About Meliora Counseling and Wellness
Meliora Counseling and Wellness provides compassionate, client-centered mental health services for individuals, couples, adolescents and families throughout Goodyear, Phoenix and nearby Arizona communities.
Our experienced team of licensed and pre-licensed therapists is committed to creating a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected and empowered to make meaningful changes.
We proudly serve clients from Goodyear, Phoenix, Avondale, Litchfield Park, Buckeye, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa and surrounding areas. In-person appointments are available at our Goodyear and Phoenix offices, with telehealth offered throughout Arizona.
Meet Our Goodyear and Phoenix-Based Team
Layla Noland, MS LPC - Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Therapist and Owner
I am an independently licensed therapist in the state of Arizona with years of experience partnering with teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues and more.
The framework I practise from is dynamic and continues to evolve, allowing client-centred opportunities for healing to take place. I believe in a whole-body approach to therapy. This means a healthy body equals a healthy mind. Mental health is still health.
I believe clients’ resilience and ability to determine what works for them is key. Every client has their own strengths and needs, which I help identify and address so they can feel empowered. By utilising multiple clinical tools, I hope to increase the likelihood of developing a collaborative and therapeutic relationship.
Olivia Johnson, BS Pre-Licensed Therapist
I am a pre-licensed professional counselor dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward personal growth and emotional well-being. As I work under supervision toward full licensure, I am committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered.
My approach to counseling is collaborative and person-centered, incorporating evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s individual needs and goals. I work with people experiencing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and self-esteem issues.
I believe therapy provides a space to reconnect with your strengths, deepen your self-awareness, and begin making the changes you want to see. Whether you are beginning therapy for the first time or continuing your journey, my goal is to support you with empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to your healing and growth.
Megan Kaiser-Southwick MA LAMFT - Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
My name is Megan Kaiser-Southwick and I am a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated from Capella University in 2020 with my Master’s and completed a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from ASU in 2023. I have training in Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Medical Family Therapy.
I have worked in the mental health field for 14 years in outpatient behavioral health, inpatient behavioral health, and counseling settings. This has given me the opportunity to work with substance abuse, domestic violence, trauma, grief, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
I always strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients. It is important to me that my clients feel seen, heard, and supported. Life can be challenging at times and my goal is to empower my clients to heal in the way that is right for them. I work with clients of all ages and enjoy using a strengths-based approach as well as increasing effective communication.
Although time is sometimes limited with 4 children at home, I love to learn when I can. One of my kiddos is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and learning everything I can to assist has been my latest life’s passion. I also enjoy volunteering with special needs organizations and brainstorming with other special needs parents on how to continue to advocate for the population.
Danielle Weeks MS LAC - Licensed Associate Counselor
“Where there is judgment, there is no space for growth.”
Danielle offers a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore, heal, and thrive without fear of criticism or bias.
Danielle earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a concentration in Addictions. She then completed her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
With more than 15 years of experience in the field, Danielle is passionate about continuing to support individuals as they work toward their personal goals.
Danielle is a Licensed Associate Counselor who uses an eclectic approach, incorporating different techniques to meet each client’s individual needs. She has training in several therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, client-centered therapy, and strengths-based therapy. She specializes in supporting clients with mental health and addiction concerns.
Sarah Deats MS LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker Clinical Director
Sarah is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Director who is committed to putting her clients first. Using a trauma-informed approach, she strives to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can heal and grow.
Sarah firmly believes that everyone has the ability to overcome life’s challenges, and she is dedicated to guiding clients through their journey using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychotherapy, and other evidence-based approaches.
Her passion for helping others led her to pursue a career in social work. Sarah takes the time to understand each client’s unique needs and tailors her approach accordingly. She is committed to helping individuals reclaim their lives, recognise their strengths, and feel empowered to move forward.
When she is not working as a therapist, Sarah enjoys advocating for mental health, writing inspirational pieces, and spending time with her family.
Amy Frey, MA LMSW - Licensed Social Worker
Amy is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) who believes that our past experiences, for better or worse, can influence our thought patterns and future choices. If you are searching for understanding or feeling stuck, ashamed, or misunderstood, you are not alone. You are capable of change, healing, and creating a full and fulfilling life.
Choosing to seek help is a sign of strength. As a clinical social worker and therapist, Amy provides a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can feel heard and understood.
Together, Amy and her clients identify their strengths and develop a personalised plan to help them achieve their goals. She uses evidence-based techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs and has experience working with a variety of age groups.
