Our Therapy Team

We are dedicated to finding competent, ethical, and affirming therapists

Providing compassionate care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Meet the team

Sandra Priedeman, MSW, LCSW
she/her
Clinical Director
Works with clients ages 14+
Locations: Provo/Salt Lake/Online

  • Aetna: EPO/PPO/MANAGED CHOICE

    BCBS: Yes

    Cigna: Yes

    EMI: Yes

    Medicaid: Traditional, Select Health, and Healthy U plans. *If you are not sure which mental health plan you have, please call the phone number on the back of your Medicaid card. 

    PEHP: Yes

    Select Health: CARE, CHOICE, SIGNATURE VALUE, MED

    University of Utah Health Plans: Healthy Preferred, Healthy Premier, HealthyUChip

    UHC/UMR: Yes

    Self Pay: $125-HSA card, credit cards and debit cards are accepted

  • I hail from the Buckeye Nation — also known as Ohio. I am a graduate of Colorado State University where I earned my MSW. I have been working as a therapist with teens, young adults, and their families since 2001. I first started as a wilderness therapist and then moved onto residential treatment for adolescent humans. I have been a part of the Encircle Family since July 2019. I am well-versed in working with trauma, attachment, anxiety & depression, and family conflict. In addition, I have been trained and use EMDR to address trauma with my clients. I have training in sand play therapy, writing therapy, and psycho-drama and use these expressive therapies to help my clients connect and heal.

    Fundamentally, I find that everyone I work with feels a bit lost and unsure how to make their way and wondering if a way is possible for them. Having spent a lot of time in the woods and in particular being lost, I know that people can and do find their way. I know from my own journey and the journey of my LGBTQ clients that there is a place to find shelter, connection, and light. I firmly believe that we are here to answer the question that Mary Oliver has asked, "What will you do with your one wild and precious life?" I love watching my clients find their answer and living a life that is full of goodness and love. When I am not sitting in a therapy office, I love reading, writing, walking, being with my partner and our dog who is the perfect Springer Spaniel.

Malia Burgess, MSW, MFA, LCSW
she/her
Director of Clinical Operations
Works with clients ages 12+
Locations: St.George/Online/Rural

  • Aetna: EPO/PPO/MANAGED CHOICE

    BCBS: Yes

    Cigna: Yes

    EMI: Yes

    Medicaid: Traditional, Select Health, and Healthy U plans. *If you are not sure which mental health plan you have, please call the phone number on the back of your Medicaid card.

    PEHP: Yes

    Select Health: CARE, CHOICE, SIGNATURE VALUE, MED

    University of Utah Health Plans: Healthy Preferred, Healthy Premier, HealthyUChip

    UHC/UMR: Yes

    Self Pay: $125- HSA card, credit cards, and debit cards are accepted

  • Greetings and Aloha! I'm originally from Hawaii but spent the last 20 years in Montana, where I taught sociology at Montana State University-Billings. My private practice in Montana focused largely on young LGBTQI+ individuals, many located in rural communities.

    In my therapeutic work, I embrace a relational-cultural perspective, influenced heavily by feminist theory and a strong belief that humans want and need connection. I graduated from Boise State University with a degree in Social Work. I enjoy working with clients experiencing anxiety/depression, trauma, ADHD, and faith transitions, and I am particularly passionate about psychoeducation. I am trained in a variety of modalities and hold certifications in TI-CBT and EMDR.

    However, I believe that approach is less important than the knowledge that your therapist both understands and accepts you deeply. Recent research states, "The emerging picture suggests that the quality of the client–therapist alliance is a reliable predictor of positive clinical outcome independent of the variety of psychotherapy approaches and outcome measures." (Ardito & Rabellino, 2011) I believe that the therapeutic relationship is essential in order for our work to progress.

    My personal interests include travel, pop culture, swimming, and spending time with friends and family. I'm honored to accompany young LGBTQI individuals on their joyful journey toward self-actualization.

Konnor Simmons
he/him
MSW, CSW
Supervisor: Sandra Priedeman, LCSW
Locations: SLC & Tele-health
Works with clients ages 12+

  • Aetna: EPO/PPO/MANAGED CHOICE

    BCBS: Yes

    Cigna: Yes

    EMI: Yes

    Medicaid: Traditional, Select Health, and Healthy U plans. *If you are not sure which mental health plan you have, please call the phone number on the back of your Medicaid card. 

