Our Story
The Practice began with a simple but powerful vision: to transform the way mental health care is delivered. Founded by a team of Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP-BC), we noticed too many people struggling through a one-size-fits-all system that didn’t truly see them.
We believe healing is messy, honest, and powerful like a lotus growing in the mud. Each of us brings unique clinical expertise, personal insight, and a commitment to human connection. Our story is about creating a place where people are understood, supported, and empowered to reclaim their mental wellness.
Our Approach
At The Practice, we combine evidence-based psychiatric care with compassionate therapy to create an individualized, holistic experience. We don’t simply treat symptoms, we take the time to truly understand you, your history, your challenges, and your goals. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, or life transitions, our care is grounded in collaboration, personalization, and integration. You are an active partner in your treatment, with plans tailored to your unique needs and supported through psychotherapy and medication management when appropriate. This is a space where clinical expertise meets real human connection, no masks, no judgment, just honest conversations and care that fits your life.
Our Mission
Our mission is to foster a community of mental health professionals dedicated to helping others within a diverse, supportive, and inclusive environment. Like the lotus flower, rising from darkness to bloom. The Practice is committed to helping individuals rise above life’s challenges and move toward peace, balance, and healing.
Through a client-centered approach, our community of professionals serves individuals of all ages and backgrounds, promoting total wellness by honoring each person’s unique experiences, strengths, and goals. We strive to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers growth, resilience, and lasting well-being.
Our Vision
Our vision is to redefine the mental health experience by creating a practice where care is accessible, inclusive, and deeply human. We strive to be a trusted mental wellness community that supports individuals of all ages and backgrounds in achieving balance, resilience, and long-term well-being. Through innovation, collaboration, and compassionate care, we envision a future where mental health is treated with the same respect, understanding, and priority as physical health.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to empower individuals to rise above challenges and reconnect with their sense of peace and purpose. Inspired by the symbolism of the lotus flower, The Practice exists to support healing through growth, self-discovery, and transformation. We are driven by a commitment to serve our community with integrity, inclusivity, and evidence-based care, helping each person move toward total wellness in a way that honors their unique journey.
Our Services
At The Practice – A Mental Wellness Group, we offer comprehensive, evidence-based mental health care designed to meet you where you are. Our services are collaborative, personalized, and grounded in both clinical expertise and human connection.
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A psychiatric evaluation is the foundation of effective care. During this in-depth assessment, we take time to understand your mental health history, current concerns, symptoms, medical background, and life experiences.
We look beyond surface-level symptoms to identify underlying patterns and contributing factors. This thoughtful, comprehensive approach allows us to develop an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that truly fits your needs, goals, and values.
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Medication management is a collaborative and ongoing process—not a quick prescription. Our board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP-BC) provide careful assessment, education, and follow-up to ensure medications are safe, effective, and aligned with your goals.
We emphasize informed decision-making, discussing benefits, risks, side effects, and alternatives so you feel confident and empowered. Adjustments are made thoughtfully over time, always with your feedback at the center of care.
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Psychotherapy is offered by both our Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP-BCs), allowing for an integrated and flexible approach to care. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and life experiences.
Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapeutic modalities tailored to your unique needs, whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. Therapy at The Practice is rooted in trust, authenticity, and collaboration—no judgment, just meaningful conversations and practical tools to support lasting growth and healing.
Meet Your Providers
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Jennifer Mitchell, MSN, PMHNP-BC
OWNER, PROVIDER- NURSE PRACTITIONER
Jennifer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing thoughtful, evidence-based, and compassionate care across the lifespan. She works with children, adolescents, and adults, and has extensive experience treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, and behavioral concerns.Originally from upstate New York, Jennifer moved to Tucson in 1998 and has been proud to call the Rita Ranch community home since 2008. Her deep connection to the local community informs her commitment to accessible, ethical, and patient-centered mental health care.
Jennifer began her nursing career after graduating from a diploma nursing program in 1995. She gained early experience in postpartum care, medical-surgical nursing, and telemetry before discovering her true passion for behavioral health in 2007. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2012 and completed her Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2022.
Jennifer has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past three years and is known for her direct yet empathetic approach. She values collaboration, psychoeducation, and long-term stability over quick fixes, helping clients better understand their symptoms and actively participate in their care.
