Work. # Top

Brandy Barbour
Director of Intake

Brandy Barbour joined Sierra Tucson in October 2010 as Director of Intake. She is a 1999 graduate of East Carolina University in North Carolina, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology. After college, she gained experience in acute psychiatric facilities in Atlanta, Georgia, beginning as a psych tech and expanding to the areas of medical records and human resources. Brandy has been part of the CRC family since 2002, learning multiple roles at Wilmington Treatment Center in Wilmington, North Carolina. She worked in marketing and admissions and served the last six years as Utilization Review and Admissions Coordinator. Brandy is excited to be in the Sierra Tucson environment, where the holistic treatment approach acknowledges how mind, body, and spirit are intricate components of recovery. # Top

Keyne Petkovic, M.S., CAPPM
Director of Medical Serivces

Keyne Petkovic brings 15+ years of management experience and a passion for employee relations, system improvement, and budget management to her current position as Director of Medical Services. Keyne graduated from the Pennsylvania State University with a B.S. in Psychology and minor in Business. She went on to receive her Master of Science degree in Community Counseling from Winona State University in 2001. Keyne joined Sierra Tucson in 2003 as a Medical Assessment and Stabilization Counselor and moved into an administrative role as Practice Manager for the Medical Department in 2005, bringing to this role her prior management experience from a non-profit social service agency. She became a Certified Administrator in Physician Practice Management in 2008. In 2009 she was promoted to Director of Medical Services, where she oversees the operational management of the Medical Department, giving administrative oversight to the Medical staff and Psychology Department, in addition to providing direct supervision of the Integrative Therapies Department, EMDR Therapists, Dietitians, Eating Disorder Technicians, Scheduling Department, and Bookstore. # Top

Medical Staff

Jerry Lerner, M.D.
Interim Medical Director, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chief of Pain Medicine

Dr. Jerry Lerner joined Sierra Tucson’s medical team in December 2010 as Chief of Pain Medicine and was appointed Interim Medical Director in December 2012. Wisconsin born and raised, Dr. Lerner received his medical education and specialty training at the Medical College of Wisconsin. He is Board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and a diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management. Dr. Lerner has investigated pain from many perspectives. In addition to his medical and physiatric training and experience, he has studied and trained in myofascial release, cranio-sacral therapy, osteopathic manipulation, mindfulness meditation, nutrition, life coaching, and trauma recovery. His treatment philosophy is to serve as a guide and facilitator, bringing together knowledge and appreciation of medical, surgical, rehabilitation, and alternative strategies to serve individuals with pain, trauma, and disabilities. Dr. Lerner brings a quarter century of clinical and leadership experience to his work. He is the former medical director of Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Hospital, Mount Carmel Health and Rehabilitation Center, Performance Enhancement Rehabilitation, and The Center for Integrative Pain and Rehab. He owned and operated a private practice for 15 years as well as developed and operated Selfcares, a wellness spa. He has been a clinical instructor at the Medical College of Wisconsin for over 20 years and has served frequently as a medical-legal expert on cases involving injuries, pain, and disability. # Top

Vicki Berkus, M.D., Ph.D., CEDS
Medical Director for the Eating Disorders Program at Sierra Tucson

Sierra Tucson welcomes Dr. Vicki Berkus back to Sierra Tucson as Medical Director for the Eating Disorders Program. Dr. Berkus is board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology and previously worked as a psychiatrist at Sierra Tucson from 1994 to 2002. She has served as Medical Director for a large eating disorder and substance abuse facility in Florida, was Chief Scientific Officer for American Medical Technologies, was a professor at Oklahoma City University for 7 years, and had her own private practice for 6 years. A Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, she has consulted with numerous eating disorder treatment facilities across the country and presents at major eating disorder conferences. She has authored numerous articles and is the author of Ten Commitments to Mental Fitness. Dr. Berkus has been extensively involved with national eating disorder and healthcare organizations. She is past president of the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (IAEDP) and is actively involved with the Eating Disorders Consortium, the Academy of Eating Disorders (AED), and the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). She also is a member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians, the American Psychiatric Association, and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Berkus also serves as Clinical of Eating Disorders Programs at CRC Health Group.# Top

James Duffy, M.D., FANPA, FAAHPM, DABMA
Psychiatrist, Chief of Integrative Medicine

