Our Team

Therapists

Ashley Call, LCSW

Therapist
Pronouns: she/hers/they/them

My value of mental health started at a young age, and as I grew up my interest and passion grew stronger. I received my Master's of Social Work from the University of Utah. I have experience working with teenagers and adults of every age. I have worked at a community health center for years where I was able to help people manage mental health challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and schizophrenia as well as the complex barriers of socioeconomic status and intellectual challenges. I have a lot of experience with crisis work and assessing for safety and stabilization of symptoms.

Trying to figure out the next step can be overwhelming and lonely when we feel stuck. Whether we are trying to navigate relationships, personal and religious beliefs, or sexual/gender orientation- it can be hard! I truly believe you are the expert of your life, and believe the answers are within. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and offering queer-affirming care. My work stems from evidence-based practice such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD (PET), Attachment theory principles, Dialectic Behavioral Therapies, and Mindfulness.

In my time outside of work, I look forward to hiking with my dog, playing roller derby, yoga, or taking care of my house plants.

Aurora Green, LCSW

Therapist
Telehealth Only
Pronouns: she/her/hers

We receive so many messages about how we “should” be that it can be difficult to figure out who we are, who we want to be, or how we want to engage with the world and connect with others. I believe we all have the ability to move in the direction of growth, reconnect with the parts of ourselves that we may have cast out as “bad” or “wrong,” develop an understanding of our strengths, and gain a sense of purpose.

My goal as a therapist is to provide an open, supportive space where you feel seen, valued, and safe to express yourself fully. We will work together to explore how your history, relationships, and beliefs play a role in your life as it is now. My approach includes a commitment to creating an affirming and supportive space for individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences.

In the therapy office, you will be met with a strengths-based, client-centered approach, and I will draw from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindful Self-Compassion. My experience includes working with teens, families, and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and/or involvement in the foster care system. I deeply enjoy working with young people exploring their sense of self and learning how to approach life with confidence.

When I’m not in the office, I like to garden, adventure with my partner and our dogs, camp, or just hang out at home watching my favorite shows. I am a partner and soon-to-be mom, and I adore my two old pups and rowdy cat. I was born and raised in Ohio and moved to Utah in 2010. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Westminster College and my Master's of Social Work from The Ohio State University.

Bree Westwood, CMHC

Therapist
Telehealth Only
Pronouns: she/her/hers

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” by Helen Keller is one of my favorite quotes. I believe this to be true about the relationship between therapist and client. Being a therapist is more than a job--it reflects a fundamental part of me that enjoys getting to know people at a real level. I love to witness individual growth. The therapy process allows for authentic, face to face conversations that can be challenging and rewarding at the same time.

I have worked with individuals 12 years old and up for the last 7 years. I received my Bachelor’s from Southern Utah University and my Masters in Mental Health Counseling. My treatment focuses on individuals and families. If you are struggling yourself, your relationship with your families, or would like to improve the way you cope with life stressors, then please reach out to me. I would love to be able to help you.

Caitlin Sroka-Nelson, LCSW

Therapist
Pronouns: she/her/hers

I graduated from the University of Utah 2016 with a Masters Degree in Social work but started volunteering and working in the mental health field in 2011. I have received certified training in Substance Use Disorder Counseling (SUDC) and Eye motion Desensitization Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). I have taken courses and practice evidence-based interventions in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT), animal-assisted therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based therapies. I am passionate about assisting the healing process and keeping myself up-to-date with clinical interventions which assist the people I serve.

Prior to Safe Space, I have had versatile work experience with different ages and populations. I have approximately 9 years of experience working with youth, siblings, and parents. Approximately 2 years working with adults and veterans seeking assistance with substance use disorders. And lastly, I have found the general outpatient setting of processing your human experience, no matter the age, the most rewarding work I have experienced.

In my personal life I experienced a hostile and conservative childhood which ultimately brought me to the profession of Social Work. In adulthood I have worked to process the past, grow myself, and increase my continued love for life. I attach strongly to the outdoors and primarily go between the alpine trees and desert landscapes. I am always learning how to be a better human for this planet. I find a lot of pleasure in music, concerts, and other arts especially when it speaks to systems of oppression and social justice. I love all animals. I love cooking and enjoying good food and drinks. I have a family and connect strongly to my friendships.

I will work alongside you to encompass your pain and discomfort so you're not alone. I firmly believe in therapeutic rapport, which is the relationship between you and your therapist. It is important to experience trust, safety, and connection to your therapist. Feel free to meet me to see if I can be a safe person for your journey.

Hailey Archer, LCSW

Therapist
Pronouns: she/her/hers

I absolutely love working with young people and strive to offer them an authentic relationship and place of hope from which to work on goals, identity, safe and adaptive coping skills, healing, and self-discovery. Each of us has inherent abilities for growth and change, and I see my role as a therapist as being a partner and guide in accessing those abilities and skills.

