Meet the Team

Amanda Mowbray, LMFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Couples & Individuals
  • Teens & Families
  • Trauma
  • EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy)
  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • Supervisor and Co-Owner

$150/Session

Click to learn more About Amanda

Amanda is passionate about helping clients navigate difficult situations. With specialized training in couples and parent-child issues, she understands the difficulty which can be associated with beginning therapy.

During the early stages of the process, Amanda will focus on building trust and creating rapport. By doing so, she makes the healing process more comfortable and productive for families, couples, and individuals. Due to her experience, she is able to identify what keeps people “stuck” while highlighting what they do well. Clients enjoy returning to session because Amanda provides the opportunity to speak openly about their issues while bridging gaps in communication; she maintains a balanced perspective which allows individuals to view their problems differently and promote change more effectively. Her approach balances empathy with authenticity, humor, and accountability. She will introduce new communication strategies, tools to interrupt unhelpful patterns, and ways to increase emotional closeness while creating a collaborative treatment plan, unique to each situation.

Throughout her professional practice, Amanda has cherished watching families and individuals change to become empowered, supported, and validated.

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Melanie Scott, LMFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Couples & Individuals
  • Teens & Families
  • IFS Institute Level 1  (Internal family systems)
  • EFT Externship and Core skills (Emotionally Focused Therapy)
  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • Supervisor and Co-Owner

$150/Session

Click to Learn more About Melanie

My focus is helping clients who are wanting to improve their relationships with others and themselves. I use an attachment lens, utilizing techniques that create security and safety, in order to foster change and growth. I am also trauma informed and trained in methods that promote healing including IFS, EFT, EMDR, CBT, Narrative, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness practices.

I find fulfillment in helping couples, families, adolescents, and individuals who are struggling with challenges such as life changes and transitions, mental health and medical diagnoses, trauma, disconnection, betrayal, and communication issues. My initial priority is to make sure my clients feel comfortable and heard in the therapy room so that we can work together to reach the goals we have set. I understand that my clients are often stuck in patterns or cycles, and often are looking for assistance to learn the tools or skills that will help them change. My work is to help them unlock their own potential and create new patterns that empower them to live the life they want.

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Katie Johnson, LCSW 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Children 0-12, Teens, & Families
  • Attachment & Trauma
  • Accredited Triple P Provider (Positive Parenting Program) 
  • child-centered Play Therapy interventions
  • Yoga Teacher Training & other Holistic Approaches

  • Evening Appointments

$150/Session

click to learn more About Katie

Finding yourself at a loss of what to do, where to turn, or how to help your child likely feels overwhelming and defeating. I am here to work with you to create a safe, trusted space to explore and overcome those struggles. I am incredibly passionate about working with young children (ages 0-12) and I bring a warm, enthusiastic energy as I engage kids in their language- play! I specialize in working with children who have experienced difficult circumstances, with a focus in trauma, attachment, anxiety, developmental concerns, defiance, family separation, school challenges, and social-emotional support. I also enjoy working with teens, young adults, and parents who are in the midst of transitions and exploring work, school, and relationships.

I have extensive training in child-centered play therapy interventions and I am an accredited Triple P Provider (Positive Parenting Program). I also utilize emotion-focused and narrative therapies, mindfulness-based skills, grief counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I love finding the most creative, age-appropriate approach to support clients with their goals every day!

Pulling from over a decade of experience, I tap into how all pieces of an individual’s world show up in the therapy space and journey with youth, teens, adults and families through many of life’s moments. (Yes, I absolutely love celebrating the wins too!). My practice is rooted in supporting clients in feeling safe, seen, and valued. I’m inviting you to come talk- or play!- your way through stressful times and big emotions together.

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Amy Wesson, LAMFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Couples & Families
  • Children & Teens
  • Grief & Trauma
  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) 
  • Evening Appointments

$125/Session

Click to Learn more About Amy

For some, starting therapy can feel strange and unknown. My priority is creating a space in which you feel comfortable to share and be heard. I bring two decades of experience working with people experiencing some of life’s unperceivable hurts and traumas and those navigating the complexities of relationships and transitions. I work with couples navigating disconnection, communication, conflict, intimacy and extended family dynamics. In addition, I find joy supporting couples who wish to enhance their relationships in a preventative or preparatory way to create a healthy, long-term connection. My approach is empathetic, direct, safe, educational, and incorporates humor as well. 