Dr. James Duffy is a graduate of the University of Rhodesia and completed his residency in Psychiatry at Brown University. He then completed Fellowships in Neuropsychiatry at Brown and Harvard. Dr. Duffy has held full professorships at Cornell, University of Texas, and University of Connecticut. He is an elected Fellow of the American Neuropsychiatric Association and also the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Prior to joining Sierra Tucson in July 2010, Dr. Duffy was Professor of Psychiatry at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Texas, and President of the Institute for Spirituality and Health at the Texas Medical Center. He has since been appointed Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona. Dr. Duffy is Board-certified in adult psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, integrative medicine, and medical acupuncture. He has been voted a “Best Doctor in America” since 2001 and has received commendations for his patient advocacy work. He has co-edited four medical textbooks and authored numerous scientific publications in neuropsychiatry, palliative medicine, psychosomatic medicine, and the medical humanities. Dr. Duffy has developed innovative contemplative approaches to health and healing and is invited to lecture nationally and internationally. Dr. Duffy was attracted to Sierra Tucson by the opportunity to be part of an organization that provides a truly unique model of care which incorporates leading-edge clinical neuroscience along with compassionate and effective integrative approaches to support health, healing, and flourishing.# Top

Harry Goldwasser, M.D.
Psychiatrist

Dr. Harry Goldwasser, a Board-certified Psychiatrist, has served patients at Sierra Tucson since 2007. His training includes a tour of great southern public institutions: undergraduate degrees in English Literature and Genetics at the University of Georgia; medical school at the University of Alabama in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa and, finally, internship and residency in psychiatry at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Dr. Goldwasser has a compelling professional interest in helping others who suffer with psychiatric and addictive diseases. He holds a fundamental belief that, “We all can recover despite how hopeless we may feel. Certainly, improvement can take time and effort, but I have been amazed at how the integrative program at Sierra Tucson has helped so many.” As a physician who has gone through treatment, Dr. Goldwasser brings a real understanding of the struggle that getting clean takes but the reward and serenity that recovery brings. He states, “I am active in the recovery community and consider it a privilege and honor to work at such a world-class facility.” # Top

Sue Menzie, R.N., M.S.
Director of Nursing

Sierra Tucson welcomed Sue Menzie in July 2011 as Director of Nursing. With over 35 years of experience in nursing, including 25 years in behavioral health nursing and a history of management in business, nonprofit, not-for-profit, for-profit, public, and private settings, Sue brings impressive knowledge and leadership to the Nursing Department. Attending California State University, Chico, for her B.S.N., Sue also earned a Master of Healthcare Administration from Bellevue University in Omaha, Nebraska. She has directed nursing, clinical, psychiatric, and mental health services in hospitals and gained experience with all ages in psychiatric acute units, chemical dependency, eating disorders, geriatric programs, and outpatient settings including crisis intervention, brief therapy, case management, and mobile crisis teams. Speaking Indonesian, Malaysian, and English, Sue served with nonprofit Mission Aviation Fellowship to provide transport and communication technology, as well as triage and village health nursing, to third world countries. With a background in consulting/coaching in leadership and teaching psychiatric nursing at a university level, Sue looks forward to enhancing staff development and education. “I’m excited to bring a sense of internal vision and purpose to the Nursing Department,” Sue states, “and help them work together even more effectively with the whole multidisciplinary team.” Committed to a philosophy of wellness, Sue says, “I believe that the mentally ill are well people who are currently unwell, so we treat them as individuals who can and will get better. Sierra Tucson’s multidisciplinary programs work on change and healing rather than a band aid approach.” # Top

Emily Nardi, M.P.H., R.D.
Registered Dietitian

Emily Nardi has been a Registered Dietitian for nearly 20 years, serving at Sierra Tucson since May 2007. After graduating from Framingham State College in Massachusetts, she moved to Tucson and began her career as a clinical dietitian. In 1996 she earned her master’s in Public Health from the University of Arizona, specifically in health education and promotion. The majority of her career has been focused in nutrition research, disease prevention, and clinical counseling. Emily is certified in Adult Weight Management by the American Dietetic Association. Her professional goals are to help teach people about nutrition and encourage healthy eating behaviors. # Top

James Seymour, M.D.
Psychiatrist

Dr. James Seymour joined Sierra Tucson’s staff in June 2010. He received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee and completed his psychiatric residency at the University of Virginia in 1983. He studied for three years with the American Institute of Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and has practiced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Seymour was an officer with the United States Public Health Service, where he served as Mental Health Director of the Tucson Area Indian Health Service. For ten years he served as Assistant Medical Director of an inpatient behavioral health and substance abuse program focused on the healing of mind, body, and spirit. Dr. Seymour is Board-certified by both the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. His special areas of interest include addictions, eating disorders, trauma recovery, and both Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Dr. Seymour believes strongly in the resilience of the human spirit and sees the role of the psychiatrist as assisting the person in removing obstacles to the natural healing and recovery process. # Top

