Roger Hardin, MA, MFT Clinical Director/ Psychotherapist
Roger Hardin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 30 years of experience supporting individuals and families in clinical and community settings. He earned his Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, graduating with honors from National University. Alongside his counseling practice, Roger has shared his expertise as an adjunct psychology instructor at Lake Tahoe Community College for over two decades and previously taught at Sierra Nevada University for four years.
Roger’s approach to therapy is compassionate and collaborative, drawing from Constructivist, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Universal Psychological frameworks. He is dedicated to helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, and substance use recovery. His work emphasizes building self-awareness, fostering resilience, and creating healthier patterns of connection both within oneself and in relationships.
At the heart of his practice, Roger believes in walking alongside clients as they rediscover their strengths, heal from past wounds, and move toward a more balanced, meaningful life.
In addition to individual, couples, and family therapy, Roger offers specialized services for clients who wish to integrate their faith-based values into the therapeutic process, creating a space where personal growth and spiritual beliefs can work together.
Lisa Caswell, MSW, LCSW Psychotherapist
Lisa Caswell, MSW, is a dedicated mental health professional who earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2018, followed by a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2020. She brings nearly a decade of experience working with both children and adults facing mental health challenges and substance use issues within the community.
Lisa understands that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving individuals feeling isolated, confused, or defeated. She believes that seeking help is a courageous step toward healing and that everyone deserves a safe, supportive space to be their authentic self. Whether navigating life transitions, struggling with low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety, Lisa meets clients where they are and walks alongside them on their journey toward healing and growth.
Her therapeutic approach is strength-based, rooted in the belief that each person has the inner capacity to overcome life’s difficulties. Lisa incorporates mindfulness practices, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients increase awareness of unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and cultivate both meaningful change and self-acceptance.
I believe in offering a strength-based approach as I truly believe each person is capable of overcoming difficult times in their lives. I am here to facilitate awareness of unhelpful thought patterns that keep you emotionally stuck and to facilitate both change and acceptance.“
Dr. Keasha Walton-Ellis, PsyD., MFT Psychotherapist
Dr. Keasha Walton-Ellis (Dr. We) received her PsyD in Clinical Psychology at The American School of Psychology, Argosy University, San Francisco, CA in 2015. She also holds double Master’s degrees in Clinical Psychology & Counseling.
Dr. Walton-Ellis is a licensed clinical therapist specializing in a wide range of mental health concerns. With extensive training in evidence-based therapies such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Care, Addiction Treatment, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). Dr. Walton-Ellis is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to teens, adults, couples, and families.
Dr. Walton-Ellis specializes in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief & Loss, Trauma & PTSD, Substance abuse issues, Relationship issues, Self Esteem & Identity issues, Parenting, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Psychosis.
“I strongly believe in creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where my clients can feel heard and understood. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and empowerment. Lets work together to help you live your best life.”
Valerie Zwyssig, Ed.S, MFT, LADC Psychotherapist
Valerie Zwyssig has been working in the Healing Arts for over 30 years. She has a Bachelor’s Degree from Cleveland State University in Speech & Hearing/ Interpreting and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from San Francisco State University working with Deaf and Hard-of Hearing persons.
Her first professional license was in Addiction Counseling from Triton College in Chicago, IL. A decade later she attended the University of Nevada, Reno, for her MFT license and earned an Educational Specialist degree in Counseling & Educational Psychology. Valerie has worked with children, adolescents and adults in various levels of treatment including, Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient settings. Her specialty is working with co-occurring disorders of mental health and addiction. She utilizes a Whole-Person approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, John Gottman techniques, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness.
“Happiness is about a life balance of the domains of the whole person. Self-compassion is learning to love yourself first and to fill your own oxygen tanks with love and joy so that you have some to share with others. Because in the end, I truly believe – It’s all about love”.
Marynne Aaronson, LMSW, LCSW Psychotherapist
Marynne received her Masters degree in Social work at Wurzweiler School of Social Work in1991. She has been practicing for almost 35 years and has training in Brief Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. She also is certified as a Grief Counselor and Compassion Fatigue Specialist as well as a trained End of Life Doula.
Marynne believes that life provides us with opportunities to solve problems and learn about ourselves on a deeper level. Confusion, depression, and anxiety can cause one to feel stuck. All this can add stress to your life that often effects both your mental well being and your physical health. During those times having someone who can guide you in working through troubling emotions and difficult decisions can make the process less overwhelming. a
“I fully understand the stress of life changes and recognize how difficult reaching out can be. Friends and family are helpful, but often when issues are deeply personal we keep our emotions and thoughts to ourselves. This is when therapy can be most helpful. I believe that what I offer can help you get through these changes with a positive feeling.”
