CLINICIANS

Compassionate Experts: Meet Our Clinicians

RMU Clinicians are dedicated to guiding clients through their journey to emotional well-being and personal growth.

CLINIC STAFF

Director

Dr. Brandon Wilde, CMHC(UT), CPC (NV), LPC (AZ), ACS

Dr. Wilde practices Professional Counseling primarily in the Intermountain West, as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Utah, a Clinical Professional Counselor in Nevada, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. With an M.S. in Counseling-Marital, Couple, and Family; and a Ph.D., in Counselor Education and Counseling, Dr. Wilde has over 15 years of experience in clinical practice as well as supervising and teaching Clinical Mental Health, Addiction, and Couple and Family Counseling clinicians.

His undergraduate degree is from the University of Utah and his Doctor of Optometry is from Pacific University. Dr. Wilkins continued his education and completed a Fellowship in Primary Care. Dr. Wilkins has also received additional specialty training in primary care, ocular diseases, anterior segment and laser certifications. During his Military Service he had a special interest in disaster management and completed a Masters Degree in Health Science with emphasis in “Medical Emergency and Disaster Management”. Dr. Wilkins is very interested in research of the cornea, anterior segment and disease management and participates in FDA trials at Utah Eye Centers. He has served as an adjunct professor at multiple Universities all over the United States. He is Past President of the Utah Optometric Association. Also he is the Utah director for the Special Olympics “Open Eyes” program. He volunteers extensively for “Friends for Sight, “Utah Partners for Health” and”Charity Vision.” When he is not at one of our clinics he is busy with his beautiful wife, amazing nine children, and 14 unbelievable grandchildren. They all enjoy family parties and the great outdoors.

Counseling Clinic Coordinator/Receptionist

Samantha Francisco, B.A. in Psychology

Samantha graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from California State University in 2021. Previously, she has worked at other nonprofits, treatment centers, daycares, and as a caregiver for adults. Samantha is very passionate about access to affordable mental health services. She is also proud that the RMU Counseling Clinic can provide services to Spanish-speaking clients.

INTERNS

Michelle Aravena

Michelle is dedicated to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and couples can explore their challenges and work toward meaningful change. With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding faith crises, trauma, and self-worth, Michelle is passionate about supporting individuals through transformative journeys, empowering them to rediscover their strength and resilience. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.

Dacya Erickson

Dacya believes in the transformative power of therapy and is committed to providing a safe space where you can feel empowered to explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences. She is drawn to areas such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting issues, and self-esteem. Her approach to therapy is deeply rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a nonjudgmental presence to untangle the challenges you are carrying.

Chanel Judkins

Chanel has worked in social services as a case manager for many years and is passionate about helping people obtain the resources and support they need to live their lives to the fullest. With a bachelor’s degree in Spanish, she is interested in providing counseling to adults who are experiencing a faith transition, adults who are struggling day to day with depression and/or anxiety, and those whose first language is Spanish. She is currently working Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at RMU.

Kimberly Pace, M.Ed., SSW

Kimberly has a master’s degree in education and psychology. She has worked with youth and families as a family advocate, prevention specialist, and as a school counselor. She has experience in and enjoys working with clients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, social emotional learning, relationship issues, parenting, and mindfulness. She is currently finishing her Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate through Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.

Millie Pfaff

Millie brings a holistic approach to therapy that values each family member’s mental health. As a former foster parent turned adoptive parent, she understands the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of nurturing strong bonds. Clients can expect a safe and non-judgmental space where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Millie has a Bachelor’s degree in Marriage and Family Studies and is working toward a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at RMU.

Service Provider Clinicians are graduate students in their second year of the Professional Counseling master’s degree program. Supervisors are Ph.D. level and/or licensed as Clinical Mental Health Counselors who are RMU faculty/staff. Students receive supervision via the use of live observation and session recordings. (Recordings are used for instructional purposes only and are erased afterward.)