
Known for our expertise.
Remembered for our compassion.
OUR TEAM
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Sarah Burney, LCSW, CEDS-S
With over a decade of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist & Supervisor, Sarah Burney is a leading expert in her field who has found her purpose in helping others find freedom, safety, and peace.
She specializes in treating all types of eating disorders, acute & complex trauma, substance abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder, and depressive / anxiety disorders.
Her experience includes providing intensive therapy at inpatient & outpatient treatment centers for eating disorders, mental health, and substance abuse. She is also a former director of one of the nation's largest and leading adult eating disorder treatment center.
In session with Sarah, you'll benefit from her humanistic and psychoanalytic therapeutic approach, and implementation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), & various other trauma-focused evidence-based interventions. Using compassion, authenticity, and humor, Sarah creates a safe environment where honesty and growth are encouraged. With this approach, you'll feel supported, and simultaneously challenged to take steps towards your goals.
Sarah is licensed as an LCSW in CA, AZ, OR, & PA.
Education: Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California, B.A. in Psychology at Chapman University
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Megan Montague, LMFT
Megan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in working with all eating disorders, body image struggles, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, chemical dependency, LGBTQ concerns, domestic violence, and identity/self-esteem struggles. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. She has worked at various levels of care—from residential treatment centers to outpatient treatment.
In session, Megan has a warm, caring, non-judgmental, explorative, and honest approach. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and various other evidence-based practices, tailoring each intervention to suit your unique needs.
With every session, Megan will help you feel safe and comfortable to overcome your issues, ultimately creating meaningful, lasting change within you. Megan’s hope is to help you and your family achieve your/their goals, and lead a deeper and more fulfilling life.
Education: Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University, B.A. from UCLA
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Kari Tuggle-Nord, LCSW, RD, ADHD-CCSP, CGP
Kari is Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Dietitian, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, Certified Grief Informed Professional, and Certified Health Education Specialist, making her uniquely qualified as a therapist, specifically as an eating disorder therapist. After studying nutritional science in undergraduate school, Kari found that she has a passion for both health education, and clinical work.
Kari specializes in treating eating disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, & substance use disorders. She is also particularly skilled at helping patients navigate difficult life transitions and relational struggles. Kari is LGBTQ+ aware and affirming with special emphasis on working with trans and gender expansive individuals. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, & families.
Kari has over 20 years of experience providing nutrition interventions for a variety of audiences in a multitude of settings. She has practiced as a therapist and supervisor at various eating disorder and mood disorder levels of care. Kari is trained in Intuitive Eating, and utilizes a body positive, and HAES approach. Kari has also completed Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, training in the Gottman Approach for the Treatment of Affairs and Trauma, and uses Gottman Method Couples Therapy in her sessions, when indicated. In session, she implements Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Kari utilizes a person-centered approach in session. She believes you are the expert on your own life, and her role is to help you to better navigate difficulties that arise. Kari provides a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your unique strengths, build new skills, and learn ways to realize your full potential. Kari prioritizes identifying personal goals and values, establishing an individualized treatment plan tailored to meet said goals and honor said values, and then working together with you to achieve success. This system allows you to build confidence, heal, and lead a more meaningful, connected life.
Kari believes each one of us can heal and grow if we have the proper support. Kari is excited to embark upon a journey of healing with you and help you reach your full potential.
Education: Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University, Masters in Health Education from University of the Pacific, B.S. in Nutritional Science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
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Samantha Brayer, AMFT
Samantha is a compassionate and skilled associate therapist with extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, are navigating substance use challenges, and struggle with anxiety, depression, and building a sense of self. Grounded in a trauma-informed approach, Samantha creates a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and begin the journey of healing.
Drawing from a blend of evidence-based modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy, Samantha tailors treatment to meet each individual’s unique needs. Samantha works with clients to better understand and integrate different parts of themselves, fostering self-compassion and healing. She also works with clients to identify and shift distorted thought patterns, and encourages individuals to reframe their stories, reclaiming their sense of agency and empowerment. Samantha also provides couples and family therapy for those who desire to have loved one’s participation and support.
With a deep respect for each person's story, and a focus on building resilience, Samantha is dedicated to helping clients overcome past trauma, mental health challenges, reduce substance use, and build a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Education: Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University, B.A. from UCI
AMFT supervision provided by Sarah Burney, LCSW, CEDS-S
