Counselors

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.

Please note-I am currently not taking new clients.

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, grief, 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, LIAC - Addiction 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 an addiction counselor in the state of Arizona (LIAC-15074). Over the last 17 years, I’ve worked with individuals from many cultures, lifestyles, and beliefs seeking sobriety and freedom from addiction. 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 also enjoy helping individuals navigate their own spiritual path. 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 particularly enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with disordered eating. 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.

Christina Curry, LPC - Lead Counselor, First Responders

I am a licensed professional counselor who is dedicated to working with first responders. Contributing to the mental health needs of first responders is an area I am passionate about. I strive to provide compassion, advocacy, and adaptability to this community.

I have worked for many years as a clinician in crisis/high acuity settings with individuals who struggle with chronic suicidal ideation, trauma, and mood/personality disorders. My approach to therapy includes meeting individuals where they are in their healing journey. I balance a judgement free, direct approach with understanding, empathy, and compassion. I utilize client centered techniques in addition to solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, inner child work, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

I earned a 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, attending another concert, or spending time with my family.

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. This includes LGBTQ and gender affirming counseling. 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.  

Katie Hinkle, LAC - Counselor

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC-22942) in AZ, having earned my Bachelor's degree in Sociology and my Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Arizona University. I am a doctoral student for the Ph.D. in Combined Counseling and School Psychology program with a certificate in Positive Behavior Support at NAU. My modalities include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Existential approaches. Additionally, I have completed the Gottman Level 1 couples training, Prolonged Exposure certification for PTSD, and the Mending the Soul (MTS) group curriculum at RCC. I also have experience working as a Case Manager at NAU Counseling Services assisting clients with accessing local resources on campus and in the community. As a Flagstaff native I am familiar with the local needs of our community and am passionate about connecting people to the best possible support networks available to aid in their healing journey. 

I enjoy integrating client’s faith in counseling as a source of meaning, hope and healing. I encourage clients to explore and better understand their personally held core values and work with them to create tangible changes in their lives to put their values into action. In addition to faith integration and values work, my professional interests include healing from trauma, resiliency, navigating relationships and couples therapy, growth through life transitions, and exploring creative solutions to barriers clients may be facing. My personal interests include camping, hiking, and riding my motorcycle and mountain bike around Northern Arizona with my husband, three children, and dog. Additionally, I love cooking/baking, doing arts and crafts, and reading.

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.

Emily Hamilton, LPC- Counselor

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPC-23480). I completed my Master’s degree in Mental Health counseling from the University of Wyoming and have a passion for helping others who are struggling with mental health disorders ranging from depression to psychosis. I specifically enjoy engaging with clients who have experienced trauma and work with them to gain a better understanding of themselves and how their mental health can affect their everyday life. I have experience working with clients in an individual therapy setting, crisis/acute care, as well as inpatient care.

I have a person-centered approach and believe that each client knows themselves best and has the autonomy to determine their own needs in therapy. Clients also determine their goals for treatment and what they want this to look like, being supported and challenged throughout this process. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA).

I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful tool that can be used to help clients meet their goals and need to feel safe in their environment to begin effective treatments. Clients who choose to incorporate faith into their counseling experience will also be provided with this space. Clients determine how they would like to incorporate faith. In my free time I enjoy going on hikes and paddle boarding with my Australian Shepherd. I also love being able to explore Nationals Parks in the nearby area and go for short trips on the weekend.

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.  My most recent endeavor includes starting a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. 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

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.