On our scenic campus in the breathtaking Verde Valley of Arizona, we’re writing success stories every day.

Andrea graduated from the University of Utah with a Master of Social Work degree. She has worked in the behavioral health field for over seventeen years specializing in children and adolescents ages 8-18. Andrea’s experience spans all levels of care including Residential, Day Treatment, Outpatient and Transitional Program.

She has held many different leadership positions in treatment organizations.As her clinical foundation, Andrea believes in treating the “why” behind behaviors verses only focusing on the behaviors themselves.

Through cultivating a space where the client feels loved and supported in their treatment process, Andrea focuses on creating a true relationship with the client.

This relationship becomes a therapeutic container where there is enough trust, connection and safety to truly address the ‘why’.Andrea is highly trained in several treatment approaches including, relationship-based approach, narrative/expressive approaches, DBT and CBT.Andrea has extensive experience working with kids who may need a more sophisticated behavioral and or clinical approach.

Andrea believes deeply in an interdisciplinary team approach and working closely with all departments inside a treatment organization to provide the space and support clients need for a successful treatment process.

In her personal time, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family. She loves to attend her niece’s and nephew’s lacrosse and soccer games. She also loves cooking and, in particular, enjoys trying new recipes. Andrea also enjoys going to the movies, listening to music, podcasts and reading books.

Cora-Lei Marquez: A Compassionate Advocate and Cultural Steward

Cora-Lei Marquez embodies the essence of compassion, cultural pride, and dedication to community service. As a trained EMDR therapist and mother of five remarkable children spanning from 28 years old to 4 years old, Cora-Lei navigates life's journey with grace and humility, guided by the teachings passed down from her mother.

A graduate of Grand Canyon University, Cora-Lei holds a Masters in Addiction Counseling, complemented by a bachelor’s degree in human Behavior with an emphasis in Community Sustainability from Northern Arizona University. Her educational background reflects her commitment to understanding human behavior and fostering sustainable communities rooted in cultural values.

Throughout her career, Cora-Lei has been deeply involved in indigenous committees, extending her advocacy from Camp Verde to Phoenix and across the Pacific Ocean. Her service on tribal councils and contributions to policy development highlight her dedication to effecting positive change within her community.

Cora-Lei's professional journey has been marked by her unwavering commitment to supporting individuals of all ages as they navigate life's challenges. Whether working with youth or adults, Cora-Lei approaches her role with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Cora-Lei finds joy in spending quality time with her Ohana, or family, exploring the great outdoors. Her adventurous spirit and love for nature serve as a testament to her zest for life and her commitment to embracing every opportunity for growth and exploration.

In every aspect of her life, Cora-Lei Marquez exemplifies the values of compassion, cultural pride, and community service. Through her work as a therapist, advocate, and devoted mother, she continues to inspire those around her to embrace their cultural heritage, strive for excellence, and make a positive impact in the world.

Jennifer Liatas-Underhill: Guiding Paths to Healing Through Compassion and Creativity

With over eighteen years of dedicated experience in behavioral health settings, Jennifer Liatas-Underhill is a seasoned therapist known for her compassionate approach and creative therapeutic techniques. Jennifer's journey in the field of mental health began with a Master's degree in Counseling and Guidance from New Mexico Highlands University in 2005. Prior to this, she cultivated her passion for art, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Liberal Arts in 2003.

Since settling in Arizona in 2010, Jennifer has immersed herself in a variety of behavioral health settings, each contributing to her diverse skill set and holistic approach to therapy. From outpatient clinics specializing in children and families to intensive inpatient and crisis intervention work, Jennifer's experience spans the spectrum of mental health care.

Central to Jennifer's therapeutic practice is her utilization of sand tray play therapy and art therapy, providing clients with alternative means of expression and healing. With an individualized approach and a foundation in evidenced-based, solution-focused interventions, Jennifer empowers individuals to navigate their unique healing journeys.

