About Us

Dr Tony Paulson

Dr Tony Paulson has treated patients with eating and anxiety disorders for more than 30 years and is certified in Family Based Therapy. He has lectured extensively on the topic to community groups and professionals. He was an adjunct professor at Sacramento State and taught core classes at JFK University’s eating disorders certificate program. He co-authored the book, “Why She Feels Fat: Understanding Your Loved One’s Eating Disorder and How You Can Help” and “It was Never About the Food: Stories of Recovery” to assist families in better understanding and responding to their loved one’s eating disorder. Dr Paulson’s approach to treating anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and anxiety disorders utilizes a combination of education, cognitive therapy, and experiential activities.

Cristina Billingsley, LMFT, CCTP

Cristina is the Clinical Director of Sierra and specializes in the treatment of complex trauma and anxiety disorders. She provides expert, evidence-based care for adults, teens, and neurodivergent clients struggling with panic, intrusive thoughts, and persistent emotional distress. Her work offers a structured and supportive space where clients can safely explore what feels heavy or confusing while gaining a deeper understanding of how trauma and anxiety affect both the nervous system and daily life. With over 20 years of clinical experience, specialized training in trauma treatment, and contributions to major media publications on anxiety, trauma, and parenting, Cristina provides thoughtful, clinically grounded treatment focused on reducing symptoms and building lasting emotional regulation and resilience.

Samantha Bondaruk, AMFT

Welcome! My name is Samantha Bondaruk and I am an AMFT. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can share your story and work toward the goals that matter most to you. I am passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges and believe therapy is a collaborative process built on trust, respect, and understanding. Whether you are looking to improve your mental health, strengthen relationships, cope with life transitions, heal from trauma, or focus on personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, we can explore what’s getting in the way, build practical tools, and create meaningful change that feels sustainable in your daily life.

Marina Berber, Associate

I understand the courage it takes to face life’s challenges and emotional pain. My approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, process difficult emotions, and move toward healing.

I work collaboratively with clients to identify opportunities for growth, resilience, and meaningful change, helping them build a future rooted in hope, empowerment, and fulfillment. My practice is guided by a trauma-informed lens, recognizing the impact life experiences can have on emotional well-being and relationships.

As a Level II Brainspotting-trained therapist, I incorporate evidence-based approaches that help clients access and process experiences that may be difficult to reach through traditional talk therapy alone. I believe every person has the capacity to heal, develop lasting solutions, and strengthen their ability to navigate life’s challenges.

I am especially passionate about supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relational wounds. Together, we can work toward greater self-understanding, emotional well-being, and lasting growth. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Julia Hollingshead, LMFT

Julia’s focus is on helping Christians apply their faith to their struggles. Her approach to counseling is for those who believe our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors cannot be separated from spirituality and want to work through their suffering in a Biblical way. Her work incorporates knowledge and tools from psychology to provide holistic care to the body and soul. Additionally, with years of experience in the treatment of eating disorders and specific training in Family Based Treatment, Julia loves to join her clients in returning to or discovering a right, sustainable and enjoyable relationship with food and their bodies. Because those with disordered eating often also experience symptoms of OCD and PTSD, Julia is also qualified in ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy).