Staff

Dr. Deacon Shoenberger attended the clinical psychology doctoral program at the University of Nevada, Reno and completed a PhD with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral treatments for anxiety disorders and addictions. He completed his pre-doctoral internship at the Portland VA Medical Center and received specialized training in psychological assessment, behavioral medicine and health psychology, eating disorders treatment, and chronic disease management. He completed post-doctoral training with an emphasis on behavioral pediatrics and adolescent psychology and became a Nevada Licensed Psychologist in 2009. Deacon has been the consulting psychologist for several different local agencies. Deacon is a co-founder of Health Psychology Associates and is the Clinical and Integrated Care Director of Health Psychology Associates.

Natalie Sanchez attended the California State University, Chico and completed a MS in Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy in 2006. She completed an internship in Marriage and Family Therapy and received supervision and training in behavioral interventions for individuals, family and couples with an emphasis on children and adolescents. Natalie has received training and supervision for behavioral medicine and health psychology. She has a history of being a clinical director of agencies in the community. She is a AAMFT and NV approved supervisor for Marriage and Family Therapy Interns and Clinical Professional Counselors. Natalie is completing her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. Natalie is a co-founder of Health Psychology Associates and is the Clinical Director of Health Psychology Associates and oversees the psychotherapy programs. Natalie is an AAMFT approved primary supervisor.

Michael “Mick” Hall attended the clinical psychology program at the John F. Kennedy University and completed a MA with an emphasis on clinical and sports psychology. He completed an internship in Marriage and Family Therapy and received supervision and training in behavioral interventions for individuals, family and couples. He has a history of health psychology in the medical setting. In addition to the credential of licensed marriage and family therapist, Michael is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Mick has a history of being a clinical director of agencies in the community. Michael is a AAMFT and NV approved supervisor for Marriage and Family Therapy Interns and Clinical Professional Counselors. Mick is a NV board approved supervisor for Substance Abuse Counselors. Mick is a co-founder of Health Psychology Associates and AAMFT approved primary supervisor.

Keri Freshman is the Office Manager of Health Psychology Associates. Keri has worked with Health Psychology Associates from the beginning. Prior to her time at HPA she worked with medical and behavioral health offices. In addition to the task of managing the entire staff and office Keri is responsible for the billing, scheduling and greeting clients. Keri has worked to help establish the client centered environment at Health Psychology Associates.

Dr. Sarah Burkett attended the California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant University, Sacramento, California and completed a PhD in Clinical Psychology. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at Ventura County Behavioral Health and received specialized training in outpatient substance abuse, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and behavioral medicine. Sarah completed post-doctoral training at Northern Nevada Adult Mental Health Services with an emphasis on outpatient therapy including Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Chronic Pain groups, Co-Occurring Disorders and Anger Management. Sarah has been licensed since 2015 and worked at Renown and Rural Mental Health providing outpatient therapy with an emphasis in health psychology, psychological assessment, cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders, chronic disease management. Sarah is a qualified supervisor for Psychological Assistants.

Dr. Matthew Boland attended the clinical psychology doctoral program at the University of Nevada, Reno and completed a PhD with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. He completed his pre-doctoral internship at the Albuquerque VA Medical Center and received specialized training in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and comorbid substance abuse, behavioral medicine and psychological assessment. Matt became a Nevada licensed psychologist in 2018. Matt specializes in cognitive and cognitive behavioral therapy treatments for a variety of conditions.

Dr. Kevin Seid attended the psychology doctoral program at the University of Wisconsin, Madison and completed a PhD with an emphasis on school psychology, child and family therapy. After completing his school psychology internship, he received specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Kevin completed post-doctoral training with an emphasis in on behavioral pediatrics and adolescent psychology, anxiety and mood disorders. Kevin became a Nevada Licensed Psychologist in 2018. Kevin is a certified Trauma CBT provider.

Lisa Brown attended University of Phoenix and completed a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2009. She has completed specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy focusing on managing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Lisa has 10+ years experience working with individuals, couples and families. Additionally, Lisa has experience and training to treat individuals with eating disorders.

Dr. Chad Doerr attended the Clinical and School Psychology doctoral program at James Madison University and completed his PsyD in 2018. Prior to JMU, Chad Doerr earned his Master's Degree in Sport and Performance psychology from the University of Denver in 2014. He completed his pre-doctoral internship at UC Davis Student Health and Counseling Services with an emphasis in Sport Psychology. Dr. Doerr completed his post-doctoral training in the University of Nebraska’s Athletic Department, serving as an Athletic Psychologist for two years. Chad has been a licensed Clinical Psychologist since 2020 and provides generalist therapy treatments for a variety of conditions. Additionally, he has received specialty training and experience in treating young-adult mental health symptoms, and services for sport and high-performance populations.

