At Desert Lotus Counseling, we believe in caring for the whole person.
We see therapy as an important part of each individual’s healing journey and work from an integrative perspective that supports overall wellness.
Therapy should be a safe space to explore, learn, and grow — a place where your culture, identity, lifestyle, and values are honored. You are the expert on your own life. Your therapist is here to walk alongside you as a teacher, ally, and advocate, helping you move toward the life you want to live.
We recognize that many of the challenges bringing people to therapy are natural human responses to trauma, stress, and systemic injustice. Each therapist at Desert Lotus Counseling has extensive training in trauma-informed care and healing modalities, offering support that is compassionate, evidence-based, and grounded in respect for your lived experience and the broader systems that shape it.
Melissa Rosinski, LPC
Founder/Clinical Director | She/Her
I believe that the most important element of counseling is creating a safe space where people feel heard, understood, and supported.
This relationship, based on nonjudgmental acceptance, is the foundation for the work we will do together. Therapy is not just about the problem! I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my goal is to help you uncover your unique strengths and resilience to manage challenges, grow, and thrive. I specialize in working with young adults and college students. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
I use a person-centered approach to counseling that tailors interventions to each individual’s needs. A typical session with me may include psychoeducation about the effects of trauma on the brain; positive psychology interventions to explore your strengths and resilience; cognitive behavioral therapy to gain insight into the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors; or mindful self-compassion skills for support on your healing journey. I am currently completing a certificate program in Ecotherapy and I love working with clients to explore healing through connection with the Earth.
I have worked in the mental health field in Southern Arizona for over 10 years, with experience in a variety of settings including community behavioral health, private residential treatment, and as a counselor in a university business school.
More Details About Melissa:
Accepting New Clients?
Y
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Language(s):
English and Spanish
Education:
BA, Political Science, University of Arizona
MS, Community Counseling, University of Phoenix
License:
Arizona Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC-16860
N
Melissa Lopez, LCSW
Therapist | She/Her
I have been working in the mental health field for ten years and have a passion for supporting people through life challenges.
My approach to therapy focuses on establishing a safe and open therapeutic relationship that allows individuals to feel heard and supported. My goal is to help discover individual strengths and values as sources of empowerment and opportunities for continued growth.
I have experience working with individuals of a wide age range from childhood into later adulthood, but my current focus is in working with ages 18 and up.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I have several years of experience working specifically with concerns related to trauma and have training in the areas of: somatic approaches, grief support, mindfulness, CBT, and trauma-informed approaches.
I have also obtained these certifications in my professional development: MISS Foundation- Compassionate Bereavement Care Certified Provider, EMDR Levels I & II, and Reiki Master.
More Details About Melissa:
Accepting New Clients?
N
Y
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, United Healthcare
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Education:
MSW, Arizona State University, 2014
BA in Psychology, University of Arizona, 2012
License:
Arizona Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LCSW-19462
Kathia Yanez, LPC
Therapist | She/Her
I’ve worked in the mental health field for 10 years, with prior experience working as support staff in residential locations, as a case manager and as a behavioral health technician.
All of these different settings have taught me so much about our overall health, and the learning only continues.
I consider therapy to be beneficial for all, whether it be to address a pressing matter or wanting to learn more about oneself. While my approach to therapy is person-centered, I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT.) I see therapy as a collaborative relationship and a safe place to speak freely and openly in a non-judgmental setting. Together we will find what feels like the best approach for you. Our sessions will explore coping and daily life skills to incorporate into your process.
I have worked with a variety of age groups including young adults, and those in later adulthood. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I am available for both in person and virtual sessions. I look forward to meeting you, and joining you in this process.
My additional areas of continuing education specifically involve Internal Family Systems.
More Details About Kathia:
Accepting New Clients?
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Language(s):
English and Spanish
Education:
BA in Psychology, University of Arizona, 2012
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Northern Arizona University, 2022
License:
Arizona Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC-23980
Waitlist
Saige Bynum, LMSW
Therapist | She/Her
I have worked in the mental health field for 5 years with prior experience working as a group therapist for adults and adolescents in an intensive outpatient setting.
As a therapist, I like to work from a strengths-based perspective, helping others understand and hone their inner power, resilience and self-worth and guide you in the exploration of expanding that outwards in all facets of your life. I believe that therapy should be safe, inclusive and empowering and that it can be beneficial for everyone, no matter if you want to address a specific issue or simply have a desire to feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin.
I have worked with individuals and groups with a wide variety of needs utilizing psychoeducation and trauma-informed CBT and DBT modalities. I am continually learning and expanding my knowledge of different modalities and therapeutic approaches in an effort to meet the needs of each individual. I am an LGBTQ+ and BIPOC allied and affirming therapist. I have this additional certification/credential: Compassionate Bereavement Care Certified Provider.
More Details About Saige:
Accepting New Clients?
N
Y
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Education:
MSW, Fordham University, 2022
License:
Arizona Licensed Master Social Worker
LMSW-21130
Adrienne Elias, LMSW-T
Therapist | She/Her
I have over a decade of experience in support roles in nonprofit and community mental health.
