Our Speakers
Main sessions
Dennis Wallstrom, Ph.D.
Dr. Dennis Wallstrom seeks the “big picture” when collaborating on life problems. He has extensive training and experience in clinical psychology, forensic psychology, and spirituality and ministry, and applies a range of specific interventions proven to create relief and positive change for particular issues. A graduate of the School of Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary, he naturally draws together helpful resources from his background in science, relational exploration, and faith and spirituality, in his clinical work. “Our personal pain may have much to teach us,” he says, “But we are more attentive learners when we find relief for our bodies, clarity for our minds, joy in our relationships, and peace for our spirits.” He strives to find the most direct route to relief from pain, and to the wisdom we may gain in the process.
Breakouts
Nella Valencia-Ngo, L.M.F.T.
Nella Valencia-Ngo is a Professional Christian Therapist who combines Biblical wisdom with clinical expertise. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in substance Abuse, school counseling, and is certified as a Clinical Trauma Specialist. Nella has extensive experience working with couples, families, and individuals struggling with a variety of issues including relational conflicts, grief, domestic violence, parenting (neurotypical as well as neurodiverse children), as well as depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma, among others. Using a strength-based approach, Nella provides a therapeutic environment that allows for clients to feel safe, understood, and empowered. Nella honors clients’ experiences and inner wisdom and aims to collaborate with clients in their journey towards healing, freedom, and self-actualization.
Angela Yi, Ph.D.
Dr. Angela Yi is a neuropsychologist in independent practice at Foothills Neuropsychology and Rehabilitation Services. She applies her
specialized knowledge and training in brain behavior in providing neuropsychological assessments, cognitive rehabilitation and psychotherapy.
Dr. Yi received her doctoral degree from Fuller Theological Seminary, Graduate School of Psychology. Specialized training in neuropsychology was completed at UCLA, Long Beach VA, internship at NYU Langone Medical Center, Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, and post-doctoral fellowship at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Brain Injury Research Center (BIRC)
Sharon Tanghal, L.C.S.W.
I made the decision to be a follower of Jesus and was baptized when I was 9 years old. When I was 19 y/o, I studied the book of Romans and truly experienced what grace and having the assurance of my salvation was all about! I graduated from my Masters in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach in 2005. I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2010. Several years ago, God stirred in me a strong desire to serve families in my surrounding community and in 2019, NEW PAtH - a faith based parenting program was born. I'm happily married to my husband, Oliver, of 17 years and we have two beautiful and amusing daughters, Leia (11) and Ariel (6).
Dennis Wallstrom, Ph.D.
Dr. Dennis Wallstrom seeks the “big picture” when collaborating on life problems. He has extensive training and experience in clinical psychology, forensic psychology, and spirituality and ministry, and applies a range of specific interventions proven to create relief and positive change for particular issues. A graduate of the School of Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary, he naturally draws together helpful resources from his background in science, relational exploration, and faith and spirituality, in his clinical work. “Our personal pain may have much to teach us,” he says, “But we are more attentive learners when we find relief for our bodies, clarity for our minds, joy in our relationships, and peace for our spirits.” He strives to find the most direct route to relief from pain, and to the wisdom we may gain in the process.
Melissa Kulasekere, M.A.
Melissa graduated with a masters degree in Health Psychology from Northern Arizona University’s Psychology Sciences graduate program, with training and experience in data analysis, cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management, relaxation techniques, bio-feedback, and hypnosis. She has a curiosity for how the mind and body are connected and a passion for empowering individuals with chronic illnesses to take an active role in managing their whole health. She’s applied counseling and health psychology techniques in the areas of diabetes, Bipolar disorder, anxiety, smoking cessation, muscle tension, chronic pain, and sleep issues. She currently uses her knowledge and experience as a practice transformation consultant to help medical organizations improve their patients’ health outcomes.