Emily Neuman Bauerle, LCSW - Counselor and Executive Director

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-19548) who has special interest in anxiety reduction, grief and loss, attachment, spiritual and religious trauma and abuse, working with exposure to secondary trauma, PTSD, and the ethical integration of faith and spirituality. I am fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and am a facilitator for Mending the Soul (MTS) groups.

In therapy I use a strength–based approach and integrate a variety of psychotherapy techniques in my work, including somatic psychology. I believe that therapy is a tool that can connect our mind, body, and spirit and can lead us towards greater health and wholeness. I believe in making space for people who are deconstructing or questioning their faith and understand the relevance that has in the therapeutic setting. I also have a passion for working with individuals who want to integrate faith into their emotional and mental healing and have walked with people through discovery, deconstruction, and renewal in their spiritual and faith journeys.

I earned my Bachelors of Social Work from Northern Arizona University (NAU) and my Masters of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University (APU) and have worked in the field for over 12 years in a variety of different roles. I currently provide walk and talk sessions in the community, in-person, and telehealth appointments.

Nature helps me come alive and I can often be found exploring our beautiful mountain with my three children, husband, and dog.

Kalie Wolfinger, LMSW - Counselor

After almost a decade of working in the acute crisis setting of the Emergency Department or more recently, an inpatient psychiatric unit- I have a special interest in working with First Responders, chronic and complex PTSD, childhood histories of trauma and abuse, and grief work. The modalities I choose to incorporate into my therapy include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT/DBT and Mindfulness Based Therapy. 

I am a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW-15489) under the clinical supervision and oversight of Patricia Dobratz (LMFT-10367). I provide walk and talk sessions in the community, in-person, and telehealth appointments.

When I’m not at RCC you can find me traveling the globe with my three kids, searching the Middle East for another rug, or trying new recipes out of cookbooks from around the world.

Naomi Briones, LPC - Counselor

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-22966). I believe in the value and importance of the therapeutic relationship and aim to build strong rapport and trust with my clients.  It is important to me to provide a non-judgmental environment and support for clients to work through adverse life events and general struggles.  To do this, I take a person-centered approach to therapy and also incorporate other approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).  Some populations I enjoy working with are adults of all ages in individual therapy and I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, PTSD, life transitions, post-partum and mental health with endurance athletes.  I have additional training certificates in Perinatal and Postpartum Mood Disorders and EMDR. 

I received my bachelors in Psychology from Northern Arizona University (NAU) and my Masters in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University (GCU). Currently I provide telehealth appointments.

My home is made up of myself, my husband and our Pitbull pup, Rogue.  A big part of my self-care is maintaining an active lifestyle through endurance training which includes swimming, biking, running and occasional hiking adventures.  When I am not training or working, you can find me watching movies or Netflix at home, spending time with friends and family or out trying new local restaurants.

Please note that I only offer telehealth appointments at this time.

Kathryn “Katie” Fenster, LPC - Counselor 

I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC-1533098) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-23091). I earned my BA in Anthropology and Mathematics from Grinnell College and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South Dakota State University. Prior to attending graduate school, I worked as a tutor, data analyst and community organizer. I have contributed as a co author on 2 peer reviewed papers in the counseling field and presented at an international conference: topics of this work include the use of Play Therapy with adults, implicit bias, and treatment of Historical Trauma. I have also engaged in research and published in the fields of Anthropology and Biology. I have worked at RCC since November 2021, while here I’ve developed RCC’s parenting group curriculum. 

I am EMDR trained, DC 0-5 trained, have extensive training in play therapy, including neurobiology, brain development, and trauma and am working towards the Registered Play Therapist credential. I take a trauma informed approach to counseling, working to understand the impacts of past experiences and increasing your ability to live life as your authentic self.  I ground my counseling in the postmodern collection of theories, most notably feminist counseling, using a strengths-based approach to empower clients to understand the impacts of systems: from family of origin to larger communities, and take agency in both the counseling relationship and in their lives. My approach is flexible & client led, incorporating psycho education, experiential interventions, EMDR, parts work, and expressive interventions across the lifespan for a whole brain approach. My professional interests include working with trauma, children and families, neurodivergent individuals, the LGBTQ community, couples, and parents. I provide walk and talk sessions in the community, in-person, and telehealth appointments. In my free time I strive to balance rest & rejuvenation through gardening, reading, backpacking, hiking, snowboarding, and watching netflix with my spouse and dogs.