She has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent individuals, teens with emotional and behavioral dysregulation, and adults navigating complex life stressors. In addition to clinical work, Jennifer is a co-owner of The Practice – A Mental Wellness Group, where she plays an active role in building systems that support both high-quality patient care and a healthy clinical environment.
Jennifer also works in community mental health, which continues to shape her perspective on equity, accessibility, and continuity of care. Outside of work, she values family, humor, and balance and brings that grounded, authentic presence into the therapeutic space.
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Melinda Arias, MSN, PMHNP-BC
OWNER, PROVIDER- NURSE PRACTITIONER
Melinda is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Melinda has been a dedicated member of the Southern Arizona community throughout their life and has resided in Vail for the past 15 years. With 18 years of experience in healthcare as a Registered Nurse, Melinda brings a deep commitment to patient care, education, and professional leadership.Melinda earned an Associate Degree in Nursing from Pima Community College in 2007, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2010 from Grand Canyon University. Driven by a passion for teaching and advancing the nursing profession, Melinda completed a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in Nursing Education at Grand Canyon University in 2018. In 2021, Melinda earned a Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Regis College and achieved board certification as a PMHNP-BC.
For the past 3.5 years, Melinda has practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, providing comprehensive, patient-centered mental health care. Clinical experience includes specialties in Labor and Delivery as well as Postpartum/Couplet Care. In addition to clinical practice, Melinda has made significant contributions to nursing education, serving as a didactic and clinical instructor in both ADN and BSN programs. Teaching areas have included Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pharmacology, Maternal-Newborn Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, NCLEX preparation, skills lab, and simulation lab instruction.
Melinda has also held academic leadership roles, including serving as Dean of Nursing for an Associate Degree Nursing program for two years. This role further reflects a commitment to excellence in nursing education, student success, and the development of future nurses.
Melinda is passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and ensuring individuals have access to the care they deserve. She partners with clients to create individualized treatment plans that support growth, healing, and long-term wellness.
Her areas of specialization include depressive disorders, postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. Melinda values collaboration and believes that meaningful progress happens when care is personalized and goal-focused. She is dedicated to helping each client feel supported, understood, and empowered on their path toward improved mental health.
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Briana Tibbetts, MSN, PMHNP-BC
PROVIDER- NURSE PRACTITIONER
Briana is a Board-Certified Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a proud resident of the Vail/Rita Ranch community since 2012. She is deeply committed to providing high-quality, compassionate mental health care to the community she calls home.With over 11 years of experience in healthcare, Briana began her career with eight years in pharmacy before transitioning into nursing. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Arizona College of Nursing and completed her Master of Science in Nursing with a focus of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Herzing University in 2025. Her clinical background includes experience in both the Neuro Intensive Care Unit and the Emergency Department, where she developed strong patient-centered skills in high-acuity, fast-paced environments.
Briana is especially passionate about supporting couples working through relationship challenges and co-parenting, children of divorced parents, teens and adults managing complex life stressors, and individuals adjusting to major life changes such as medical conditions or experiences of grief. She incorporates art and play therapy approaches to create a safe, engaging, and enjoyable therapeutic environment, particularly beneficial for children, adolescents, and individuals who may find traditional talk therapy challenging. She also integrates journaling into therapy to help clients develop deeper self-awareness, emotional insight, and a stronger connection with themselves.
With a strong foundation in pharmacology and direct patient care, Briana takes a collaborative, patient-involved approach to medication management, ensuring clients are active participants in their treatment decisions. Her care is evidence-based, thoughtful, and grounded in empathy, respect, and open communication.
Outside of her clinical practice, Briana previously served as an assistant golf coach at Empire High School, reflecting her long-standing involvement in the local community and her dedication to mentoring youth in both personal growth and life skills.
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Claire Van Zyl, MSN, PMHNP
PROVIDER- NURSE PRACTITIONER
Claire is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working toward board certification. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Claire earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Louisville in 2019. She spent over six years working as a Registered Nurse in emergency medicine, a field where mental health care is a constant and essential component of daily practice. Through this experience, Claire developed strong skills in crisis intervention, de-escalation, trauma-informed care, and compassionate communication with individuals experiencing acute psychiatric distress, substance use concerns, and complex psychosocial stressors.Following two years as a traveling nurse, Claire accepted a contract in Tucson, Arizona, where she quickly fell in love with the desert landscape and community. She ultimately decided to make Tucson her home and has since become increasingly involved in the local community. Claire is proud to be part of The Practice, a mental wellness group dedicated to providing comprehensive and patient-centered mental health care.
