Lauren Gomez, LCSW
Lauren Gomez earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of New Mexico. She then obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, focusing on clinical mental health care for both adults and children. Lauren has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, and maintains a small caseload, specializing in individual adult therapy and couples counseling. She is deeply passionate about helping others through a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, empowering her clients to heal and move forward. Lauren welcomes feedback about the clinic or its clinicians; feel free to reach out to her at laureng@hdhnm.com with any comments or concerns!

Rebecca Davis-Duran LCSW

 Rebecca Davis-Duran is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of dedicated experience in the field. As a clinical supervisor, she brings a wealth of knowledge from various areas of social work, including crisis line support, case management, advocacy, psychotherapy, and clinical management. Her extensive background has given her a deep understanding of mental health complexities and the diverse needs of her clients.
Rebecca specializes in several therapeutic modalities, focusing on trauma processing techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She also incorporates polyvagal theory and somatic experiencing into her practice, offering a holistic approach that addresses both mind and body. Her experience includes working with mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, complex trauma, and ADHD, providing tailored support to adolescents and adults alike.
With five years of experience in clinical supervision, Rebecca participates in guiding and mentoring other clinicians in their professional growth. Her approach is person-centered, adaptable, and fluid, utilizing various therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Rebecca deeply values self-compassion, acceptance, and inclusivity, creating a safe and supportive environment for all individuals.
 

Dr. Shashwat Pandhi, MD MPH—one of about 55 triple-boarded psychiatrists in the United States—is a General, Adult, Child and Adolescent and Addiction Psychiatrist. He is an expert psychopharmacologist, well-versed in medication management.  He has been a physician for 12 years and has seen approximately 5,000 psychiatric cases.

His specialities include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.  He has also successfully treated many patients with trauma.

Dr. Pandhi earned a Medical Degree and a Master of Public Health degree in Epidemiology at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Medical College of Virginia, where he was awarded the George Engel Psychiatry prize for best performance of the graduating class in the Psychiatry Clerkship. He did his general psychiatry residency at Baystate Medical Center in Western Massachusetts, the Western Campus of Tufts University School of Medicine.  His Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship was completed at Drexel College of  Medicine/Hahnemann Hospital, where he was the co-chief fellow.  Afterwards he completed an additional Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. He also spent five years, under supervision, learning to be adept at the art of psychotherapy including Psychodynamic and Strengths Based Therapy.  In addition, Dr Pandhi received certification from the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers in how to be a trainer of therapy to other doctors and clinicians. He previously owned a private practice in Center City Philadelphia for two and a half years and was a member of the faculty as well as a medical director at the University of New Mexico for three and a half years. 

Faith Tipton LCSW

Faith (she/her) received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of New Mexico and her Master's degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. Faith has a broad range of experience working with adolescents, young adults, and women of all ages in order to help manage depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, women's issues, stress, and life transitions. She uses techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Christian Counseling, and Mindfulness. Faith utilizes a person-centered, strength-based framework in order to highlight her clients' capacities, values, and hopes. She is passionate about promoting resilience and positive transformation in each of her clients'. lives.

Aubrey Stallings LCSW 

Aubrey provides individual therapy to adolescents and adults. Aubrey obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Studies from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Social Work degree from Western New Mexico University. Aubrey believes in creating an environment that is a safe space to process, learn, heal, and grow. Her approach to therapy is person-centered and strengths based. Aubrey uses techniques from a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. Aubrey is passionate about providing her clients with tools to help them become the best version of themselves.

Jessey Stallings LCSW 

Jessey offers therapy to individuals of all ages. Jessey earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Family & Child Studies from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Social Work Degree from Western New Mexico University. Jessey strives to create a warm environment for all, and is dedicated to helping others reach their goals to become their best self. Jessey draws from various modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, Mindfulness and Play Therapy. Jessey believes every person has the potential to live a joyous life, and believes her role as a therapist is to provide a space that allows clients to express themselves and experience personal growth

Adam Vareika LCSW

Adam is a seasoned clinician with close to 20 years of experience. He has worked extensively with individuals who have experienced trauma, substance use disorders, sexually acting out behaviors and a variety of mental health issues. Preferred modalities include: Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Modern psychoanalytic practice and Trauma Informed CBT. Adam works full-time in healthcare leadership and maintains a part-time caseload of clients. 

