Purple Sky Therapists
Ashlee Thurston, LMFT (She/Her)
Meet Ashlee
Ashlee is only accepting new couples clients at this time.
HI! I believe problems do not exist within one person. Rather, problems are results of a person’s context, family/relational systems, external systems, or learned patterns and behaviors that once had a functional purpose but no longer do. I work with adolescents, adults, and families dealing with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, low self-esteem, trauma, stress, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist (LMFT) and in my office I focus on creating a safe space for you to express your emotions and gain skills that will help you make lasting and meaningful changes in your life. I aim to support you through providing resources, collaborating with you and establishing healing and growth.
In my free time, you can always catch my laying in the sun with a good book, traveling or enjoying time with my family, friends and Golden Retriever, Gator. Utah is such a great place to be outdoors that I try and take full advantage of and bide my time until I can enjoy that summer sun.
Thomas Skousen, LCSW (he/him)
Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Attachment Disorders, & Trauma, Strength-Based therapist who uses ACT, CBT and EMDR
Meet Thomas
Hi! I am passionate about helping you overcome and heal from the burdens of shame and trauma. If you or your loved ones are struggling with overwhelming anxiety, navigating the challenges of autism, battling depression, or feeling stuck due to psychological inflexibility and past traumas, I am here to help. Together, we will work towards healing and growth, enabling you to reclaim your life and thrive.
While my previous experience has included work with people of all ages and backgrounds, I have extensive experience working with children and families who have been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, RAD, and PTSD. I value creating a safe and supportive environment for you and to explore your thoughts and feelings. My therapeutic methods include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My goal is for my clients to develop a flexible view of themselves, enabling them to move past negative beliefs and fully experience life. I received my education from the University of Utah and am certified in EMDR.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, creating art, listening to music, and diving into a good book.Connect with me today to start your journey toward healing and growth.
Liz Bogus, CMHCi (she/them)
Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Trauma, LGBTQIA+
Meet Liz Bogus
I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s transitions, process difficult emotions, and find their path to personal growth. I love working with clients who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or identity struggles, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. My approach is all about creating a safe, supportive space where you can explore who you are, work through the challenges holding you back, and feel empowered to take control of your life at your own pace.
I bring with me a unique background, having completed my practicum at the Westminster Community Clinic and Training Center, and I’m proud to be part of the first class to finish the Adventure Therapy program at Westminster. I’m excited to integrate this specialized training into my work, especially for those drawn to the idea of adventure and its positive effects on well-being.
Before entering the mental health field, I spent over a decade as a professional soccer player and coach. This career gave me the opportunity to live and travel around the world, learning from diverse communities and deepening my passion for social justice. These experiences have shaped my values and strengthened my commitment to supporting individuals with marginalized identities, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community.
When I’m not working or studying, you’ll likely find me enjoying the outdoors, playing sports, or exploring the arts, entertainment, and food scenes in the city. I also love spending time with my family, friends, and my dog, Dottie. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support the mental health needs of my local community and look forward to working with individuals from all backgrounds who are eager for personal growth.
Let’s work together to explore who you want to be and create the life you want to live.
Nancy Paige, AMFT (She/Her)
My Specialties:
Self-esteem Issues, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Premarital, Marital Conflict, Separation, Divorce
Meet Nancy
Nancy habla español.
I hold a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University and pursuing a full license and a Bachelor’s degree holder in Marriage and Family Studies from Brigham Young University- Idaho.
I cherish working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with people with self-esteem, trauma, depression, anxiety, premarital, marital conflict, separation, divorce, etc. I believe that self-compassion is essential for success. I am a big advocate of self-care and unconditional love for oneself. I strive to create a safe space where you can feel heard and understood. I use an integrative approach that is tailored to the client’s needs.
I enjoy volleyball, dancing, singing, and comedy. As an advocate of self-care, I believe that in order to help others, it’s essential to take care of yourself.
