Meet the Team

Richard Tanksley, QMHP
Richard Tanksley, Clinical Social Worker Associate
Location: 843 East Main St. Suite 103
Medford, OR 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I am passionate about working with families, individuals, and couples to help generate the change they desire. As an individual and family counselor, I believe that we hold and can find the answers to our problems. We create solutions and understandings that work for us in our environments. Therefore, I endeavor to create a friendly, informative, and supportive relationship where challenges can be explored and addressed in the best ways possible. It is important to me to counsel others with acceptance, honesty, and compassion. I enjoy learning about the lives and experiences of every type of person. Helping others direct their own life paths and achieve their best outcomes is my primary focus. As a student of social work, I take an eclectic approach to my practice. I work to draw from as many types of counseling as possible. I utilize Solutions Focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, and many others as well. Humanism is at the core of my practice and informs any work I perform. When I am not working, I engage with my two children and my wife. I enjoy exercise, philosophy, history, and games.
Favorite Quote:
“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do keep moving forward” -Martin Luther King Jr.
What are my credentials?
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Bachelors in Social Work (2018)
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Master of Social Work (2021)
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Trauma
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All forms of abuse
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Foster Care
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Veterans
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Teens (All groups)
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Relationships
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Parenting Challenges
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Anxiety & Depression
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Elderly
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Career
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Grief & Loss
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Life changes
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Self-Esteem
Professional Experience
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Blue Feather Counseling 2019 to Current.
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Oregon Department of Human Services 2018 to 2022
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Kids Incorporated Treatment Foster Care 2017 to 2018

Teagan Trautwein, LPC
Teagan Trautwein, Licensed Professional Counselor
Location: 15 Crater Lake Ave. Medford, OR 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I have a deep appreciation for the innate wisdom and resilience that resides within every individual. I aim to foster a warm and inviting environment where I can support individuals, couples, and families on their path to rediscovering their authentic selves, strengthening their insight, and cultivating self-compassion. I am committed to providing compassionate and informed care. Embracing a holistic approach, I incorporate the latest trauma-informed treatments, including Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling, distress tolerance, and mindfulness. I am dedicated to equipping my clients with a variety of coping skills and tools to navigate life's challenges and promote emotional well-being. These tools are tailored to accompany you on your journey, always respectfully acknowledging your unique experiences. I am deeply committed to providing culturally informed care, valuing and respecting each individual's diverse identities and experiences. Together, we will navigate the therapeutic process, allowing space for your feelings and desires, while ensuring that the therapy experience aligns with your specific needs.
My passions outside of my work include hiking with my three dogs, traveling, trying new recipes, singing in the shower, and dancing in my car.
Favorite Quote:
“People are just as wonderful as sunsets. When I look at a sunset, I don’t find myself saying, “Soften the orange a bit on the right-hand corner” I don’t try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds.” – Carl Rodgers
What are my credentials?
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Masters of Arts, Counseling (2022)
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Bachelor of Arts, Communication (2014)
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD
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Anxiety & Depression
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Life Adjustments & Transitions: Pregnancy/New Parenthood, Retirement, Starting or Finishing School, Job Loss, Financial Stress
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Couples Counseling/Premarital Counseling/Multi-partner Relationships
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Living with Chronic Illness/Chronic Pain
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Grief/Loss
Professional Experience
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ColumbiaCare Outpatient Therapy Services 2021-2023
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The Beckett Crisis Center 2021
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ColumbiaCare Intensive Case Management 2020-2021
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Haven of Hope Adolescent Residential Treatment Facility 2019-2020
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Siena Maternity Home 2019-2020