Nia M. Sipp, M.D.
Psychiatrist

Dr. Nia Sipp joined Sierra Tucson’s medical team in December 2012. She received her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed Fellowships in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Sipp is Board-certified in General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Sipp relocated from the Atlanta area where she was on staff at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Willowbrooke at Tanner and was in private practice with Meridian Psychiatric Associates. She has received several national recognitions including 2007 Recipient of the APA/SAMHSA Minority Fellowship Award. # Top

Karla Synkelma, R.N.
Assistant Director of Nursing

After serving as a nurse at Sierra Tucson for 13 years, Karla Synkelma filled the role of Interim Director of Nursing and then moved into the new position of Assistant Director of Nursing in July 2011. Karla received her bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from Montana State University and became a Registered Nurse through the University of Arizona. At Sierra Tucson she assisted in creating the role of Resource Nurse, assisting staff nurses with medication management, and served on the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee as well as Performance Improvement Teams. She has facilitated continuity of care through many procedural changes and continues to offer support and supervision for the Nursing Department to assist patients in reaching their treatment goals and providing a safe environment. # Top

Clinical Staff

Mayday Levine-Mata, Psy.D.
Program Director

Sierra Tucson extended a warm welcome to Dr. Mayday Levine-Mata as Program Director in November 2012. Dr. Levine-Mata holds a doctorate of Clinical Psychology from Antioch New England University in New Hampshire and a Certificate of Management and Organizations from the University of Arizona. She has held several clinical management positions including, most recently, Director of Clinical Initiatives and Director of Training at La Frontera, in Tucson. In this role Dr. Levine-Mata developed strategies for training clinical staff, created and implemented program evaluations, and oversaw the adult programs. She has numerous clinical publications and has presented at a number of local and national conferences. Among her clinical interests are “The Importance of Client Feedback and Outcomes” and “Adapting Evidence-Based Practices for Community Treatment.” Dr. Levine-Mata is a licensed clinical psychologist in the State of Arizona and is a member and former president of the Southern Arizona Psychology Association.# Top

David Cato, M.S.W.
Primary Therapist, LGBTQ Support Specialist

David Cato began working at Sierra Tucson in April of 2008 and has served many roles, beginning in the Mailroom. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Texas A&M and a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. David completed his master’s coursework through interning at Sierra Tucson. He has worked with substance abuse, mood disorders, eating disorders, codependency, grief/loss, and trauma. David specializes in working with the LGBTQ population by holding support groups each week and assists patients individually who are struggling with sexuality and gender identity issues.# Top

Bill Coleman, LMSW, TEP
Psychodramatist

Bill Coleman, a Certified Psychodrama Trainer, has been a Trauma Therapist at Sierra Tucson since April 2007. He is a founding director of La Jornada Institute in Arizona and New Mexico. He is also on the faculty of the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Institute and The Action Institute of California. Bill was a staff psychodramatist at an acute care psychiatric hospital in Westchester, NY. He has presented at many national conferences and is the creator of Men-At-Fifty Workshops. He has recently instituted a new model of diagramming defensive strategies for trauma treatment to help trauma sufferers bring into focus what happened to them and how they have coped. He has also created many psychodramatic action structures for substance abuse treatment. Bill was an adjunct professor at Russell Sage College, where he wrote and taught courses in Theater Therapy. A graduate of Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work, Bill lived in New York City for 30 years before coming to Tucson. Bill also had earlier careers in business and served as a Captain in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He says to his patients, “I am no stranger to trauma, and you will not be alone as we go on the recovery journey together.” # Top

Liz Dampsey, M.A., RSMT
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist, Therapeutic & Recreational Activities Program (TRAP)

Liz Dampsey joined Sierra Tucson in April 2001 and has worked in the Therapeutic & Recreational Activities Program (TRAP) for seven years, where she primarily facilitates Equine-Assisted Therapy, as well as Challenge activities and Expressive Arts Therapy. She also served as Coordinator of the Grief and Spirituality Department for five years. Liz received a B.A. and an M.A. in Psychology and is a certified EAGALA and OK Corral Series equine-assisted therapist. She is also a certified Interfaith Spiritual Director and Registered Somatic Movement Therapist. Liz co-developed an Integrative Movement series and was also instrumental in building the Sierra Tucson labyrinth. She is currently completing her doctorate in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University and is interested in researching the effects of equine-facilitated psychotherapy on emotion regulation among trauma survivors. # Top

James H. Davis, M.A.
Primary Therapist, Clinical Supervisor

Since October 2000, James Davis has worked in several clinical areas at Sierra Tucson. He has served as primary therapist for the Mood, Chemical Dependency, Trauma, and Eating Disorder programs. Currently Jim is Primary Therapist for the Pain Management Program, working therapeutically with many chronic pain conditions. Jim received his Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University at Santa Barbara, California, in 1986 and was licensed as an MFT (California) in 1991.# Top