Alex Eich, MFT Intern
(she/her)
My Specialties: Couples therapy, Family therapy, LGBTQIA+ issues, Depression, Anxiety, Self-esteem
Meet Alex
Hi! Are you feeling stuck, struggling with communication, or facing challenges in your life or in your relationship? Whether you’re a couple navigating complex dynamics or an individual seeking clarity and direction, I’m here to support you on your journey to getting “un-stuck” and finding a path toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with young and emerging adults, LGBTQIA+ couples and individuals and non-monogamous couples. Whether you are navigating relationship challenges, dealing with parent-child interactions, or coping with grief and loss, I provide a compassionate and supportive space for you to explore and heal.
As an MFT Intern currently attending Utah Valley University, I utilize a range of therapeutic modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, Bowen Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These approaches allow me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful progress.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, walking my Great Dane, trying new food trucks, and reading outside.Let’s start this journey together.
Reach out today to begin your path to empowerment and healing.
Lucy Hayes, MA, CSW (she/her)
Meet Lucy
I trust in the innate wisdom and resilience of each client and their capacity to engage in a process of self-discovery, growth, and healing. My goal is to create a space of safety and connection and to be a compassionate and responsive companion as clients navigate life’s challenges, heal past wounds, befriend all parts of themselves, and explore their inner world.
Through my collaborative and holistic approach to therapy, I support clients on the path to gaining confidence in their mental and emotional sturdiness and flexibility and finding deeper levels of wholeness, connection, meaning, joy, and well-being. I firmly believe that as we engage in this process of healing our hearts and minds, we also heal our families, communities, and world.
My therapeutic style is grounded in mindfulness and somatic practices. I am trained in Polyvagal Theory (Rhythm of Regulation) and draw from my background in anthropology to bring an evolutionary, adaptive lens to therapy.
I am completing my final year in the Master of Social Work program at the University of Utah. Previously to my work as a CSWi, I worked for many years in academic clinical research management where I loved working with people one-on-one and in groups. I trained in cultural anthropology and have a master’s degree in cultural food studies from New York University. My path to clinical social work has been informed and guided by my personal engagement in a therapeutic practice, and I am deeply grateful that I can now mindfully attend to others’ healing processes.
I enjoy hiking and being outside in rainy, snowy, and dreary weather. When the sun is out, you can find me happily inside cooking, reading, and spending time with my family. I also love exploring the world and gathering bits of wisdom and home wherever I go.
Ruth Zollinger, AMFT
(She/Her)
My Specialties:
Grief, Life Transitions, Couples, Families, EMDR, ADHD and Anxiety
Meet Ruth
Hello! I am Ruth (her/she). I believe in finding all people’s personal strengths and resilience, then using that to find solutions for the issues that keep people from becoming their personal best. I believe everyone fundamentally has the ability to be kind, and show empathy. We just have to be willing to listen to each other! We each have unique things that make us the same and make us different. Sometimes we get stuck in our differences, but I believe our differences help us thrive when we celebrate them instead of rejecting or concealing them.
I am a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy student in training through Northcentral University. I hold a bachelor’s in Psychology. Other achievements include facilitator of the Millcreek Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, Licensed Massage Therapist, Board Certified Clinical Chaplain, Make Utah Beautiful Award, and holding PRs for various Ultra-running events. Born and raised in Mackay Idaho to parents who operated a large cattle ranch. I love animals, bicycling, hiking, and spending time enjoying nature’s beauty.
“Happiness cannot be traveled to, opened, earned, worn, or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, & gratitude.” ~ Denis Waitley ~
McKenzie Bradford, LCSW(She/Her)
Meet McKenzie
Hi! I’m McKenzie (She/Her). I love working with kids AND adults, especially those that are struggling with something in their life they are stressed about or can’t move past. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and neurodivergence for all people 3 years old and up.
When it comes to children and families, I am passionate about supporting children that have experienced life stressors and trauma. I am skilled in helping children, teens, and adults that are experiencing change, struggling with stress, having behavior problems, or anxiety. I also have some extra skills in working with kids that are neurodivergent, such as children diagnosed with Autism or ADHD.