Stephen Brunston, LPC
Stephen Brunston, MA, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Location: 800 W 8th St. Medford OR, 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I am in awe of the human capacity for healing and change. When we approach challenges and problems in the right supportive environment, creativity and transformation are often the outcome. I am honored to stand as a witness when people tackle their pain and limitation, often finding surprising ways to better their life. Blocks to living well are rooted in relationships and our reaction to these relationships. Finding new and creative ways of being can set us free.
My training is founded in depth psychology and through this perspective I make sense out of the chaos and limitations of life. In therapy we set the conditions for you examine and gain insight into your world as you see it. I have found that a sense of play coupled with support and challenge in an authentic relationship facilitates progress. Specifically, interactions framed by Existential and Attachment Theory, supported by information gained directly from you in the Somatic Experiencing lens guides my work.
Balance in my life comes from walking my dogs, traveling and camping with grandkids. I crave community as if it were food.
What are my credentials?
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BS Psychology and Business Management (1998)
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Master of Arts in Community Counseling (2012)
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Somatic Experiencing Practitioner – Certificate (2015)
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Applied Existential Psychotherapy - Seminar Training (2011-2015)
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Trauma & PTSD
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Anxiety & Depression
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Relationship Difficulties
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Addiction & Codependency
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Life Adjustments & Transitions
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Aging
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Grief & Loss
Professional Experience
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People House (2012, Internship)
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Private Practice, (2012 to 2020)

Rex Alan Johnson, QMHP
Rex Alan Johnson, QMHP
Location: 800 W 8th St. Medford OR, 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, and Self-Pay
I passionately believe that we ultimately have a choice in how we direct our own personal life narrative. I believe that by helping others learn to take a closer examination of the emotional schemas that have become a habitual pattern in the way they have perceived the world thereby impacting decision-making processes, they can come to recognize that emotional entanglements are often of our own making. I further believe that it is then possible to awaken the growth potential within others by helping them recognize early on that there are always possibilities, allowing for the learning and development of a much more productive and constructive belief system. In adapting our past stories to serve as the prologue for our ongoing narrative, our stories can then be the wellspring for discovering meaning and provide us with a continuous source of inspiration, guiding us to the revelation of our “big picture”--our purpose.
I approach therapy through the framework of Existential Psychology. Often solution- and future-focused, I utilize an integration of tools and techniques based in CBT, Positive Psychology, ACT, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, and Narrative therapies, and from transformational life coaching. Meditation and mindfulness techniques are also tools I believe to be vital in developing emotional regulation and a mentally healthy relationship with oneself.
I am also currently a doctoral student of clinical psychology, with a focus on the therapeutic use of literature and self-help books as adjuncts to therapy (bibliotherapy) as well as on the healing benefits of writing autobiographical narratives.
What are my credentials?
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BA in English, History, with a minor in Psychology (2009)
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Master of Arts in Psychology (2022)
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Suicide Prevention/Crisis Management – Certificate
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Integrative Coaching (Existential and Positive Psychology Transformative Life Coaching) – Certification
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Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher – Certification
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Anger Management
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Anxiety & Depression
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Boundary Issues
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Career and Work Counseling
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Coping Skills
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Finding Meaning/Purpose
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Grief & Loss
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Life Adjustments & Transitions
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Life Coaching
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Religion and Spirituality
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Religious Trauma
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Relationship Issues
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Self Esteem
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Stress Management,
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Trauma
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PTSD
Professional Experience
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Discovering Meaning Therapy in Association with Quality Counseling Services (December, 2023-Present)
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Options for Southern Oregon, Mental Health Clinician (March, 2023 to December, 2023)
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Didi Hirsch Suicide Prevention Center (2021-2022)

Melodie Simmons, QMHP
Melodie Simmons, QMHP
Location: Telehealth
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, and Self-Pay
I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, completed in 2024. I earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Idaho in 2020, focusing on Early Childhood and Special Education, which provided me with valuable experience in creating engaging learning experiences for elementary-aged students. My counseling approach is grounded in feminist theory, family systems theory, and mindfulness-based therapy. I am deeply committed to social justice and advocacy for social change. Feminist theory, in particular, informs my practice by emphasizing consciousness-raising, community building through shared experiences, and the necessity for societal transformation. I am passionate about honoring women’s voices and promoting personal insight and growth. In my practice, I view clients as equal partners in the therapeutic process, fostering a person-centered focus through a compassionate and empathetic approach. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and I strive to create a supportive environment where clients feel empowered. I am dedicated to serving diverse populations, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent clients, women, and children. I aim to provide an inclusive, affirming, and supportive space where all clients can feel understood and valued. Beyond my professional endeavors, I am an avid reader and nature enthusiast, with a love for hiking and rockhounding. I am excited to integrate my life experiences, education, and practical counseling skills to help foster positive change in the lives of others.