Sara Ransom LMHC 

Sara received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Grand Canyon University in 2019 and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2022. She works from person-centered and strengths-based perspectives and believes that mind, body, spirit, and self-compassion are integral parts of well-being. She has received trainings in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Polyvagal Theory, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and ADHD treatment. She works to foster a safe, empowering, inclusive, and healing environment for all of her clients. She works with clients ages 14 +, and she has a passion for working with the LGTBQIA + community, as well as those who experience OCD, ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity, trauma, codependency, attachment and relationship issues, and those who experience issues with executive functioning. She also co-facilitates the Teen LGTBQ Group with Daniel Guardado, LMSW.

Daniel Guardado, LMSW (he/him) offers individual, couples, and group therapy to clients ages 14 and up. Specializing in providing affirming care to LGBTQIA+ folks, Daniel has extensive experience supporting clients navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, minority stress, identity development, and explorations of masculinity. His trauma-informed approach is client-centered and pulls from TF-CBT, EMDR, the Gottman method, and mindfulness techniques. He holds an MSW from New Mexico State University and a BA in Psychology from the University of New Mexico.

Katie Burnett LMSW

Katie Burnett, LMSW, is a born and raised New Mexican who obtained her Bachelor’s of Psychology and Portuguese at the University of New Mexico. Katie went on to receive her Master’s of Clinical Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. She is a non-native proficient Spanish speaker who is using her talents to work with a diverse client population to serve her community. Katie uses a Strengths Based approach and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, mindfulness and Solution-Focused Therapy. Katie works with a wide range of clientele ages 15 and older and is interested in working with couples. Katie loves animals and incorporates animal therapy into her practice.

BreAnna Minor LMHC Provisional

BreAnna is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who received her Bachelor degree in Social work at New Mexico Highlands University and a Master’s Degree in Counseling at New Mexico Highlands University. She has experience working with children and adolescents who are at risk. BreAnna has experience and training in using DBT. Her person-centered approach allows individuals to express themselves in a safe and caring environment where they feel valued. Through her approach clients have the power and ability to make the best solutions for themselves in order to grow.

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Lori Hansen LMSW

Lori obtained her Bachelors degree in Social work from Florida Atlantic University and her Masters degree from New Mexico Highlands University.  She has over twenty years experience working with various populations from all age groups.  Lori uses a client centered, strength based approach with a specialty in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma and Grief.  The modalities most often used with Lori are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.  Lori strives to help others understand their feelings and unlocking a new perspective on life in a warm and supportive environment. 

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Rebecca Forsythe 

Rebecca received her Master of Social Work with a concentration in clinical practice at New Mexico Highlands University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Grand Canyon
University. Rebecca has extensive experience working with and advocating for high-risk children and adolescents in the community. Rebecca is passionate about addressing mental health through a person-centered, strength-based approach. Her areas of expertise include
treating conduct/oppositional defiance disorders, trauma, mood disorders, and self-esteem concerns in youth and young adults. Dedicated to fostering a positive change in her clients’ lives, Rebecca offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space for healing and growth.

Julian M Lopez LMSW 

Julian (he/him) was born and raised in Hobbs, New Mexico. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of New Mexico and a Master’s of Social Work with a concentration in Rural Community Social Work Services from Western New Mexico University. Julian has over five years of experience working with issues related to trauma, anxiety & depression, low self-esteem, stress/burnout, communication, and substance use. This experience comes from a variety of environments, including residential treatment, inpatient hospital, and behavioral health outpatient settings. Julian works with a wide range of clientele of all ages with a variety of behavioral and emotional challenges. Julian implements a strengths-based, empathic, and non-judgmental approach. Julian believes one of the most difficult but most important endeavors we make is investing in our emotional and mental wellness.  