I graduated from the University of Utah for both of my degrees and have worked in a child specific mental health program and in multiple substance abuse programs. I have also provided mental health therapy and services for all ages. My therapeutic toolbox includes evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and EMDR.
During sessions, you can expect a collaborative environment. I strive to make my office feel like a safe place for everyone and anyone, where all thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be talked about.We’ll talk about goals that you have for yourself, and what you feel like may be preventing you from achieving those goals. My goal is for all clients to address what prevents them from thriving in their daily lives, and develop skills to move forward.
Beyond my professional life, I love to crochet, spend time with my dogs, read, and watch anything sci-fi related.
Hannah Thornton, CSW(She/Her)
Meet Hannah
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and searching for a path to healing and growth? I am here to guide you through the complexities of trauma and anxiety, providing a compassionate and understanding presence. As your empathic navigator, I meet you where you are and help you uncover your inner strength to overcome life’s pains.
My therapeutic approach is designed with your unique needs in mind. By combining Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mind Body Bridging, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. These tools are especially effective in addressing trauma and anxiety, helping you to understand and manage your emotions, build resilience, and foster lasting change. Additionally, my training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) allows me to provide specialized support for those dealing with deep-seated trauma.
I am dedicated to helping you navigate your pain and begin your journey to healing. With me, your journey to healing begins.
Josie Rogers, AMFT (she/her)
Meet Josie
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rogers
As your therapist, I want to learn how all the different systems and parts of your identity contribute to your overall wellbeing. I take a trauma-informed perspective and recognize that your experiences make you who you are today. Together, I hope we can identify which parts of your story you want to keep, let go of, or rewrite.
My approach to therapy is highly collaborative. I strive to create a safe, empowering space where all emotions are welcome and no questions or thoughts are off-limits. As we work together, I hope to foster an atmosphere of curiosity, playfulness, and creativity as we work together to shift from surviving to thriving. My goal is for my clients to build the life they want to live and communicate effectively and authentically.
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults from 18-60. I love helping clients process trauma and build a compassionate mind toward all parts of themselves. I am TF-CBT trained and working toward Gottman Level 1 and EFT trainings.
When I’m not at work or school, I enjoy music, hiking, retro video games, and napping with my cats, Binx and Yoshi Cookie.
Marvin Beecher, CSW (he/him)
Autism, Anxiety/Depression, Bipolar, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation, EMDR
Meet Marvin
Marvin isn’t just a therapist; he’s your dedicated partner in overcoming life’s most challenging pains. He understands the depth of your struggles, and he’s here to guide you through them. If you’re motivated to be in therapy, open to honesty about your life’s challenges, and unafraid to dig deep and heal your wounds, Marvin is here to support you.
Marvin specializes in addressing the most challenging mental health issues. Whether you’re dealing with Autism, Anxiety/Depression, Bipolar disorder, Trauma, or Suicidal Ideation, he’s committed to guiding you through these difficult journeys.
His approach combines Cognitive and Humanistic modalities, creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Marvin’s expertise shines when working with young adults on the spectrum, those battling anxiety, or individuals facing the challenges of transitioning to adulthood.
Marvin is passionate about helping those who want to heal from their past but may not know where to start. He believes that acknowledging past traumas is the first step toward finding balance and purpose in life.
Beyond therapy, he finds solace in nature, whether it’s climbing, biking, snowboarding, or simply wandering the trails with his dog.
Shannon Moss, CSWi (she/her)
Grief and Loss, Divorce, Faith and Life Transitions, and Working with Children, Teens, The Queer Community, EMDR
Meet Shannon
I am ready to be your dedicated partner in overcoming life’s most trying challenges. My expertise lies in helping individuals through grief and loss, divorce, faith and life transitions, and working with children, teens, and the queer community. I understand the pain and pressure that societal expectations can impose, and I’m here to guide you through these profound experiences.