Kellie Brown, QMHP
Kellie Brown, Professional Counselor Associate
Location: 800 W 8th St. Medford OR, 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, families, and individuals. As a clinical mental health counselor in training, I believe that with a safe and inviting environment we all can accomplish the change we desire. Therefore, I strive to create a space where people can feel safe and at ease. It is important to me to counsel others with an open mind, kindness, honesty, and empathy. I enjoy listening to the uniqueness all individuals have. My approach is informed by Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT, as well as many others. I maintain a belief that together with an open mind and heart we can create a happy and healthy therapeutic experience.
When I am not working, I am with family and friends, usually at some kind of practice or sporting event. I enjoy all sports, hiking, paddleboarding, camping, and traveling.
Favorite Quotes:
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!”
BetterLYF
“Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person’s physical, emotional, and mental states!”
Carol Welch
What are my credentials?
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BS in Elementary Education (2010)
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Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (in progress graduation 2024)
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Trauma
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All forms of abuse
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Foster Care
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Children
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Adolescents
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Teens
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Relationships
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Parenting Challenges
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Anxiety & Depression
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Grief & Loss
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Life changes
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Self-Esteem
Professional Experience
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Member of the American Counseling Association (2023 to Current)

Haylie Boehringer, QMHP
Haylie Boehringer, Clinical Social Worker Associate
Location: 800 W 8th St. Medford OR, 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I am a student currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at The Ohio State University. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2014 from Wright State University, where I focused on behavioral neuroscience and completed a minor in Spanish language. I have also spent time studying nutrition, movement, and meditation practices that inform my work. I believe strongly in holistic wellness and the interrelationship between mental, physical, and spiritual health. It is my perspective that the client and the worker are equals in the helping process, and I am passionate about helping people identify their strengths and working together to create the outcomes that the client desires. I hope to help people extend compassion and grace to themselves, build greater self-knowledge, and come to see their true power in directing their lives.
Apart from my educational pursuits, I enjoy quiet walks, good coffee, anything fitness, making nourishing meals, traveling, and spending time with my wonderful community of loved ones. I find a lot of joy in supporting health, peace, and adventure in my personal life.
Favorite Quote:
“Understanding and love are not two separate things, but just one. To develop understanding, you have to practice looking at all living beings with the eyes of compassion. When you understand, you cannot help but love. And when you love, you naturally act in a way that can relieve the suffering of people.”
– Thich Nhat Hanh
What are my credentials?
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BA in Psychology, Minor in Spanish (2014)
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Master of Social Work (in progress, completion May 2025)
Professional Experience
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Skills Trainer and Peer Support Specialist, Kairos NW (2014-2016)
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Firefighter and Emergency Medical Responder (2018-2023)

Richard Halsted, QMHP
Rich Halsted, Professional Counselor Associate
Location: 800 W 8th St. Medford OR, 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I am passionate about teaming with individuals to help better their lives. As a counselor in training, I believe in the helpfulness of a positive client and counselor relationship. I view the relationship as a partnership that is focused on making the individual's life better. My approach is informed by Existential and Behavioral Therapy.
When I am not working and going to school, I keep busy taking care of my property, and spending time with family and friends. I enjoy almost all outdoor activities particularly golf, hiking, skiing, spending time on my side by side, and watching sports.
Favorite Quote:
"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." – Albert Einstein
Education
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B.S. Political Science, Oregon State University
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M.A. Human Resource Development, Webster University
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Current Student, Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, Western Oregon University
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Trauma & PTSD
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Anxiety & Depression
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Life Adjustments & Transitions
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Grief & Loss
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Purpose
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Veterans
Professional Experience
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Retired Marine
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Substitute Teacher
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Work Study Grants Pass Veterans Center