Michelle is a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and has a background working with individuals and groups of all ages, including adults, adolescents, children, and their families. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Wheaton College and completed a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Denver Seminary. While in graduate school, Michelle interned at a residential treatment center for youth with co-occurring mental health, behavioral, and/or substance use disorders. She has most recently worked as a therapist in rural Nevada for Elko’s Community Mental Health Clinic where she also provided assessment services to inmates at the county jail and participated in the local Child Advocacy Center meetings. She has worked with Nevada school districts providing therapy and advocating for families during IEP meetings. Michelle has received supervision and training in trauma-informed care as well as in evidence-based therapies for a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, chronic pain, grief and loss, shame, identity issues, and relationship difficulties. Michelle has received specialized instruction in Trauma - Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Parent Management Training, and her graduate school program emphasized the integration of spirituality, ethics, values, and counseling. Michelle is also passionate about travel, values diversity, and has participated in various cultural immersion experiences around the world.

Emma Dickinson received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Vanderbilt University in 1991, her Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology from University of Nevada-Reno in 2007 and her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Central Washington University in 1995. She has recently started as a Clinical Professional Counselor Intern with HPA in addition to practicing as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist in the Washoe County School District here in Reno, NV. Prior to this, she was a school counselor serving two rural Nevada school districts for 13 years. Emma has experience with children of all ages, families and has a special interest in working with twice-exceptional youth, who are those experiencing a disability as well as having high ability.

James Balmut, known by family, friends, and colleagues as “JB” attended the University of Nevada, Reno and completed a Master of Arts in Counseling and Educational Psychology in 1985 with a specialty in Marriage and Family Therapy. He has been licensed since 1987. He immediately became the Program Coordinator of an inpatient adolescent and pediatric program locally. Leaving the hospital after 6 years, he started a private practice specializing in work with adolescents, couples, and families. He earned his Alcohol and Drug Abuse license shortly thereafter and began consulting for local agencies serving youth with substance use issues. JB has a passion for the outdoors and is well trained in experiential and adventure-based therapies. He sees Nature as an incredible teacher. He found that “doing” was a more powerful way of learning than “sitting and talking” (remember he works with non-traditional learners – and admits that he is one). He has been active in State and National Associations supporting families for over 30 years. He has been an owner/director of both for and not for profit businesses running adventure-based leadership programs for our school district and local businesses. His passion for service is evident when you meet him.

Crystal is a Clinical Professional Counselor at Health Psychology Associates. Crystal received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at the University of Nevada, Reno. From there, she worked as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist completing specialized training with an emphasis on children and adolescents. Crystal then attended the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and holds a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While in graduate school, Crystal interned at Northern Nevada Child and Adolescent Services and received training in early childhood intervention services and trauma-informed care. She is currently receiving supervision and training in treatment for children, adolescents, sexual/gender minority individuals, and families in several areas of mental health including impulse control, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harming, trauma, parent training, and coping skills.

Courtney received her Master of Arts in Counseling from UNR with a focus on Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While in graduate school Courtney worked at the Downing Clinic with adolescents and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and identity concerns. She also co-led grief groups for adolescents and was a crisis worker for a local and national hotline. Additionally, Courtney has experience working with young children who have challenging behavioral and emotional situations and their families. She is currently completing an internship in Clinical Professional Counseling and receiving supervision in behavioral interventions and family systems.

O’Brien is a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern and offers individual adult, relationship and group psychotherapy with a Mind-Body (Somatic) emphasis drawing from an extensive background which includes: a Master of Arts in Somatic Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University; Certified Sex Educator training through San Francisco Sex Information, and training in Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) from Tapping the Matrix Academy. O’Brien’s approach to therapy is also informed by her training in gender sensitivity and inclusion, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, as well as many forms of wholistic mind-body practices, such as Somatic Experiencing, Focusing, and much more. Her Yoga Teacher training, love of nature and experiences living & traveling around the world pair perfectly with her wholistic approach to overall well-being. O’Brien is a member of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, Kink Aware Professionals and is LGBTQIA+, Poly and Kink Aware. What is it you want to work on? O’Brien will help you set goals, plan how to reach your goals, cheer you on during successes and find alternatives when you get stuck. She will hold you accountable to yourself and your goals and celebrate each step along the way of your personal journey. You can do this. O’Brien can help.My Website

