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.

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 developed a deep appreciation for adventure, the outdoors, and an active lifestyle. Whether hiking, camping, skiing, or exploring new terrain, that spirit of curiosity and engagement continues to shape both his life and his clinical work.

His journey has taken him across the country and beyond—from the East Coast to Mexico—where he has blended work, study, and travel in meaningful ways, all while building his experience in the mental health field. Ian earned his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lock Haven University, grounding his adventurous spirit in strong clinical training.

A committed advocate for diversity and inclusion, Ian prioritizes cultural competence in his therapeutic approach, striving to understand each individual within the context of their unique background and lived experience. He utilizes a strengths-based framework to help young people uncover and develop their inherent abilities, empowering them to build confidence, resilience, and a deeper, more sustainable sense of fulfillment 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.

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

Huan Lo is a dedicated therapist at Telos, known for his thoughtful, culturally attuned approach and depth of clinical insight. He specializes in trauma, neurodiversity, family systems, and mood regulation, bringing both precision and compassion to his work with adolescents and young adults.

Born in Taiwan and relocating to the United States at age 11, Huan offers a rich multicultural perspective that informs his ability to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds. His lived experience enhances his sensitivity to identity, transition, and belonging—allowing him to create a therapeutic space where clients feel understood at a deeper level.

Huan thrives in collaborative, team-based environments and values the integration of multiple perspectives to provide the highest level of care. His approach balances empathy with practicality, combining emotional attunement with actionable strategies tailored to each individual and family system.

He is deeply committed to helping clients build emotional resilience, strengthen self-awareness, and navigate complex personal and relational challenges. Through a safe, inclusive, and growth-oriented environment, Huan empowers those he works with to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and connection.

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 brings more than two decades of dedicated experience working with youth and families in residential treatment, establishing himself as a seasoned and deeply committed healing professional. Throughout his career, he has worked with hundreds of adolescents and young adults, developing a refined ability to navigate complex clinical presentations with both precision and care.

He is particularly skilled in supporting individuals with processing challenges and multifaceted clinical profiles, where nuanced understanding and patience are essential. Wade’s calm, focused presence creates a space where students feel genuinely heard and understood—often for the first time. Within that space, they are able to develop insight, build confidence, and learn to effectively advocate for themselves.

Wade approaches each student through a comprehensive, holistic lens. He carefully considers the interplay of brain chemistry, neurodevelopment, learned behaviors, trauma, addiction, identity, and personality—recognizing that meaningful change requires understanding the full context of an individual’s experience.

Known for his consistency, empathy, and clinical depth, Wade remains grounded in what matters most: helping students move from disconnection and hopelessness to a renewed sense of connection, purpose, and hope. As he often reflects, the most rewarding part of his work is witnessing that transformation firsthand—when a young person reconnects with their support system and begins to believe in their future again.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Melissa Padgett

“Melissa has an authentic and kind energy that allows her to effortlessly connect with others.”– Team

Melissa Padgett is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) whose path into mental health reflects both intention and depth. Following a successful and fulfilling career in healthcare, she was drawn to the field of mental health and neuroscience, recognizing the profound connection between emotional well-being and physical health. This calling led her to pursue advanced education in psychology at Colorado Christian University, where she distinguished herself through exceptional academic achievement.

Melissa earned her Associate of Science in Psychology in 2020, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology in 2021, and most recently completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling—all while maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. Her commitment to excellence has been recognized through multiple Dean’s List honors, Magna Cum Laude distinction, and membership in prestigious professional organizations including Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International and the American Counseling Association.

With more than two decades of experience in healthcare, Melissa brings a uniquely integrated perspective to her clinical work. She possesses a deep understanding of the dynamic relationship between mental, emotional, and physical health—recognizing how each profoundly influences the other. This holistic lens allows her to approach treatment with a level of depth and comprehensiveness that supports the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.

Melissa’s therapeutic approach is grounded in a person-centered framework, with a strong emphasis on tailoring interventions to the unique needs and experiences of each individual. She is committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel genuinely seen and supported. Whether working with anxiety, depression, trauma, or significant life transitions, she seeks to empower clients to explore their challenges, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Her blend of extensive healthcare experience, academic rigor, and authentic care for others defines her work and reflects a deep commitment to providing the highest standard of clinical support.

Rachel McCuistion

“Rachel was like a guardian angel for our son. It made my mom heart happy to know my son was so well cared for.” – Parent

Each individual brings a unique set of life experiences that shape how they engage with the world. Understanding the profound impact these experiences can have, she is deeply committed to ensuring that the environments and systems supporting students are grounded in compassion, safety, and growth.

With a background in clinical practice, she brings a thoughtful, trauma-informed perspective to her administrative role. Her approach is centered on creating spaces where students feel supported, understood, and empowered—ensuring that the care provided is both relationally grounded and clinically sound. She works closely with teams to help align programming with each student’s needs, fostering an environment where meaningful change can take place.

