Ryan earned his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University and has built a diverse and accomplished career as a leader in the therapeutic treatment field. A Licensed Associate Counselor, he is trained in EMDR, addiction recovery, attachment theory, and psychodynamic theory. Ryan is deeply committed to addressing suffering at its root and guiding individuals toward self-actualization, helping them achieve lasting joy and fulfillment. With extensive experience in leadership roles across various settings and client populations, Ryan has successfully led teams in transitional programs for young adults, residential substance abuse programs, mobile crisis teams, and psychiatric hospitals. His visionary leadership style combines strategic planning, client-centered care, innovative program development, team-building, and a focus on high-level customer service. Among his notable contributions, Ryan developed and delivered crisis response training for multiple agencies across Yavapai County, including hospitals, law enforcement, fire departments, and EMTs/paramedics. Ryan’s therapeutic and leadership philosophies are grounded in contemplative practices, and he has dedicated over 20 years to studying and training in mindfulness. He strives to make meditation accessible to everyone, particularly those who have struggled with it or believe inner peace is unattainable. Ryan believes every person possesses an “unsuspected internal resource” that, once uncovered, can guide and inspire their life. As an active student in the White Plum Zen tradition, Ryan integrates Zen principles into both his clinical and administrative work.

Ryan’s personal healing journey originally inspired his desire to become a therapist. After excelling in high school sports and earning a scholarship to Columbia University, he was compelled to relinquish his lifelong dream as his mental health challenges became overwhelming. At the age of 21, Ryan found lasting relief from trauma, depression, addiction, and shame, and ever since, he has dedicated himself to personal growth and service to others.

Ryan’s greatest joys are his wife, two young children, and their life in beautiful Sedona. He enjoys hiking, chess, woodworking, surfing, CrossFit, and trips to Germany to visit his wife’s homeland. He is involved in several civic service organizations within the Sedona area, and values every opportunity to positively contribute to the wider community. A fifth-generation Arizonan, Ryan’s family—the Babbitts—has played a pivotal role in the sustainable growth and development of Arizona for the past 140 years. Ryan is deeply grateful to be a part of the Red

Mountain family, and to be able to help young adults recover from their afflictions and realize their goals.