Haylee Bladen, LCSW, CCATP-CA, Clinical Director
Haylee earned her master's degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. She is enthusiastic about mental health education & prevention. Haylee is a Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment professional and is also trained in
eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). She works to inspire youth to reach and own their full potential through skills based groups and therapeutic interventions. She enjoys program development and curriculum writing and has created several healing and transformative workbooks for teens as well as an abundance of school based and online programs helping youth and families gain emotional wellness tools. Her goal is to make emotional wellness services more accessible and fun! She specializes in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, emotion regulation and self esteem issues. Haylee has been in the social work field for over thirteen years. She has worked in many areas such as school based mental health, youth in custody, foster children, step families, substance abuse, hospice patients, refugees, victims of trauma and more. She is proud to be the founder of WholeKids Emotional Wellness and currently serves as the Clinical Director. She also serves as a field instructor for students in the University of Utah & Denver University MSW programs. She enjoys spending time with her husband and daughters, riding her bike and eating peanut butter cups!
Makenzie Combe, LCSW, Clinical Services Supervisor
Makenzie graduated with her master's degree in Social Work from the University of Utah and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Makenzie is also a Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment professional (CCATP-CA) and a Certified Specialist in Child and Adolescent Anger Management (CSAM-CA). She is EMDR trained. With her knowledge and experience in the field, Makenzie has worked with clients facing various challenges, including sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, trauma, witnessing domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, and depression. She is deeply committed to fostering growth and development in her clients, helping them realize their full potential and achieve positive changes in their lives. Makenzie brings a fresh and modern approach to therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for her clients to feel heard and understood. In her free time, she enjoys pursuing her hobbies of baking, reading, and eating popcorn.
Angelica Gonzalez, ACMHC, Therapist - Sandy Clinic
As an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Angelica is passionate about helping individuals and families navigate challenges and heal through trauma-informed therapy. She is bilingual and speaks fluent Spanish, which allows her to connect with a diverse range of clients. Angelica hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and uses evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and families, helping them manage trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and behavioral issues. Angelica conducts individual and family therapy, tailoring sessions to meet the unique needs of each client. For children who have experienced trauma or difficult life events, she uses Client-Centered Play Therapy to help them process emotions and build coping skills. In addition to trauma therapy, Angelica uses techniques like Synergetic Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and EMDR to support healing. Her goal is to create a safe, supportive space for clients to express themselves and work toward their therapeutic goals, while connecting families with the resources they need for lasting change. Angelica also has experience as an Advanced Substance Use Counselor and as both a High School and Elementary School Teacher. In these roles, she worked closely with students and families to address academic and therapeutic needs, collaborating with treatment teams to support their overall development. Angelica is committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care and continues to grow both personally and professionally. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, reading, and trying new things.
Jessie Mitchell, CSW, Therapist - Sandy Clinic
Jessie earned her Bachelor's degree in Family Studies with a Mediation track from Utah Valley University and a Master's in Social Work from Arizona State University. She formerly worked at Eva Carlston residential treatment with adolescents. She also worked on the clinical team at South Valley Services, helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Additionally, she worked at Salt Lake County Youth Services helping youth in crisis and foster care in group homes. Passionate about empowering teens and children, Jessie focuses on rebuilding self-esteem, challenging negative thought patterns, developing healthy coping skills, and processing and healing from trauma. She collaborates with clients and their families to enhance communication and foster change, and encourages periodic family therapy sessions. Jessie has experience working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, behavioral problems, autism, and personality disorders. Her therapeutic approach is strengths-based, utilizing evidence-based modalities like Play therapy, CBT, DBT, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. Jessie believes everyone deserves to reach their full potential and sees herself as a supportive guide in that journey. In her free time, she enjoys reading, training with her dog, watching comedy shows, and traveling with her family.
Alex Nielson, CSW, Therapist - Logan Clinic
Alex graduated from Southern Utah University with her bachelor’s in Family Life and Human Development with double emphases in both Family Services and Early Childhood Development before continuing her education at Utah State University to receive her master’s degree in Social Work. Alex has worked with a wide range of individuals, including kids with different abilities such as autism, down syndrome, and cerebral palsy, and kids and adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, challenging behaviors, and trauma using a wide range of evidence-based modalities including Trauma Focused-CBT, DBT, SFT, MI, CPT, narrative therapy, and play therapy, and loves finding ways to incorporate games, art, and other experiential techniques. Alex is passionate about working with kids and their families and empowering them to connect to and accept all their emotions, increase self-esteem, see their strengths, find their voice and gain the skills they need to be successful. In her spare time, Alex enjoys traveling and exploring the world, being outdoors, and spending time with her dog, family, and friends.