Her training includes a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, and experiential approaches. She also has experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for family work. This extensive clinical foundation informs her leadership, decision-making, and ability to support both staff and students at a high level.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a Master’s degree in Social Work, bringing a unique blend of experiential and clinical insight to her role. Her background allows her to thoughtfully bridge the gap between clinical excellence and program implementation, helping ensure that care is both effective and holistic.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, she maintains a strong connection to the outdoors. Whether hiking, running, mountain biking, climbing, or training for triathlons—often alongside her dogs—she lives out the same principles of resilience, balance, and engagement that underpin the work she supports every day.

Jake Lortsher

“The essence of leadership is not getting overwhelmed by circumstances.” – Kim Scott

Tia Jamile

“Tia is the best! She truly helped me get through one of the hardest times of my life. She is the most caring, supportive, empathetic, authentic, and encouraging person. I will forever be grateful for what she did for me.” – Past Student

Natalie Savage

“Natalie is always a joy to be around. She is professional, caring, and kind. I have enjoyed working on the same treatment teams as her and am always impressed by her hard work and how she is able to help her students and her coworkers.” – Coworker

Natalie’s journey with Telos began through direct, hands-on work as a Youth Mentor and Life Coach, where she spent four years building meaningful relationships and supporting students in their day-to-day growth. This foundational experience shaped her clinical perspective and deepened her commitment to helping individuals create lasting change.

She later stepped away to advance her education, completing her Master of Social Work internship with a diverse clinical focus that included general mental health, domestic violence, and substance use treatment across both individual and group settings. These experiences broadened her clinical skillset while reinforcing her passion for working with individuals navigating complex and often deeply personal challenges.

Natalie is driven by a genuine curiosity and respect for each person’s story. She is passionate about walking alongside others as they pursue wellness and wholeness—mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Her approach is relational, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change emerges through connection, understanding, and consistent support.

Outside of her professional work, Natalie leads an active and adventurous lifestyle. She is an avid road and trail runner, frequently participating in races ranging from marathons to obstacle courses. She also enjoys playing sports, snow skiing, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends and family. A dedicated podcast listener, she is always seeking new ideas and perspectives that continue to enrich both her personal and professional life.

Maycie Gerber

“There’s nothing better than watching a boy build confidence and important life skills as he masters a black diamond run, nails his first bike jump, or makes it to the top of a difficult climb.”   -Maycie

Maycie has worked with youth for many years.  A lover of the outdoors, she believes time spent in nature can heal us from the wounds of living in an overconnected but relationally shallow world.  Maycie loves introducing people to new passions and lovingly pushing them beyond their comfort zones.  A master of “therapy without walls,” Maycie loves helping people reach their ultimate potential.  

Larissa Olofson

“Thank you for never giving up on my child—even when it felt like everyone else had.” -Parent

Larissa brings over a decade of hands-on experience in residential treatment, with a leadership style rooted in compassion, clarity, and trauma-informed care. Her journey in behavioral health began at 18, working with adults with disabilities—an experience that sparked a deep passion for supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. Since then, she has served in a variety of direct care roles and positions in Human Resources and Risk Management, gaining a well-rounded understanding of both direct care and the systems that support it.

Outside of her professional life, Larissa is a proud mom of three and finds joy in camping, hiking, paddle boarding, game nights, and spontaneous adventures. She is also deeply committed to personal growth, investing in therapy, journaling, and self-reflection to stay grounded and emotionally healthy. At her core, Larissa is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact and to show up for others—even on their hardest days.

Gracie Shumard

“Not only is Gracie super organized and on top of things, but she is also great at connecting with people. Whenever you need something, she is a great option to go to- if she isn’t already doing it.”

Gracie is the first friendly face seen at our South Campus! She is always kind, helpful, and fun. Gracie seamlessly manages many administrative aspects of multiple departments – always with a smile on her face! She enjoys hiking, camping, reading, dance, and violin.

Kiah Welch

“You are a natural working with children, well articulated, and mature and dependable.” – Former Employer

Kiah has been a great addition to Telos! She is always friendly and helpful, and she has done a great job maintaining Telos processes and systems. She has a great attitude about her work! She’s responsive and solves problems effectively. She has great customer service and has done a great job building relationships with visitors, students, and staff. Outside of work, she loves traveling, watching sunsets, making sourdough bread, and going to concerts!

Parker Johnson

“You totally won us over when we met you, we are so excited you’ll be the Life Coach working with our son!” – Parent

Parker has extensive experience working with young adults in the classroom and throughout the mental health field, building a love and compassion for all people. Parker has found a strong desire to help others move toward their ultimate potential. Parker loves the outdoors, with camping and hiking at the top of his list of favorites. Parker is passionate about health and fitness, and he is an avid runner!

