Executive Team

Founder, CEO

Sarah Rosen Garrett is a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) and licensed psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience working with children and families. Sarah began her career as a special education teacher with Teach for America and was twice awarded Teacher of the Year. Garrett has specialized, advanced training in play therapy, art therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy and Trauma-Focused Equine Therapy. In addition, she is trained in crisis and suicide intervention, and the treatment of trauma, including witnessing a traumatic death, and child abuse, neglect, and sexual assault. Sarah is a member of NASW and the American Association for Play Therapy.

Upon moving to the Texas Hill Country in 2005, Sarah first worked as a CASA volunteer, and recognized the need for high-quality, affordable mental health care in rural Central Texas, and additional support for parents and families. Sarah’s passion for providing exemplary mental health care for all children and families led her to create Camp Phoenix and the Phoenix Center in 2007.

Sarah is also the author of the children’s book Phoenix Rising. Learn more at www.phoenixtx.org/book.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Mary Flanagan is a passionate leader with a strong record of success in strategy, management, and operations across both corporate and nonprofit sectors. Mary holds an MBA in Finance from The Wharton School as well as an MA from the University of Pennsylvania, and a BA from Williams College. As Chief Operating Officer at Phoenix Center, Mary helps advance the mission of providing high-quality, innovative mental health care for children and families in need.

Before joining Phoenix Center, Mary served as Chief Operating Officer at Austin Recovery Network, where she guided the merger of three separate organizations into a streamlined nonprofit supporting individuals in recovery from substance use disorder. Mary also led development and donor engagement efforts at Mobile Loaves & Fishes in Austin, TX, partnering with individuals, foundations, and corporate donors to provide permanent homes for the chronically homeless.

Mary's previous experience includes leadership roles at Dell Technologies, Staples, Inc., Standard & Poor’s, and Deloitte Consulting, bringing expertise in strategy, operations, communications, marketing, and international development to diverse teams and projects around the world.

Outside of work, Mary enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking in the Hill Country, and supporting local community initiatives.

Clinical Team

LICENSED Therapist

Ashley Hernandez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Texas Woman’s University and a Bachelor of Science in Lifespan Development from the University of North Texas. During her studies, she interned at a Children’s Advocacy Center, bringing hope and healing to children affected by abuse through a strengths-based, trauma-focused CBT approach—an experience that deepened her passion for helping children and families grow and heal after hardship. 

After graduation, Ashley began her career as an Early Intervention Specialist, supporting infants and toddlers with developmental delays and empowering families to meet their children’s needs through meaningful, system-wide change. She then served as a Family Support Coach, helping families navigate challenges related to traumatic attachment disruptions and substance use. In this role, she focused on building safer home environments, encouraging positive parent-child interactions, and fostering healthy, secure bonds. These experiences continue to shape Ashley’s dedication to creating lasting, loving connections within family systems. 

Ashley is a warm, playful therapist who believes in the power of holistic, strengths-based, and relational approaches. She specializes in helping parents and children heal and strengthen their relationships. Ashley is currently expanding her expertise in play therapy, using a variety of techniques such as expressive arts, nature play, sand tray, and board games. Outside of her work, she enjoys relaxing with her family and pets, playing video games, and reading comic books. 

LICENSED Therapist

Carli Bartling is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who earned her bachelor’s degree at Brigham Young University and her master’s degree in professional counseling with an emphasis in Marriage, Family, and Couple Counseling at Texas State University. Carli specializes in Play Therapy and utilizes sand tray therapy, expressive arts, nature, and music in counseling. Carli is passionate about working with children and teens, especially within the context of the family unit, and recognizes that when one family member is struggling, the whole family is affected.

Carli enjoys using a strengths-based approach, building on the gifts and abilities clients bring into counseling, and helping them find solutions that work for them. She firmly believes that strengthening and helping children and families contributes to stronger communities.

In addition to the joy that comes from continual learning and helping others, Carli loves time spent with her own family, being out in nature, traveling, and creating music together. She is grateful to be able to work with a fantastic team and environment found at the Phoenix Center.