Driven by a passion for psychiatry, Claire went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama, graduating in 2025. During her graduate education, she completed a total of over 600 supervised clinical hours across both inpatient psychiatric hospital settings and outpatient mental health clinics. Her training included comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and the use of multiple psychotherapy modalities across the lifespan, caring for patients from age 6 through 65 and older.
Claire is currently continuing to develop her therapeutic skill set, with a strong emphasis on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based approaches, art therapy, supportive talk therapy, motivational interviewing, exposure-based therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). She has a strong passion for working with adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD and trauma-related concerns.
Claire is committed to providing collaborative, evidence-based, and compassionate care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. She believes in meeting patients where they are and empowering them to play an active role in their mental health and healing journey.
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Michelle Valenzuela-Waer, MSN, PMHNP-BC
PROVIDER- NURSE PRACTITIONER
Michelle is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who grew up in the Vail and Rita Ranch area of Arizona and is proud to serve the community she calls home. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, including 12 years as a Registered Nurse, Michelle brings both clinical expertise and a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to mental health care.
She earned her Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Purdue University and has a strong foundation in perinatal and postpartum mental health from her years working as a Labor and Delivery nurse. Michelle specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and perinatal mood disorders, and she takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to care that honors each patient’s unique experiences and goals.
Michelle especially enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults, helping them navigate emotional challenges, life transitions, and personal growth in a supportive and judgment-free environment. She believes in building trusting relationships and collaborating closely with patients to create treatment plans that feel realistic, empowering, and sustainable.
Outside of her practice, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family, caring for her farm animals, and baking, simple joys that help her stay grounded and balanced. She strives to bring that same sense of warmth, authenticity, and calm into every patient interaction.
Support Staff
Valerie Ferguson, B.A.
PATIENT COORDINATOR
Areas of Specialty
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Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in daily activities. At our practice, our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy to address emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. When indicated, our practitioners also provide medication management, and care is delivered through a collaborative, integrated approach.
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Anxiety involves excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that interferes with daily life. Our practice offers psychotherapy through both our practitioners and our counselors to help individuals develop coping skills and reduce symptoms. Medication management may be provided by our practitioners when appropriate, with coordinated care across the treatment team.
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulse control, and organization. At our practice, our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy focused on behavioral strategies, emotional regulation, and executive functioning skills. Our practitioners also offer evaluation and medication management when indicated.
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after exposure to trauma and includes intrusive memories, avoidance, and heightened emotional or physical arousal. Our practitioners and our counselors provide trauma-informed psychotherapy, and our practitioners may also manage medications to support symptom stabilization. Care is individualized and collaborative.
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Eating disorders involve disruptions in eating behaviors, body image, and emotional regulation. At our practice, psychotherapy is provided by our practitioners and our counselors to address underlying emotional and behavioral patterns. Our practitioners also assess psychiatric symptoms and manage medications when appropriate, working collaboratively to support recovery.
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Substance and alcohol abuse involve harmful patterns of use that affect mental health, physical health, and daily functioning. Our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy focused on behavior change, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention. Medication management may be incorporated when clinically appropriate as part of coordinated care.
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Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by episodes of depression and mania or hypomania. At our practice, our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy to support mood awareness, routine stability, and coping skills. Our practitioners also manage mood-stabilizing medications, with close collaboration across providers.
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Postpartum depression occurs after childbirth and involves persistent sadness, anxiety, and emotional distress. At our practice, our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy to support emotional adjustment during the postpartum period. When needed, medication management may be provided by our practitioners as part of coordinated and compassionate care. Our practice has two providers who specialize in postpartum mental health.
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OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety. At our practice, our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy to help reduce obsessions and compulsions. Medication management may be included as part of an integrated treatment plan.
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Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a behavioral condition marked by ongoing defiant or argumentative behavior, typically beginning in childhood. Our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy, including behavioral and family-based interventions. Our practitioners also assess for co-occurring conditions and medication needs when appropriate.