Brandon Ruby, MSW, LCSW-i Psychotherapist
Brandon Ruby’s educational background began with a Bachelors in Psychology from National University and then went on for a Masters of Social Work from the University of Southern California. Brandon served in the United States Navy from 2008-2013. His treatment philosophy begins with meeting people where they are at in life and developing a strong therapeutic alliance that fosters collaboration and mutual understanding. He has training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed Care, Grief & Loss, and Mindfulness just to name a few.
Brandon has experience in treating persons with Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar, Major Depressive Disorder, Thought Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, Personality Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as well as many others. He works with very diverse populations including those with Criminal Justice involvement and with the LGBTQ+ populations.
“I believe in meeting people where they are and developing a strong therapeutic alliance that fosters collaboration and mutual understanding. When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling/exploring and reading a good book”.
Favorite Quote: “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible!'” — Audrey Hepburn
Gloria Torma, LMSW, LCSW-i Psychotherapist
Gloria Torma received her Bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor certificate in substance abuse treatment from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2019. Later she went onto get her Master’s Degree in the Advanced Standing MSW Program in 2024 and is now a practicing Therapist as a Clinical Social Work- intern.
She has experience in working with with children, teens, adults and couples with both mental health and substance abuse issues.
“As a licensed therapist, I’ve helped countless individuals overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I believe that everyone has the strength within them to heal, and I’m here to support you on your journey. Using evidence-based approaches like DBT and CBT, I’ll help you identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Together, we can build a safe and supportive space where you can grow and thrive. If you’re ready to take the next step, please don’t hesitate to contact me for a free consultation.”
Ron Toft, CPC-i, NCC Psychotherapist
Ron received his master of counseling degree from Oregon State University and is currently a licensed CPC-Intern and a National Certified Counselor with the NBCC. He works with adolescents, adults, individuals and couples addressing mental health, trauma, relationship, and substance abuse issues. Ron has experience working with people from many different cultural backgrounds, religions, and sexual and gender orientations.
Ron has a very relational and strength-based approach to therapy that leans on the power of empathetic and caring interpersonal experiences. While drawing on the wisdom of a multitude of evidence-based practices such as Person-Centered Therapy, Systemic Therapy, and trauma-informed care, he mostly focuses on empowering clients to recognize and utilize their natural strengths and resiliencies.
“I believe you already have the tools and abilities you need to successfully navigate the world, sometimes you just need somebody that truly believes in and cares about you to bring it out!”
Brett Copeland, MA, MFT Psychotherapist
Brett Copeland received his Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Ryokan College in 2003 and had been practicing as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. As clinical licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Brett has experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. His work has spanned a wide range of settings, including in-office, in-home, and residential facilities, and he has supported clients facing a broad spectrum of mental health challenges.
With a solid foundation in various therapeutic methods, Brett developed much of his clinical expertise while working with clients from diverse cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, religious backgrounds, and gender identities. Brett’s early work included working with persons struggling with medical conditions that were impacted by psychological conditions. These experiences deepened his ability to provide compassionate, holistic care to individuals managing both physical illness and mental health challenges.
Throughout his career, Brett has received extensive training from through institutions such as the Southern California Counseling Center, the Kayne Eras Center, and the Pacific Gestalt Institute. These formative experiences continue to inform his integrative, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach to therapy.
Shantell Desmond, MA, MFT Psychotherapist
Shantell Desmond holds a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy from Capella University and a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Phoenix. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, she is trained in both psychotherapy and family systems theory, enabling her to assess client concerns within the context of relational dynamics that influence behavior.
Guided by the belief that challenges are not inherent flaws in individuals but rather manifestations of broader systemic patterns, Shantell takes a collaborative and strengths-based approach to therapy. She provides counseling services to individuals, couples, and families.
“Long ago, I made the decision to be part of the solution—to help people move toward the lives they envision for themselves.”
Shantell’s therapeutic approach is holistic, emphasizing the long-term emotional, relational, and psychological well-being of her clients and their families. She is experienced in treating a broad range of clinical issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, substance use, grief and loss, and interpersonal difficulties.
She is formally trained in several evidence-based treatment modalities, including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
“Long ago, I made the decision to be part of the solution—to help people move toward the lives they envision for themselves.”
