Contact Us - Department of Educational Psychology

Adjunct Assistant Professor

Dr. Alta is a licensed psychologist who works with individuals across the lifespan in a community outpatient setting.
He completed his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at the University of Utah, focusing on health and well-being promotion.
Dr. Alta worked in international education, wilderness therapy, and athletic coaching.
Originally from Boston, MA, he values trail-running, international travel, and family.

Adjunct Assistant Professor

Dr. Brian Riedesel has been teaching and counseling for more than 51 years specializing in stress, crisis-trauma, self-regulation skills, vocational, and cultural issues.
He provides trainings & interventions internationally and spent 3 years in Asia & 2 years in Europe during his working career.
He has received awards for crisis work in the Philippines and social justice teaching in Utah.
His personal interests include outdoors, music, sports, film, culinary, travel and family.

Program Assistant & Instructor

Matthew is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and 1st year Ph.D. student at the University of Utah, with experience helping clients manage ADHD, addiction, and trauma.
Certified in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and as a Clinical Mental Performance Consultant, he specializes in supporting student-athletes.
He has shared his research at conferences and in publications.
His strengths-based, positive psychology approach fosters resilience, personal growth, and lasting well-being.

Instructor

Laura is a first-year Counseling Psychology Ph.D. student at the University of Utah and holds a Master of Public Administration from the same institution.
Her research interests center on academic and career success, with a particular focus on how these areas intersect for college students.
She is passionate about working with students and supporting their growth during key academic and career transitions.
Laura brings experience as a career counselor, where she guided students in navigating career decisions and future goals.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, working on her garden, and learning new languages.

Faculty