I believe that therapy offers a way for us to examine our narratives & their meaning. I work with people who are experiencing racism, colorism, grief/loss, those living with depression and anxiety, PTSD, and chronic burnout. I see individuals and couples across generations and milestones with various identifiers: Third Culture, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, AAPI, Postpartum, Poly, Gender Queer. As a therapist, I am interested in your subjective experience and the context, framework, and systemic dynamics that shape it. I see you as a whole person and aim to avoid reductionist and pathological interpretations. I have worked in the field of mental health for over twenty years. I received my Master’s in Social Work from New York University. I completed my clinical hours in San Francisco. I have worked in emergency departments, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient mental health clinics. My theoretical framework is eclectic & holistic, drawing on evidence-based theories to existential/humanistic theories. I am trained in Brainspotting. I provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) at Radiance Clinic. I am fluent in Mandarin and can converse in Spanish. I have lived in San Francisco, Amsterdam, Taipei, Buenos Aires, Manhattan, Los Angeles, and Madrid. I dig Friday night dinners with friends and family, boxing, climbing, cultural happenings, hiking, and jaunts with my three children & partner.

Dr. Nino Chkhaidze Roy attended the Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program of Clinical and School Psychology at James Madison University, Harrisonburg Virginia and completed her PsyD in 2017. She became a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia as well as a board-certified behavior analyst in 2018. After moving to Reno Nevada, Nino completed her post-doctoral training at the Health Psychology Associates and became a Nevada licensed psychologist in 2023. Nino’s work has been concentrated around depressive and bipolar disorders, trauma, anxiety and panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship difficulties / couple therapy, and parent-child interaction. In her therapeutic practice Nino uses an integrative approach, equally focusing on various aspects of a person’s functioning, such as emotions, behaviors/habits, thoughts, personality traits, and attachment style. Prior to coming to the US, Nino worked as a psychologist in her country-of-origin Georgia, Eastern Europe. Experience working in different cultures enhanced Nino’s appreciation of diversity and cultural differences and she strives to provide therapeutic care which is sensitive to people’s unique backgrounds and identities.

Dr. Kayla Kaiser attended the California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant University, Sacramento, California and completed a PsyD in Clinical Psychology. She completed her pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral training at Health Psychology Associates. She became a Nevada licensed psychologist in 2024. Kayla enjoys doing psychological assessments with adults. She has experience in evaluations for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability, Neurocognitive Disorders, and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.

Dr. Kaleb Cusack completed his PhD in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Sport Psychology from the University of North Texas in 2023. Prior to North Texas, Dr. Cusack earned a Master’s Degree in Psychological Sciences from James Madison University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Coaching Science from Oklahoma State University where he was also a walk-on on the football team. Dr. Cusack completed his pre-doctoral internship at University of Nevada, Reno’s Counseling Services with an emphasis in psychological testing and assessment. Prior to HPA, Dr. Cusack served as the Wolf Pack’s first embedded mental health and sport psychology provider where he oversaw mental health and performance services for UNR’s athletes. Dr. Cusack has been licensed since 2023 and provides generalist mental health treatment and sport and performance psychology services. Dr. Cusack also has received additional training and experience for psychological assessment and evaluations for a variety of presenting concerns and populations.

Kelly received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Auburn University and her postdoctoral training in assessment at University of Nevada, Reno. Kelly believes assessment can be transformative – not only in understanding cognitive and academic strengths/weaknesses – but also in conceptualizing how the individual’s personality and unique life experiences shape how they approach significant stressors and day-to-day problems. Kelly takes an existential, integrative approach to assessment, and she holds that greater insight allows people to be aware of more avenues to overcome hurdles.

Mariam is a licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at George Mason University (Virginia) and Master of Social Work at the University of Nevada, Reno (‘20). Mariam completed her clinical internship at UNR Counseling Services where she provided individual and group therapy to UNR students from ‘19-‘25 (licensed since ‘23). Mariam is excited to connect with our community at Health Psychology Associates, working with adults of all ages. She considers your unique strengths, perspectives and goals and offers support in several areas, such as navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, acculturation challenges, trauma (e.g. race-based), burnout, and perfectionism. Mariam takes a Relational and Person-Centered approach and is trained in multiple modalities and interventions (e.g. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy). She is certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), is an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and certified STAIR therapist (trauma therapy). Outside her time in the U.S., Mariam has lived in Morocco, South Korea, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. In her free time she loves to visit coffee shops and spend time with friends and family.