Robert Potter, LISAC - Substance Abuse Counselor

I see myself as a gardner in this work, nurturing life and relationships with care and attention. I know the courage it takes to move from a life immersed in adversity and coping through harmful choices. With over 30 years of freedom from harmful coping myself, I want to walk alongside you on your journey towards your new way of life.

I hold an independent license as a substance abuse counselor in the state of Arizona (LISAC-15074). Over the last 17 years, I’ve worked with individuals from many cultures, lifestyles, and beliefs seeking sobriety. I practice a client-centered, nonjudgmental approach to therapy. Mindfulness, CBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), an understanding of neurology, and trauma-informed practices, are some therapeutic tools that help understand the underlying causes of addiction as it relates to the whole person. I have also completed extensive training as a Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with Dr. Patrick Carnes.

I am eager to work with individuals and their family members, who have been affected by substance use and addiction. I also have extensive knowledge, training and experience working with people who are neurodiverse (ADHD, dyslexia, folks on the spectrum, etc) and understand how this can co-occur with substance use.

I attended Coconino Community College CCC, Northern Arizona University NAU, and Grand Canyon University with bachelors degrees in psychology and master’s degrees in addiction science.

My family and I have lived in Northern Arizona for many years. When I’m not in my office, I am in my woodworking shop, hiking in nature, or exploring art.

Tessa Vilte, LMSW - Counselor

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW-21691) under the clinical supervision and oversight of Katharina Krison, LCSW, while working towards my Clinical License (LCSW). I received my bachelors in Education from Arizona State University (ASU) and my Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University (ASU) I offer in-person, telehealth, and walk and talk appointments.

I believe strongly in clients self-determination and enjoy partnering with my clients through the therapeutic process as they work toward healing. I believe a supportive and open-minded environment is essential to therapeutic success and aim to build that in the therapy room. I take a client-centered therapy approach and can integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Christian Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(C-CBT) and a variety of trauma focused modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have special interest in working with adolescents (10 and up) and adults in individual therapy. I have additional experience working in adoption and foster care, blended and interracial families as well as first responders. I offer faith integration for those that seek it and view faith as a strong resource for clients healing journeys, while understanding the complicated relationship people can have with faith and faith transitions. I enjoy helping my clients build fulfilling lives and relationships.

When I am not at RCC, I enjoy running, hiking, skiing and spending as much time in the pines with my children and husband. I am on a constant mission to find the perfect americano and finish one of the many library books I am reading. On the weekends I try to squeeze in national park trips in our sprinter van and international travel whenever possible.

Kate Needle, LMSW-T - Counselor

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW-8037T) under the clinical supervision and oversight of Katharina Krison, LCSW. I recently moved from Boston, Massachusetts, where I attended Simmons University and earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work. Prior to graduate school, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ithaca College in upstate New York. I spent the following year teaching English to elementary school students in Be’er Sheva, Israel.

I am passionate about holistic wellness and seek to integrate a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the dynamic interplay of the mind, body, and spirit. I am particularly interested in the exploration of childhood experiences, relationships and their influence on the development and functioning of the ego, subconscious mind, core beliefs, and subsequent behavior. I believe there is no “one fits all” method to treatment and consider a client-centered approach as the foundation that guides the therapeutic process.

I am also interested in somatic therapy, psychodynamic theory, narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I provide faith-based approaches for clients who wish to integrate faith and spirituality into the healing process. I find tremendous peace in nature.

I enjoy hiking with my Golden Retriver, Wiley and traveling to new places.

Christina Curry, LPC - Counselor

I am a licensed professional counselor who has a special interest in working with first responders, adults with trauma, grief/loss, and anxiety. Growing up as a first generation Latina, I am passionate about breaking generational cycles of trauma. I have worked for many years as a clinician in crisis settings with individuals who struggle with chronic suicidal ideation, self-harming, and mood and personality disorders. My approach to therapy includes meeting individuals where they are in their healing journey with empathy and compassion. I utilize client centered techniques in addition to solution-focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

I earned my Bachelors of Psychology from Northern Arizona University and a Master’s of Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-22573). I currently provide walk and talk sessions in the community, in-person, and telehealth appointments. I also provide sessions in both English and Spanish.