Sabrina Saini, CSW, Therapist - Sandy Club
Sabrina is a passionate professional dedicated to the well-being and development of children and families. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies, with an emphasis on Child Life, and a minor in Psychology from the University of Utah, she has gained a strong foundation in understanding the intricacies of child development and the importance of nurturing family environments. Building upon her undergraduate education, she pursued a master's degree in Social Work, which has equipped her with advanced knowledge and skills in providing comprehensive support to individuals and families in need. Her genuine love for working with children and their families fuels her drive to make a positive impact on their lives. Throughout her academic journey and professional experiences, she has developed a keen interest in addressing trauma, anxiety, and depression in children. By utilizing evidence-based approaches and a compassionate approach, she strives to create a safe and supportive environment where children can heal, grow, and thrive. Recognizing the vital role that families play in children's lives, she is committed to working collaboratively with parents, guardians, and other caregivers to promote holistic development and strengthen family dynamics. She believes in the power of teamwork and effective communication to foster resilience and create lasting positive change. She has a genuine passion for her work and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children and families, she is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and support. She is excited to continue her professional journey, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. In her spare time Sabrina loves to read, spend time in the backyard with her two German shepherds, and her husband. Her hobbies are cycling and horseback riding.
Alyse Yoder, CSW, Therapist - Sandy Clinic
Alyse graduated with a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Denver. She is passionate about working with kids, teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma, mental health challenges, and are learning to build skills to navigate and thrive in their environments. Alyse has experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, trauma, behavioral issues, and other challenges. She emphasizes holding space for all emotions and thoughts, while utilizing a strengths-based and person-centered approach. Alyse works to build supportive and trusting relationships with her clients and strives to help them feel empowered and heard. Outside of work, Alyse loves to read, explore the outdoors, and walk her dogs.
Anna Guter, CMHC, Therapist - Sandy Clinic
Anna earned her Masters in Counseling with a Child/Youth Specialization from Western Seminary in Portland, OR. She is passionate about helping kids and teens explore their emotions and experiences through play and other creative therapeutic modalities. She has experience working with children, teens, and families experiencing addiction and recovery, trauma, behavioral issues, suicidal ideations, grief and loss, emotion regulation/distress tolerance concerns, and relationship challenges. Anna works to help her clients stabilize their sense of self, by helping them to understand and build the skills necessary to thrive in their environment, with their emotions, and in their relationships with others. She strives to help kids and teens work toward setting healthy boundaries, honoring their emotions without judgment, and getting comfortable with balancing two ideas or feelings that appear very different from one another. When she is not working, Anna enjoys reading, cooking, adventuring outside & spending time with her husband, son, and two dogs.
Erin Jasperson, LCSW, Therapist - Sandy Clinic
Erin graduated with her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. She is passionate about helping teens and kids navigate difficult emotions and experiences by utilizing creative therapeutic modalities. She has experience working with teens struggling with anxiety and depression and worked for the Division of Child and Family Services as a caseworker where she worked with children and families who have experienced intergenerational trauma and abuse. She loves witnessing clients become more connected and attuned with themselves and their emotions as they engage in the therapeutic process. She strives to create an environment where clients feel safe, supported and heard. She loves helping clients and their families on their journey towards growth and healing and believes it is possible. In her free time, she loves eating chocolate, being outdoors and napping!
“Erin is very friendly and personable and really connects with my child. She plays games, gives my son fun worksheets and also gives him homework. I love the creative ways that she connects with him is helping his mental well-being.” -Mother of client
Tricia Van Tassell, LCSW, Therapist - Sandy & Tooele Clinics
Tricia earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. She has experience working in residential treatment centers with youth facing challenges such as depression, suicidal ideation, and other cognitive and behavioral disorders. Tricia employs a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Committed to continuous learning, Tricia is always eager to explore new methods to enhance her clients' treatment. She has a proven track record of working with children, teenagers, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and trauma. Tricia believes that everyone deserves happiness and is dedicated to helping them develop the skills needed to overcome life's challenges and achieve success. In her spare time, Tricia enjoys watching movies, baking and cooking, reading books, and spending quality time with her family.