LICENSED Therapist

Tiffany Goodsell, LPC-A, EMDR Trained, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies specializing in Elementary Education from Texas State University. Tiffany then received a Master's of Education in School Counseling from Lamar University. She has over 15 years of experience working with children and families as a teacher and Social Emotional Learning Coach.

Tiffany has specialized training in working with neurodivergent children including with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, trauma, and more. Tiffany utilizes therapeutic methods such as EMDR, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and art therapy for cognitive, behavioral, and emotional needs.

Through a safe and caring relationship, Tiffany helps children and adolescents process life experiences, and traumatic events, and develop more effective coping strategies for navigating their world. She believes that healing occurs with a team approach between the child, guardian(s), and therapist.

LICENSED Therapist

Kellyn Lappinga, LMSW, received her Masters from the University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work and her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.In her graduate studies, Kellyn focused on the developmental effects of trauma in children and youth, ACEs, and research-based interventions that help to heal trauma, rather than just fix behavior. Kellyn has experience working in care coordination for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship and homelessness.

Therapeutically, Kellyn uses strengths-based, child-centered play therapy and expressive arts therapy. These trauma-informed methods allow for the development of a relationship based on trust. This opens up a child’s capacity to grow and become more self-aware, fosters social and emotional intelligence, and the capacity to become who they are capable of becoming.

Apart from learning about trauma and advocating for social justice, Kellyn loves her dog Lola, floating on rivers, poetry, art, and wildflowers.

Licensed Therapist

Harley Wardlow, LMSW, received her Masters in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. She began her professional journey advocating for foster youth in a treatment setting where she developed skills in Trust Based Relational Interventions and crisis intervention and gained an understanding of the effects of the foster care system on youth and families.

Therapeutically, Harley utilizes a strengths based and client centered approach that focuses on creating an environment where her clients feel safe, seen, and heard. This focus on felt safety allows her clients to bring their authentic selves into session each week and exist in a space where they can learn new skills to help them grow personally, socially, and emotionally.

When she’s not learning more about the effects of trauma and various therapy modalities such as equine, art, and eco therapies, Harley likes to spend time with her dogs, Cinnamon and Biscuit, hiking and camping, reading, practicing yoga, and hanging out near water.

Licensed Therapist

Maggie Murphy, LMSW, holds a Master of Science in Social Work with a certificate in School Social Work from the University of Texas. Before obtaining her LMSW, Maggie gained diverse professional experience working with children and families in school, recreation, and hospital settings. Her journey into social work began with an internship at Communities in Schools, where she advocated for trauma-informed school practices while providing individual and community support to students, families, and teachers. 

Maggie’s therapeutic approach is grounded in building strong, trusting relationships with her clients, recognizing emotional and relational safety as the foundation for growth. She creates a compassionate space where children, adolescents, and families can safely explore their emotions, process lived experiences, and embrace their authentic selves.  

Maggie’s work utilizes a trauma-informed lens and is guided by the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, allowing her to connect with clients in ways that honor their unique stories and nervous system needs. In her practice, Maggie incorporates a variety of modalities, including Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Expressive Arts, and somatic mindfulness techniques. Maggie is committed to empowering children and families on their unique journeys and continues to grow her expertise as she pursues certification to become a Registered Play Therapist and an EMDR-certified practitioner. 

Outside of her professional life, Maggie finds joy in gardening, art, swimming, and spending time with her two dogs! 

LICENSED Therapist

Jenni Jablonski is an LPC-Associate, NCC supervised by Joy Cannon (LPC-S, RPT-S). She received a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Texas State University. She also has a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas State University. Prior to coming to the Phoenix Center, Jenni was an elementary music teacher and has experience as a CASA and a foster parent.

Jenni utilizes Child-Centered Play Therapy and Solution-Focused Play Therapy, as well as incorporating sand tray, expressive arts, and music into the counseling session. She believes that each client has the unique ability and strength to express themselves, to process difficult emotions and life experiences, and to explore coping skills in order to practice solutions and meet their goals. This is especially true when provided with a safe and nonjudgmental environment. Jenni's goal is to empower each client by showing them they already have the tools inside to grow and thrive.