Lisa Majchrzak, QMHP
Lisa Majchrzak, MA, QMHP
Location: 800 W. 8th St. Medford, OR. 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, and Self-Pay
As a psychotherapist for over twenty years it remains an honor supporting individuals, couples
and families with personal transformations on a path to inner healing. I am a dedicated
psychotherapist with a passion for helping individuals improve their emotional and mental
well-being with the outcome of living a more peaceful and purpose filled life. I offer a
confidential and compassionate space where unconscious patterns can be explored and wellness goals can be identified.
I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy and utilize an
holistic approach to counseling to include Person Centered, Humanistic and Jungian Psychology
with the use of therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive
Psychology and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. I work with clients dealing with relationship, communication and parenting challenges, anxiety, depression, grief, loss and life transitions. It is my belief that every individual possesses the innate ability to heal and I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their unique path of healing that includes increased levels of self-trust and self-acceptance and a more balanced and meaningful life.
My work life balance includes nature hikes, travel, exploring new cultures and snorkeling with
sea life.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.”
-Carl G. Jung
Credentials:
● B.S in Psychology.
● M.A. in Clinical Psychology / Marriage & Family Therapy.
Concentrations:
● Relationships: Marriage, Couples & Family Counseling.
● Life Transitions: New Parents, Empty Nest, Loss & Grief.
● Separation & Divorce.
● Behavioral Health & Parenting Interventions.
● Anxiety & Depression.
● Children and Teens.
Professional Experience:
● Private Behavioral Health Counseling (2013-Present).
● SOU Triage Therapist (2022-23 / 1yr Contract)
● Family Intervention Therapist / Family Nurturing Center (2012-13 / 1yr Contract)
● Child & Family Counselor / Project Dove Domestic Violence Program
(2008-2011)
● Individual & Family Therapist / Lithia Springs Residential Treatment (2005-2008)
● Child & Family Sex Abuse Therapist / SOCSTC (2002-2005)
● Suicide & Bullying Prevention / “This is the Edge” (2009-2014)

Phia Strojny, QMHP
Phia Strojny, QMHP
Location: 800 West 8th Street, Medford, Oregon
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, and Self-Pay
I’m a mental health counselor specializing in quarter life issues, self-identity, burnout, and romantic relationships. When you find yourself alone, you take time to reflect and wonder if you are the person you want to be or just the person people expect you to be. Knowing who you are at your core makes you more decisive, confident, and secure. One of my favorite topics is guiding others on this journey of self-discovery so they can live more intentional lives that align with their goals, rather than chasing temporary validation.
A little about me, I grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania before pursuing my education abroad. Overseas, I collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to explore cultural phenomena at the South Pacific’s leading research institute. As a therapist, I am direct, creative, and strive to be your ultimate cheerleader. At the end of the day, I want to challenge you to live your best life and be there for you when it feels like too much. I hope to meet with you soon!
Favorite Quote:
“Life is long. Don’t settle.”
What are my credentials?
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BA in Psychology & Cultural Studies from Franklin University Switzerland
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MS in Cross-Cultural Psychology from Victoria University of Wellington
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Quarter Life Crisis
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Identity & Self Discovery
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Romantic Relationships
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Overcoming Burnout
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Living an Intentional Life
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Anxiety & Depression
Professional Experience
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Blush Coaching Services (2020 to Current)
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Centre for Applied Cross-Cultural Research - Team Member (2017 to 2020)
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Victoria University of Wellington Graduate Assistant (2019 to 2020)