I know life changes, relationships, traumas, anxiety, unknowns and this world can be overwhelming. I work from a systemic perspective, understanding that a person is shaped and affected by their familial, cultural, and spiritual circles. Growing up can be hard in this complex world. I enjoy the opportunity to support children and teens as they navigate their developmental stages, challenges, anxiety, social struggles and learn about themselves.

I utilize attachment-based, trauma-informed and mindfulness approaches to explore behavioral patterns, identify emotional needs, and process past/present hardships. You will learn more about yourself, your relationships, communication, and become aware and shift unhealthy practices that are keeping you stuck. I look forward to meeting you along your journey.

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Tamara Passey, LAMFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Individuals & Couples
  • Teens & Families
  • Trauma Specialist
  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) & Gottman method Level 1 & 2
  • Evening & Weekend Appointments

$125/session

Click to learn more About Tamara

I am devoted to helping couples, families, and individuals create loving relationships. My approach is caring and genuine, and I conduct therapy with empathy, curiosity, and acceptance. I utilize a strengths-based focus and provide a safe, welcoming space to grow and heal. I help couples who want to strengthen their connection and improve communication by overcoming obstacles and restoring closeness.

My experience includes working with couples who are coping with betrayal, conflict, feeling distant, lack of intimacy, and handling differences. I also work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, caregiver pressures, strained family relationships, and family life changes. I balance therapy to ensure my clients have stability during growth and support during challenges.

I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) and have completed the Gottman Couples Method Level One. I draw on various disciplines such as Narrative, Solution- Focused, and CBT to help clients access their innate creativity and wisdom to realize their potential. Whether clients are new to therapy or have had other therapy experiences, I look forward to meeting them where they are on their growth and healing journey.

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Brandy Dunaway, LAC

Specialties & Highlights

  • Couples & Individuals
  • Teens
  • Betrayal & Trauma
  • EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy)
  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • Evening Appointments

$135/Session

click to learn more About Brandy

I have a passion for supporting individuals, couples, and teens in living their life intentionally, and purposefully, which includes looking into oneself and exploring, healing, and loving all parts. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental place for all individuals and am ready to meet clients where they are in their healing process. I work with clients to not only process difficulties in their past, but to also apply one’s strength and resilience to current stressors. I am dedicated to supporting clients in navigating their experiences by creating a foundation of self-compassion and empowerment.

My therapeutic approach includes a perspective of curiosity and open-mindedness while grounded in attachment theory. I lean into my extensive training on trauma-informed care practice using Eye Movement Desensitation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), as well as my lived experience to give each client the support they need. I love what I do and hope we can work together in creating an environment of safety and growth.

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Sanya Fenn, LMFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Teens & Families
  • Couples
  • Individuals
  • Betrayal & Trauma
  • ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy)
  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

$150/Session

click to learn more About Sanya
It’s easy to feel stuck, disconnected, and unbalanced in today’s world. I love helping clients find hope and tap into their strengths to challenge unhealthy patterns, repair and improve relationships, and be intentional rather than reactive. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space for my clients to slow down, process their experiences, gain tools and perspective, and re-center their lives on what matters most to them.
Much of my experience has focused on trauma and emotional issues, difficult relationships and betrayal, communication issues, anxiety, mindfulness and coping, grief and loss, and life transitions. I especially enjoy helping couples repair and strengthen relationships, working with teenagers and their parents, and assisting individuals (pre-teen and up) in their healing journey. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). My approach is straightforward, interactive, solution focused and grounded in attachment theory.
Sometimes just reaching out for help takes all you’ve got. When you’re ready, I’m here to walk you through.
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Maryn Layton, MAS-MFT 

  • Not seeing clients at this time – Pending licensure
  • Call 480-665-8759 and get on Maryn’s waitlist
Click to learn more About Maryn

As a marriage and family therapy pre-licensed professional, I love working with couples, families, and individuals in any stage of life as they strive to become “unstuck” and embrace authenticity within themselves and their relationships. Through interactive sessions, you can engage in new experiences that help you find growth in your relationships and hope for the future.