When I’m not at RCC you can find me at the gym, walking my dogs, spending time with my kids and husband, or on another outdoor adventure.

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Soy consejera asociada autorizada que tiene un interés especial en trabajar con adultos de todas edades, trauma, depresión y duelo/pérdida. Al crecer como una Latina de primera generación, me apasiona romper los ciclos generacionales de trauma. He trabajado durante muchos años como terapista de crisis con personas que luchan contra ideas suicidas crónicas, autolesiones y trastornos del estado de ánimo y de la personalidad. Mi enfoque de la terapia incluye conocer a las personas en el momento en que se encuentran en su viaje de curación con empatía y compasión. Utilizo técnicas centradas en el cliente, la terapia centrada en soluciones, entrevistas motivacionales (MI) y terapia cognitivo-conductual (TCC).

Obtuve mi Licenciatura en Psicología de la Universidad del Northern Arizona, mi Maestría en Consejería de la Universidad del Grand Canyon. Soy consejera asociada autorizada (LAC-19206) bajo la supervisión clínica de Emily Neuman Bauerle, LCSW. Actualmente ofrezco sesiones de caminar y conversación en la comunidad, en persona y citas de telesalud. Ofrezco sesiones en inglés y español.

Nicole “Nikki” Agan, LCSW - Counselor

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-22118). I graduated from Northern Arizona University with my bachelors in social work and I graduated with my masters in social work from Arizona State University. I have worked as a social worker in a variety of settings including the emergency room setting, inpatient behavioral health, and as an outpatient therapist. 

I take a humanistic approach to counseling and believe in partnering with my clients to help them find their strengths to be successful in tackling life's challenges. My style of therapy includes motivational interviewing, parts work, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with adults and teenagers who have experienced symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self esteem, trauma, and perfectionism. I enjoy helping people create healthy habits and building mastery of new skills to create a more fulfilling life. 

When I am not RCC you can find me going on outdoor adventures with my family, with my nose stuck in a good book, or training for my next long distance running race.  

Erica Currie, Clinical Counseling Intern Student - Wake Forest University

I am a dedicated and empathetic practicum student committed to helping you navigate life’s stages and challenges while discovering your path to healing and personal growth. As an empty nester, I have come back to school midlife to pursue my passion of counseling. I am currently completing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Wake Forest University, and I implement a variety of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, and more. As a certified yoga teacher, I embrace a holistic approach to therapy that encompasses mind, body, and soul. I remain in a state of curiosity around how our pasts can impact our present-day realities and relationships. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and together, we will create a tailored approach that meets your unique needs and goals.

I am a native Texan who was born and raised in Amarillo. I am the mother of two college-aged, young adults and “Auntie” to many nieces and nephews. Having transitioned through several life stages, I have experienced firsthand the joys, heartbreak, challenges, and successes that accompany the human experience. My career has consisted of teaching middle school and high school students, being a certified yoga instructor, staying at home as a mom, and having worked in the nonprofit sector. I love being outside in nature. It inspires a sense of awe and restoration within me. I welcome walk and talk therapy appointments. I have relocated to Flagstaff in order to be closer to family, and I enjoy hiking, skiing, yoga, reading, and making pottery on the wheel.

Elizabeth “Lizzi” Budge, Clinical Counseling Intern Student - University of the Cumberlands

I am an intern counselor under the supervision of Christina Curry, LPC completing my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of the Cumberlands. I have studied extensively at the Feeling Good Institute, where I learned the effective techniques of CBT expert Dr. David Burns. I am a Level 2 Certified TEAM therapist through the Institute. I also avidly follow the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, a renowned relationship therapist, and Harvard happiness researcher Shawn Achor. I find positive psychology very compelling because it focuses on how humans thrive and flourish.

My primary professional focus is assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, marriage troubles, parenting issues, and those seeking guidance in exploring their values, navigating life transitions, and developing more effective mindsets.