Allante Powe, LMSW, LCSW-i, Psychotherapist
Allante Powe brings more than 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2014 and went on to complete her Master of Social Work through the Advanced Standing Program at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas in 2020. She is currently licensed as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and a Clinical Social Work intern (CSW-i)
“It’s completely understandable to feel stuck in old patterns of thinking, especially if challenges began early in life. Many people carry the weight of past experiences, which can leave them feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who they want to be. The good news is you don’t have to face these struggles alone. In therapy, we will work together to identify the barriers that are holding you back and create a path toward change. By addressing issues such as trauma, anxiety, or self-doubt, I strive to help you regain your sense of self, build resilience, and find new ways of moving forward.
My approach emphasizes collaboration, compassion, and empowerment. Through our sessions, you can expect to develop deeper self-awareness, improve self-esteem, and discover tools that support lasting growth. Healing is a process, but it is never too late to begin the journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.”
Favorite quote:
“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” – Viktor Frankl
Jessica Link – M.A., CPC intern – Psychotherapist
Alison Berreman, MSW, LCSW Psychotherapist
I am a dedicated lifelong learner with a passion for serving people in moments of vulnerability and transformation. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—writer, foster parent, college instructor, outreach professional, and shelter advocate—but the heart of my work has always been the same: to communicate with intention, listen deeply, and help others move toward healing and authenticity.
As a therapist, I work with adults and couples navigating trauma, people-pleasing, relationship conflict, faith and spirituality, LGBT & CNM affirming, and life transitions. My style balances deep compassion with honest reflection; I’m gentle but not afraid to ask hard questions when growth requires it. Together, we’ll work to identify patterns, process pain, and open space for change.
I draw from several evidence-based approaches including the Gottman Method, person-centered therapy, polyvagal theory, mindfulness, DBT skills, EMDR, and attachment-based work. My practice is affirming and informed across identities and relationship structures, with an emphasis on creating a space where each client feels respected, seen, and empowered.
Therapy, at its best, is an act of self-creation—of giving birth to a more whole, authentic version of yourself. It’s a privilege to walk beside those willing to do that brave work.
“Man’s main task is to give birth to himself.” – Erich Fromm
Margaret Campbell, LMSW, LCSW-i Psychotherapist
Margaret Campbell Margaret holds a Masters in Social Work and an Advanced Certificate in Addiction Treatment and Prevention Services from the University of Nevada, Reno. Prior to her master’s program, she completed programs in Human Development and Family Studies, Developmental Disabilities, Gerontology, and Psychology. Margaret is passionate about each area because they have strengthened her ability to advocate and understand a variety of perspectives.
Margaret treats children, teens, adults, and couples. She employs a variety of therapeutic approaches based on the individual needs of her clients. She holds the belief that fostering healthy attachment and connection is crucial for achieving a fulfilling life.
“I believe in fostering a strong and safe therapeutic relationship, and believing you have it within yourself to achieve whatever you desire.”
Christie White, B.A. Founder & Program Director
Christie White received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from San Diego State University in 2001. She has been in the field of mental health and substance abuse for over 25 years and has worked with Alta Vista since 2013. She holds many awards and certificates in the behavioral health field and has an affinity with working with people who are in need of good mental health treatment.
Christie will be pursuing her Masters Degree in Counseling and hopes to graduate in 2026.
“I believe every person has the right to quality behavioral health services in a relaxing and caring environment. No judgements here, come as you are and let our team of professionals help you on your journey to healing?
Kimberly Holbrook, B.A. Client Intake/ Administration
Kim, originally from NW Washington, moved to Reno in 2001. She later received her Bachelors Degree in Psychology at Sierra Nevada College in 2018.
She has over 10 years experience in early education with children in the school district. Later she went on to work one-on-one with children with special needs. More recently, Kim began working with the adult population struggling with Mental Health & Substance Use Disorders. She is pursuing certification in Peer Support Recovery Specialist and hopes to receive her Masters Degree in the future.
“I believe everyone has room for a helping hand in their life through hard times and I find that I am very comfortable being that helping hand”.
Breanna Aguirre, Client Benefits & Billing Specialist
With a background in both the medical field and billing operations, Breanna combines technical expertise with genuine compassion for our clients seeking treatment. She is committed to helping our clients understand their insurance coverage and removing barriers to care. Her work directly supports Alta Vista’s mission by helping the organization remain sustainable and able to serve more clients in need.
“What sets me apart is my compassion and dedication to making complex insurance systems easier for both clients and providers. I believe that when billing is handled with care and precision, clients can focus on healing—not paperwork.”
