Your Geneva Team

Monte Criddle

“Thank you for seeing my son and being able to reach him in a way that no other helping professional has been able to.”   -parent

If you are considering residential care for your young adult, consider that all great results come down to a culture of excellence that begins with leadership. Monte is that leader—an outstanding steward of parental trust and reliability. Monte runs a premium program for young adults that is considered the best in the industry by many. As Executive Director, his highly trained and certified team uses proven, clinically sophisticated modalities to deliver astounding, life-changing results for students and families.  With decades of clinical experience, he and his team are well-positioned to give students an experience that will be a turning point in their lives.  Monte’s team at Telos U has one goal, and that is to give individualized answers to emotional hurdles that enable a launch into adulthood with a principle-based life.

Trevor Earl, PhD

“Trevor was able to see our child differently than any prior therapist had and those insights allowed him to offer successful alternative styles of treatment that had never before been presented.”  -parent

Trevor brings over a decade of experience in residential treatment, beginning as a residential staffer and working into the role of a therapist upon graduation. Prior to Telos, Trevor published research on Best Practices in Residential Therapeutic Settings and evangelizes those principles, benefiting students and staff at Telos and currently is an adjunct professor in a Mental Health Counseling, Masters Program at Westminster College.

Working with clients under numerous challenges from anxiety/depression to trauma and oppositional-defiance, Trevor’s strengths lie in his clinical excellence and as the Clinical Director at Telos U brings a wealth of knowledge and an engaged leader, with the ability to clinically move the mission of Telos forward. Trevor’s passion for youth is evident in his academic rigor and professional accomplishments that benefit youth.

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.

Camie Shepherd, SHRM-CP

“Camie is dependable, has amazing leadership skills, work ethic, all while having an enthusiastic attitude while doing it.” -staff

Camie started at Telos as a PrTMS technician in 2019 as part of the Neuro Health team. She moved to the administrative assistant role at Telos U and worked in that role for a little over a year before joining the HR team. Camie is a true people person and loves helping those around her. She is organized and a systems thinker who is always seeking to improve the workplace. Camie’s hobbies include camping, riding four-wheelers, scrapbooking, and quilting.

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.

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.

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.

Erin Mason

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

Erin brings expertise in autism spectrum disorder treatment to Telos U.  Her superpower is to build connections and put students at ease quickly. In speaking of the change process, Erin says, “My end goal is to empower the students. I want them to have opportunities to prove they can do hard things.”  A happy personality is Erin’s default.  She finds humor in the simple things and believes in having fun along the way.

“I want students to feel they can be successful in their lives. Sometimes the ‘how’ in making that happen gets confusing, lost, or out of reach. These challenges don’t mean success can’t be achieved; we must find what works for them. Discovering these ways together as a team is what drives me.

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.”

Michael Santos

“I’ve had a lot of therapists in my life, but you’re the first one I really connected with.  I feel like you got me.  I was able to open up to you more than I have with any other therapist, and I was finally able to progress more than I ever have before.”       – student

Michael was recruited by the Boy Scouts of America to develop and direct rock climbing and rappelling programs for their camps for 3 years. He then worked at Elements Wilderness Program as a field staff before transitioning to Telos. Michael is an EMT, is a Wilderness First Responder, and has finished the Single Pitch Instructor course through the American Mountain Guide Association. Michael is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and  7 Challenges Drug Abuse Counseling. Outside of Telos he enjoys many of the same activities he facilitates, including backpacking, rock climbing, ice climbing, canyoneering, flyfishing, paddle-boarding, skiing, and whitewater rafting. 

Michael Dawson

“Your actions speak louder than words, I can tell that you truly care about my son.” -parent

Michael has spent several years working in the mental health field.  Starting as a crisis counselor he moved onto positions within schools and programs both public and private.  In recent years Michael has maintained a special focus on academic services.  He has taught 3D Printing, UAV, and Outdoor Leadership.  

Joseph Johnson

“You’ve given me the tools and courage to overcome my pain and loss and find hope for the future.”       – student

Joseph’s end goal with students is all about their empowerment. He wants to help them better understand themselves, where they came from, and why they are how they are—at the same time, equipping them to identify and utilize healthy coping skills that can set them up for success in interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Joseph’s witty humor,  creativity, and passion for art and music help him identify with our students. He has helped many families grow closer together and improve their relationships while also helping them walk through distress and uncertainty associated with youth and teenage suicidality. Joseph finds it rewarding to see his clients improve their overall well-being and find the parts of life they enjoy. “Seeing the shift in mindset is gratifying as they begin to feel more empowered and can independently solve or manage problems that used to baffle them. It’s almost like you can see the light come on when you look into their eyes”, he remarks. “They look alive and excited.”

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.

Javier Celestino, LMFT

“Javier gave us so much hope for change. We could tell that he was genuinely on our side and cared about us as a family.” – Parents

With a passion for youth and mental health, Javier is focused on connecting with his students quickly. They soon feel they belong to the Telos Family, from the warm friendly relationships that thrive at Telos. Javier has a strong commitment to “belonging”. He comes from a blended family and has experienced death of family members. His life experiences help him mentor his students toward a healthy space in the face of adversity. Javier believes in the direct path of honesty and stands by his students every step of the way. Growth and healing is a powerful result of love and honesty.

