Your Geneva Team

Tony Hansen

“Tony teaches us that no one is too important to serve. When I see him watering the plants, mowing the grass, and attending to more menial tasks, I am reminded that Telos is more about service than position.” -staff

Tony Mosier

“Tony has the unique ability to see past surface complexities to the heart of an issue. With professionalism, kindness, expertise, and great wisdom he approaches all aspects of his work at Telos. He saved my son’s life, and the organization he helps lead has saved hundreds of others.” -parent

Tony loves working with youth. By helping them reach their personal best, he reaches his. Achieving his undergraduate at Brigham Young University and a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Utah State University Tony immediately felt he had something to give back. Telos became a reality in 2004 because of Tony’s (and partners) vision to build a program that would be a place that heals and re-builds families by offering a clinically-advanced approach to solving mental health needs. Tony has invested his entire career of 20 years working with youth and young adults of all ages and needs. In addition, Tony oversees the operations on all campuses and all services Telos offers. This is no small task, as the program demands individualized treatment. As a practicing therapist he has built and continues to build a therapeutic rigor that is second-to-none.

When not with his students he can be found developing system programming, overseeing quality improvement, or building innovative solutions. In addition Tony has accepted the nomination to serve as the NATSAP President (National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs) for the next 2 years.

Craig LaMont

“At the last Family Days triathlon my son was the last racer out of the water. I was standing on the dock and could see him slowly swimming in. As he got closer I could see someone swimming alongside him. To my surprise, Craig LaMont was in the water with Dan encouraging and coaching him along. It struck me–this is an amazing place filled with amazing people. The CEO of the company is in a wetsuit, in a lake, personally attending to my boy. Nowhere but Telos.” -parent

Craig is passionate about life. He shares that passion with his family, friends, students and staff. Often Craig is heard in the halls of Telos humming a tune and at times singing out for all to hear.  Craig loves Telos. As a co-founder, there is nothing he won’t do to help make a student’s stay the very best experience possible. In addition his full-throttle approach to life also includes other interests like coaching youth athletics, board service, church service, community service, and outdoor sports.  Craig has founded, owned and operated a number of residential treatment centers and is known in the industry as a premier authority in consulting circles. Craig is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has worked in and studied the mental health practices since 1990. Graduate degree is a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Brigham Young University.  Craig is passionate about serving teens and families and has dedicated his professional and volunteer time to that end.

Ian MacGregor

“My son has been working with different therapists for as long as I can remember. You’re the first one I have seen him bond with and actually look forward to coming to sessions with!” -Parent

Ian was born and raised in Central Pennsylvania where he learned to love adventure, the outdoors, playing sports, riding bikes, swimming, hiking, camping, and skiing. He has continued to work, study and travel, sometimes all at the same time. From the east coast to Mexico, Ian has enjoyed the beauty of the outdoors while working in the Mental Health field. He received his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lock Haven University. An advocate for diversity, Ian values cultural competence in his therapeutic work.  He uses a strengths-based approach to help young people unlock hidden abilities, enabling them to find deeper happiness in life.

Jensen Caldwell

“Jensen is always willing to do what he can to help those around him thrive and find success” – Coworker

Jensen is an amazing life coach. He really knows how to listen to those that he works with and loves being an advocate for them. He finds joy in helping and watching others set and achieve their personal goals. He isn’t afraid to challenge his students as he knows that they can raise to the occasion. 

Nathan King

“Thanks for letting me feel safe enough to mess up in your class.” –  Student

Nathan is a veteran of the space center industry. He has over ten years of experience of teaching and coaching others how to use the software. He knows how to fine tune each mission to help the participates learn and grow because of it. When he isn’t working, you can find him spending time with his foster kiddos.

Dr James Palmer, DO

“My son came to Telos having tried nearly every therapy and medication known to man. We had tried so many interventions, the waters were muddied as to what was effective and what wasn’t. Dr. Palmer took a careful and conservative approach to understanding my son’s psychiatric needs. He worked closely with the other professionals at Telos to simplify and streamline the medicines until we had a clear picture of what was needed.” – parent

Dr James Palmer brings a substantial background in mental health for teens and young adults that Telos thrives on. His passion for helping kids is evident in his attention to detail and outcomes.  Each student brings a unique blend of hopes, fears and needs and Dr Palmer spends the needed time with each student to help stabilize and support each need.The Telos vision asserts that “diagnostic precision” is a key objective in each student’s treatment. Dr. Palmer takes a conservative stance regarding diagnoses and patiently works toward a deep and comprehensive understanding of what each student is dealing with.