In my personal life, I love to play basketball, ultimate frisbee, ski, swim, go on dates with my husband, and travel. I read a lot of books and sometimes I even get as nerdy as writing book reports to myself so I can remember what I learn.

Administrative Staff

Mikaela Phillips - Office Coordinator

I am passionate about mental health and love people! I am excited to be working as the Office Coordinator after volunteering at Redemption Counseling Center for a while.  I most appreciate RCC’s commitment to better serving our entire community, and making mental health care more accessible.  I look forward to navigating clients through the sometimes intimidating or overwhelming process of finding the right therapist for their circumstances and managing their scheduling needs.  I know reaching out can be a difficult step and hope to make it a pleasant and welcoming experience.  I am committed to providing excellent customer service and a safe place for everyone who walks through our doors or reaches out by phone or email.  

Following a career in veterinary medicine, being home with young children, and starting my own drafting business I am continuing my own journey of self development.  I hope to pursue graduate studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in the future. I have a particular interest in Internal Family Systems, Differentiation Theory, and Sexuality. 

When not chasing my kids around I can be found hiking, biking, skiing, paddling, creating, or chatting with whomever crosses my path.  I also love curling up with my dog and diving into a good book.

Natalie Bryant - Director of Operations

I have been passionate about Redemption Counseling Center since it opened.  I have two decades of experience as a disability and mental health activist in the role of Executive Director for a nonprofit I founded.  We did policy work and met the needs of abandoned individuals with special needs and mental health needs in Armenia through holistic residential care.  I am passionate about assisting nonprofits as they move toward a sustainable model.  I have spent my career analyzing how nonprofits create and inhibit change in the world.  I am compelled to work toward justice and healing within the organizational model by ensuring care and concern not just toward clients, but toward staff as well. 

My heart is for justice and healing work in the world—and especially where these two areas converge.  But I advocate for a healing that is not haunted by an imagined idea of wholeness.  I am inspired by work that meets the needs of the vulnerable among us while looking to change systemic issues, policies and trends that prohibit us from healing and justice to begin with.  Redemption Counseling Center embodies those things through its dual focus on providing quality mental health care to individuals in the community while also seeking to address injustices in the way our community approaches mental health, denies services to some and prioritizes certain groups of people over another. 

I am also a published author, a mother, a mystic, and a lover of the forest.  I spend my free time writing, collecting moss and watching for ravens with my three sons. 

Clinical Supervisors

Patricia Dobratz, LMFT - Clinical Supervisor

Patricia’s education and professional background spans the fields of law, behavioral health, and academia. She worked as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Illinois for years before pursuing a career in behavioral health. Patricia has practiced in Arizona as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT-10367) in various settings including schools, private practice, outpatient clinics, and integrated healthcare facilities. In addition, she has held Clinical Supervisor, Director, and Vice President positions providing support and leadership to behavioral health teams of interns, associates, independently licensed professionals, and supervisors.

Patricia is passionate about supporting others and upholding the integrity of the behavioral health field. She has taught at several universities, facilitated trainings, as well as provided clinical supervision for over eleven years to help others translate best practices from textbook to practice. She has served as a member of the Arizona Network for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, she has served on the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners as a Professional Member, most recently as Chairperson. Patricia currently owns the Clinical Best Practice Institute dedicated to supporting therapists, supervisors, and businesses.

Katharina Krison, LCSW - Clinical Supervisor

Katharina Krison is an independently licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-19863), an approved clinical supervisor through AZBBHE, and the owner of the therapy and consulting practice, June Counseling LLC. Katharina graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and graduated from Arizona State University with a Masters in Social Work. Katharina has been in the social work field for over 14 years and has worked within child welfare, supporting and educating families and equipping educators with behavioral interventions. Katharina is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy. She often uses these and other modalities (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT and Psychodynamic Therapy), as she works with individuals who have experienced trauma, loss, or those living with chronic pain/health conditions. Katharina is passionate about taking a holistic approach and understands the importance of the grieving process.

As a Clinical Supervisor, Katharina is motivated to give others a supportive and safe place that can not only provide healthy guidance, but also cultivate authenticity and strengths to be used with a supervisee’s clients. This process is about support and growth.

In her personal life Katharina enjoys exploring her city and getting outside as much as possible.