Russ Farnsworth, M.S., LAC
Primary Therapist

Russ Farnsworth arrived at Sierra Tucson as an Evening/Weekend Counselor in July 2007 and is currently a Primary Therapist specializing in the treatment of severe or persistent mental illness. He obtained his B.A. degree in Psychology from Assumption College, Worcester, Massachusetts, in 2002, and his M.S. Counseling degree from Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, in 2006. He also holds current professional licensure in the state of Arizona. Russ facilitates the “Directions” program, a self-designed treatment experience focused on helping clients and their families struggling with severe mood disorders regain resources and foundations for further growth and wellness in recovery. The Directions program includes an introduction to utilizing DBT in recovery, teachings on using meditation and relaxation for alleviation of anxiety and depression, stress and anger management to build self-confidence and assertiveness, concepts of codependency to challenge and explore boundaries in newly forming recovery-based relationships, exploring spirituality and the importance of a greater support network to decrease isolation, and modeling life balance through setting achievable recovery goals and encouraging healthy life skills. Wellness concepts in recovery such as hope, personal responsibility, advocacy, support, and education are introduced and explored. Child-within work for past family-of-origin issues, grief, and trauma are also explored at the client’s pace. Russ’s passion is bringing heart and soul to the patients’ healing process at Sierra Tucson through discussing and planning uniquely client-centered therapeutic individual and group work with the client as an active participant. Russ believes that the journey to wellness is a shared experience in which he is the guest and that the patient is truly the owner and creator of his/her own freedom from illness. # Top

Barbara Rose Gaynor, ACC
Evening/Weekend Counselor

Barbara Rose Gaynor began working at Sierra Tucson in 2007, when she was recruited to be a Life Coach in the newly-opened Progressions Program. With a passion for helping people to create lives they love and live powerfully, Barbara Rose offers patients a way of knowing their unique skills, talents, and life purpose that allows them to begin the transition to the next chapter of their addiction-free and healthful life. A Transitions Coach for over ten years, she brings to her sessions the fullness of possibility and the direction achieved through intention that has people feeling full of vitality and focused on their recovery plans. Barbara Rose has a B.A. in English and has taught at high school and college levels. She completed the year-long Team Management and Leadership training through Landmark Education. In 2000 she helped to found the Tucson Professional Coaching Alliance and has held two board seats. Barbara Rose graduated from Coach For Life School in San Diego and is accredited by the International Coaches Alliance. # Top

Mike Gaziano, M.S.W., LCSW (WI)
Family Program Coordinator / Family Therapist

Mike Gaziano was born and raised in the Midwest and chose Tucson for his undergraduate work in Psychology. He is now a proud alumni from the University of Arizona. He later received his master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois. Bringing over 25 years of clinical expertise to Sierra Tucson, Mike has worked in the Family Program since 2008 and was promoted to Family Program Coordinator in April 2013. He has worked in the private sector and public sector as a social worker and is trained as a mediator and conflict resolution specialist. Mike has also provided his clinical skills to Pima County as a group facilitator for domestic violence classes. # Top

Antoinette Giedzinska-Simons, Ph.D.
Health Psychology Practitioner – specializing in Health Education, Biofeedback/Neurofeedback, and Clinical Research

Dr. Antoinette Giedzinska-Simons received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Southern California, where her training emphasized the bio-psycho-social approaches in behavioral medicine, research, and clinical work. She has authored several scientific publications addressing psychological correlates of cancer quality of life and patient treatment decision-making. Her APPIC internship was held at the Southern Arizona Veterans Administration Hospital, where she continued to work in clinical health psychology and rehabilitative medicine. She joined Sierra Tucson’s Department of Psychology in early 2008, providing assessment and diagnostic testing. In mid-2009, Dr. Giedzinska-Simons began developing and implementing Biofeedback Training into the Sierra Tucson treatment process as well as moving into a team role for the Pain Management Program, giving daily education classes to pain patients and developing outcomes measurement to assess patient progress. Dr. Giedzinska-Simons’ enthusiasm as a scientist/practitioner in her current roles at Sierra Tucson is not only to support and educate patients towards resiliency, quality of life enhancement, and stress reduction and management, but to continue one of her favorite passions in life, which is to be part of multidisciplinary teams that collaborate in and integrate cutting-edge modalities aimed to enhance the mind-body connection. # Top