Nicole is a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology and sociology from the University of Nevada Reno and her Master’s in mental health counseling from Capella University.  Nicole has background in several levels of treatment including inpatient, residential, and outpatient care as well as almost 20 years history of working with adolescents in various educational and behavioral health settings.  Nicole works with adults and adolescents for a wide range of struggles including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and identity and development. She provides care from a systemic, trauma informed lens and specializes in both LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming care.  Nicole is a member of the local Gender Consultation Group and is a kink and consensual non monogamy aware professional.

Katy graduated with her master’s degree in counseling from the University of Nevada, Reno with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy. As a graduate student she took additional coursework in trauma and grief and loss. She worked at the Downing Counseling Clinic during her master’s studies, working with individuals and couples. She completed her graduate school internship at Health Psychology Associates where she co-lead a group for those with chronic illnesses, and is now a marriage and family intern at HPA. Katy works primarily with adults in all stages of life and additionally works in the bariatric program at Health Psychology Associates.

Clarisa Rivas-Reyes is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor Intern with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Nevada, Reno. Drawing on her personal experiences as the daughter of immigrant parents, Clarisa is dedicated to serving the Spanish-speaking community. Clarisa provides therapeutic support to a diverse range of populations, including adolescents, young adults, children, and older adults, with a focus on fostering resilience and personal growth. She is trained in a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Clarisa is dedicated to ongoing professional development and strives to integrate the latest research and techniques into her practice, ensuring that her clients receive the highest standard of care. Her compassionate and client-centered approach is rooted in a deep commitment to supporting individuals in achieving their mental health and wellness goals.

Alvaro attended the University of Nevada, Reno and completed a Master of Arts in Counseling and Educational Psychology in 2017 to hold his Clinical Professional Counselor license and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He has been active with working with various demographics and practices psychotherapy in Spanish for our local Latino population.

Zac was born and raised right here in Reno, Nevada, and is proud of it. He completed all his educational training at the University of Nevada, Reno, receiving an Honors Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology and a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling. Zac’s focus throughout his entire education was on fear and trauma, leading him to T.A. for UNR’s psychology of trauma class for 5 years. During his Master’s degree, he worked at the Downing clinic with a range of clients as well as with the Eddy House, focusing on supporting houseless young adults. After graduating, he spent time doing crisis work with children and teens, focusing on suicidality, homicidality, and extreme anger. Zac is completing an internship in Clinical Professional Counseling and receiving supervision from multiple perspectives. Zac works to support his clients through an eclectic and person-centered strengths-based lens, believing that self-doubt and depreciation are often the root of many issues that people struggle with in the modern age. Zac recently has been given the privilege of working with Washoe County Middle Schools via HPA, helping kids who may not get services otherwise. While Zac has been focused on working with children recently, do not let that fool you, as he loves working with people of all ages and populations. Whether you want to work on routine maintenance or finally delve into your childhood trauma, he is excited to walk that path with you.

Hello, I'm Tiffany Schweickert, a Clinical Professional Counselor Intern and a National Certified School Counselor. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in speech and language pathology from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of Nevada, Reno. I believe in helping clients find their way to a more integrated and balanced life. With a background in school-based crisis counseling and family therapy at the Children's Cabinet, I have a deep understanding of the challenges teens and adults face when navigating life transitions, anxiety, stress, and grief. My approach is holistic and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT. I also integrate mindfulness, breathwork, and self-compassion to help clients build resilience and develop a greater sense of self-understanding. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore what's holding you back and take meaningful steps toward personal growth. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.

Shireen earned her Master’s in Counseling from the University of Nevada, Reno, completing clinical student internships at Health Psychology Associates and the Downing Counseling Clinic. She also worked with youth and adolescents through the non-profit What’s Up Wellness, which focuses on suicide-prevention efforts and provides mental-health assessments. Shireen is now working for Health Psychology Associates as a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, where she will continue to receive supervision and expand her knowledge working with individuals, couples and families. Shireen has received supervision and training in trauma-informed care as well as evidence-based therapies for concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress, relationship challenges, and identity exploration. Grounded in a humanistic approach, Shireen believes every person holds an innate capacity for growth. Her work is rooted in cultural inclusivity and a deep respect for diversity, welcoming clients from all walks of life. When she’s not in the therapy room, she can often be found exploring the mountains or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.

Mallory received her master's degree from the University of Nevada, Reno and is completing her post graduate experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern at Health Psychology Associates. Mallory earned her bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, and excitedly worked as a recreational therapist in long term care for several years before becoming a mental health therapist. Through a largely humanistic lens, she is passionate about care for the aging population, IFS informed therapy, therapy for sexual health, and existentialism.