WHO WE ARE

Christie Ashbeck is an independently licensed professional counselor (LPC) providing counseling services to clients in Arizona, Colorado and Maine.  Prior to moving to Arizona and becoming a mental health counselor, Christie lived in Wyoming where she raised and trained her own horses to compete in rodeo events.  In 2001, she started an equine therapy business called “Whole Horse Connection,” where she taught equine massage therapy, soft chiropractic manipulation and other alternative treatments to horse owners who wanted to heal not only their horse’s physical ailments, but also the disruptions in their nervous systems caused by trauma.  An unexpected outcome of this work was that Christie’s clients themselves would notice a decrease in their own trauma symptoms, and a better regulated emotional state, which prompted Christie to earn her master’s degree in professional counseling and carry this insight into her mental health career.

Interestingly, horses are similar in humans in that they are “herd” animals, and their ability to stay and feel safe in their environment is directly related to the health of the herd they run with (aka family).  Because of Christie’s experience in treating traumatized horses, she became keenly interested in treating trauma in humans, as both species share these disruptions to their well-being, yet with entirely different presentations.  Horses tend to release their trauma more readily, while humans, with the help of their larger, more “developed” brains, tend to hold onto their trauma much longer, as they believe it is a directly related to who they are and what they “deserve.”  This is known as “complex trauma,” which horses do not have.

Christie holds certifications in a variety of mental health treatment modalities, most notable Eye-Movement Desensitization (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Post-Induction Therapy (PIT, Meadows Model) and most recently, Relational Life Therapy (RLT).  She has worked in a range of patient settings, including inpatient, residential and outpatient.  She spent the majority of her internship and associate level years working at Rosewood Center for Eating Disorders and The Meadows in Wickenburg, a world-renowned treatment center for trauma and addiction founded by Pia Mellody, whom Terry cites frequently in his own recovery process and life work.

Lisa Tapia is a dedicated and experienced professional in the field of human services and psychology, with over 20 years of experience. Lisa graduated with a Master’s degree in Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, from Chapman University. She has been a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) in Arizona since 2019. Lisa holds extensive experience and certifications in the treatment of addictions, dual diagnosis, and working with the Seriously Mentally Ill (SMI) population. Throughout her practice in Arizona, Lisa has specialized in providing therapeutic services to individuals, families, and children/teens. She adopts a holistic approach, meeting clients where they are and helping them discover their inner spark to enhance their overall wellness. Lisa utilizes evidence-based modalities, incorporating mindfulness, art for emotional expression, and play therapy for children.

Lisa is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and dual diagnosis treatment. Additionally, she is trained in Sexual Orientation Gender Identity (SOGI) issues and in the past has worked in a LGBTQIA+ Safe Space. Her diverse skill set and compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for those seeking to improve their mental health and well-being.

She has experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and across a wide age range, from school-aged children to the elderly, addressing a variety of mental health disorders, self-esteem, relational problems and address the need to improve stress management. Lisa is known for her excellent listening skills and empathetic nature, which help her connect deeply with her clients. She employs healing techniques and focuses on addressing core issues to provide relief from mental health symptoms, promoting long-term wellness and resilience. Be heard, and find your pathway to healing and hope today.

Sage is a licensed associate social worker dedicated to helping individuals find balance, healing, and personal growth. She views therapy as a collaborative journey, where you are the expert of your own life, and she is here to support and guide you through life’s challenges. Sage is currently under the supervision of Christie Ashbeck.

Sage earned her master’s degree in Social Work two years ago, having begun her academic journey as a non-traditional student at the age of 40. Before this, she spent many fulfilling years as a stay-at-home mom, foster mom, and adoptive mom—experiences that shaped her deep understanding of family dynamics, resilience, and healing. While not always easy, this journey was transformative, and it has enriched her empathy for others. These days, Sage is also navigating her own life transitions, including an impending empty nest, caring for aging parents, and redefining herself in this new chapter.

After completing her undergraduate degree, Sage had the privilege of working within the child welfare system where she had once served as a foster parent. This expanded her perspective and ignited her passion for advocating on behalf of birth families, eventually leading her to work in substance abuse treatment.

In Sage’s practice, she blends traditional therapeutic approaches with experiential techniques, incorporating methods like animal-assisted therapy, play therapy, and art therapy to foster healing. Sage is also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and is continuously expanding my knowledge of other treatment modalities. She offers virtual sessions, in-person evening and Saturday appointments, as well as in-home therapy for children and families—meeting clients wherever they are in their journey.

Sage is excited to continue this meaningful work and feels honored to walk alongside those seeking support and healing.