    PEHP: Yes

    Select Health: CARE, CHOICE, SIGNATURE VALUE, MED

    University of Utah Health Plans: Healthy Preferred, Healthy Premier, HealthyUChip

    UHC/UMR: Yes

    Self Pay: $125-HSA card, credit cards and debit cards are accepted

  • Konner Simmons, MSW, CSW (he/him)

    Hello hello! My name is Konner and I’m an Associate Therapist at Encircle.

    I grew up in a small farming community in Idaho, but Utah has been home for nearly a decade. I earned bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Nutrition Science from Utah State University, then expanded my clinical foundation with a Master’s of Social Work from New Mexico State University.

    Over the years, I’ve worked in a residential treatment center, a domestic violence shelter, and an intensive outpatient clinic for OCD and anxiety disorders. These experiences taught me the importance of meeting people exactly where they are, especially during moments of vulnerability, identity exploration, or deep transition.

    As someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand how powerful it can be to feel seen and supported by someone with shared lived experience. I feel especially honored to walk alongside those navigating faith transitions, exploring identity, or simply facing the very real challenges of being human. Having grown up in a religious community, I also understand the delicate balance that can show up in mixed-faith relationships and shifting belief systems, especially here in Utah.

    My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, with a strong emphasis on nervous system regulation, self-compassion, and the mind-body connection. I often incorporate DBT and mindfulness practices, and I’m currently pursuing additional training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems.

    In sessions, I bring a grounded, compassionate energy and help clients tune in to what their bodies and emotions are communicating. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, trying new foods, traveling, and spending time with friends, family, or simply with myself. I’m also hoping to add a small, friendly dog to my life soon, so stay tuned.

Kristina Kaleel
she/her
MBA, MSW, CSW
Supervisor: Sandra Priedeman, LCSW
Locations: Tele-health only
Works with clients ages 12+

  • Aetna: EPO/PPO/MANAGED CHOICE

    BCBS: Yes

    Cigna: Yes

    EMI: Yes

    Medicaid: Traditional, Select Health, and Healthy U plans. *If you are not sure which mental health plan you have, please call the phone number on the back of your Medicaid card. 

    PEHP: Yes

    Select Health: CARE, CHOICE, SIGNATURE VALUE, MED

    University of Utah Health Plans: Healthy Preferred, Healthy Premier, HealthyUChip

    UHC/UMR: Yes

    Self Pay: $125-HSA card, credit cards and debit cards are accepted

  • Hi, I’m Kristina, an Associate Therapist at Encircle. Originally from Orlando, Florida, I’ve had the opportunity to live in a variety of places—including Texas, Germany, North Dakota, and now Utah—all of which have shaped the way I connect with people, embrace difference, and value community.

    I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Weber State University, where I focused on trauma-informed, inclusive, and strengths-based clinical practice. My therapeutic approach integrates a biopsychosocial perspective with evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. At the core of my work is the belief that healing begins in spaces grounded in safety, compassion, and collaboration.

    As both a clinician and a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, I understand the importance of working with someone who shares aspects of your lived experiences, someone who offers empathetic, affirming support, and honors your whole, authentic self.

    In my practice, I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. I enjoy working with individuals navigating a range of experiences, including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, identity development, life transitions, and neurodivergence. Whether you’re processing trauma, exploring your identity, or simply looking for a space that feels affirming and grounded, I’m here to walk alongside you as a collaborative and compassionate guide.

    Outside of therapy, I enjoy watching Criminal Minds, Modern Family, and sports (especially the NWSL, WNBA, and USWNT), skiing, listening to music, and cooking. Most days, you’ll find me relaxing at home with my family.

Danielle Polk
she/her
Second Year MSW Student
Supervisor: Sandra Prideman LCSW
Locations: SLC & Tele-Health
Works with: Clients 12+ & Families

  • SLC & Tele-Health

    Hi, I’m Danielle, a 2nd year MSW social work intern at the University of Utah. I have two decades of experience working alongside families and individuals in Utah. My professional background spans domestic violence advocacy, public assistance, and child welfare.  In an earlier practicum, I provided clinical support to individuals navigating substance use, probation, and complex trauma: work that strengthened my commitment to culturally responsive care and deepened my understanding of how structural and personal healing often intersect. Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to roles that require both systems savvy and a human-centered approach to building trust and safety.