Elizabeth McGinn Corpion

Liz will receive her Master’s of Social Work from New Mexico State University in May 2023.  She is proficient in the use of Experiential Play Therapy with children and provides Client-Centered and Strength-Based approaches in her practice for all demographics.  Liz works to create a safe environment for people to heal and focuses on building a healthy therapeutic relationship with her clients to help them grow to become their best selves. Liz has comprehensive knowledge on trauma and the effect trauma has on the mind and body.

Shane Baron-Deutsch LMSW

Shane (they/them) received their Master's of Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. Shane is a non-binary artist, event organizer, and therapist born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. They have led youth-centered, social justice themed, adventure-based experiential learning trips in Peru, Bolivia, and Guatemala through Canadian non-profit Operation Groundswell. They are a certified Harm Reduction Specialist, and have served in this capacity with the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico, Healthcare for the Homeless, and First Nations Community HealthSource. They facilitate a monthly trans and non-binary climbing group in Albuquerque, the Trans Senders, and are the author and editor of the weekly LGBTQIA2s+ e-newsletter The Gay Agenda Weekly. Shane graduated from Mount Holyoke College in 2016 with a BA in Spanish and Critical Social Thought. Shane has experience and training in using Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and mindfulness and grounding techniques. They have experience providing therapy to address anxiety, depression, and queer and trans identity development for both teens and adults. They love art and sometimes incorporate art into their therapy practice at the request of their clients.

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Francine Nguyen is originally from Tampa, Florida and has been in New Mexico for
almost 10 years. She received her Bachelors in Sociology from the University of New Mexico, and is currently a second-year Master of Clinical Social Work
student at New Mexico Highlands University. Francine has experience in working with children and adolescents in both acute inpatient and in an outpatient
community setting. She has training in CCSS, Youth Peer Support Work, and
providing trauma informed care. Enduring and learning from her own lived
experiences, Francine is passionate about supporting children and adolescents
in their journey of healing. Francine is eager to learn more therapeutic modalities
to better serve our community.

Marhia Sanchez LMSW received her Master's from New Mexico Highlands University and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and chemistry from the University of New Mexico. With a focus on community-based approaches, she has worked with clients across different age groups and backgrounds on various topics such as vocational skill building, recovery, genders and sexuality, and parenting in both residential treatment and outpatient settings. Marhia is also a Licensed Substance Abuse Associate (LSAA) with experience in substance abuse counseling. She brings direct service experience in areas such as domestic and sexual violence, suicide intervention, family seperation and reuinfication, and hospice care. Grounded in a trauma-responsive perspective, Marhia aims to cultivate a warm and supportive space for clients to navigate their well-being and delve into their inner motivations. 

Christopher Holmes

BIPOC Queer Psychotherapist providing a safe place to heal, learn/unlearn, practice, and grow from where you are to where you want to be. I employ a person-centered, trauma-sensitive, dialectical approach to delve into and understand your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in order to support you achieving your goals. Be the change you want to see.

Jenna McKay is a first-year intern at High Desert Healing, and a second-year Master’s of Social Work candidate at New Mexico Highlands University.  She is originally from Southern Colorado, and she has since lived in multiple other states before settling here in the high desert in 2020.  She received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Portland State University in 2014, and she became a Certified Health and Life Coach in 2021.  Jenna is also a Certified Personal Trainer; she has a strong desire to learn about somatic therapy and holistic body work.  She hopes to one day incorporate these skills into a movement-based, body trauma reprocessing therapeutic practice. 

