Meet Your Team of Teen Therapists & Mental Health Specialists

Brent-Esplin-oasis-ascent

Brent Esplin, LMFT

Executive Director

My name is Brent Esplin and I am excited to welcome you to OASIS Ascent. We have gathered a team of world-class specialists who are passionate about serving teens and their families. As you have the opportunity to interact with our team, you will feel their commitment to providing families a place of refuge and healing along with an abundance of hope for a brighter future.

Leadership Team

Brent Esplin, LMFT

Brent Esplin, LMFT

Executive Director
Aaron Samudio

Aaron Samudio

Associate Executive Director and Residential Director
Brian McDonald

Brian McDonald

Admissions Director
Haylee Mathews

Haylee Mathews

Admissions Director
Allison Michelle Jenkins, LCSW

Allison Michelle Jenkins, LCSW

Clinical Director
Reggie Wilson, LCSW

Reggie Wilson, LCSW

Clinical Director
Jodi Escalante

Jodi Escalante

Residential Director
Rosanna Weeks

Rosanna Weeks

Academic Director
Makynsey Boyer MSN,BSN,RN

Makynsey Boyer MSN,BSN,RN

Director of Nursing
Bre Englebrecht

Bre Englebrecht

Director of Utilization Review

Brent Esplin, LMFT

Executive Director

 

Brent has spent his career of almost 20 years working with teens and their families in a variety of different settings including long and short-term residential treatment, acute care, and home based services. He has served in various leadership capacities over the years including clinical director, utilization review director, admissions/business development director, and executive director.

Brent relates comfortably and professionally with families and teens alike. He finds great joy in guiding families out of crisis situations and into peaceful solutions. Brentโ€™s experience working within the field of mental health in admissions allows him to have a breadth of knowledge when assessing the needs of clients in acute situations, as well as less critical circumstances. He played an integral part in creating an operational psychiatric facility and most recently helped start a short-term residential treatment program.

Brent is passionate about providing more families with quality mental health treatment by accessing their insurance benefits. Brent is an active member of his community and finds the most joy spending time with his family. His wife, Julie, and their three young adult/teenagers enjoy all sports along with hiking, camping and other outdoor activities. Julie is a competitive marathon runner and Brent rides his bike along side her to keep up.

Aaron Samudio

Associate Executive Director and Residential Director

 

Aaron Samudio, a native of Utah, was born with a deep connection to the wild and spent years honing his wilderness therapy skills. His heart lies in the great outdoors, where he finds solace through hiking and climbing. Aaron's creative side shines on stage in Provo, Utah, where he performs at ComedySportZ.

Beneath his adventurous and comedic persona, Aaron is driven by a profound passion for men's health and mentoring teenagers. He leveraged his expertise in these areas during his career in policy, contributing significantly to both the state of Utah and the University of Utah managing public health programs.

Aaron seeks to make the world a better place through dedicated advocacy for the great outdoors and the mental health well-being of young men.

Brian McDonald

Admissions Director

 

Brian's commitment to his profession, his ability to build meaningful connections, and his dedication to empowering families make him a highly respected and sought-after professional in the field of mental health.

Brian is a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience working with teens and their families in various settings, including long and short-term residential treatment, acute care, and home-based services. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions such as residential director, program director, and admissions/business development director, showcasing his ability to effectively lead and manage teams.

Brian's exceptional interpersonal skills enable him to establish comfortable and professional relationships with families and teenagers alike. He deeply cares about the well-being of both the children and the staff, and he leads by example, never asking others to do something he wouldn't do himself. His greatest satisfaction comes from guiding families through crises and helping them find peaceful solutions.

With his extensive experience in mental health admissions, Brian possesses a wealth of knowledge in assessing the needs of clients in both acute and non-critical situations. He is passionate about providing high-quality mental health treatment to more families by maximizing their insurance benefits. Brian actively contributes to his community and cherishes spending time with his family, including his wife Anita and their two children, Briyana and Cayson.

Notably, Brian had the privilege of earning a football scholarship to Brigham Young University, where he played under the esteemed coaching of LaVell Edwards. He and his family share a deep love for sports, particularly BYU Football, and they also enjoy engaging in various outdoor activities. Brian's multifaceted background and commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset in the field of mental health treatment

Haylee Mathews

Admissions Director

 

Allison Michelle Jenkins, LCSW

Clinical Director

 

Allison Jenkins, LCSW brings a wealth of experience across the entire spectrum of care. From inpatient psychiatric settings to residential treatment centers and day treatment programs, Allison has dedicated her career to catalyzing positive change in the lives of young individuals.

