About Us

“What happens when people open their hearts? They get better.”
― Haruki Murakami

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I’m Cynthia, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, and former attorney with more than 20 years of experience supporting people through times of challenge and transition. My passion is helping individuals and couples heal from stress, trauma, grief, and disconnection so they can feel more grounded, whole, and connected to themselves, their relationships, and what matters most.

In our work together, my priority is creating a safe, supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and understood—without judgment. I integrate both body-based (“bottom-up”) and cognitive (“top-down”) approaches, weaving together Somatic Experiencing®, talk therapy, and relational work. This allows us to explore how trauma and stress live in the body, while also examining the thoughts, beliefs, and stories that shape your experience. I tailor each session to meet you where you are, honoring your pace and your choices.

My clinical focus includes trauma, grief and loss, women’s transitions through perimenopause and menopause, and supporting attorneys and other professionals. I also have training in couples therapy (Gottman and EFT), grief and loss, and women’s midlife transitions. In addition to my private practice, I assist in Somatic Experiencing trainings and speak nationally on resilience, well-being, and the intersection of trauma and the law.

Before becoming a therapist, I practiced law for nearly two decades in child abuse and criminal litigation. That work gave me a profound appreciation for human resilience and a deep understanding of how stress and trauma impact well-being. Today, I also teach at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, where I help students and new lawyers explore the connection between trauma, healing, and sustainable legal practice.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my partner and our dogs, being active outdoors, sailing, traveling, cooking, baking, and writing.

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Russell Crotts

Intern, Master’s in Counseling Graduate Student

I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Counseling at Ottawa University and am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. I value people and relationships and strive to create a compassionate, non-judgmental and supportive space where clients feel comfortable sharing, processing and working through challenges together.

My clinical interests include working with adults, couples, and families, particularly around issues related to process and substance addictions, as well as relationship and family dynamics. I find deep fulfillment in helping people rebuild trust, strengthen connections, and foster healthier, more meaningful relationships. I have completed training in Emotionally Focused Therapy with an emphasis on addiction and couple recovery, and I also hold foundational training in Motivational Interviewing, an evidence-based, collaborative approach to supporting lasting change.

Prior to entering the counseling field, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Arizona State University and spent over 26 years in the IT industry. Sixteen of those years were in leadership roles where I managed teams and partnered with clients to deliver high-quality support and solutions. That experience helped me develop a strong foundation in communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills I now carry into my work with clients.

Outside of my professional and academic pursuits, I enjoy spending time with my amazing wife of 26 years and our five children. Supporting them in their extracurricular activities is one of my greatest joys. I also love being outdoors, whether it’s relaxing at the beach, hiking, or simply enjoying nature. Balancing the roles of husband, father, student, and counselor-in-training has taught me the value of presence, resilience, and authentic connection; qualities that significantly inform my approach to counseling.

Blog & Resources

Oooooooommmmmmm… I remember being in college and going to my very first yoga class. The...
Oranges & Lemons I was in my yard this weekend picking the oranges and lemons...
Oh, control… Having spent many of my earlier years as an unapologetic control freak, I...

Let’s Connect

Just fill out the form below or email me at info@desertsomatics.com, and we can schedule a free consult to explore working together.

I look forward to hearing from you!

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Contact Us

Opening Times

Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 7:00 PM MST
Closed on Weekends

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