My therapeutic toolbox includes a diverse range of modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), positive psychology, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). In my sessions, you’ll find a safe and compassionate space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.
My passion lies in empowering those who are navigating divorce, grief, and the challenges of adolescence. Drawing from my personal journey, I bring a unique perspective to my work. I deeply understands empathy and compassion. As a therapist, I am eager to hold this space hold space for those experiencing grief and loss, honoring your experiences and emotions, and providing you with the opportunity to grow and change.
My life experiences have ignited a passion for social change and advocacy. I have witnessed both the beauty of self-discovery and the harm of ignorance and bias. I am committed to educating myself and others about the vital social changes needed to create safe communities for all who are marginalized.
Beyond my work, I find solace in spending time with my large family, embracing the beauty of nature, practicing yoga, and continuous learning through podcasts and books. With me, your transformation journey begins. Connect with me today to navigate life’s challenges and step into a brighter future.
Shandy Smith, CMHCi(she/her)
Grief and Loss, Divorce, Faith and Life Transitions, and Working with Children, Teens, The Queer Community, EMDR
Meet Shandy
I’m here to help if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety, or struggling to navigate life’s transitions. Whether you’re dealing with self-doubt, uncertainty, or the pressure to meet expectations, I’m passionate about creating a safe space for you to dig beneath the surface to uncover what’s really going on. Together, we’ll work through those challenges so you can gain clarity, heal, and start moving toward a life that feels right for you..
I’m great at helping you Together, we’ll explore your challenges and work through them so you can heal and live authentically.
I’m currently working toward certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to expand the ways I can support you on your journey. I also have a strong focus on sexual health and LGBTQ+ issues, creating a safe space for all individuals to explore their identities and experiences.
When I’m not working with clients, I love reading, going for walks, and spending time with my family and pets. I’m passionate about human rights and living in alignment with my values.
KT Mendes, CSWi
Grief and Loss, Divorce, Faith and Life Transitions, and Working with Children, Teens, The Queer Community, EMDR
Meet KT Medes
I’m passionate about supporting children, teens, and families who are navigating challenges like trauma, neurodiversity, and early childhood development. I understand the unique struggles of children and caregivers, whether you’re facing issues related to attachment, anxiety, or identity exploration. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space where children can express themselves through play and art, while working closely with caregivers to strengthen the bond between them and their child.
I specialize in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, using a blend of therapeutic approaches to support children from birth to 12 years old. Through Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, and other modalities like Mind-Body Bridging and Internal Family Systems, I help children feel safe, explore their emotions, and thrive in their relationships. I also work closely with caregivers to foster secure attachments and mutual joy.
I also work with adults who are facing challenges like trauma, anxiety, or navigating major life transitions. Whether you’re dealing with personal growth, relational struggles, or identity concerns, I’m here to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can explore your experiences together. My trauma-informed approach ensures that we work at your pace, building a path toward healing and thriving.
Whether you’re supporting a young child through life transitions, exploring gender identity, or navigating the challenges of neurodiversity, I’m here to guide your family with compassion, understanding, and tailored support.
Medication Management
Megan Manning MSN, PMHNP-BC
Meet Megan
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Weber State University in 2013, and a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Colorado in 2017. I am a certified designated examiner by the state of Utah and have received continued certifications in substance and MAT training from the state of Utah.
I have a total of 12 years of nursing experience and 6 years of experience in medication management for mental health treatment. I have worked in crisis stabilization, inpatient, and outpatient settings as a nurse practitioner and as a registered nurse. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who experience issues with anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessions, mood instability, psychosis and more. I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and trauma informed.
I enjoy spending many of my free moments keeping up on emerging evidence and learning about new treatments. I do believe that medications are most effective when used with therapy and other behavioral changes.
My favorite free time is when I am with my 2 kids, spouse and 2 dogs, often camping, kayaking or golfing.