Allison notable achievements is her instrumental role in designing and establishing a Residential Treatment Center (RTC). The program's framework, rooted in the teamโ€™s visionary ideas, reflects Allison commitment to innovation and effectiveness. By infusing evidence-based practices with a compassionate touch, at OASIS Allison has created an environment where adolescents can find healing, growth, and a renewed sense of hope.

Allison has also steered the development of a Day Treatment program within the residential context. This endeavor is a testament to her unwavering dedication to providing a continuum of care that meets adolescents' evolving needs. By tailoring interventions to the unique challenges of daily life, Allison empowers adolescents to develop essential skills and resilience while maintaining a sense of connection and community.

Reggie Wilson, LCSW

Clinical Director

 

Reggie has supported teens and their families during mental health crises since 2000. Educated at the University of Utah, Reggie holds a master's degree in social work, a bachelor's degree in sociology, and a certificate in criminology. This impressive academic background has laid the foundation for an impactful career in helping individuals overcome their challenges and transform their lives.

Throughout Reggie's career, he has been recognized for his exceptional work and commitment to mental health. Notably, he was honored with the prestigious Sharon Moore Award for excellence in mental health, a testament to his unwavering dedication and expertise in the field.

Believing in the power of challenging negative core beliefs, Reggie empowers individuals to step into the life they have always envisioned for themselves. He firmly believes that family plays a vital role in mental health, and this belief informs his practice, ensuring that the well-being of his clients is approached holistically.

With a diverse background in mental health, Reggie has worked in various settings, including residential treatment facilities, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), day treatment / partial hospitalization programs (PHP), group homes, and private practice. However, his greatest satisfaction comes from witnessing teens successfully graduate and progress towards a brighter future.

Beyond his professional achievements, Reggie's most significant accomplishment is being a parent to four beautiful children. This aspect of his life exemplifies his dedication to family and its profound impact on mental health.

Outside of his work, Reggie enjoys pursuing hobbies that allow him to unwind and connect with nature. He finds solace in activities such as golfing, fly fishing, and camping, making the most of the picturesque landscapes offered by his home state of Utah. This balance between personal interests and a fulfilling career reflects Reggie's holistic approach to life and continuous commitment to supporting others in their journey towards mental well-being.

Jodi Escalante

Residential Director

Rosanna Weeks

Academic Director

 

Rosanna has 35 years of experience in education. She began her career as an English and theater teacher, completed her masterโ€™s degree in educational leadership at BYU, then served as a school principal at the middle school and high school levels in both public traditional and charter schools. โ€œI chose a career in education so that I might help young people see and meet their potential. That continues to be my goal each day,โ€ she says. Rosanna is the mother of four children, and grandmother to three. She is a longtime performer in Utah county in both live theater and film productions, as a solo singer, and a member of the Tabernacle Choir. She enjoys hiking, biking, pickleball, golf, and all things outdoors, along with traveling long distances to be with her children and grandchildren.

Makynsey Boyer MSN,BSN,RN

Director of Nursing

 

Bre Englebrecht

Director of Utilization Review

Bre has worked in Behavioral Health for over 15 years. She has an extensive Utilization Review background working with some of the leading mental health organizations nationwide such as Newport Academy and Embark BH. Bre has served in various leadership capacities over the years and took part in building multiple short- and long-term programs as well as assisted with Joint Commission accreditations, audits, etc. She finds great joy serving others and has a growth mindset. She is passionate about advocating for insurance coverage and being a voice for clients and families alike. She is an active member in her community and enjoys volunteering with her children when able. Bre and her partner have three children and spend most of their time outdoors, hiking, fishing, off-roading and camping. Her greatest joy is when they are spending time together.

Admissions Team

Brian McDonald

Brian McDonald

Admissions Director
Haylee Mathews

Haylee Mathews

Admissions Director
Madison Prince

Madison Prince

Admissions Coordinator
Marry Ann Schmidt

Marry Ann Schmidt

Admissions Coordinator
Wendy Hodges

Wendy Hodges

Admission Coordinator

Brian McDonald

Admissions Director

 

Brian's commitment to his profession, his ability to build meaningful connections, and his dedication to empowering families make him a highly respected and sought-after professional in the field of mental health.