I believe in treating mental health holistically and I utilize person-centered and strengths-based therapies with evidence-based treatments depending on client need. I am trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and crisis response planning for suicidal behavior. I have been working with youth for 15 years and have experience with PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Dissociative Disorders, substance use, family issues, grief and loss, suicide and self-harm, self-esteem and self-identity. I strive to be accepting of all identities and utilize queer-affirming therapies.

I was born and raised in Utah and am intimately familiar with the local culture and lifestyle. Growing up here is not without its challenges, but I've clearly stuck around and I feel this is where my heart belongs. My true passions outside of work are spending time with friends and family, exploring new places, skiing, camping, and hiking.

Jake Martinez, LCSW

Therapist/Director of Onboarding and Clinical Practice
Telehealth Only
Pronouns: they/them/their

I was born and raised in Utah. My path to working in mental health has been a winding one that eventually led me to receive my Masters of Social Work from the University of Utah. There, I discovered my passion for working with individuals as they navigate life's difficult challenges. I work with teens, young adults, groups, and families. I work using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mind-Body Bridging, Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Mindfulness, and Lifespan Integration.

I believe that all humans can feel they don’t understand their place in the world. We can feel distant from others or distant from our own journey. However, I also know that in finding our true selves and being able to affirm ourselves we can overcome the obstacles in life that often feel insurmountable.

When not working I enjoy spending time with my partner and family, cooking, art, playing with my dog, and woodwork.”

Jasmine Girgenti, CSW

Therapist
Pronouns: she/her/hers

My name is Jasmine, and I am a first-generation American and college graduate. In addition to completing the requirements for becoming a therapist, I offer a unique perspective based on my background and experiences from my upbringing, where I was exposed to various types of culture, religion, and other factors that contribute to an individual’s development and perspective.

Keeping up with social expectations can be overwhelming; I have personally overcome challenges from adversity - in addition to beating cancer as a child, I am now actively involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation as a former recipient supporting current kids with terminal illnesses through fundraising and sharing my story.

I have experience working with adolescents and adults on managing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality (BPD), eating disorders, PTSD, Identity Management (race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and faith), and etc. I was privileged to meet and work with individuals from different backgrounds (race, socio-economic, people with disabilities, substance abuse population, foster/adopted children, and many more.)

Kellie Bonner, LCSW

Therapist
Pronouns: she/her/hers

Hey there! I'm Kellie. I love working with individuals and being a safe person as you navigate the complexities of life.

I received my Master of Social Work from the University of Utah. My work experience ranges from working at a mental health inpatient hospital, residential treatment center for teens, and outpatient therapy settings with a wide range of age and demographics.

Some of this clinical work included working with youth and family units involved with Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS), Foster/Procter care, and other individuals.

My expertise lies in providing mental health support to children, teens, and young adults facing a wide spectrum of challenges. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, school challenges, and navigating life transitions. My work is affirming and supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. Recognizing the nuances behind one's religious identity, I will meet you wherever you are in your faith journey or transition.

I have training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and mindful-based practices. It is important for me to collaborate with each individual and family on what will be the most helpful for them.

I prioritize creating a safe, relaxed, and welcoming environment. I want to provide you with a space where you can feel seen, valued, and not feel judged.

In my free time you’ll often find me outside. Mountain biking, hiking, and stargazing. I love the solitude that the forested mountains and vast deserts of Utah have to offer. I also love exploring local restaurants and enjoying music concerts.

FOUNDERS

Jessica Withee, LCSW

Founder/Clinician

I was born and raised by the beach in California and moved to Salt Lake 12 years ago. I am a partner, mother of two incredible children and two doggies. I love people and building community is something that makes my life better. I also love to be active and spend time in nature, which happens to be one of my safe places.

I have been working as a psychotherapist in private practice for over 10 years and as a clinical social worker for 15 years. I am passionate about providing young people with a safe space to explore, process and heal so that they are better able to move forward with living their best lives.

Additionally, I am passionate about providing clinicians with a positive work environment and supervisory relationship that helps them grow in ways that enable them to do and feel their best while working with clients.

Sara Hansen, LCSW

Co-Owner/Clinician

I grew up in Salt Lake City but after High School, I left for school and work and adventures in Oregon, Massachusetts, NYC and Vermont, After 22 years away I came home. I am a mother and a partner and pet mom.

I appreciate the complexity of people. I believe in trying to understand all aspects in someone's life and recognizing the impact of their experiences, relationships, and understandings into the current way of life. There are reasons for certain beliefs about ourselves and others. I utilize my training and my own self in helping a client come to witness ideas and behaviors within themselves And then, find ways to make changes, find balance, and maybe even happiness.

I have been working with people suffering with relationship issues, anxiety, difficult personality structures, depression, addiction, self harm and eating disorders for 26 years.

Client Support Specialists

Ciara Combs

Billing Specialist
Pronouns: she/her/hers