Ryan Price SHRM-CP

 Ryan Price is an experienced HR professional dedicated to fostering supportive and inclusive workplaces. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Appalachian State University with a focus on Industrial/Organizational Psychology and obtained his SHRM-CP certification in 2022. Ryan has lived in New Mexico for over a decade and was happy to learn that everyone's a Lobo. With a belief that people thrive in environments where they feel valued and heard, Ryan works to create policies and initiatives that promote engagement, belonging, and professional growth. Whether addressing complex HR challenges or streamlining processes, he is committed to supporting a culture where mental health professionals can thrive.

Heather Sands, Ph.D., LPCC (NM), LPC (CT)
Since 2012, Heather’s therapeutic work continues to reach a variety of people as her experiences span from local New Mexican individuals, youth, and families to migrant, asylum-seeking, and refugee peoples from all over the world. Once a former collegiate rower and rowing coach, Heather brings the same humor and motivational tactics needed in athletics into therapy sessions thus providing strength-based encouragement to individuals and families amid life’s challenges and changes. Fundamentally, Heather’s practice is grounded in the five tenets of humanism, which center on genuineness, authenticity, unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence. This foundation enables strength-based interventions that strongly align with
cognitive behavioral, behavioral, and dialectical behavioral therapy approaches as well as solution-focused brief therapy and motivational interviewing techniques.
Heather’s formative therapeutic and supervisory experiences are largely attributed to her work as a Multisystemic Therapy (MST) therapist and MST Supervisor, an evidenced-based and
intensive outpatient community-based family therapy for adolescents. Heather also holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of New Mexico. Since 2021, she has held faculty appointments at the University of New Mexico as well as Long Island
University. In conjunction with her therapeutic work with High Desert Healing, LLC, Heather is an adjunct professor of Counselor Education for City University of New York, Lehman
College.

Ashton Koons LMSW

Ashton is a licensed LMSW with over 10 years of experience facilitating mental-emotional-behavioral wellness. With a strong background in social work and psychology, he brings a multi-dimensional
approach to life’s challenges that views thoughts, feelings and behaviors in larger contexts such as generational trauma and systemic oppression across race, class and gender. With that said, nobody knows us better than ourselves and for that reason, we don’t compare traumas. Ashton has training and expertise in the treatment of chronic depression, family dysfunction, substance abuse and developmental/acquired delay. To meet the diverse needs of his clients, Ashton draws upon a strengths-based, culturally responsive, approach that combines and incorporates somatic experiencing
with Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Community Reinforcement and Family Training, and Applied Behavior Analysis.
With therapeutic goals of standing in one’s truth and reclaiming one’s power, Ashton believes that his clients are the healers. Too often, society peddles short-lived fixes outside a person to the exclusion of
more sustainable, internal, strengths within them. He meets his clients where they are and in their journey with him to discover and choose solutions that work best for them, they get back what they put
into a therapeutic alliance which recognizes and supports courage and curiosity.

Matthew Nair LMHC Intern

Matthew was born and raised in Albuquerque and received his bachelor’s degree from the
University of New Mexico in 2022. He is currently in his second year in the University of New
Mexico’s Counselor Education Program and is pursuing dual degrees in clinical mental health
counseling and school counseling. Matthew has four years of experience in crisis intervention
and has worked as a family advocate for immigrants and refugees in the Albuquerque area. He
has experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in school and therapy settings. His
approach to counseling incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and
dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) while maintaining a culturally sensitive and trauma-
informed perspective. Matthew is passionate about helping clients build resilience, develop
healthy coping skills, and lead lives aligned with their values.

Elary Wall LMHC Intern

Elary (she/her) is a therapist in training primarily seeing adolescents and adults. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (December 2025) from the University of New Mexico. 

Elary takes a person-centered, feminist approach, empowering clients to embrace their inner strengths on their path to growth. 

She has a passion for working with neurodivergent and queer communities and is currently expanding her knowledge of somatic therapy, where she enjoys integrating mind-body practices to promote holistic healing.  

As a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor, Elary uses movement and mindfulness techniques to help clients connect with their bodies and regulate emotions. As a counselor, Elary strives to create a safe and affirming space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and achieve lasting growth.