Our Team
Sheli Jensen
MAS MFT, LMFT
Owner, Clinical Director, Therapist
(She/Her)
As I worked with others to create Agave Center for Behavioral Health (ACBH) the focus was on how each detail could benefit those who enter its doors. Our desire was to create a space that is welcoming and comfortable. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been able to work with clients and other professionals in several counseling settings since 2007. The site is now Agave and I am thrilled to be here and to work with others to promote healing. I want to provide rich experiences through my training and expertise in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Sand Tray Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Structural Dissociation Theory. I work with individuals facing all types of mental health challenges and specialize in trauma, dissociation and attachment work. My time has been spent with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I see the potential in those I connect with professionally and thoroughly enjoy the work I get to do. Additionally, I appreciate all that clients and other professionals have taught me and will look forward to more growth through our involvements here at ACBH.
Education: Arizona State University, Masters Applied Science - Marriage and Family Therapy; Arizona State University, Bachelor’s Degree - Family and Human Development, Minor – Psychology; Mesa Community College, Associates Degree in Arts
Modalities Used: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Sand Tray Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Structural Dissociation Theory
Populations Served: Individuals 3+, Families
Ryleigh Jensen
BS, BHT
Administrative Coordinator, Mentor, Behavior Coach
(She/Her)
My work as a behavioral health technician over the years has given me the opportunity to help people make positive changes in their lives. I work in a gentle and supportive manner to assist individuals and families in clarifying and working through their struggles and pain. I have the utmost respect for my clients, as they have found the courage to seek help in overcoming their adversities. It is an honor and a privilege to assist my clients on their journey to a happier, more gratifying, and content life. I am passionate about learning new skills, techniques, and practices to better serve my clients. Outside of mentoring and behavior coaching, I also assist in the development and execution of Agave Center for Behavioral Health’s strategic goals and objectives with an emphasis on administrative and technical operations, keeping excellent client care as our first priority. I work hard to ensure appropriate and quality services are being provided to all Agave clients and contract compliance is being met for all referral sources.
Education: Bachelor's of Science in Psychology, Minor in Communication from University of Arizona.
Modalities Used: Cognitive Discipline, Mentoring, Behavior Coaching, Mindfulness, Family Support, Group Life Skills, and Job Training.
Populations Served: Individuals 5+, Families
Aubrie Stephens
MA, LAC
Therapist
(She/Her)
Hi there! I have 10 years of experience working in the behavioral health field. I have worked as a mentor, behavior coach, applied behavioral analysis specialist and now as a therapist for a diverse background of individuals. I have a passion for helping others meet their potential and better their personal circumstances. I work well with minority clients and am well versed in cultural competencies. I am so excited to work with you!
Education: Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Modalities Used: I specialize in both Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Solution Focus Therapy and Person Centered Therapy.
Populations Served: I specialize in Native, Hispanic and Black communities.
Shawna Hale
MS, LPC, RPT, NCC
Therapist
Hi, I’m Shawna Hale and I have over 10 years of experience within the behavioral heath field. My passion is helping people of all ages process their trauma and life experiences to develop skills for a healthier future. My specialty is with children and adolescents using a variety of play therapy techniques. Play is the most natural form of communication for children, and by using their imagination and creativity clients can heal while they grow mentally and emotionally. The use of play allows clients to naturally express their thoughts and feelings, explore relationships, and overall understand/grow from their experiences. I am also trained and proficient in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and Sand Tray Play Therapy. My focus is on building a positive relationship and providing a safe and inviting space in order for you to feel supported in the ways that meet your needs. I look forward to working with you and/or your child.
Education: Capella University, Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Northern Arizona University, Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Bachelor of Science in Public Health
Modalities Used: Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Populations Served: Individuals aged 3+
Erin Estipona
MC, LAC
Therapist
(She, Her)
Hi. My name is Erin Estipona and I am a licensed associate counselor at Agave Center experienced at working with a broad base of clientele ranging from children to adults. I work with individuals in a broad array of areas such as anxiety, trauma, depression, self-doubt, relationship conflicts, and life stressors.
As a counselor I care deeply and sincerely about all my clients. I strive to build therapeutic relationships by providing a safe, genuine, accepting, and judgement free environment. It is my belief that change can only occur when we feel that all parts of us are accepted, allowing the conditions for healing, change and growth.
Individuals I work best with are those that are ready for change and willing to do the work that healing requires. We will work together to identify issues. Together we will build upon one's unique strengths as well as learning strategies to enhance those qualities and overcome obstacles.
Education: Master's in Counseling from Arizona State University. Bachelor's of Science in Psychology, Minor in Religion from Arizona State University
Modalities Used: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Attachment Therapy, Mindfulness and Breath work.
Populations Served: Adults and children 5-10 years-old.