Eryn Joyce, LCSW
Eryn Joyce, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Psychotherapist and Certified Behavioral Health Consultant
Location: 800 W. 8th Street, Medford, OR 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence and Self-Pay
I believe each of us has an inner wisdom that knows what we need to feel balanced, alive and whole. Sometimes life’s challenges, past hurts, or outside pressures can make it hard to hear or trust that part of ourselves. My role is to support you in reconnecting with that wisdom as you move toward new insights, healing and growth. I deeply value each client I work with, and I consider it an honor to be invited into their journey of growth and transformation.
In our work together, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental relationship, and to provide a space where you feel safe, truly heard and understood. We will explore your strengths, challenges, thoughts, beliefs and relationships to discover what helps you to grow and what holds you back. Along the way, you may develop new skills and a more compassionate way of relating to yourself (and others) while navigating future challenges.
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, drawing from evidence-based therapies including Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus, Mindfulness, EMDR and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Credentials:
* 1981 Bachelor's of Science, Towson State University
* 1997 Master of Social Work, Smith College School for Social Work
* 2002 LCSW Alaska licensure
* 2007 LCSW Oregon licensure
* 2008 Primary Care Behavioral Health Consultant Certification
* 2018 EMDR Levels 1 & 2
Concentrations/Preferred Work:
Aging Issues
Anxiety
Caregiver Stress
Communication Problems
Depression
Divorce & Separation
Family Issues
Grief & Loss
Health Issues - adjustment to a new diagnosis, terminal illness
New Transitions - new job, retirement, school & career issues
Relationship / Marital Problems
Trauma and Abuse
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Ages: 17 and older
Favorite Quotes:
"The places in which we are seen and heard are holy places. They remind us of our value as human beings. They give us the strength to go on."
"“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”
Passions:
Music, walks with friends, time with Grace (my cat), learning new things, travel and cooking shows.
Professional Experience:
Psychiatric & Medical Social Worker, Asante Health Systems
(Palliative Care, Hospice, Behavioral Health) 6/2020 - 4/2025
Psychotherapist, Alexander Counseling Center 5/2017 - 7/2020
Clinical Manager/Psychotherapist, Columbia Care 11/2016 - 2/2017
Psychiatric Social Worker, Providence Hospital 7/2014 - 10/2016
Behavioral Health Consultant, Community Health Center 2/2010 - 4/2014
Behavioral Health Consultant, Old Town Primary Care Clinic 5/2007 - 2/2010
Psychotherapist/Social Worker, Alaska VA Reg. Medical Ctr. 5/2001 - 9/2005
Psychotherapist, Southcentral Counseling Center 9/1997 - 1/2001
Behavioral Health Consultant / Trainer, Alzheimer’s Assoc. 9/1997 - 9/1998

Natalie O'Mara, LMFT
Natalie O'Mara, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Location: 800 W 8th St. Medford OR, 97501
Accepting: OHP, Regence, Aetna, Providence, and Self-Pay
Dual Licensed in OR and CA
My style is warm, accepting, and collaborative, inviting clients to bring their full selves into the therapy room. I use a creative, holistic approach incorporating mindfulness, somatic methods, IFS informed EMDR and CBT to fit the needs and wishes of each client. In my experience no “one type” of therapy rarely fits anybody. People are a complex blend of parts and require a range of approaches. I always aim to see clients within their larger community and context; adapting a style and treatment plan that is unique to you.
I work with adult individuals and couples specializing in anxiety disorders, health anxiety and panic disorder, complex trauma (cPTSD) and PTSD; relationship/attachment issues; peri-partum challenges, parenting difficulties with babies and young children, caregivers; and integration work following altered states of consciousness. With a background in trauma work, I have held clients at their most vulnerable as they let go of old stories that no longer serve them and find relief from distressing symptoms. I enjoy guiding individuals and couples toward meaningful connection and witnessing them find compassion for themselves and others. I strive to help clients accept and understand all parts of themselves, so they can make conscious, authentic choices, living the life that feels meaningful and true for them.
When I am not working, I like to be outside, enjoying a hike or camping with my family. You can also find me poring over a new jigsaw puzzle late into the night!
Favorite Quotes:
“"Trauma is not about what happened to you, but about what you did not get from the people who were supposed to protect you" - Gabor Maté
“It takes two people to create a pattern, but only one to change it" - Esther Perel
"We're all just walking each other home" - Ram Daas
What are my credentials?
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BA in Communications (2006)
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MA in Integral Counseling Psychology, California Institute of Integral Studies (2015)
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EMDRIA approved basic training in EMDR Therapy (2019)
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Pending EMDR certification
Concentrations/Preferred Work
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Trauma and Complex Trauma
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PTSD
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Anxiety Disorders
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Couples Counseling
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Relationship Issues
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Parenting Challenges
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New mothers
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College students
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Grief & Loss
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Life changes
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Self-Esteem
Professional Experience
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Private Practice (2020 to present)
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Kaiser Permanente (2020 to 2025)
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RAMS, Inc. (2017-2020)
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Liberation Institute (2016-2018)
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Institute on Aging (2013-2016)