Brian is a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience working with teens and their families in various settings, including long and short-term residential treatment, acute care, and home-based services. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions such as residential director, program director, and admissions/business development director, showcasing his ability to effectively lead and manage teams.

Brian's exceptional interpersonal skills enable him to establish comfortable and professional relationships with families and teenagers alike. He deeply cares about the well-being of both the children and the staff, and he leads by example, never asking others to do something he wouldn't do himself. His greatest satisfaction comes from guiding families through crises and helping them find peaceful solutions.

With his extensive experience in mental health admissions, Brian possesses a wealth of knowledge in assessing the needs of clients in both acute and non-critical situations. He is passionate about providing high-quality mental health treatment to more families by maximizing their insurance benefits. Brian actively contributes to his community and cherishes spending time with his family, including his wife Anita and their two children, Briyana and Cayson.

Notably, Brian had the privilege of earning a football scholarship to Brigham Young University, where he played under the esteemed coaching of LaVell Edwards. He and his family share a deep love for sports, particularly BYU Football, and they also enjoy engaging in various outdoor activities. Brian's multifaceted background and commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset in the field of mental health treatment

Haylee Mathews

Admissions Director

 

Madison Prince

Admissions Coordinator

Madi Prince joined Ascent at the end of 2018 as an academic tutor at Discovery Academy. During her four years there she took on different roles within the academic department and fell in love with working directly with students and their families. She said it was rewarding to see the gratitude from parents when she was able to share the successes of their student. She recently graduated in 2022 from BYU in Human Development and relocated to Midvale. She now looks forward to working with OASIS Ascent as the admissions coordinator at the Millcreek location. In her off time, she will be filling her new apartment and office up with as many plants as possible.

Marry Ann Schmidt

Admissions Coordinator

Wendy Hodges

Admission Coordinator

Clinical Team

Allison Michelle Jenkins, LCSW

Allison Michelle Jenkins, LCSW

Clinical Director
Reggie Wilson, LCSW

Reggie Wilson, LCSW

Clinical Director
Joseph Wallace

Joseph Wallace

Associate Clinical Director
Yanni Gallagher, AMFT

Yanni Gallagher, AMFT

Therapist
Spencer Cook, LCSW

Spencer Cook, LCSW

Therapist
Craig Rollo, LMFT

Craig Rollo, LMFT

Therapist
Cristell Marcial, LCSW

Cristell Marcial, LCSW

Therapist
JoAnne Sandoval

JoAnne Sandoval

Therapist
Alyssa York

Alyssa York

Therapist
Erin O’Malley

Erin O’Malley

Recreation Therapist

Allison Michelle Jenkins, LCSW

Clinical Director

 

Allison Jenkins, LCSW brings a wealth of experience across the entire spectrum of care. From inpatient psychiatric settings to residential treatment centers and day treatment programs, Allison has dedicated her career to catalyzing positive change in the lives of young individuals.

Allison notable achievements is her instrumental role in designing and establishing a Residential Treatment Center (RTC). The program's framework, rooted in the teamโ€™s visionary ideas, reflects Allison commitment to innovation and effectiveness. By infusing evidence-based practices with a compassionate touch, at OASIS Allison has created an environment where adolescents can find healing, growth, and a renewed sense of hope.

Allison has also steered the development of a Day Treatment program within the residential context. This endeavor is a testament to her unwavering dedication to providing a continuum of care that meets adolescents' evolving needs. By tailoring interventions to the unique challenges of daily life, Allison empowers adolescents to develop essential skills and resilience while maintaining a sense of connection and community.

Reggie Wilson, LCSW

Clinical Director

 

Reggie has supported teens and their families during mental health crises since 2000. Educated at the University of Utah, Reggie holds a master's degree in social work, a bachelor's degree in sociology, and a certificate in criminology. This impressive academic background has laid the foundation for an impactful career in helping individuals overcome their challenges and transform their lives.

Throughout Reggie's career, he has been recognized for his exceptional work and commitment to mental health. Notably, he was honored with the prestigious Sharon Moore Award for excellence in mental health, a testament to his unwavering dedication and expertise in the field.