Her therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
Angelique Bishop - BS Pre Licensed Therapist
I am a counselor-in-training who works with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity-related concerns. I strive to provide an affirming and inclusive space for clients of all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals, where every identity and set of pronouns is respected.
My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, incorporating evidence-based practices while honoring each person’s values, strengths, and lived experiences. I believe deeply in the power of ordinary magic—the small but meaningful shifts in awareness, coping, and connection that can create lasting change over time.
With a background in behavioral health and care coordination, I understand how stress, health challenges, and systemic barriers can affect emotional well-being. I am passionate about helping clients build self-trust, resilience, and a more grounded sense of hope through practical tools, compassion, and collaboration.
David Saavedra MS LMSW (Licensed Social Worker)
David is a Licensed Social Worker who earned his master’s degree in Puerto Rico. He has seven years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, and couples.
David has a genuine passion for helping others. He is kind, compassionate, empathetic, and dedicated to supporting people through difficult experiences.
David provides therapy in Spanish for Latino adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, migration-related stress, and relationship difficulties. He helps clients work through their personal histories, rebuild their emotional identity, and restore a greater sense of inner balance within a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment.
If you are going through a difficult time or feel that life has lost its meaning or direction, David wants you to know that you are not alone.
At Meliora Counseling and Wellness, David helps clients address unresolved concerns that may be affecting their emotional well-being. He believes that our thoughts can influence our emotions and decisions, and he provides therapeutic tools to help clients transform how they think, feel, and live.
Pamela Denny BS, Pre-Licensed Therapist
As a pre-licensed therapist, my professional goals reflect my personal passion for elevating the voices of young people who are seeking better—better living, better communication, and greater self-confidence.
I have worked with children and adolescents in homes, clinics, and schools, supporting young people diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. I have also worked in middle and high school settings with teens affected by substance use, either personally or within their home environment.
My primary area of focus is youth and adolescent mental health, including the challenges and transitions that can arise during early adulthood. It is my mission to help people become more engaged and active in the lives they are living and building.
Dr Jennifer Nanson - MA PsyD
Meliora—the pursuit of better things—reflects my approach to both life and therapy. I believe in continually striving for growth, improvement, and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
I specialize in working with high-performing professionals and individuals who spend much of their time in high-pressure or high-risk environments. I also support clients navigating trauma, grief, complex medical conditions, and the emotional challenges that can accompany them.
My clients often seek to better understand and use their inner strengths, manage stress more effectively, heal from past trauma, and improve their relationships with themselves and others. I provide comprehensive mental health treatment for a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma, grief, and loss.
I work collaboratively with each client, providing personalized care that supports greater well-being, resilience, and meaningful personal growth.
Robert Swanson- BS, Pre-Licensed Therapist
I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, collaborative, and safe environment where clients can explore their challenges, gain clarity, and recognise their strengths.
My approach incorporates evidence-based methods, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe counseling is a partnership that empowers clients to develop resilience, self-awareness, and a greater sense of meaning in their lives.
I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, life and career transitions, relationship difficulties, and stress. Guided by the ACA Code of Ethics, my goal is to help clients rediscover hope, rebuild self-sufficiency, and develop practical tools that support lasting change and a more fulfilling life.
Brianna Moorer MS, LMSW (Licensed Social Worker)
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and confidence.
With more than 12 years of experience in the social services field, I have supported individuals and families facing behavioral concerns, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive, with a strong commitment to creating a safe and empowering therapeutic environment for every client.
I specialize in supporting children and teens experiencing emotional regulation difficulties, behavioral concerns, ADHD, low self-esteem, and anxiety. I also work with adults navigating stress, burnout, relationship concerns, and personal growth. I understand that every person’s journey is unique, which is why I tailor therapy to each client’s individual needs and goals.
My therapeutic approach incorporates evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed strategies, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe healing and growth begin in spaces where people feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported.
Together, we focus on developing practical coping skills, strengthening emotional resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting change.
Amanda Ramsey BS, Pre Licensed Therapist
I am a pre-licensed therapist currently working toward my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My approach is rooted in a humanistic, client-centered perspective, which means I believe you are the expert on your own life.
I also incorporate mindfulness-based techniques to help clients develop greater awareness, presence, and connection with their thoughts and emotions.
I support individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, life transitions, or feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed. Whether you are adjusting to a new stage of life, navigating relationship challenges, building self-confidence and self-esteem, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I aim to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and explore your experiences openly.