    Currently, I work full-time in the public sector while completing my MSW and clinical training. I’m especially drawn to trauma-informed, strengths-based, and relational approaches to healing. I integrate elements of ACT, DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing; tailoring each session to meet clients where they are. At the core of my work is creating safety, building trust, and honoring the wisdom people bring with them, even when they’re in pain.

    At Encircle, I’m excited to support LGBTQ+ youth and families in navigating life’s challenges with honesty, humor, and compassion. I deeply believe in the power of safe spaces where people can tell the truth, try on new ways of being, and feel seen for who they are.

    Outside of this work, I’m raising a vibrant, neurodiverse family and doing my best to stay grounded in the midst of creative chaos. I find joy in slow gardening, supporting local art, music, and culture in Salt Lake City, and carving out moments of stillness in nature whenever I can. Travel restores me, especially time near the ocean, where I’m reminded to breathe deep, loosen my grip, and return to myself.

    I’m here to hold space, ask good questions, and help untangle the knots. Therapy, to me, is part compass, part mirror, part exhale. I feel honored to walk alongside people as they find their way.

    Having grown up in Utah, she understands the challenges of accessing diverse resources in a religious environment and is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive space for all. 

Bekah Roberts
she/her
MSCMHC Intern
Supervisor: Sandra Prideman LCSW
Locations: SLC, Provo, Tele-Health
Works with: Clients 12+ & Families

  • Ages 12+

    Location: SLC & Tele-Therapy

    I was born and raised in Provo, Utah and was able to watch Encircle grow from its start in my hometown to the beautiful organization it is today. I’m currently a graduate student finishing up my last year in Westminster University’s Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) program. 

    My counseling approach is rooted in collaboration, compassion, and empowerment. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where people can feel seen and heard. I take a multicultural, person-centered approach—recognizing the many identities and life experiences that shape each person’s story.

    I’m committed to helping clients build resilience, confidence, and the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges through our therapeutic work together. I see every client as an equal and bring warmth, curiosity, and respect into the therapy space. My goal is to support clients in achieving meaningful growth, deepening self-awareness, and walking alongside them as they move toward greater well-being and fulfillment.”

    During the winter I will spend my weekends in the Wasatch mountains on the slopes snowboarding and in the summer I am going to take whatever chance I can to paddleboard or lay by the lake.I regard being part of the Encircle team an honor and am excited to aid you in your experience with Encircle Therapy.

Allie Verdoon
she/her
Therapy Office Manager

  • While I might have California blood, Utah has been my home for most of my life. Living in Provo, Utah with a sister part of the LGBTQ+ community means Encircle, and their mission, has held a very special place in my heart since their beginnings. My goal as the Encircle Therapy office manager is to ensure everything on the administrative side is running smoothly so you, and the therapy team, can focus on more important things. I am happy to be your first point of contact for any questions about scheduling, insurance, billing, or Encircle Therapy altogether.I love to read, write, host game nights, and plan dinner parties!

    During the winter I will spend my weekends in the Wasatch mountains on the slopes snowboarding and in the summer I am going to take whatever chance I can to paddleboard or lay by the lake.I regard being part of the Encircle team an honor and am excited to aid you in your experience with Encircle Therapy.

Holly Taylor
she/her
Therapy Intake Coordinator

  • Holly is the Intake Coordinator at Encircle Therapy, where she helps to connect LGBTQIA+ individuals with affirming mental health resources. She is dedicated to supporting human connection through a more inclusive community, to ensure that every client recieves the specialized care they deserve. 

    Having grown up in Utah, she understands the challenges of accessing diverse resources in a religious environment and is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive space for all. 

Providing care for you.

Our therapists are trained in various therapeutic styles (CBT, ACT, FMT, FS/IFS, narrative, etc.) and interventions for individuals, couples, and families.

Find the right therapist for you.

We believe that LGBTQIA+ youth should receive quality and compassionate care from specialists who wholly validate and understand the diverse experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

You are not alone.

If you’re thinking about suicide or are worried about someone else, please know you are not alone. Reaching out for help is a big step, and we encourage you to seek support as soon as possible.

We do not currently have a 24-hour crisis line or drop-in hours. If you believe someone is in immediate danger to themselves or others, CALL 911.

What do we do?

Our diverse team of passionate and committed professionals provides life-affirming therapy, connection & support for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.