“Tricia has been amazing working with both of my kids. Both my boys are very comfortable speaking with her.” -Mother of clients
Jillian Armstrong, CSW, School Therapist - Mountain View Montessori
I believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all. Because of this, I actively tailor my approach to clients individually, using a variety of modalities depending on the needs. I most enjoy working with children in the school setting to help them work through complex emotions and support students in excelling while at school. I specialize in working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma. I feel honored to hold space for them as needed to allow healing to begin. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for all of my clients. I bring a calming presence into sessions, where clients can feel comfortable to show up just as they are. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach to therapy and work with my clients as a team to work on their individual goals. I am passionate about working with people to help them heal. We don’t always get to choose the situations we are presented with but we can learn how to react to them in healthy ways. I believe there are times when we simply need someone to hold space, and times when we need to learn new skills.
Rachel Hyatt, MSWi, Therapy Intern
Bio coming soon!!
Mettalise Bracht-Bedell, MSWi, Therapy Intern
Metta earned her Bachelor’s degree in Community Health with a minor in Human Development from Montana State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at the University of Utah. For the 2024-2025 academic year, she will serve as a student intern with WholeKids and Head Start. Metta brings a wealth of non-traditional experience working with children and adolescents. She has led outdoor programs for teens, guiding groups through pivotal life transitions, and has worked closely with girls, both individually and in groups, to address social development challenges and other key issues faced during adolescence. Passionate about empowering children and adolescents, Metta focuses on identifying and building on their strengths to help them navigate life’s difficulties. Outside of her academic and professional commitments, she enjoys spending time in the mountains and indulging in her love for coffee—often simultaneously.
Haley Eastman, MSWi, Therapy Intern
Haley earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Utah Valley University and is pursuing her Master's of Social Work at the University of Utah. During the 2024-2025 school year, she will work as an MSW intern with WholeKids and Headstart. Haley has worked with children facing various challenges, such as anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns. Haley is passionate about helping kids identify and express their emotions and utilize healthy coping skills that are fun and practical. She enjoys using play therapy, sensory activities, art, and music to help kids work through big feelings and challenges. Haley’s goal is to help children and families feel safe, supported, and seen. In her free time, Haley enjoys paddleboarding, hiking, reading books, and playing with her two goldendoodles.
Mickayla Porter, MSWi, Therapy Intern
Mickayla earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, with a minor in Human Development and Family Services. She moved to Utah from Nevada in 2020 and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Utah. For the 2024-2025 school year, she is serving as a Master of Social Work Intern with WholeKids and Headstart. Mickayla brings a diverse background in social work, with extensive experience in supporting both children and families as well as vulnerable adults. Her work with children includes roles as a School Social Worker for teens, a Group Facilitator in a day treatment setting, and a Permanency Worker with the Division of Children and Family Services. In these roles, Mickayla has focused on helping youth navigate challenges such as anxiety, behavioral and adjustment issues, and social development. She has employed various techniques, including group lessons, behavior intervention plans, solo and group play, mindfulness exercises, and educational tools. Passionate about guiding individuals and families through life’s challenges, Mickayla is committed to a client-centered approach that emphasizes each person’s unique strengths and needs. She strives to create a safe, nurturing environment where children and their families feel understood, valued, and supported. Her goal is to empower each child to recognize their inherent strengths and develop the skills they need to thrive. Mickayla believes that therapy can be both a transformative and enjoyable experience. She works to create a brave, supportive space where clients can openly explore their thoughts and feelings, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve their personal goals. In her free time, Mickayla enjoys exploring new places, getting lost in a good book or Disney movie, trying new foods, thrifting, and painting.
Angelia Fairey, Client Care Coordinator
Bio coming soon!!
Kristen Granado, Billing Coordinator
Bio coming soon!!
Jay Bladen, MS, Director of Operations
Jay earned his degree in Family Consumer Human Development from Utah State University, as well as a master's degree in business management. Jay is the Co-Founder of WholeKids Emotional Wellness and serves as the Director of Operations. Jay grew up shy, reserved and terrified of heights. He learned to conquer his fears and finds happiness in empowering others do the same so they do not miss out on life's opportunities. He loves climbing, soccer, enjoying the wide outdoors and spending time with his family.
