Our therapists provide family therapy in Gilbert, AZ

Debra Konecni is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with clients who have experienced a traumatic event — especially anyone who has experienced any type of child abuse or any type of sexual abuse. These are often individuals who have been hiding their hurts because they have been afraid to address the trauma, or do not know how to address the situation. Debra's goal is to assist each individual with working through the trauma and help them find their true self by believing in their story, giving them the opportunity to share their story sometimes for the first time. Everyone should have the option to work through hurts and not stay stuck in them — everyone should be given the opportunity to work all way to the other side and become a survivor instead of a victim.

Debra uses active listening, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). and schema therapy to help her clients. She also encourages journaling through their emotions to find their true selves. "Like the lotus flower, beauty coming out of the depth of mud; every individual could blossom out of a life of trauma, abuse, or just day-to-day frustrating moments that find them crippled or stuck in any way," says Debra. "Through the transforming and renewing of our minds, we do not have to repeat history or become the person someone tried to make us."

Through the process of addressing past hurts and trauma, it is Debra's goal and desire to empathize with individuals to reach their full potential in life. She has many years of experience rising out of the mud of her own lifelong trauma, which enables her to equip with hope and grace. "I welcome you into a safe haven to process through your hurts and struggles, to help you to strive and thrive," says Debra.

Cristina is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than a decade of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families address unresolved trauma, life transitions, and life stressors to achieve optimal wellness in multiple areas of their lives. Cristina practices evidence-based practices, and is engaged in continuous exploration of research of effective therapy practices. Cristina completed her Master in Counseling at Northern Arizona University. Prior to becoming a counselor, Cristina completed her graduate studies in Anthropology and worked as an anthropologist.

Her personal, academic, and professional experience guide Cristina's practice, whereby she is suited to help clients with diverse backgrounds. Cristina utilizes integrated approaches to psychotherapy, combining CBT and psychodynamic approaches. She is trained in AEDP (accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy).

Cristina believes that everyone can improve, and even achieve optimal mental health at any age. However, there needs to be commitment to the therapy process for positive and lasting results.

Shelly Ehmann is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 37 years of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals, families, and groups. Shelly specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. She is a Certified Trauma-Informed Professional with extensive experience supporting clients through various diagnoses and emotional challenges. Shelly’s work is rooted in compassion, clinical insight, and a deep belief in the power of healing and change.

Shelly earned her Master’s in Counseling from the University of Phoenix. She incorporates humor and honesty to build trust and insight. Her approach includes assigning reflective homework, encouraging self-awareness, and facilitating the processing of thoughts and emotions to support meaningful change.

Shelly is passionate about empowering clients to achieve their best life. She emphasizes meeting clients where they are, validating their experiences, and collaboratively setting goals. Her approach fosters growth, resilience, and emotional clarity through honest conversation and therapeutic connection. Schedule an appointment with Shelly today!