Jennifer Mills

“Jennifer is awesome. That is really all that needs to be said but I will say more. She is always happy and is amazing with her students. She has so much patience and is willing to do whatever she needs to help her students. Thanks Jennifer for everything that you do!” – Co-Worker

Jennifer has been working in the mental health field for the better part of 8 years and has experience working with individuals who have been diagnosed with various mental illnesses. Working in this field has helped her to develop not only a compassion for those who may struggle, but also a love for all people, and a desire to help them reach their fullest potential. Outside of work, Jennifer loves to sing, travel, meet new people and experience new cultures. Her singing has brought her to perform all over Utah as well as parts of Japan.

Craig Sperry

“Craig is simply amazing. He goes above and beyond to get to know and help all of the students that he works with.”  – Co-Worker

Craig has worked in the field of mental health in many compacities. He was worked in wilderness therapy, and is a seasoned vet at Telos by working in many different roles. Craig’s goal is to help Telos students to build a solid foundation in healthy living and leisure to help them to succeed. He loves teaching students how to do new things and watching them go from doubting and uncertainty to having that light bulb turn on and watching them learn and love what they are doing. He loves all things outdoors and that is usually where you can find him.

Justin Levine

“Justin’s smile and positivity is infectious. Plus, as a former Telos student and success story, he is a role model and inspiration for all who walk through our doors”. – Co-Worker

Huan Lo

“Huan brings a quiet confidence to Telos.  He has a gift for ‘seeing’ young people, connecting with them, and gaining their buy-in throughout the change process.”– Team

Haun Lo is a dedicated therapist at Telos, specializing in trauma, neurodiversity, family dynamics, and mood regulation. Born in Taiwan and having moved to the United States at age 11, Haun brings a rich, multicultural perspective to his work, offering a compassionate and deeply insightful approach to therapy. His expertise lies in working with adolescents and young adults, and he thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment where he can draw on collective insights to best support his clients.

Haun’s approach is both empathetic and practical, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual and family he works with. He is passionate about empowering clients on their journey to emotional resilience and self-understanding, and he is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive space where healing and growth can take place.

Erin Mason

“My child feels comfortable around you and can fully be themselves. That doesn’t happen very often.”– Parent

Erin Mason is CSW who believes in the transformative power of strong, trusting relationships in the therapeutic process which fosters healing and growth. Along with her expertise in autism spectrum disorder, Erin works with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma.

Drawing from a broad toolkit of therapeutic approaches – including CBT, DBT, ACT, MI and EMDR – Erin tailors her approach to each individual, always with the therapeutic relationship at the core of the work. She’s passionate about empowering individuals to face their challenges head-on and to embrace healing, even when it’s hard (and let’s be honest, it’s often hard).

Outside of her practice, Erin has a love for snowboarding and hiking. Whether on the slopes or in the therapy room, Erin is committed to walking alongside students as they take the often difficult but always worthwhile journey toward healing.

Phillip Stewart

“I wish we could take you home with our child” – Parent

Phillip is passionate about preparing the up and coming generation to be ready to take on the world. He has worked in the mental health industry for 2 years and has grown to love seeing the change and potential in everyone. Outside of work he loves rock climbing, volleyball, and mentoring the youth in these sports.

Wade Taylor

“Our son has never opened up and worked with us the way he has in our sessions with Wade. He has given us hope we can have a happy home life together” – Parent

Wade comes to Telos with a long history of helping youth and families.  A devoted healing professional, he has worked in the residential treatment profession for over 20 years. Wade is uniquely qualified to work with teens and young adults who struggle with processing issues and complex clinical profiles. His kind and focused attention gives students an opportunity to share, be heard, and learn, so they can progress and effectively advocate for themselves. Having worked with hundreds of students over the years, he is keenly aware of the need to look at each student holistically–understanding the impact of brain chemistry, brain wiring, learned behaviors, trauma, addictions, identity, and personality. When asked what is the most rewarding part of his job, Wade says, “seeing clients go from hopeless and disconnected from their support system to connected and full of hope.”