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Behavioral issues refer to patterns of behavior that interfere with functioning at home, school, or work. At our practice, our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy to address emotional regulation, coping skills, and behavior patterns through collaborative treatment planning.
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Grief is the emotional response to loss and may affect mood, identity, and daily functioning. Our practitioners and our counselors provide psychotherapy to support individuals through the grieving process. Our practitioners also assess for complications such as depression or anxiety when indicated.
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Life stressors include major transitions or ongoing challenges such as relationship difficulties, work stress, or health concerns. Our practice provides psychotherapy through our practitioners and our counselors to help individuals build resilience and manage stress effectively.
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Medication management involves the evaluation, prescribing, monitoring, and adjustment of psychiatric medications. At our practice, medication management is provided by our practitioners, who collaborate closely with our counselors to ensure care is aligned with therapeutic goals.
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Testing and evaluation involve comprehensive mental health assessments to clarify diagnoses and guide treatment planning. Our practitioners and our counselors contribute clinical insight and collaborate to develop individualized care plans.
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GeneSight testing is a pharmacogenomic tool used to help understand how an individual may metabolize certain psychiatric medications. At our practice, our practitioners interpret results to guide medication decisions, while care teams collaborate to integrate findings into the overall treatment plan.
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CBT is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Our practitioners and our counselors provide CBT as part of individualized treatment plans.
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Interpersonal Therapy focuses on improving relationships and communication patterns that impact emotional well-being. At our practice, this therapy is provided by our practitioners and our counselors as part of collaborative care.
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DBT is a structured therapy that emphasizes emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. Our practitioners and our counselors provide DBT-based psychotherapy within integrated treatment plans.
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Couples therapy focuses on improving communication, resolving conflict, and strengthening relationships. Our practitioners and our counselors provide couples therapy, coordinating care when individual mental health needs are also present.
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Motivational Interviewing is a client-centered approach that helps individuals explore ambivalence and increase motivation for change. This approach is utilized by both our practitioners and our counselors.
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Play therapy is a therapeutic approach that allows children to express emotions and experiences through developmentally appropriate play. At our practice, play-based psychotherapy is provided by our practitioners and our counselors.
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Art therapy uses creative expression to support emotional processing and self-awareness. Our practice integrates art-based therapeutic approaches into comprehensive mental health treatment when appropriate.
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Internal Family Systems Therapy is a model that helps individuals understand and heal different internal emotional parts. We have select practitioners and counselors provide IFS-informed psychotherapy within a collaborative care framework.
We Accept Insurance
We offer affordable care for everyone and except most major insurance plans.
Where to Find Us
The office is located in Tucson, Arizona, in the shopping plaza across from Home Depot and Walmart. We are situated next to Jersey Mike’s Subs and Filiberto’s, making us easy to find. Ample parking is available in front of the plaza for your convenience.
9172 S Houghton Rd, Suite 130
Tucson, AZ 85747
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.
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Our practice provides comprehensive mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. Services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management for mental health disorders, and psychotherapy. Both our mental health practitioners and our licensed counselors offer therapy, and they work collaboratively to ensure coordinated, well-rounded care tailored to each client’s needs.
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Getting started is simple. You can email, call, or text our office to begin. To use insurance, you will first need to set up your account through Headway, our billing and insurance partner. You can use the insurance link at the top of our website to verify your coverage and view estimated copays. You may also create your patient portal through the link at the top of the page. If you prefer, you can email us your information and our team will gladly help guide you through the process.
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We believe mental health care should feel personal, collaborative, and supportive—not rushed or transactional. Our practice focuses on understanding the whole person, not just symptoms. We emphasize open communication, individualized treatment plans, and teamwork between our practitioners and counselors. By integrating psychotherapy and medication management when appropriate, we provide thoughtful, evidence-based care in a welcoming and judgment-free environment.
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You can contact us by email, phone call, or text message. Our team is happy to answer questions, help you get started, or guide you through scheduling and insurance.
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We offer flexible payment options to make care affordable and accessible. Our practice accepts most major insurance plans, offers self-pay options, and provides flexible payment plans through CareCredit. We also accept HSA and FSA cards. Our team is happy to review your coverage, discuss costs, and help you find a payment option that works best for you.