About Us - Sedona Sky Academy (2024)

Andrea graduated from the University of Utah with a Master of Social Work degree. She has worked in the behavioral health field for over seventeen years specializing in children and adolescents ages 8-18. Andrea’s experience spans all levels of care including Residential, Day Treatment, Outpatient and Transitional Program.

She has held many different leadership positions in treatment organizations.As her clinical foundation, Andrea believes in treating the “why” behind behaviors verses only focusing on the behaviors themselves.

Through cultivating a space where the client feels loved and supported in their treatment process, Andrea focuses on creating a true relationship with the client.

This relationship becomes a therapeutic container where there is enough trust, connection and safety to truly address the ‘why’.Andrea is highly trained in several treatment approaches including, relationship-based approach, narrative/expressive approaches, DBT and CBT.Andrea has extensive experience working with kids who may need a more sophisticated behavioral and or clinical approach.

Andrea believes deeply in an interdisciplinary team approach and working closely with all departments inside a treatment organization to provide the space and support clients need for a successful treatment process.

In her personal time, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family. She loves to attend her niece’s and nephew’s lacrosse and soccer games. She also loves cooking and, in particular, enjoys trying new recipes. Andrea also enjoys going to the movies, listening to music, podcasts and reading books.

Cora-Lei Marquez epitomizes the essence of compassion, cultural pride, and unwavering dedication to community service. As a mother of five remarkable children spanning from 28 years old to 4 years old, Cora-Lei gracefully navigates life's journey, guided by the wisdom passed down from her mother.

Cora-Lei Marquez's experience working with diverse populations, particularly youth and adults affected by domestic violence, trauma, and addiction, showcases her profound dedication to making a positive impact in people's lives.

With a Master's in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University and a bachelor’s in human Behavior with an emphasis in Community Sustainability from Northern Arizona University, Cora-Lei's academic background mirrors her dedication to her craft. Cora-Lei has provided support and guidance to individuals of all ages, addressing the complex challenges associated with substance abuse. Her compassionate approach and evidence-based interventions have helped countless individuals navigate the path to recovery, empowering them to reclaim control of their lives and overcome addiction's grip.

In her work with youth between the ages of 10 and 18, Cora-Lei has demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique struggles and vulnerabilities they face. Whether it's providing guidance to adolescents grappling with substance abuse issues or offering support to teenagers affected by domestic violence, Cora-Lei approaches her role with empathy and a genuine desire to help young people thrive despite the adversities they may encounter.

Moreover, Cora-Lei's work with mothers and children directly affected by domestic violence highlights her commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse and providing a safe haven for those in need. Through trauma counseling, she offers a supportive environment for survivors to heal from their past experiences, guiding them on a journey towards healing and empowerment.

Her holistic approach to counseling, encompassing a blend of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), allows Cora-Lei to tailor her interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual and family she serves.

Cora-Lei's tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication to supporting individuals of all ages through their most challenging moments underscore her commitment to making a difference in her community. Through her work, she strives to create a brighter, more hopeful future for those she serves, empowering them to overcome adversity and embrace a life of wellness and fulfillment.

Jennifer has over 18 years' experience in behavioral health settings, using evidenced based models that will also incorporate compassion and acceptance approaches, using creative therapeutic techniques with children and their families. Jennifer's journey in the field of mental health began with a Master's degree in Counseling and Guidance from New Mexico Highlands University in 2005. Prior to this, she cultivated her passion for art, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Liberal Arts in 2003.

Since settling in Arizona in 2010, Jennifer has immersed herself in a variety of behavioral health settings, each contributing to her diverse skill set and holistic approach to therapy. From outpatient clinics with a focus for children and families to intensive inpatient and crisis intervention work, Jennifer's experience spans the spectrum of mental health care.

Central to Jennifer's therapeutic practice is her utilization of sand tray play therapy and art therapy, providing clients with alternative means of expression and healing. With an individualized approach and a foundation in evidenced-based, solution-focused interventions, Jennifer empowers individuals to navigate their unique healing journeys.

Jennifer's expertise extends to a range of therapeutic modalities, including Acceptance and Compassion, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy., Family systems therapy. By drawing upon these approaches, Jennifer tailors her interventions to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Jennifer finds meaning and inspiration in the study of Art. An avid oil painter and mixed media artist. Family is important to Jennifer, spending time with her adult son and daughter, as well as her three cherished grandchildren.

In every therapeutic setting, Jennifer embodies a commitment to those she works with to build on values such as gratitude, resilience, and growth. By creating a safe and respectful environment, she empowers individuals to confront challenges, embrace their journey, and continue growing in their own lives.

Justin Zych's passion for empowering youth and fostering their growth spans over two decades, marked by a steadfast commitment to creating safe and supportive environments for adolescent development. His journey into this realm began in 1999, co-facilitating the National Youth Delegation to the President's Council of Sustainable Development during the Clinton administration. This early experience ignited a lifelong dedication to championing the voices and potential of young people.