Believing in the power of challenging negative core beliefs, Reggie empowers individuals to step into the life they have always envisioned for themselves. He firmly believes that family plays a vital role in mental health, and this belief informs his practice, ensuring that the well-being of his clients is approached holistically.

With a diverse background in mental health, Reggie has worked in various settings, including residential treatment facilities, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), day treatment / partial hospitalization programs (PHP), group homes, and private practice. However, his greatest satisfaction comes from witnessing teens successfully graduate and progress towards a brighter future.

Beyond his professional achievements, Reggie's most significant accomplishment is being a parent to four beautiful children. This aspect of his life exemplifies his dedication to family and its profound impact on mental health.

Outside of his work, Reggie enjoys pursuing hobbies that allow him to unwind and connect with nature. He finds solace in activities such as golfing, fly fishing, and camping, making the most of the picturesque landscapes offered by his home state of Utah. This balance between personal interests and a fulfilling career reflects Reggie's holistic approach to life and continuous commitment to supporting others in their journey towards mental well-being.

Joseph Wallace

Associate Clinical Director

 

Joe Wallace has been working with teenagers in many capacities since 2010. His experience includes after school programs, special education, foster care, child and adolescent mobile crisis, outpatient therapy and residential treatment. Joe has worked in both frontline staff and clinical roles in his experience with residential experience. Joe received a Masterโ€™s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. He also received a Bachelorโ€™s degree in Child and Family Studies with an emphasis in Psychology. Joe has received a Level 2 certification in Attachment Based Family Therapy, certification in Motivational Interviewing and has been trained in EDMR. Joe also utilizes aspects of Structural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy into his work with adolescents. Joe prides himself in being able to keep a calm demeanor and remain in a wise mind in high anxiety and intense crisis situations. Joe also has a passion for working with families and teenagers. He has a strong belief that parents have to be involved n treatment in order for teens to truly heal and have success moving forward. In his personal life Joe enjoys the outdoors, fishing, camping, and swimming. He also competes in BBQ competitions and has recently started to compete in professional BBQ competitions.

Yanni Gallagher, AMFT

Therapist

 

Yanni comes to Oasis Ascent with 6 years of experience working in the adolescent treatment program and services industry. He has worked in therapeutic boarding school, wilderness, and short-term residential settings in multiple roles to include milieu staff, transporter, research coordinator, quality assurance, and now as a therapist. Yanni has a Masterโ€™s Degree in Marriage and Family therapy with an emphasis in child and adolescent therapy. Through the relational approach, Yanni helps adolescents feel they can entrust him with their deepest concerns and gain confidence in their therapeutic journey. Yanni's therapeutic approach is heavily influenced by Narrative Family Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Principles as taught by Arbinger Institute. Yanni loves spending time with his wife, his 1 ยฝ year old son, and dog. Yanni has a love for the outdoors, sports, and video games. He strives to have a life aimed towards equanimity, learning, and humility.

Spencer Cook, LCSW

Therapist

 

Craig Rollo, LMFT

Therapist

 

Cristell Marcial, LCSW

Therapist

 

Cristell joined Oasis after graduating from Utah Valley University with her bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. Prior to that, her love of children and desire to serve others landed her at the Childrenโ€™s Justice Center where she worked in advocacy with children, adolescents, and their families. With her caring and compassionate demeanor, Cristell assisted these families in navigating the many emotions and family logistics surrounding clinically complicated traumatic experiences. Being proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), allows Cristell to meet the very specific needs of each family she serves. Originally from Mexico, Cristell grew up in Provo, Utah.

JoAnne Sandoval

Therapist

Alyssa York

Therapist

I have a Masterโ€™s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in mental health. Through the relational and strength-based approach, I provide a haven of validation, empathy, cultivation of existing capabilities, and a judgment-free atmosphere. I embrace an eclectic array of techniques and theories recognizing the individuality in each personโ€™s story. My approach is influenced by Emotional Focused Therapy, Ego States Theory, and EMDR. When Iโ€™m not working, Iโ€™m spending time with my cat: Anya; traveling, reading, or doing paint-by-numbers.

Erin O’Malley

Recreation Therapist

Erin O’Malley is the recreational therapist for the Oasis RTC and Day treatment programs. She adheres to standards and practices outlined by her TRS license and CTRS national certification. Erin has 14 years of behavioral health experience working with youth ages 7-17. As part of the clinical team, Erin focuses on DBT skill-building through experiential activities using music, art, movement, outdoor adventure, sport, culture, education, and community service. In her free time, Erin enjoys writing, hiking, biking, traveling, music composition, serving her family, and loving their animals. She is the mother of 5 and grandmother of 4 amazing humans.