McKenna Beech

“McKenna is passionate about the work that she does and strives to do what is best for the students.  She enjoys building relationships with the people around her and they know she genuinely cares” – Coworker

McKenna has experience working in residential treatment with adolescents and young adults. She aspires to become a therapist one day. McKenna is great with building relationships with students, creating a dynamic of trust and reliability. Outside of work, McKenna enjoys spending time in the sun, camping in the mountains, being at the lake, and watching a good movie.

Darin Hansen

“You totally saved my life and helped me to do a complete 180. I can’t thank you enough for your impact.” – Former Student

Darin brings over a decade of dedicated clinical experience working with adolescents in residential treatment, having practiced as a therapist since 2011. He earned his Master of Social Work from the University of Utah and has built a career defined by consistency, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping young people change the trajectory of their lives.

From the outset of his career, Darin discovered a passion for working with youth—a passion that continues to drive his work today. His approach is grounded in the belief that meaningful, lasting change is built on genuine connection. He prioritizes developing strong, trusting relationships with his clients, recognizing that the therapeutic alliance is often the most powerful catalyst for growth. When needed, Darin is willing to think creatively and step beyond traditional models to meet each individual where they are and help them move forward.

Darin’s steady presence, authenticity, and ability to engage even the most resistant teens make him a trusted and impactful clinician within the treatment environment.

Outside of his professional life, Darin’s greatest joy is his family. As a devoted husband and father of three, he values time spent together—whether through sports, camping, boating, golfing, or shared outdoor adventures. That same sense of connection and commitment he brings to his family is evident in the care he provides to the clients he serves.

Jon Follano

“When I see Jon with the students, the students are always smiling.” – Coworker

Jon is a dedicated Substance Use Disorder Counselor whose path into the mental health field reflects both intention and purpose. After relocating from Minnesota to Utah in 2019, he discovered his passion for helping others through his work in wilderness therapy—an experience that became the foundation for his ongoing commitment to supporting individuals in recovery.

Since that time, Jon has steadily advanced his clinical training and expertise. He earned his Associate of Social Work and Substance Use Disorder Counselor certification from Salt Lake Community College and is currently pursuing both a Bachelor’s degree in Family Science and a Master’s degree in Social Work at Utah Valley University. His continued education reflects a deep investment in becoming a highly skilled, well-rounded clinician.

Jon brings a grounded, authentic presence to his work, creating an environment where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to change. He is passionate about walking alongside individuals as they navigate the challenges of recovery, helping them build resilience, accountability, and a renewed sense of direction.

Outside of his professional life, Jon enjoys traveling, gardening with his wife, and engaging in creative storytelling through games like Dungeons & Dragons—interests that reflect his curiosity, relational nature, and appreciation for growth both in and out of the therapy space.

London Jacobs

“We trust London’s judgment wholeheartedly. She always volunteers to help, and she goes above and beyond in everything she does.” – Leadership Team

Austin Esquivel

“Austin is someone you can count on to bring consistency, positivity, and a strong focus on helping students grow both physically and mentally.” – Coworker

As the Neurofitness Private Training Coordinator at Telos, Austin supports students across all programs work toward their physical fitness goals. Austin brings a strong passion for physical wellness and performance into his work with students.

Outside of Telos, Austin enjoys staying active through hiking, fishing, camping, wrestling, weightlifting, CrossFit, and sports. This commitment to fitness and healthy living plays a key role in creating engaging, movement-based neurofitness experiences that support student growth and overall well-being.

Marian Dignan

“Thank you for always being a safe place for my child through these very challenging times.” – Former Parent

Marian is a dedicated Clinical Therapist at the South Campus, deeply committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate the complexities of growth, healing, and life transition. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Master of Social Work from Utah Valley University, building a strong academic and clinical foundation for her work.

Marian has a particular passion for trauma-focused care and is intentional about creating a therapeutic environment defined by safety, compassion, and trust. She believes that meaningful change begins when individuals feel truly seen and understood, and she is skilled at meeting clients where they are—walking alongside them as they develop resilience, confidence, and a stronger sense of self.

Her approach is both grounded and empowering, helping clients not only process past experiences but also build the internal resources needed to move forward with clarity and purpose.

Outside of her clinical work, Marian enjoys camping, hiking, solving puzzles, and crafting—activities that reflect her thoughtful, curious nature. She also values time spent with loved ones, including her cat, and brings that same sense of warmth and connection into the relationships she builds with her clients.

Gavin Karren

“I love knowing that wherever I need you to be working is somewhere I don’t need to worry about anymore. I can just trust that you have things handled.” – Previous Supervisor

Gavin is a dedicated Life Coach with a strong foundation in human development and relationships. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science from Utah State University, where he developed a passion for helping individuals grow and navigate life’s challenges. Gavin brings a thoughtful, personalized approach to his work, focusing on practical strategies and meaningful connections. Outside of coaching, he enjoys creative crafts like wood burning and engraving, playing board games, reading, and exploring history.