Dr. Sonyia Richardson

“Dr. Richardson has helped us have eyes to see our organization through the lens of equity. She has made a good program better.”

 

Dr. Richardson is Founder and Director of the Mental Health Research and Practice Lab which is housed in the Urban Education Collaborative in the College of Education. This research lab partners with community leaders, thought leaders, and researchers across the country to develop cutting-edge innovative solutions for addressing mental health disparities and mental health needs for diverse populations. Additionally, Dr. Richardson was appointed as Interim Director of the Race and Social Equity Academy (RASE). This academy fosters the scholarship of practice and research focused on advancing racial and social parities within the community. Along with empirical scholarship, race dialogue will be supported through intellectual discourse, bringing together thought leaders in our community representing a variety of perspectives on race and social equity matters.

Recently, Dr. Richardson was appointed by Governor Roy Cooper to serve on the Andrea Harris Social, Economic, Environmental, and Health Equity Task Force. In this role serves on the Education Subcommittee and offers recommendations to the Governor’s Office for addressing needs of diverse residents and communities in the state. She previously served a three-year term with the National Institutes of Mental Health, Adult Mental Health Interventions Subcommittee as a Public Reviewer. In addition to teaching, Dr. Richardson is the Owner of Another Level Counseling and Consultation located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Dr. Richardson currently serves as a Delegate for the National Association of Social Workers North Carolina Chapter and was appointed by the National President to the Private Practice Specialty Subcommittee to provide expertise and guidance to private practitioners nationally.

Arthur Kleinfelder

“Our son is doing exceptionally well since returning home and a lot of that is thanks to you, keep doing the good work.” – Parent of a student

Arthur brings a wealth of experience to Telos, having spent many years working with society’s most challenged individuals—adults requiring intensive mental health support as they navigate the legal system. Driven by a commitment to help young people avoid similar hardships, Arthur shifted his focus to caring for adolescents and young adults. As a master clinician, he knows how to leverage the transformative potential of a residential treatment setting to create meaningful change. His approach is culturally informed, drawing from years of experience working with families of diverse backgrounds and dynamics.

Previously, Arthur served as a psychology professor at Utah Valley University, where he shared his deep passion for teaching. Beyond his work in therapy and education, he is dedicated to Jiu-Jitsu, recently completing his Black Belt Test. His martial arts journey has taught him invaluable lessons in courage, resilience, and the art of teaching complex skills—qualities he brings into his work with students and families.

Kevin May, MSW

“Without your compassion and counsel I could not have made it successfully through this program. Now I feel ready for whatever life puts in front of me.” – Student

Kevin is a retired U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of honorable service who now devotes his professional life to helping families in need of hope and healing. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, Kevin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, and trauma. Kevin is a passionate advocate for the neurodiverse and finds joy in helping young people on the spectrum understand and advocate for themsleves. Kevin draws inspiration from connecting with and supporting his own family. In his free time, he enjoys woodworking—particularly crafting custom pens—hiking, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Karlo Brousset

“Karlo is always on top of everything and does it with a happy attitude” – Co-Worker

Karlo has years of experience with upkeeping and fixing things. Known for his hands-on approach and effective leadership, he ensures that all systems and processes run smoothly, focusing on efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement. Karlo’s dedication to maintaining high standards makes him a valuable asset to providing a safe and clean environment for our students.

Curtis Gardner

“Curtis has spent countless effort and time in helping our son apply for college. In the end, we were delighted when our son got his acceptance letter to the Berklee School of Music! Curtis was excellent at working with our son, and helping him accomplish this important life goal!” -Parent

Student school schedules and graduation requirements are what keeps Curtis focused. He is an ardent believer in succeeding in school and paves a runway for Telos U students still finishing high school. The senior year can be tricky with many students having schooled in several locations and academies so Curtis and his staff stay vigilant. His passion for student success is evident in his zeal to help them succeed. They work behind the scenes so parents and students enjoy a normalized school experience like prom, yearbook and other traditional school activities in addition to classes.