Outside of her work at the Phoenix Center, Jenni enjoys spending time with her family & friends and playing with her three pet rabbits.

LICENSED Therapist

Elyssa Ruffin, LMSW, earned her Master's degree in Social Work as well as a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas at Austin.

Throughout her studies, Elyssa gained hands-on experience with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services' Human Trafficking Division, where she worked collaboratively to support prevention and awareness initiatives. She also completed an internship as a School Social Worker, where she advocated for students and families through a trauma-informed lens while partnering with staff to cultivate a nurturing learning environment.

Therapeutically, Elyssa employs a person-centered and strengths-based approach. By highlighting and celebrating client strengths through a holistic lens, she aims to foster a safe therapeutic environment where clients feel seen, heard, and free to express their authentic selves.

Outside of her work, Elyssa loves spending time with her cat, Jinx, reading, and being in nature.

PROGRAM MANAGER

Stephanie Dahl, MA, LPC has a Master’s in Professional Counseling, with an emphasis in Childhood Trauma and Disorders from Grand Canyon University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Coaching from California State University, Sacramento. 

Stephanie’s professional experience spans both school and community-based settings. She has served as an elementary school counselor, a trauma-informed therapist for youth ages 4–18, a Boys & Girls Club director, and a counseling intern. In each role, she has focused on creating safe, empowering environments where children can feel seen, supported, and capable of growth. 

Stephanie’s passion lies in helping children grow through movement, play, and connection. With a background rooted in both counseling and coaching, she recognizes that many children need supportive outlets outside of their home environments. Her mission is to provide safe, engaging spaces where young people can process challenges, build resilience, and unlock their full potential. 

She believes that every child can overcome adversity, especially when they have even one trusted adult in their corner offering consistent love and support.  

As Clinical Program Manager at the Phoenix Center, Stephanie brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, program leadership, and a heartfelt commitment to helping children heal and thrive. She oversees the implementation of trauma-informed programs, supports clinical teams, and advocates for comprehensive, strengths-based care for children and families across Central Texas. 

Outside of her clinical work, Stephanie enjoys staying active, playing volleyball, and connecting with the community through youth programs and mentorship. 

Equine Team Therapist

Heather Hanlin, LPC, is an Equine Team Therapist and has advanced training in Trauma Informed Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (TI-EAP) through Natural Lifemanship. While horses are capable of thinking about the past or the future they tend to live mostly in the present.  As an equine assisted therapist, she tends to focus on a client’s experience of what is happening now, what happened in the past, and how they would like to experience the future. Heather helps clients identify how what they do well can help them work better with what challenges them.

In addition to partnering with horses, Heather uses Internal Family Systems (IFS), Expressive Arts and Sand Tray in her therapy work to help clients gain deeper understanding of themselves which is sometimes difficult to express in words.  She has personal experience with neurodiversity, and specializes in working with gifted, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum.

Heather got her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University.  She began by working with low-income clients at Capital Area Counseling while building a small private practice.

She started riding a Shetland Pony when she was 5 years old.  Heather participated in the horse project in 4H and adopted and trained a Wild Mustang. She also has training as a therapeutic riding instructor. What she loves most about her horse experiences are the relationships she created with the horses.

Certified Equine Specialist

Paula Basden is a Certified Equine Specialist with a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Baylor University. She specializes in equine-assisted learning for individuals wishing to improve their lives by being more connected to themselves, others, and the world around them. She is certified through EAGALA and has extensive training in trauma-focused equine programs through The Natural Lifemanship Institute. 

Paula’s philosophy is based on an innovative, ethical practice that builds on the human/horse connection, helping people learn more about themselves and then using that learning to make positive changes in their lives.

Paula’s lifelong love of horses and passion for helping others has blended into a career that encourages others to create and maintain healthy relationships. She is excited about being a part of the healing work of the Phoenix Center and helping to bring a proven methodology of treatment to the options available to the children and families there.