Victor P. Gilbert, M.S.W., LISAC
Program Manager

As Program Manager since February 2006, Victor Gilbert supervises unit therapists, assists with case conferences, and participates in the daily multidisciplinary admission staff meetings. He originally began working at Sierra Tucson in 1989 as a Unit Therapist. Victor received a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science and Sociology in 1972 from the University of South Florida and a Master of Social Work in 1988 from Arizona State University. He served in the U.S. Navy for 9 years. Victor’s relaxed but competent and humorous style of leadership is appreciated by Sierra Tucson’s staff. # Top

Michelle Madsen, M.Ed., LISAC, CADAC
Family Program Therapist

Michelle Madsen has served Sierra Tucson as a Family Therapist since June of 1990. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Physical Education/Coaching, a Master of Education degree in Counseling, and certifications of Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADAC). Previously, Michelle has taught junior high and high school students and coached a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, track, gymnastics, and cheerleading. At Sierra Tucson, Michelle applies her teaching background in designing educational lectures and training new family therapists, as well as family members. In April through October of 2004, Michelle added the role of Family Program Manager to her repertoire and continued her primary focus of facilitating weekly family groups. Michelle grew up in Fargo, North Dakota, and has two wonderful daughters. # Top

Phillip S. Mitchell, M.A., MFT, MAC
Primary Therapist, Clinical Supervisor

Phillip Mitchell earned his master’s degree in Humanistic and Transpersonal Clinical Psychology in 1980 from Johnston College, University of Redlands, in Redlands, California. He became licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in California in 1981 and certified as Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) through the National Association of Forensic Counselors in 1998. He has served in the fields of mental health and recovery since 1971 in the areas of clinical services, program development, administration, and private practice. Since 1990, Phillip has filled many positions at Sierra Tucson, including Family Therapist for Eating Disorder and Chemical Dependency patients, Spiritual Counselor, Float Therapist, Primary Therapist, and Workshop Presenter (at Alumni Reunions, Quality of Life Workshops, etc.). He has written several articles on recovery and related matters for professional magazines and for Sierra Tucson publications. Currently, Phillip is Primary Therapist for Addictions/Co-occurring Disorders, providing therapy, education, and support for patients and their family members. He also provides training for therapists and leads Sierra Tucson’s Green Team. His book, Breathe, Feel, Heal, Awaken, and his CD, “The Technology of Forgiveness,” is available through our Bookstore.# Top

Maureen C. O’Connor-Strout, M.C., NCC, LPC, EMDRIA
Consultant-in-Training EMDR Therapist

Maureen O’Connor-Strout, EMDR Therapist, joined Sierra Tucson’s staff in July 2000 as a grief therapist after a 7-year background in adult and pediatric Hospice and support group facilitator at a Cancer Care Center. “Working at Sierra Tucson, I quickly identified that the patients who were making the greatest progress were also doing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR),” says Maureen. “I began training in EMDR in January 2001 and am still passionate about the process of EMDR and the healing that patients are able to achieve in EMDR sessions.” # Top

Susan O’Day, M.S., ICADC, CMHP, EAP
Family Program Therapist

In 2005, Susan O’Day joined Sierra Tucson as our Equine Therapist. She subsequently worked as a Primary Therapist in the Program for Sexual and Trauma Recovery and then became a Family Program Therapist in 2010. Since 1989 she developed her focus on the treatment of trauma in the context of addiction recovery. Before joining the Sierra Tucson team, her positions at two other facilities included recreation therapist, primary counselor, trauma workshop facilitator, and equine therapist. Susan holds a B.F.A. from Montana State University Bozeman, and a M.S. in psychology with an addiction specialization from Capella University. She is an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse Counselor, an EAGALA-trained equine therapist, and is trained in the treatment of sexual addiction through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals. Susan is actively involved in postgraduate education in the areas of counseling and sexual addiction. Her paintings have won multiple awards in juried exhibitions. A former professional horse trainer, livery manager, and riding instructor, she worked for the Equine Science departments of Montana State University and Scottsdale Community College. # Top

Kathryn Piaskowski, M.C., LPC
Continuing Care Counselor

Kathy Piaskowski received her master’s degree in Counseling in 1996 at the University of Phoenix in Tucson. She has over 20 years of experience working with the developmentally disabled and maintains a Licensed Adult Development Home. Her previous experience includes working at a nonprofit women’s and children’s facility. Kathy began her career with Sierra Tucson in 2001 as an Intake Coordinator and then transferred to a Continuing Care position. She enjoys helping patients with their transition to the next level of care. # Top

Jeannette Rojas, LASAC, EAP II
Primary Therapist / Coordinator, Eating Disorders Program

