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Headshot of Marlay Brownson, LCSW

Marlay Brownson

Therapist
2 years of experience
  • Virtual & in-person
  • Depression, Stress management
  • Child or adolescent therapy, Individual therapy, Family therapy

Great to meet you!

One of my key areas of expertise is working with veterans and first responders, populations who often face unique mental health challenges due to the high-stress nature of their work and the trauma they encounter. In her role as a Suicide Prevention Case Manager at the Veteran Affairs, I have provided invaluable support to veterans in crisis, conducting thorough risk assessments, coordinating care for high-risk patients, and responding to emergencies with professionalism and empathy. She understands the complex and often invisible struggles faced by those who serve our country and communities, and she is deeply committed to helping them navigate the effects of trauma, depression, and anxiety that can result from their experiences.

​In addition to her trauma-focused work, I am skilled in couples counseling, helping partners navigate relationship challenges, communication barriers, and emotional disconnects. She assists couples in identifying patterns of behavior that may be hindering their growth and guides them through the process of rebuilding trust, improving communication, and deepening emotional intimacy. When it becomes clear that a relationship may no longer be sustainable, Marlay provides compassionate support to help couples transition out of the relationship in a way that is respectful and healing for both parties.

​I am also passionate about working with adolescents, particularly those dealing with depression, anxiety, and peer-related issues. Adolescence is a challenging time for emotional and social development, and my approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of young people. She works closely with adolescents to help them manage the pressures of school, peer relationships, and family dynamics while addressing mental health challenges such as self-esteem issues, depression, and anxiety. Her work empowers adolescents to build resilience and develop healthy coping strategies that will serve them well into adulthood.

My approach to therapy

I employs evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), ACT, and Mindfulness techniques. These approaches provide clients with the tools they need to manage emotional distress, build emotional regulation skills, and develop healthier thought patterns and behaviors. I am compassionate, client-centered approach ensures that each individual, couple, or family she works with receives the support and guidance they need to overcome challenges and achieve lasting positive change.

What you can expect from me

I am dedicated and highly skilled mental health professional with a deep commitment to guiding individuals, couples, and families toward healing and improved emotional well-being. My extensive experience spans various clinical settings, where I have developed a expertise in assessment, crisis intervention, treatment planning, and therapeutic support for adults, adolescents, and couples. With a strong focus on trauma, mental health disorders, and relationship dynamics, my compassionate approach provides a safe space for clients to confront and work through their struggles.

​My expertise also extends to working with trauma survivors more broadly, where she employs a trauma-informed approach to help clients address and heal from past emotional wounds. Her work is centered on creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can process their trauma and develop healthier coping strategies. This approach is especially impactful for clients who are experiencing the long-term effects of traumatic events, which may interfere with their relationships, work, and daily functioning.

About me

  • I identify as
    Caucasian, Woman
  • My style is
    Open Minded, Direct, Empowering

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    2 years of experience
  • Training
    MSW (Master of Social Work) at Arizona State University, Bachelor of Science
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (Arizona)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, United Healthcare, United Healthcare Medicare Advantage

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Depression, Stress management
  • More specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Family issues, LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Cultural & ethnic issues, End of life care, Grief or loss, Relationship issues, Women's issues, Identity issues, Trauma, PTSD, Transgender issues, Chronic conditions
  • Therapy methods
    Play, Trauma Focused CBT, Attachment Based, Motivational Interviewing, Structural Family, Cognitive Processing (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Behavior Modification, Strength-Based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Art Therapy
  • Care types
    Child or adolescent therapy, Individual therapy, Family therapy
  • Ages served
    Children, Adolescents, Adults, Seniors
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    7550 North 19th Avenue 123
    Phoenix, AZ 85021