Throughout his career, Justin has held pivotal roles as an Academic Director in therapeutic boarding school settings. His approach centers on the transformative power of relationships, recognizing them as the cornerstone of personal growth and resilience. He believes in cultivating environments where students feel valued, heard, and empowered to explore their individual strengths and capabilities.

At the heart of Justin's philosophy lies a commitment to holistic growth, integrating mindfulness, collaborative problem-solving, and emotional healing into the educational journey. His leadership at Sedona Sky Academy has been instrumental in providing students with the tools and support needed to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Justin's academic background underscores his dedication to community development and educational leadership. He holds a Master of Arts in Sustainable Community Development from Prescott College and a Master of Education in Education Leadership from Northern Arizona University, reflecting his deep-rooted belief in the power of education to drive positive change.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Justin finds inspiration in the natural beauty of Prescott, Arizona, where he resides with his family. Engaging in activities like gardening, beekeeping, and mountain biking, he embodies his commitment to sustainable living and holistic well-being.

In every facet of his life, Justin Zych exemplifies a profound dedication to nurturing the strengths and potential of youth, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Kayleigh Lynch is a highly qualified psychotherapist based in various clinical settings in Phoenix, AZ, with a rich and diverse background in mental health. Currently on track to obtain her AZ LCSW license in April 2024, Kayleigh brings over 3,000 clinical hours of experience and meets all criteria to sit for the exam as per the azbh board.

With expertise spanning individual, family, and group therapy, crisis intervention, and treatment planning for diverse populations, Kayleigh is adept at tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client. She conducts evaluations using evidence-based methods and offers crisis support with personalized treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcomes for her clients.

Kayleigh's professional journey has seen her managing sex offender caseloads, developing group therapy curricula, and collaborating closely with probation teams. Her background includes roles in residential youth treatment programs, correctional facilities, alternative high schools, and community mental health programs, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of various therapeutic settings.

Specializing and certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT) treatment modalities, Kayleigh is deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenges such as self-harm, suicidal behaviors, and emotional dysregulation. She also excels in behavior support contracts and program management, ensuring a holistic approach to treatment and care.

Continuously enhancing her expertise, Kayleigh actively participates in weekly consultation team meetings as per the DBT adherence model, stays abreast of developments in youth and child development, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and motivational interviewing. Her dedication to professional development underscores her commitment to providing the highest standard of care to her clients.

With her extensive clinical experience, versatile skill set, and unwavering dedication to evidence-based practice, Kayleigh Lynch is a trusted ally for individuals and families seeking support on their journey to mental wellness.

Sheila Atwater is a beacon of compassion and dedication in the realm of child advocacy, primary mental health needs and substance abuse counseling. She wears many hats with grace and purpose. Above all, she takes immense pride in her role as a mother to two remarkable boys, Scotty and Richy, and the adoring caretaker of two lively cats, Gypsy and Sasha.

Her life's journey has been marked by resilience and a steadfast commitment to service. Sheila's path into the realm of child development began as a special education teacher, where she discovered her innate passion for nurturing young minds. Armed with dual Arizona teaching certificates in early childhood education and early childhood special education, she has made it her mission to champion the needs of children, especially those with special or developmental needs.

However, Sheila's trajectory took a poignant turn when she faced the heartache of losing her first husband at a tender age. Yet, buoyed by love and resilience, she found solace and strength in the companionship of Mike, her devoted husband of 16 years.

Driven by personal loss and a desire to effect positive change, Sheila transitioned into a counseling career after losing a family member to addiction. Her journey in this field began with a master's degree in counseling, followed by an internship at Spectrum Health Care Momentum facility, where she worked tirelessly with residential clients facing behavioral health challenges.

With a toolbox filled with therapeutic techniques ranging from Motivational Interviewing to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, and Art Therapy, Sheila brings a holistic approach to her counseling sessions. For the past two years, she has honed her skills in intensive outpatient programs, facilitating group sessions, conducting individual counseling, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams for the betterment of her clients.

Sheila has many years of experience working with special needs, developmental concerns, attachment issues, neurodivergent needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder. In her work she has honed the ability to provide a safe space for connection where her students can explore their experience with a trusted compaion.

Her work with neurodivergence and Autism Spectrum Disorder has been in both the classroom and therapy office settings, which has strengthened her ability to support these students from multiple domains.

She has had several students in her tenure at Sedona Sky Academy that have required her to be creative in her approach in order to ensure the needs of her students are being met. With students who may have special needs or be on the Autism Spectrum, Sheila will often use experiential or art therapy in combination with more traditional modalities like CBT and DBT, to provide multiple therapeutic angels to work from.

As a therapist at Sedona Sky Academy Sheila's mission is simple yet profound: to provide unwavering support and guidance to children and their families, helping them navigate life's challenges with resilience and determination. She is profoundly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the dedicated staff at Sedona Sky Academy, where together, they are crafting a brighter, healthier future for every child under their care.

Thank you for entrusting Sheila with the privilege of supporting your children on their journey to healing and growth. With her compassionate approach and unwavering dedication, Sheila is poised to make a profound difference in the lives of those she touches