Academic Team

Rosanna Weeks

Rosanna Weeks

Academic Director
Lexie Jensen

Lexie Jensen

Academic Advisor
Carolyn McGraw

Carolyn McGraw

Academic Advisor

Rosanna Weeks

Academic Director

 

Rosanna has 35 years of experience in education. She began her career as an English and theater teacher, completed her masterโ€™s degree in educational leadership at BYU, then served as a school principal at the middle school and high school levels in both public traditional and charter schools. โ€œI chose a career in education so that I might help young people see and meet their potential. That continues to be my goal each day,โ€ she says. Rosanna is the mother of four children, and grandmother to three. She is a longtime performer in Utah county in both live theater and film productions, as a solo singer, and a member of the Tabernacle Choir. She enjoys hiking, biking, pickleball, golf, and all things outdoors, along with traveling long distances to be with her children and grandchildren.

Lexie Jensen

Academic Advisor

Carolyn McGraw

Academic Advisor

Medical Team

Makynsey Boyer MSN,BSN,RN

Makynsey Boyer MSN,BSN,RN

Director of Nursing
Michelle Pattison, RN, BSN

Michelle Pattison, RN, BSN

Director of Nursing
Dr. Amy Parry

Dr. Amy Parry

DNP Mental Health Specialist
Dr. Bill Bunn, DO

Dr. Bill Bunn, DO

Psychiatrist
Lorraine Brimhall MPAS, PA-C

Lorraine Brimhall MPAS, PA-C

Certified Physician Assistant

Makynsey Boyer MSN,BSN,RN

Director of Nursing

 

Michelle Pattison, RN, BSN

Director of Nursing

 

Michelle has a passion for her role in the field of nursing. She has many years of clinical and management experience working with people and their families to provide individualized care. Michelle also brings valuable life experience which allows her to make a positive difference in the lives of our students and their families. She models compassion, resilience, and believes it is never too late to make changes in our approach to life. She loves to learn new things and teach them to others.

Michelle received her training as a Combat Medic and Licensed Practical Nurse in the US Army as a member of the National Guard. She received her Associates and Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Nursing at Nightingale College of Nursing.

Michelle loves her family and friends and enjoys spending time with them. Michelle also loves animals and believes that they have a calming effect on people.

She is proud to be a part of the Oasis Ascent team.

Dr. Amy Parry

DNP Mental Health Specialist

Amy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She maintains a comprehensive focus to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adolescents and adults. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.

Dr. Bill Bunn, DO

Psychiatrist

Dr. Bill Bunn earned a B.A. in English literature and an M.A in rhetoric from Brigham Young University. Prior to medical school he was a full-time college English instructor and was honored as a Mayhew Teaching Award Finalist at Brigham Young University and has multipleย publications in the area of doctor-patient communications and medical education. He attended medical school at Des Moines University withย clinical training at Ohio University. His psychiatry training was at the University of Utah, where he received outstanding junior and senior resident awards and the Arnold P. Gold Foundation for Humanism and Excellence in Teaching.

Dr. Bunn currently works as a psychiatrist for the BYU student Health Center, maintains a private practice, and is on staff at UVRMC. In addition to this, he is an Adjunct clinical instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Utah, School of Medicine. He and his wife Dana have two active boys. He enjoys the outdoors, plays guitar, scuba diving, building furniture, and spending time with his family.

Lorraine Brimhall MPAS, PA-C

Certified Physician Assistant

Lorraine Brimhall MPAS, PA-C is a board certified Physician Associate. She has been working alongside board certified psychiatrists providing mental health care to adolescents and adults in both an inpatient and outpatient setting for the past 8 years.

She has experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, and other behavior disorders.

She has worked with hundreds of adolescents and their families to find the right medication and treatment plans to improve patients mental health and overall well being. Lorraine is also an adjunct faculty at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions where she completed a teaching residency.

She has a passion for working with individuals, to help them improve their mental health so they may lead the healthiest and most joyful lives possible.

She has 5 children and in her spare time enjoys being with them. She loves hiking in the beautiful mountains, spending time with friends, and self improvement.

We Use The Following Companies For Our Psychological Assessments