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and I work from an intersectional feminist lens. I am a BIPOC-allied provider. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed and harm reduction based.
I have worked with the LGBTQ+ community, people living with HIV, older adults, and people of all ages and backgrounds. My goal is to provide a non-judgemental, inclusive and trusting space to work together. I look forward to meeting you!
More Details About Adrienne:
Accepting New Clients?
Y
N
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Education:
MSW, University of Michigan, 2024
License:
Arizona Licensed Master Social Worker
LMSW-08258T
Kristi Helgeson, LPC
Therapist | She/Her
I am a queer identifying therapist, momma, wife, friend, and woman.
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, my family and I landed in Tucson a few years ago. Since moving here I’ve discovered a love for insects, how to keep desert plants alive, and the importance of digging into community. Prior to joining Desert Lotus Counseling I worked in community mental health, private practice, and as a mental health consultant supporting early childhood educators.
I know there are many reasons people come to therapy. Whatever has brought you to this space, welcome. Stepping into therapy is no small feat and I am honored that you are considering allowing me to join you on this courageous journey. As a licensed therapist, I strive to create a space in which you feel safe to bring all of you – the known and the unknown. Together, we will create a space each week that will allow you to move toward more of what you want in this moment.
I am particularly passionate about working with clients exploring their identity/sexuality; those who are parents; and survivors of sexual assault, abuse or DV (with specific training in Trauma-Focused CBT). As a therapist, I use a variety of modalities during our sessions each of which is intended to meet your specific needs. I am a relational therapist at my core - I believe that we find healing when we are fully seen and known by another. If you think we might be a good fit, reach out for a free consultation. I look forward to hearing from you.
More Details About Kristi:
Accepting New Clients?
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Education:
MA in Counseling Psychology, The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, Seattle, WA 2014
License:
Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC-19755
Waitlist
Melissa Portell, LAC-T, ATR-P
Art Therapist | She/Her
With my dual training in art therapy and clinical counseling, I provide a warm, collaborative, and integrative approach, drawing on both traditional methods and creative processes to tailor a treatment plan that fits your unique needs, strengths, and goals.
Art therapy provides powerful ways to explore and express experiences that may be difficult to articulate through words alone. Through creative expression, clients can gain insight, release emotions, and connect with their innate strengths. Engaging in drawing, collage, clay, or simple mark-making can open new avenues for understanding and transformation. There is no need for artistic skill or experience, and the focus in art therapy is on the creative process, not the finished product.
In addition to art therapy, I integrate person-centered, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed approaches, and I hold additional certifications in grief counseling and complex trauma treatment. My practice is grounded in empathy, respect, and the belief that every person has the capacity for growth and resilience. I have worked with adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and PTSD, and I strive to help each client cultivate self-compassion, emotional balance, and a renewed sense of connection and meaning. I am deeply committed to providing an inclusive, affirming, and safe space for individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.
Outside the therapy office, I find inspiration in the beauty and diversity of the Sonoran Desert and its sky islands. I enjoy creating art, spending time in nature, and engaging in practices that nourish creativity and mindfulness.
More Details About Melissa:
Accepting New Clients?
Insurance Accepted:
Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Education:
MA in Art Therapy/Counseling,
Southwestern College, 2025
License:
Arizona LAC-08355T
Y
N
Sadie Bender Shorr, Intern
Intern | they/them/theirs
I am currently completing my second-year practicum through ASU’s Master of Social Work program.
My background is in social work and education, with experience specifically in healthcare, residential, and school-based settings.
As a counseling intern, I’m focused on developing my therapeutic skills and style this year! Throughout this process, I hope to work with people from truly all walks of life. With whatever you bring, my goal is to provide a non-judgmental spot to land and compassionately move through it.
My relational approach is person-centered and anti-oppressive. I believe that clients should be the tellers of their own stories, and that it’s essential to acknowledge how systems of power shape our lived experiences. I’m grateful for the chance to work and learn with y’all.
More Details About Sadie:
Accepting New Clients?
Insurance Accepted:
Self-pay only
Telehealth or in-person:
In-person and telehealth available
Education:
Bachelor of Arts,
Lewis & Clark College ‘18
License:
Pending
Y
N
Victoria Figueroa
Administrative Assistant | She/Her
I am a recent graduate from the University of Arizona with a BA in psychology.
I assist the team here at Desert Lotus Counseling with consultations, scheduling clients, insurance checks, and billing.
You might also see me around the office taking care of our plants and making sure the coffee is always stocked!
Although I work on the administrative side of things, I am passionate about helping provide a safe community here in Tucson that validates and affirms all backgrounds, gender identities, sexualities, and more.
More Details About Victoria:
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology,
University of Arizona 2024
Join Our Team
Currently Hiring Therapists
We are always interested in hearing from therapists who align with our values and have a passion for working with the people we serve. Please email your resume/cover letter detailing your experience and interest to melissa@desertlotuscounseling.com.
Please note: We are currently hiring therapists with evening/weekend availability.