Sierra Tucson welcomed Jeannette Rojas as a Primary Therapist in December 2004. After studying at ANAHUAC University in Mexico City, Jeannette became a Clinical Psychologist and received a diploma (post-graduate degree) in Substance Abuse and Alcoholism. She is trained as a Level II Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist (EAP II) through EAGALA and is also a Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) in the State of Arizona. After working in psychiatric hospitals in Mexico City, she coordinated clinical services for an Employee Assistance Program in Mexico. Jeannette then helped develop the first treatment center in Mexico for eating disorders, trauma, and addictions, serving as Director and Vice President. At Sierra Tucson, Jeannette facilitates a process group as Primary Therapist and coordinates the Eating Disorders Program, which includes work in body imagery, DBT, the Family Program, restaurant outings with patients and dietitian, Continuing Care Planning, and maintaining communication with the referring professional. Jeannette also provides training, coordinates Eating Disorder staff team building, and speaks at conferences. # Top

Stephanie Grace Sikes, M.A., M.C., MFT, CSAT III
Primary Therapist

Stephanie Grace Sikes has been at Sierra Tucson since April 2008. Currently Stephanie is a Primary Therapist in the program for Chemical Dependency. She is a creative and intuitive Marriage and Family Therapist with background in treating mental, emotional, sexual, and/or co-occurring disorders. Prior to joining Sierra Tucson, Stephanie was an individual, couple’s, and family therapist at La Frontera Center and a behavioral health specialist at the Arizona’s Children Association. In these organizations, she provided individual, children’s, couple’s, family, and group therapy, including chemical dependency treatment programs. She co-founded a Women’s Sobriety & Empowerment Process Group and facilitated several other behavioral modification groups, such as 12-Step Education Group and Substance Abuse Education Group. Stephanie was the lead therapist with children of deployed service members at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. She has strong communication skills by virtue of 20 years as a communication instructor at the college level and as a private and corporate coach. Stephanie earned a Master of Counseling degree in Marriage, Family & Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix in February 2008. She received a Master of Arts degree in Communication/Theatre in 1990 and a Bachelor of Science degree in Musical Theatre Arts in 1988, both from Kansas State University. Her continuing professional education includes: Imago Relationship Therapy training with Harville Hendrix, Psychodrama Trainer Workshops with Dena Baumgartner, Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Politics of Changing a Sexual Relationship, Integrative Model for Difficult Couples, and Healthy Marital/Couple Relationships. Her professional associations include the American Counseling Association, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, and Theta Alpha Phi National Theatre Honorary. # Top

Michael G. Simpson, M.S.C., NCC, LAC
Family Program Therapist

Michael Simpson has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mid-America Christian University in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with a double major in Pastoral Care and Theology. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Counseling, with a Community Counseling specialization, from the University of Phoenix in Tucson, Arizona. He is a National Certified Counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors and a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of Arizona. Michael completed training at the College of Executive Coaching and passed the national exam to obtain the credential of Board Certified Coach from the national Center for Credentialing and Education. This allows Michael to add life coaching skills to his counseling skills in the Family Department. He is trained and certified to provide court-ordered DUI treatment and education and domestic violence treatment to persons in the state of Arizona. Michael is Clinical Associate Member of the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers (ATSA), the international professional organization for therapists and researchers in that field. Prior to coming to Sierra Tucson, Michael worked in community counseling providing general mental health counseling to adults of all ages as well as providing couples and family therapy. He also facilitated therapy groups and provided individual therapy for parenting, anger management, intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment, DUI education and treatment, domestic violence treatment, and treatment for state and federal sex offenders. Michael now focuses on family and couples therapy and occasionally serves as an expert witness in Child Protective Services cases in Family Court, particularly in cases where substance abuse, domestic violence, and/or sexual abuse are material issues. Prior to becoming Family Program therapist, Michael was a primary therapist in Sierra Tucson’s Mood Disorders Program.
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Meira Yaer, R.N., M.A., MFT
Family Therapist

Meira Yaer joined the staff at Sierra Tucson in 2005 as the Family Therapist for the Program for Sexual & Trauma Recovery. She was promoted in October 2009 to Family Program Coordinator and currently serves as Family Therapist. Her focus in this work is to facilitate self-empowerment, self-advocacy, self-accountability, and healing in the recovery process for patients and their family members. Meira is also a Nurse and Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in the field of brain injury advocacy, trauma recovery, and rehabilitation. She began her work in brain injury over 15 years ago in Eugene, Oregon. She is the author of “The Process of Empowerment: A Therapeutic Model After Brain Injury” and has presented at national and international conferences. Her work focuses on the healing of body, mind, and spirit through self-awareness, animal-assisted psychotherapy, and other intuitive therapies. She is the founder of Opening The Way, a brain injury program, and facilitator of The Tucson Brain Injury Advocacy Panel, which provides panel presentations and in-services to community members and healthcare professionals in the field of traumatic and acquired brain injury. Meira enjoys drawing, depicting desert images with vibrant colors and shapes and has shown in galleries and at the Tucson Botanical Gardens in Tucson, Arizona. # Top

