I'm here to help your:
Individuals (ages 7+)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Emotionally Focused
- Psychoeducation
- Self-love and Acceptance
- Life transitions
- Grief and loss
- Families
- Athletes
- Spiritual/Religious concerns
- PTSD
- Suicidal Ideation and self-harm
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Motivational Interviewing
Play Therapy
Sand Tray
Ray Sahagun,
CMHC
Background:
Born and raised in California to a Hispanic father and a Caucasian mother, Ray offers a unique and inclusive perspective that enriches his counseling approach. Having lived in Taiwan for two years, he speaks conversational Mandarin Chinese, further broadening his cultural competence. For the past 21 years, he has called Utah home.
In addition to his professional achievements, Ray has been happily married for 36 years and is the proud father of four adult children and six grandchildren. The most recent additions to his family are Mei Mei and Keeley, two adorable mini Goldendoodles. His family is a constant source of joy and inspiration. Passionate about technology, Ray also enjoys reading, photography, and exploring the wonders of science. These interests provide personal enrichment and often inspire fresh perspectives in his counseling work.
Education and Work Experience:
With 17 years of dedicated experience in elementary education, Ray brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to mental health counseling. Recognizing the challenges faced by his students inspired him to pursue a career in counseling. Holding both a master's degree in education and a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling, he is well prepared to support clients as they navigate life's challenges and pursue meaningful change.
Therapy Approach:
Ray is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions, develop practical coping strategies, and move toward lasting personal growth. He believes that every client deserves an individualized approach and continues to expand his knowledge and skills to better meet each person's unique needs. His work draws from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Play Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), integrating techniques that best fit each client rather than relying on a single model.
Ray has a deep appreciation for those who serve their communities, particularly first responders. He recognizes the unique emotional, psychological, and relational challenges that can accompany careers in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, dispatch, corrections, and other emergency response professions. He considers it a privilege to support these individuals and their families as they navigate stress, trauma, burnout, moral injury, and the demands of serving others.
Above all, Ray believes that the strongest predictor of successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself. Regardless of the techniques or theoretical orientation used, he is committed to building a relationship characterized by trust, authenticity, respect, and genuine care. By combining evidence-based practices with cultural awareness and a deep respect for each client's experiences, Ray strives to help individuals build resilience, discover their strengths, and create lives guided by their values.