Administrative Team

OFFICE DIRECTOR

Jennifer Winn serves as Office Director at Phoenix Center, bringing more than 25 years of nonprofit experience to her role. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Texas at Tyler and has served in a variety of capacities including Logistics Manager, Event and Conference Planner, Bookkeeper, Office Manager, and Executive Administrator. 

Originally from Colorado, Jennifer has called Texas home for the past 25 years. She and her husband of 28 years relocated from Dallas to Marble Falls in the fall of 2024. They have one adult daughter. 

Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, exploring new restaurants, attending musicals and concerts, and reading. She feels deeply called to the mission of Phoenix Center and is honored to support work that makes a lasting impact in the lives of children and families. 

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Gena Nivens Keller serves as Development Director at the Phoenix Center. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University and brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and corporate philanthropy. Before joining the Phoenix Center, Gena founded the Hearts for MK (Texas) chapter of The Cure Starts Now Foundation, a global initiative funding research toward the Homerun Cure for pediatric brain cancer.

Her professional background spans both the nonprofit and corporate sectors, including roles with the American Cancer Society, CASA, the Junior Leagues of San Antonio and Austin, the Texas Medical Association Foundation, the Westlake Chamber of Commerce, and Wonders & Worries. Earlier in her career, she held marketing and public affairs positions with Duke Energy, Compaq, Sprint, and Time Warner Cable.

Originally from West Texas, Gena has called Austin home for more than 20 years. She is passionate about community engagement.

OFFICE ASSISTANT AND FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST

Jackie Taylor manages front office operations at Phoenix Center and holds a Masters in Family and Child Studies from Texas State University.  Jackie has spent most of her career working with military families specifically in Children and Youth programs as a staff trainer, Program Director and Technical Assistance Specialist. She has trained many early childhood programs nationwide on various aspects of child development, specializing in training teachers how to work with challenging behaviors in preschool age children. She has lived and worked in Japan, Germany, Italy and most recently, in Spain with the US Navy Children and Youth Program.  

Jackie truly believes that learning begins at birth and the first 5 years of life are crucial in developing strong, mentally healthy children.  Jackie believes deeply that children are our future, and she loves working at the Phoenix Center where children’s lives can be changed through therapy.    

She and her husband love traveling and exploring new places with their fur baby, Joy. They now call Spicewood home. 

DATA SPECIALIST

Patrick Milum serves as Data Specialist at the Phoenix Center, bringing a strong background in public education, program leadership, and data analytics. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Houston and his master’s degree in Data Analytics from the University of Mississippi.

Before joining the Phoenix Center, Patrick served as Program Director for the MFISD ACE Program, supporting more than 1,000 families each year. His professional interests include using data to improve outcomes in education, public health, and social services.

Outside of work, Patrick enjoys reading, barbecuing, kayaking, playing music, traveling, and watching baseball.

FACILITIES AND GROUNDS CREW MANAGER

John Schwin is a retired engineer and executive who contributes his available time to the Phoenix Center mission, wearing multiple hats.  As the leader of the volunteer grounds crew, he helps maintain the 77-acre grounds of the Phoenix Center complex, including the trail system and the ropes course physical structures.  In addition, John is the go-to handy-man for all the odd jobs around the facility.  When required, he chips in on data management and spreadsheet operations.  He is also a certified ropes course volunteer, participating in the Phoenix Center camp programs.

Prior to moving to the Hill Country and lake life, John was the North American president for a valve and fitting manufacturer serving the process industries.  He began his career designing control systems for nuclear power plants as a registered professional engineer and eventually moved into the executive sales ranks, managing global sales forces for technical product companies.  John holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University and an MBA in Operations from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business.

John and his wife, Evelyn, enjoy spending time relaxing on the lake with friends and visiting Texas wineries.

ClinICAL InternS

Phoenix Center is an approved internship site for graduate student clinical interns from the University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University, and Seminary of the Southwest. We will accept interns in January 2026. To learn more, please email info@phoenixtx.org.