Maya Youngblood, LPCC, LMT
Somatic Therapist

Maya Youngblood became a therapist at Sierra Tucson in December of 2003. As a trauma survivor, she knows first-hand that some trauma can only be resolved by body-centered therapy. With a master’s degree in Counseling, Maya has studied various types of psychotherapy and several forms of body work, as well. In the early 1990s, Maya became aware of the work of Dr. Peter Levine, the originator of a body centered therapy called Somatic Experiencing?. After discovering her own positive response to the work, she became convinced that this type of therapy is integral to transform and heal a trauma survivor’s nervous system. Maya completed the three year Somatic Experiencing? training program and became a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner. She is also a Licensed Psychotherapist (NM & IL), a certified EMDR Level-II Practitioner, and a Licensed Massage Therapist (NM). Maya came to Tucson from Santa Fe, New Mexico, in late 2003.

Judy Gianni, N.M.D.
Naturopathic Physician / Integrative Medicine Consultant

Dr. Judy Gianni joined the Integrative Medicine team at Sierra Tucson in April 2010. She is a 1995 graduate of Bastyr University in Seattle, earning her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine. She served from 2001 until 2003 as the naturopathic preceptor in the Program of Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona alongside Andrew Weil, M.D., teaching the Fellows about natural medicine in weekly case conference. She is the founder and director of NatureMedica Naturopathic spa and clinic in Tucson. Dr. Gianni works with the patients at Sierra Tucson to find ways to optimize their health and well-being with natural and integrative medicine. Dr. Gianni is skilled in hormone assessment and balancing, bio-identical hormone prescribing, herbal, homeopathic, and nutritional medicine. She is a compassionate listener and truly cares about each patient she interacts with, wanting to assist them in their path to wellness. # Top

Outreach – Alumni Coordinators

Tim McLeod
Senior Alumni Coordinator

Tim McLeod joined the Sierra Tucson team as Alumni Coordinator in February 2001 and was named Senior Alumni Coordinator in August 2007. After struggling with addictions for 27 years, he came to Sierra Tucson for treatment in the fall of 1999. “I can honestly say that the ‘Promises’ of the program have continued to unfold,” he says. Tim also attended the Sierra Tucson Family Program when a family member entered treatment. His experience and empathy give him a deep passion for supporting Sierra Tucson alumni. Tim lives in Kansas and directs Sierra Tucson’s alumni services. He offers encouragement to others in recovery through follow-up phone calls to the family members, facilitating workshops, assistance with local alumni support groups, the “Afterwords” Newsletter, and the Alumni eNews, “Beyond the Miracle.”Toll-Free Telephone: 866-638-1650Email: AlumniCoordinator@SierraTucson.com# Top

Outreach – Clinical Outreach Specialists

Lindsay Goodlin
Clincal Programs Specialist California – Bay Area

Lindsay Goodlin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, registered with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and National Association of Social Workers. Lindsay joined CRC Health Group in March 2012, after completing a Post-Masters Fellowship in Clinical Social Work at the University of California, Berkeley and directing the Admissions and SAMHSA PPW Programs at Marin Services for Women. Lindsay has worked with a wide range of clients, with special interest in addiction, eating disorders, trauma and underlying mental health issues. Direct Telephone: 408-533-9093Email: lgoodlin@crchealth.com# Top

Parastoo Barnajian, Ph.D.
Clinical Outreach Specialist California – Los Angeles/Orange County Area

Parastoo Barnajian received her B.S. in Psychobiology from UCLA and her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. She has practiced as a clinical psychologist in residential and community mental health centers, providing direct clinical services to clients of all ages. Dr. Barnajian’s dissertation focused on the psychosocial factors related to substance use among adolescents with Type I diabetes, and she has learned the profound and harmful effects of untreated substance use. Dr. Barnajian is dedicated and passionate about helping patients receive effective, compassionate care in their recovery process.Toll-Free Telephone: 800-408-9410Email: PBarnajian@SierraTucson.com# Top

Max Cohen, BA (hons), MBACP
UK Clinical Liaison

Max became Sierra Tucson’s UK Liaison in 2008. He works with referring professionals and is available to meet with prospective patients or family members in the UK. He can also assist patients in transitioning back home after treatment. An accredited therapist, Max has over 27 years of experience in working with individuals, couples, and groups in various settings. He integrates psychodynamic, person-centered, cognitive behavioural, EMDR, EFT, and bio-psycho-social-spiritual modalities into his practice. Max specialises in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and confidence issues, addictions, behavioural dependencies, and co-occurring disorders. In addition to running a busy central London private practice and supervising and training other professionals, he currently lectures on a MSc in Addiction Psychology and Counselling course at a London University.Telephone within the UK: 07973 167245 Email: MCohen@SierraTucson.com# Top