I am here to walk alongside you on your journey, helping you develop practical tools to navigate life’s challenges, increase self-awareness, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Aurora Moreno BS, Pre Licensed Therapist
I am a pre-licensed therapist who strives to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for every client. My approach is grounded in client-centered care, with an emphasis on honoring each person’s unique experiences, identity, and individual needs.
I believe the therapeutic journey is an opportunity for clients to feel empowered, better understand themselves, and identify the tools needed to build a meaningful and fulfilling life.
I have experience supporting clients through career transitions and working with children, adolescents, and individuals within the special needs community. I tailor my approach to meet clients where they are, working collaboratively to support personal growth and healing in a way that feels right for them.
As a pre-licensed therapist, I work under professional supervision to provide ethical and effective care while continuing to develop my skills and grow within my practice.
Stephanie Voelker MS, LMSW (Licensed Social Worker)
I am Stephanie, a Licensed Master Social Worker who is passionate about fostering emotional well-being and helping clients live more authentically.
My goal is to empower you to recognise your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and build a life that aligns with your values. I believe healing is not only possible but can also be deeply transformative when approached with openness, curiosity, and compassion.
I have been practising since 2020 and hold a master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University.
Joanna Fisher MS, LMSW (Licensed Social Worker)
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and confidence.
With more than 12 years of experience in the social services field, I have supported individuals and families facing behavioral concerns, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive, with a strong commitment to creating a safe and empowering therapeutic environment for every client.
I specialize in supporting children and teens experiencing emotional regulation difficulties, behavioral concerns, ADHD, low self-esteem, and anxiety. I also work with adults navigating stress, burnout, relationship concerns, and personal growth. I understand that every person’s journey is unique, which is why I tailor therapy to each client’s individual needs and goals.
My therapeutic approach incorporates evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed strategies, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe healing and growth begin in spaces where people feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported.
Together, we focus on developing practical coping skills, strengthening emotional resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting change.
Claire Erikson BS Pre Licensed Therapist
Hi there! If you are looking for a therapist to help you navigate anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I am here to support you.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about what comes next and looking for a safe, supportive space to better understand yourself. My goal is to help you find balance, build confidence, and create meaningful change while feeling heard and supported throughout the process.
I offer a warm, collaborative, and holistic approach that is client-centered and tailored to each person’s individual needs. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship concerns, and women’s issues. My approach incorporates evidence-based practices, including Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel intimidating, especially when life feels heavy or uncertain. You deserve a space where you feel seen, supported, and understood. When you are ready to invest in yourself and explore meaningful change at your own pace, I invite you to reach out and see whether we may be a good fit.
Erika Eubank MS LAC (Licensed Associate Therapist)
Hi there! If you are looking for a therapist to help you navigate anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I am here to support you.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about what comes next and seeking a safe, supportive space to better understand yourself. My goal is to help you find balance, build confidence, and create meaningful change while feeling heard and supported throughout the process.
I offer a warm, collaborative, and holistic approach that is client-centered and tailored to each person’s individual needs. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship concerns, and women’s issues. My approach incorporates evidence-based practices, including Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel intimidating, especially when life feels heavy or uncertain. You deserve a space where you feel seen, supported, and understood. When you are ready to invest in yourself and explore meaningful change at your own pace, I invite you to reach out and see whether we may be a good fit.
Denise Crawford MS LAC (Licensed Associate Therapist)
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with more than 14 years of experience supporting individuals experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and co-occurring disorders.
I specialize in working with veterans and understand the unique challenges associated with military service, reintegration, and trauma. I also support clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward.
Whether you are navigating substance use, mood disorders, major life transitions, or other emotional challenges, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where we can work together to create meaningful, lasting change.
Dulce Lara BS Pre Licensed Therapist
As a pre-licensed therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where individuals feel respected and heard. I believe everyone is capable of change when given the appropriate guidance, support, and opportunity.
This belief was strengthened through my work with youth in juvenile detention and individuals on probation. In these roles, I supported justice-involved individuals as they navigated accountability, trauma, and major life transitions. These experiences deepened my commitment to meeting people where they are and honoring their capacity for growth.
I am bilingual and provide support in both English and Spanish.
We proudly support the mental health and well-being of individuals, couples, adolescents, and families in Goodyear, Phoenix, and surrounding Arizona communities.
Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your child, your relationship, or your family, our compassionate team is here to support you.
Request a Consultation Today and take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.