Clinical Staff
Michael DeSena PsyD, LCSW
Mike spent his career being there for people, from his distinguished service in the US Navy to his time as the lead therapist for the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center Murrieta’s Partial Hospitilization Program and Intensive Outpatient Program. After six years working in hospital-based therapy, Mike saw a need for a dynamic private practice, blending mentorship for new and experienced therapists alike with the goal of providing the best care possible to patients – and Tip of the Spear Psychotherapy Group was born. Anyone who sees Mike as their therapist will find a combination of support and sense, where accountability meets empathy to turn struggles into opportunities for growth. With a passion for working with adolescents, those who have experienced trauma, and fellow veterans, Mike balances running his company with serving his patients.
Jon Ladner AMFT, APCC
Whether it is his fellow first responders, couples, adolescents, or anyone else, Jon is ready to meet your willingness to work with his empathy and care. An experienced firefighter, safety inspector, and mental health peer supporter with Los Angeles County Fire, Jon received his master’s degree from Azusa Pacific University in both Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Counseling. His passion for working to help people overcome addiction and trauma has seen him pursue certification in EMDR, an evidence-based trauma treatment approach. Jon understands the courage to learn, grow, and press through challenging situations, and looks forward to helping you see these qualities in yourself.
Nikky Eminzade AMFT, APCC
Through a person-centered approach, warmth, active listening, and genuine care and admiration for her patients, Nikky fosters a non-judgmental environment that encourages patients to explore those parts of themselves that they may have previously shied away from. Together, you will talk about your attachment style, your emotions, and your behaviors from a perspective you may not have considered before. Whether it is navigating questions around LGBTQIA+ identity, neurodivergence, or any other concerns, Nikky will give you the empathetic space needed to explore with confidence. Outside of work, she is an avid reader, crocheter, and a lover of museums. She also loves hiking trails in Southern California with her dog and playing RPGs with her friends.
Isabella Briaire AMFT
Isabella has always had a passion for helping others and prioritizing their well-being. After receiving my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Arizona State University and her master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy from Alliant International University, Isabella gained clinical experience working with adolescents at a high school in East Los Angeles. Her work with diverse groups, including the Latinx, LGBTQIA+ communities, and immigrant communities, focuses on encouraging people to explore their vulnerabilities as a pathway to self-discovery and growth. Isabella is able to provide care in both English and Spanish to provide care to our community’s needs. Isabella believes in fostering connection and understanding to promote healing. Isabella’s goal is to help patients navigate challenges and build resilience for the future.
Michelle Buell ACSW
Michelle professional experience includes serving as a 911 dispatcher and working with youth in crisis, primarily survivors of human trafficking. During her Master of Social Work studies, Michelle’s passion for supporting those in service to others in the first responder and anti-trafficking communities saw her work as a trainer in trauma-informed care and therapy for survivors. As an integrated trauma therapist, her approach is grounded in compassion with a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma, and she is passionate about empowering individuals, enhancing quality of life, and achieving lasting wellness. Anyone who comes to see Michelle will be given the understanding, compassion, and tools to move from “survivor” to “thriver.”
New Clinician Coming
4/15/2025
Mckensie Wells AMFT
McKensie is committed to helping you bring about desired changes in your life and building resilience for lasting emotional well-being. Since earning her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, McKensie gained experience working with kids, teens, and adults facing their own unique challenges, including specialized work with older adults living with memory loss and their families navigating the grief this can bring. Utilizing Parts Work and a trauma-informed approach, McKensie aims to create a compassionate and supportive space to explore your past experiences and inner world, connect with your authentic self, and foster healing from within.
Maddy Morgan LMSW, ACSW
Maddy specializes in attachment-based play therapy, parenting, and social skills development. She holds a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from Illinois College and a Master's of Social Work from St. Louis University. Certified as a Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS) for Adolescents coach from the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Maddy is also trained in evaluating for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Maddy is passionate about supporting individuals and families in achieving their goals through an approach that considers the whole person. She strives to create a warm, welcoming environment that fosters growth and development..
Kaitlyn Driggers AMFT, APCC
Kaitlyn has graduated from the Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Kaitlyn has developed an interest in evidence-based practices such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and EMDR. She is passionate about working with children and adolescents, while helping them navigate the challenges they face during critical developmental years. She has also had the opportunity to work with women experiencing trauma and eating disorders. Her purpose is to empower individuals and to support them while they build resilience and achieve lasting healing. Kaitlyn utilizes a client-centered approach, always prioritizing the unique needs, strengths, and goals of each individual.
Brian Garcia-Cardona ACSW
Brian graduated with his MSW from the University of Southern California, committed to empowering patients through evidence-based modalities. He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Problem Solving Therapy (PST), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to support individuals during their treatment. He has had the opportunity to work with with individuals throughout the life span from childhood to geriatrics, creating tailored treatment plans for each individual, utilizing a empathetic and culturally attuned approach to care. As a native Spanish speaker, he embraces diversity and offer inclusive, language-sensitive care. He believes in a collaborative and reflective approach that encourages clients to discover the patient’s inner resilience and navigate life’s challenges with clarity and purpose.