Kelly Hughes
Clinical Outreach Specialist Connecticut – Southwestern Area, NJ, New York, PA

Kelly Hughes joined the Sierra Tucson team in July 2011 as a Clinical Outreach Coordinator. She graduated from Jacksonville University in Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations. She began her career working in healthcare at Duke University Medical Center and then for a multi-specialty physician-owned practice in Florida. After relocating to New York City in 2009 she worked two years as a professional relations representative for a residential eating disorder treatment facility. Kelly has experience in client relations, public relations, and marketing and is proud to be a board member for the NYC Chapter of iaedp (International Association for Eating Disorder Professionals).Toll-Free Telephone: 855-745-2351Email: KHughes@SierraTucson.com# Top

Carrie Hunnicutt, M.A.
Regional Clinical Manager Europe (including United Kingdom)

Carrie has a Bachelor of Science degree from the Ansell School of Business at WCSU and an M.A. degree from the University of Arizona. Carrie began her career at Sierra Tucson as the Alumni Coordinator and Discharge Planner and has worked in an outreach capacity since 2002. She has experience in direct clinical practice, intake, admissions, discharge planning, and other administrative duties.Toll-Free from U.S.A.: 800-409-3025Direct from U.K.: 001-203-881-1847Email: CHunnicutt@SierraTucson.com# Top

Michael Lyles
Clinical Outreach Specialist Arizona – Tucson & Southern Area, California – San Diego & Southern Area, CO, NV

Prior to joining Sierra Tucson in November 2010, Michael co-founded and operated a therapeutic transitional program for young adults located in San Jose, Costa Rica. He has also served as director of admissions for an emotional growth boarding school. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Arizona. With over 20 years of experience in working with adolescents and adults, Michael’s passion is all about helping people help themselves.Toll-Free Telephone: 800-624-5858, Ext. 2132Email: MLyles@SierraTucson.com# Top

Lisa Sarno
Regional Outreach Specialist MA

Lisa Sarno joined Sierra Tucson’s team in February 2011 as Clinical Outreach Coordinator. She graduated from Boston University College of Communication with a Bachelor of Science degree. She has over 25 years of marketing expertise within the academic, financial, media communications, inpatient addictions, career transition, and pharmaceutical industries. She brings to her work a passion for expanding networks of treatment providers and listening for what’s important to people.Toll-Free Telephone: 888-452-8458 Email: LSarno@SierraTucson.com# Top

Shelby Swartz, M.A.
Regional Outreach Specialist California – Northern Area

Shelby Swartz has worked in the mental health field since 1992 and came to Sierra Tucson in April 2011. Born and raised in Northern California, she received her B.A. in Psychology from the University of the Pacific and her M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Mary’s College of California. Shelby has extensive experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families addressing issues of mental health, behavioral strategies, abuse, anger, development, adoption, foster care, and education. She has provided individual, group, and family therapy as well as facilitated psycho-educational workshops. Shelby assisted in developing a short-term coed therapeutic residential facility for foster youth. As an educational consultant, she has traveled nationally assessing and working with therapeutic treatment programs. Shelby is passionate about the benefits of the holistic treatment approach at Sierra Tucson.Toll-Free Telephone: 877-906-4930 Email: SSwartz@SierraTucson.com# Top

Lisa Jane Vargas
Regional Clinical Manager Arizona – Phoenix & Northern Area

With a bachelor’s degree in Business/Marketing, Lisa Jane Vargas joined Sierra Tucson in June 2002. She has previously worked in financial services and an eating disorders treatment program, and she has over 15 years of experience in the Health and Fitness industry. Lisa Jane’s passion for the recovery field brings her joy in helping people as Regional Clinical Manager for Sierra Tucson.Toll-Free Telephone: 888-935-4488Email: LVargas@SierraTucson.com# Top

Rosemary Sheehan Werner
Regional Clinical Manager Texas – Northern Area, OK

Rosemary Sheehan Werner joined Sierra Tucson’s Outreach Department in June 2010. She currently serves Northern Texas and Oklahoma as Regional Clinical Manager. Rosemary has extensive experience as a director of marketing and business development, with a special concentration in the behavioral health and chemical dependency arenas. She has worked at other psychiatric hospitals, treatment centers, and a national EAP.Toll-Free Telephone: 877-602-7323Email: RWerner@SierraTucson.com# Top