Scott Jones CMHC

Owner/Executive Director

Personal Approach

I have great reverence for the process of change and growth that students and their families go through while in treatment. I approach therapy as a humble participant in that change process. I embrace the power of relationships in inviting change. With over 25 years of experience in the adolescent treatment industry, I understand that change requires risk and healing can only happen in a safe and nurturing environment. I believe that students “would if they could” and often their self-destructive behaviors come from a shame-based view of themselves. When working with a student or parent, my mantra is “don’t get stuck in the thick of thin things”. Often students and parents are so focused on the immediate “problems” that it is difficult for them to recognize a way out of the challenges they face. I take a strength based, relational approach to therapy and love helping students discover their unique strengths and “see” their inherent value, often for the first time. My approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and the 12-step model. I have a calm and patient personality and am not easily rattled or offended. I am not threatened when a student’s behavior is oppositional or challenging and have years of experience de-escalating crisis. I am adept at seeing through a student’s defense mechanisms and using humor and kindness to gain a student’s confidence and trust. I work well with students who have co-occurring issues that come with addiction such as depression, anxiety, trauma and attachment issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents and their families and am grateful for the chance to be involved in the miracles that happen every day with those families.

Interests and Hobbies

When not at work, I can often be found on the soccer pitch refereeing amateur, high school, college, semi-pro and professional soccer. I serve on the Utah State Soccer Referee Committee and love mentoring up and coming referees. I enjoy golf, running, and anything that has to do with water. I have completed several half marathons, LOTAJA and the Salt to Saint cycling events. My wonderful wife and I are the proud parents to three amazing kids, three wonderful kid-in-laws and three beautiful grandchildren. My favorite title is “Opa”. I love spending as much time as possible with family especially if it involvtres a beach!

Professional Background and Experience

I have been working with adolescents and their families for over twenty-five years. My expertise includes both operations and direct care in the adolescent treatment setting. I was the creator and director of Project IMPACT. I have worked as milieu staff, case manager, and for the last fifteen years as therapist and program director. I love creating an environment that invites students to develop self-awareness, confront their fears, experience hope and affirmation, and develop their capacity to be their truest self. I particularly enjoy working with students who have experienced trauma and loss.

Experience

• Clinical Mental Health Counselor
• Masters of Mental Health Counseling, University of Phoenix
• Duel Bachelor of Science, Psychology and Sociology, University of Utah
• 25+ Years working with adolescents and families
• AEGIS Crisis Intervention Certified Instructor
• Brainspotting Certified
• Experience in CBT, MIT, DBT, ACT
• Program Director Stillwater Academy
• Primary Therapist Outback Therapeutic Expeditions
• Therapist Stillwater Academy
• Creator/Director Project IMPACT
• Ropes Course/Experiential Education Facilitator Project Adventure