Hayden Wilson

“Hayden is an example of someone who lives the mission of Telos. He is always going above and beyond to help make the students and his co-workers’ lives easier. He is a great eye for systems and helps everyone to work smarter rather than harder.” – Staff

Hayden has been with Telos for a few years now. He has been in several positions during his time here at Telos. He has been an EF coach, and the EF Coordinator. Hayden has now moved into being the compliance and safety specialist and is looking forward to helping employees and Telos as a whole run more efficiently.

Michael Shomaker

“Thank you so much for all of the kindness you’ve shown to our son and family.  We will miss you.  You are what makes Telos special.  Thank you for everything!” -parent

The nursing team has one goal, to keep track of all the boys, make sure they are healthy, meds on time, sunscreen and safety first!  Whew, you might say they “think like moms.” In Michael’s case, he thinks like a mom, dad, medical practitioner, and mental health advocate rolled into one.  Prior to Telos Michael spent 15 years as a pediatric psychiatric nurse for the State of Utah.  He has also been a professional chef and understands that “food is medicine.”  Michael is at his best with those who are struggling with their worst.  Unendingly patient, he takes pride in running an organized department that assures safety while contributing to the heartfelt nurturance of the program.

Emma Black

“Emma’s talent is simply making me feel loved.” – Student

 

Emma completed her graduate internship with Family Services in Salt Lake City. Her mentor was an ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) guru who taught her how to become proficient in helping clients using ACT interventions. Emma has worked with all ages doing individual therapy as well as couple’s counseling. Her main focus is first building a therapeutic alliance prior to pushing for change. This not only contributes greatly to her satisfaction as a social worker but helps clients feel they have a safe space to heal through past and current psychological struggles. When not therapizing, Emma can be found playing with nieces and nephews or riding her Honda Fury… that is until she buys her own street bike.

Austin Stevenson

“Austin is the most astoundingly positive person I know. He always has a smile on his face..” -student

I have had the privilege to work with the fantastic students at Telos for the past five years. Working in both residential and Academic departments at Telos, I have gained helpful perspectives on our student’s lives and how we can contribute to their overall well-being. My experience at Telos has helped me make meaningful relationships with our wide range of students, allowing for an even greater depth of healing and connection. I also am passionate about those who feel like an “underdog.” Telos has been a great platform to allow me to help those students succeed. During my time outside of work, I can be found coaching high school varsity football/other athletics, outdoor recreation, and surrounding myself with good company.

Josh Sandberg

“Josh is amazing at connecting with others and helping them to find their best selves ” – Co-Worker

Josh is deeply passionate about making a positive impact on the world by helping others grow and improve. At Telos, he is dedicated to guiding students toward reaching their full potential, always maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, regardless of the circumstances. Outside of work, Josh enjoys camping, staying active with sports, and savoring delicious food.

Mitch Carter

“His experience and expertise shine through in his ability to hold firm boundaries with our boys and go through difficult situations with them, while maintaining good rapport. Our students and the rest of the residential team appreciate his dependability, stability, and the care that he puts into his work. ” – Co-Worker

Mitchell is an avid reader and fitness enthusiast with a distinguished 13-year career in the Air Force. After retiring from the military, he sought a new path to give back and find personal fulfillment. Driven by a passion for helping others, Mitchell is dedicated to supporting teenagers and young adults, using his experience and commitment to make a positive impact in their lives.

Larry Smith

“Larry Smith is caring, thoughtful and creative. He has made a huge impact on Ryan. Beyond our son, the entire family has grown from Larry’s willingness to offer a tremendous amount of time with each member. He is consistent and steadfast in his values. Ryan sees this and has started to adopt those same principles of happiness into his own life. We are deeply indebted to Larry.” -parent

Larry is described by many as the “Dad of Telos.” This honorary title fits well because years ago as a volunteer leader and counselor, Larry worked with youth and families for decades to strengthen relationships, improve communications, and overcome problems like depression, anxiety, substance use and addiction. These skills and wisdom are invaluable, even “dad like” for our students today. Larry has a strong desire to help kids succeed at life’s challenges and through Telos achieve their ultimate potential.