Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Surprise, AZ covered by United Healthcare

From a young age as an “old soul” I’ve carried a deep desire to witness & share people’s stories. I have always been a deep thinker and feeler. Born and raised near the Great Lake Erie (PA), I attended Penn State for my undergraduate studies in Human Development & Family Studies as well as Sociology. People & their development, both individually and collectively as a group, continue to fascinate me. There is always more to learn. More than 10 years ago I moved cross-country sight unseen to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona where I earned my Master’s in Counseling & Mental Health. The desert completely enchanted me and I’ve never left! We live in such a beautiful, healing place.

As I dove into the fields of both behavioral health & education, it became apparent that families often aren’t set up for or connected to the resources necessary to thrive. With a background in elementary school counseling, I worked with a vast variety of populations of students, families, and staff to problem-solve and collaborate toward whole-person success.

Hello and welcome! my name is Darren Nguyen (Duy), I'm currently only taking new clients for individual therapy, not couple and family therapy. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve meaningful growth. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling with an emphasis on Mental Health Counseling from the University of Arizona and have experience working in a community mental health clinic, supporting individuals facing a range of emotional and psychological struggles. Growing up in two different cultures, I understand how cultural influences shape identity, values, and personal experiences, allowing me to provide culturally responsive care that acknowledges the intersection of mental health and cultural background. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, borderline personality disorder, and attachment-related concerns using a person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed approach. Integrating evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, PRT and somatic therapy, I help clients cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and lasting change. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore their emotions, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build a life aligned with their values. Whether you're struggling with past trauma, self-doubt, or emotional distress, I am here to provide compassionate guidance and effective therapeutic strategies tailored to your unique journey.

Dr. MacKenzie ia board certified Adult and Child psychiatric NP and trained therapist Graduated Cum Laud from Case Western Reserve University in 2012 practicing in Texas, Oregon and most recently in Arizona since 2013. Prior to this he spent 10+ years as a Psychiatric and Critical Care RN in the community and a prior 10+ years in the US Army; where he learned a lot about anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. "I lived it, and with help I recovered. Then I studied what I myself have gone through to help others".

"If you think about it, there is no actual health without good mental health, and I work to help my clients achieve both."

Using the tools of Psychology as well as Psychiatric medication management (if appropriate), you can feel much better, function much better at home, work, and when you find yourself in those uncomfortable times.

Almost every symptom or unwanted trait can improve and in many cases, resolve completely, but only if you give it a chance.

As a board certified psychotherapist, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, I work with a plethora of inter-generational clients aged 21-90 who are struggling with anxiety and depression and trauma.

As a chaplain, I take a psycho-spiritual approach and work with clients assisting with intercultural issues, blended family dynamics, religiosity challenges and grief & loss.

Emotional exhaustion can look like functioning.

You may be the person others depend on while quietly feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from yourself. At Milton’s Place Counseling, therapy offers a supportive space to slow down, process what you are carrying, and identify practical next steps. I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and major life transitions. You do not have to wait until you are in crisis to seek support.

If anxiety, depression, grief, or ongoing stress are making daily life feel harder, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with adolescents, adults, and families who feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Many parents seek support when they notice changes in their teen’s mood, behavior, school functioning, or communication, while adults often come to therapy feeling exhausted, disconnected, or weighed down by life transitions and relationship stress.

I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves. In my spare time, I work as an outdoor educator and manage my own private practice and guide Outdoor Retreats

I believe it is helpful and important to translate what is discussed in session and in telehealth meetings into lived experience and real change.

I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have worked with several different clientele including age ranges. I specialize in teenagers, LGBTQ+, women issues and young adults 18-55.