Scottie Wilson

“Scottie is one of the deepest contributors for the work we do at Telos. He is quick to come up with solutions to vexing problems and arrange his efforts to build those around him. We are lucky to have him on our team.”  – staff

Scottie is a powerhouse at the Geneva Campus. He is a strong advocate for student success. With a thoughtful and caring approach Scottie and the Student Living Team put their hearts and souls into students. Working day (and often night) for the well being of each student, Scottie keeps the campus intact and promotes a positive environment.

Scottie comes to Telos having worked with youth for more than eight years as a residential mentor and lead supervisor. He has a great passion for being active physically and mentally and encourages students to do the same.

Taylor Rogers

Taylor has been with us every step of the way and has genuinely supported our family when we needed it.

Caring for the families entering Telos comes easily for Taylor. Her kind nature is a great addition to the Admissions Team. Taylor loves meeting families for the first time and watching them learn how Telos gives hope and new life to families. She has a unique opportunity to see families before Telos and as they leave, and it inspires her to see the “growth and empowerment” the young adults gain in the program.

Dr Ryan Anderson, PhD

We were beginning to run out of hope, when we met Ryan. He seemed to grasp what was going on with our son so quickly, and he found a way to connect that worked through his resistance. He always seemed to have hope, vision, and a path forward, even at our darkest times. He was so helpful to us as parents, too. We still can’t believe we were lucky enough to get to work with Ryan!   -parent

Dr. Anderson is a pioneer in experiential and immersion therapy. He operates a therapeutic starship, of all things and his passion and love for student’s success bursts through somewhere above earth and before you reach the wormhole. The many modalities he orchestrates all come together for students and families to learn insights and skills like family communication, executive function, problem solving, and others. Ryan and his team are experts at opening therapeutic doors through roleplay and group dynamics that feels like play. These rich insights from an out-of-the-box approach applies grounded therapeutic modalities that create “aha moments” for the healing process.

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.

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.

Richard McOmber

“You are very patient.” -pretty much everyone

My past experience is in Technical Writing and Editing, back from the heady days of WordPerfect where I started as an International Documentation Editor.  I also taught at Utah Valley Community College for over ten years and watched it grow into Utah Valley University.  I have taught at a small, public high school as well.  I’m married with a son and a daughter, both of whom have young children.  I like spending free time with my King Shepherd dog and my motorcycle.

Tina Moore

As a powerhouse of patience and empathy, Ms. Moore exemplifies the best qualities of a gifted teacher. Tina is a geek at heart and loves science and math. Her enthusiasm carries over to the classroom, where her students also learn to enjoy these topics.

With a lifetime of experience working with learning disabilities (especially ADHD and processing disorders), Tina relates easily with students who struggle to “get it.” Math and science are not easy.

In Ms. Moore’s class, students learn about the world around them through science and math. They learn how to succeed in school and problem-solve, skills that carry over to success outside the classroom.  Tina’s top priorities are building relationships and establishing rapport with each student. 

Kyrie Nielsen

“Kyrie took the time to actually get to know me. I didn’t feel like I was just another client. She genuinely cared about and valued me even when I didn’t value myself.” -student

Kyrie brings exciting diverse talents and industry knowledge to Telos. With over 6 years of experience, her superpower is a vibrant sense of humor combined with a foundational empathetic nature that helps even her most timid clients find comfort in change. Her professional desire is to empower students to help them recognize they are the hero of their own story. She believes that students need opportunities for growth, to master skills necessary to reach their full potential. Kyrie finds great satisfaction in seeing students find their confidence and move toward life changing goals.

Kylee Shields

“Kylee gets me excited about (and reminds me to focus on) the important things in life. She has the gift of empathy and can easily see the potential in others. Her kind and compassionate heart makes her perfect for the career she’s chosen.”   -parent

Kylee’s enthusiastic demeanor allows her to easily relate with students. Her success as a strength-based therapist, (using experiential, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused therapy) to find resolutions and healing to the most challenging cases, is powerful. For years, she has worked closely with young people suffering from attachment, substance use, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiance and bereavement, and a myriad of other psychological difficulties.  Her passion began early on while working in youth camps and treatment settings like boarding school and wilderness therapy. The passion grew as did her experience which included a short stint on the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona. As a well rounded person, she finds joy in writing, running a non-profit and the outdoors.

Laurie Laird-Trandum

“Your love and care have been so much more than your job. You have been a part of our entire family. Our daughter is graduating!! A year ago that goal was just a prayer not an expectation. Without the love you gave, it would not have happened.”      -parent

With a tool belt filled with love and appreciation for her students and co-workers, it is easy to see why Laurie’s department thrives in nearly every way.  She brings 20 years in the industry to Telos and is kind of a big deal in the academic leadership circles. As the Education Director on the Geneva Campus, Laurie works with our students who are 18 and older, to find paths that promote launching academically. Her approach is enthusiastic and almost magical, as she helps students see a vision that takes them beyond treatment and begins building a life that is sustainable and rewarding. Laurie is quick to see the baby steps of improvement and passionately celebrates all movement forward for her students. She loves her students and it shows in her lively interactions and smiles in the hallways.

Chalese Petitta

Chalese’s warm and kind approach to mentoring pays huge when students realize she will be there for them even if they fail. Helping students become the best version of themselves is her super power! Her passion comes from seeing students succeed after the humble beginnings at Telos to the strong confidence student they become when they leave. Her journey with each student is different but she loves the process as they grow and build their own future.