Choosing to schedule for therapy can be daunting. I recognize the effort that takes, and know that it’s possible to experience change for the better as you work towards your goals in therapy!

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Caleb Chestnutt, MAS-MFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • available for clients starting january 2025 -scheduling now
  • Couples, families, teens, & Individuals
  • relationship issues
  • Veterans & mens issues
  • evening and weekend appointments

$60/Session

Click to learn more About caleb

As a marriage and family therapy pre-licensed professional, I am passionate about helping clients navigate their way through life and all the challenges that inevitably arise. Whether you are a couple, a family, or an individual I am here to join with you on this journey as we work towards healing old wounds, opening up to new perspectives and experiences, and embracing a life that allows you to feel empowered and authentic.  

I understand the hesitation you may feel about starting therapy. I once struggled with that same feeling myself. This step requires incredible strength and courage, which you have already demonstrated by seeking help. Whether you schedule today or another,  I am here to help you start on your journey and begin a new chapter in your life. 

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Rachael Myers, MAS-MFT

specialities & highlights

  • available for clients starting january 2025 – Scheduling now
  • Couples, Families, Teens, & individuals
  • premarital counseling
  • Relationship Issues
  • Evening & Weekend Appointments

$60/Session

Click to learn more About Rachael

I am an MFT Intern currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families in navigating the challenges that can arise in relationships and in life. My goal as a therapist is to help you explore and understand your experiences, so you can reach your full potential and create meaningful, healthy connections.

I desire to approach each session with empathy, openness, and a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space. I believe that every person has the strength to heal and grow, and I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to empower them to achieve their personal and relational goals.

Whether you are facing a current challenge or seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing and transformation. I look forward to supporting you as you work toward building healthier relationships and becoming the best version of yourself.

Interested in joining our team?

We would love to see if we would be a good fit for you and your career goals. If you are a mental health professional (intern, associate, or fully licensed clinician) and are looking to grow with us, please send us an email at collabcounselors@gmail.com for more information.

In Collaboration with

Patricia Dobratz,  JD, LMFT

 Specialties & Highlights

  • Owner of Clinical Best Practice Institute
  • Creator/Facilitator of Clinical Trainings – Virtual and In Person
  • Supervisor
  • Consultant for Clinicians
  • Former ChairPerson of the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners, 2014-2023
  • Faculty Adjunct/Associate at Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University
click to learn more About Patricia

Patricia is passionate about supporting the growth and development of behavioral health professionals and upholding the integrity of the field.  Her background in law, academia, and marriage and family therapy uniquely situates her to provide quality clinical supervision, consultation, and training.   

She is a member of the AAMFT Arizona Interest Network and has served on the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners in several capacities, including as Chairperson.  In addition, she has provided therapy services in various settings including community mental health, school-based programs, and in private practice. 

Patricia owns the Clinical Best Practice Institute dedicated to supporting therapists, supervisors, and businesses.  Clinical Best Practice Institute is excited to partner with Collaborative Counseling Institute to elevate the supervision, consultation, and training services offered.  Through this partnership, a quality supervisor training program and network of supervisors available for external supervision and supervised private practices shall be established to further support the community!

Morgan Shindel, LAMFT 

Specialties & Highlights

  • Couples & Individuals
  • Premarital
  • Trauma
  • Prepare Enrich
  • EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy)
  • EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

$130/Session

click to learn more About Morgan

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who is trained in helping couples and individuals who are struggling with emotional and behavioral concerns. Some areas I specialize in are relationship issues, marital, pre-marital, trauma, and life transitions. I have specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am also trained in Prepare Enrich to help couples be proactive in creating solutions, improving communication and conflict resolution.

I have a collaborative and systemic approach that is genuine and warm. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment which nurtures growth and healing. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key in feeling comfortable and vulnerable in the therapy room. I want to provide you with the tools to promote positive change and sustained peace and happiness.

Supervised by Emily Wilson, LMFT-15329

Collaborative Counseling Institute

480-665-8759

633 E Ray Rd, Suite 111
Gilbert, AZ 85296
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