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Manifest Joy Counseling Staff

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Kimberly Ahmadi, MA, LMFT, Owner/Lead Therapist​

I started my journey as a Marriage and Family therapist 12 years ago. Since then I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of challenges: depression/anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, broken relationships and many others. I especially enjoy working with individuals and also take special interest in working with the LGBTQ+ community. I lean toward using person-centered, humanistic, and existential approaches keeping in mind that you are the expert in you and your life, and I am the expert in providing guidance that includes identifying and focusing on your strengths, experiences, and goals so you can improve your overall health, well-being, and peace of mind. 

 

​I moved to Tucson in 1997 and have spent the years since gathering friends and creating a family that inspires me to be and do my best everyday. I LOVE dogs (and sometimes cats), my brilliant wife, and our two adult "children." I build stuff, and spend a lot of time in our yard making things pretty. It's a wonderful feeling to be able to watch and help others get to their "Aha! moments." 

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Let's work together to develop skills that are appropriate for you, so you can better manage the symptoms causing your emotional pain. Let's get you back on track starting today.

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I currently have a wait list.
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Christine Acosta, MA, NCC, LAC

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I believe we continue to grow throughout our lives, and we​ all have the capacity within ourselves for positive change. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to talk, think, feel, process, learn, and heal.​ My approach is holistic and acknowledges that each person is unique with diverse interests, strengths, goals, weaknesses, and fears.

 

I am guided by person-centered theory and the principle of autonomy. I support and validate, while acknowledging that you are the decision-maker in your own life.​ I use ​cognitive, mindfulness, and existential based theories. Through counseling, we can better understand how we interact with ourselves, others, and the world around us. We can develop ​s​kills to​ cope with the stressors of daily life​ and achieve wellness​ and joy.

 

​I am a Tucson native and am grateful for where I live. I enjoy hiking the beautiful mountains and desert areas and have a deep respect for nature. I am a supporter of the arts and enjoy practicing yoga both in movement and meditation.

I'm accepting new clients!
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I have a short waitlist.

Margo Diego, MA, LAMFT

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I became a marriage and family therapist because I genuinely believe it takes a village to navigate all the ages and stages of life. I love working with people to accomplish their goals, and it's gratifying when we can include all our chosen family in that process; all the while realizing along the way that we are never alone.  

 

I enjoy working with individuals, families, couples, and adolescents using a solution focused orientation as we explore together all the possibilities available to us. I employ an emotional focus, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and person-centered approach to treatment. I utilize mindfulness and DBT skills to provide safe space for my clients to learn about their self, family system, and preferred future plans. I am also trained in EMDR. 

 

I moved to Tucson in 2018 with my spouse and 2 children, and since that time have become a caregiver to my mother.  As we've traveled and lived around the country,  our home is always considered a safe space for our friends and chosen family. I love feeding people, anything outdoors, and barbeque. 

 

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Immediate Openings!
 

Maria Richards, LMSW

With 25 years of experience as a dedicated social worker, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals as they navigate life's complex challenges. My passion for this profession stems from a deep desire to help others discover their strengths and resilience. I take great joy in meeting people where they are, offering compassionate guidance, and empowering them to harness their inner wisdom and develop new coping skills.

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My work has brought me into contact with a diverse range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I firmly believe in the potential for growth within each of us and strive to help my clients thrive and live life to the fullest.

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I am an Arizona native and love the spectacular desert we live in. I’m an avid gardener and enjoy time growing succulents in my backyard.

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Vanessa Carranza, Director of Operations

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​Hi, I'm Vanessa and I am very excited to be part of this fantastic team at Manifest Joy Counseling! I make sure your insurance claims run as smoothly as possible while also supporting the needs of the amazing front office. I was born and raised in Tucson and live with my partner and children. I enjoy my days in the desert spending time with my family and playing in the dirt. I graduated with Honors from Pima Medical Institute for Medical Billing and Coding and am a local artist that wears many hats (and crystals). I'm an introvert at heart, but I also know how to communicate effectively to get things done right.

Located in Our Office

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Fran Haggerty, MEd, LPC, Therapist

 

I have been practicing therapy for over 30 years in Tucson. My focus is on health and wellness, creating joy with purpose and hope.

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I practice with a person-centered approach, engaging and assisting you to be the best you possible. 

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I have experience in crisis intervention, substance abuse, depression, trauma, disordered eating and relationship counseling. I provide supervision for counselors with their associate license. I am solution-focused, making connections to your strengths with an emphasis on life’s transitions utilizing  spirituality, fitness, connecting with nature, nutrition, and “aging to saging." 

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I would love to hear from you. Contact me directly at 520.261.3860.

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