Jennifer's expertise extends to a range of therapeutic modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. By drawing upon these approaches, Jennifer tailors her interventions to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Jennifer finds solace and inspiration in the world of art. An avid oil painter and mixed media artist, she explores the depths of creativity and expression in her personal time. Jennifer's passion for art is matched only by her devotion to her family, including her adult son and daughter, as well as her three cherished grandchildren.

In every therapeutic setting, Jennifer Liatas-Underhill embodies a commitment to fostering gratitude, resilience, and growth. By creating a safe and respectful environment, she empowers individuals to confront challenges, embrace their journey, and discover the transformative power of healing.

Justin Zych: Nurturing Students Strengths for Over 25 Years

For more than a quarter of a century, Justin Zych has dedicated himself to serving adolescents and their families, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives. His journey began in 1991 when he co-facilitated the National Youth Delegation to the President's Council of Sustainable Development during the Clinton administration—an experience that set the stage for his lifelong commitment to empowering youth.

Justin's professional trajectory has been defined by his role as Academic Director in therapeutic boarding school settings, where he has guided and mentored students through the complexities of life with unwavering dedication. Central to his educational philosophy is the belief that "relationships make the world turn," emphasizing the profound impact of meaningful connections on personal growth and development.  

With a keen focus on fostering resilience, core strength, and intellectual curiosity, Justin is driven by a deeply personal mission to empower students to navigate life's challenges and pursue their dreams with confidence and conviction.

As a therapist, Justin's contributions to Sedona Sky Academy are invaluable, as he continues to create opportunities for students to connect with their innate strengths and flourish as healthy, productive members of their community. His holistic approach to education and therapy ensures that each student receives the support and guidance they need to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Justin's academic journey reflects his commitment to community development and educational leadership. He holds a Master of Arts from Prescott College, where he specialized in Sustainable Community Development, and a Master of Education from Northern Arizona University, with a focus on Education Leadership.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Justin finds solace and inspiration in the natural beauty of Prescott, Arizona, where he resides with his family. From gardening and orchard keeping to beekeeping and mountain biking, Justin embraces the outdoors as both a source of recreation and a reflection of his commitment to sustainable living.

In every aspect of his life, Justin Zych embodies a profound dedication to nurturing the strengths and potential of youth, empowering them to embrace their unique gifts and chart a course for a brighter future.

Sheila Atwater: A Compassionate Advocate for Youth and Substance Abuse Counselor

Sheila Atwater is a dedicated advocate for children's well-being and a passionate substance abuse counselor. At 53 years old, she proudly embraces her role as a mother to two wonderful boys, Scotty and Richy, and the loving owner of two mischievous cats named Gypsy and Sasha.

Alongside her husband Mike, whom she has been blessed to share the last decade with, Sheila cherishes each moment of their journey together, having overcome the heartache of losing her first husband at the tender age of 37.

Sheila's journey in working with children began as a preschool teacher, where she discovered her passion for nurturing young minds and fostering their growth and development. Holding dual Arizona teaching certificates in both early childhood education and early childhood special education, she is deeply committed to supporting children with special needs and empowering them to thrive.

Motivated by a desire to make a difference in the lives of others, Sheila embarked on a new career path after experiencing the devastating loss of a family member to substance use disorder. A year ago, she completed her master's degree in Substance Abuse Counseling and embarked on an internship at Spectrum Health Care Momentum facility in Cottonwood, working with residential clients facing addiction challenges.

Following her internship, she joined Konnect Wellness Center in Cottonwood as a substance abuse counselor, where she spent a year in an intensive outpatient setting for adults.

However, Sheila's heart always yearned to return to working with youth. It was serendipity when she stumbled upon the opportunity at Sedona Sky Academy—a place where love, compassion, and professionalism intersect. From the moment she set foot on campus, Sheila knew this was where she was meant to be.

As a substance abuse counselor at Sedona Sky Academy, Sheila's mission is to provide unwavering support and guidance to the children, helping them navigate life's challenges with resilience and determination. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the dedicated staff at Sedona Sky Academy.

Thank you for entrusting Sheila with the privilege of supporting your children on their journey to healing and growth. Together, they will create a brighter, healthier future for each and every one of them.