Ignite’s Master’s Candidate Practicum Therapists
Our practicum student therapists are in the final stages of their graduate training and bring fresh perspective, dedication, and a strong foundation in evidence-based care.
This semester, they are co-facilitating group therapy offerings at Ignite under the close supervision of our Clinical Supervisory team. Beginning in the fall, they will also begin offering individual therapy services through Ignite’s Affordable Counseling Program.
Practicum student therapists are an important part of our team, and we’re proud to support their growth while expanding access to care for our community.
Philip Zortman | MA Candidate, Clinical Intern Therapist
Pronouns: He/Him | Treats individuals 18+
Phil brings a wealth of diverse life experience to his counseling work. Before pursuing clinical training, he worked in business and finance in New York and California, supported individuals facing terminal illness, volunteered for several years in search and rescue, and served people experiencing homelessness and migration. These experiences deepened his understanding of resilience, compassion, and the importance of finding meaning, which continue to shape his therapeutic approach.
Phil’s theoretical influences are drawn from psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, existential therapy, person-centered therapy, mindfulness, spirituality, systemic perspectives, and neuropsychology. His approach is holistic and integrative, emphasizing treatment of the whole person. He believes that healing involves attention to mind, body, spirit, relationships, and work—and that challenges often arise at the intersections of these realms.
Phil works with adolescent and adult clients experiencing trauma, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, and grief, as well as those exploring deeper existential themes of meaning and purpose. He views therapy as a collaborative process where the counseling relationship itself becomes a foundation for self-discovery, growth, and transformation. By creating a safe and supportive space, Phil helps clients explore their challenges, develop self-compassion, and reconnect with their strengths. Phil holds a degree in economics from Iowa State University and is currently completing his graduate clinical training at Regis. He is passionate about supporting clients on their journeys toward wellness, authenticity, and connection.
For fun, Phil enjoys spending time with friends and family, cycling, hiking, listening to music, watching movies, and reading about history, science, philosophy, and spirituality.
Mackenzie Ross | MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling Candidate
Pronouns: She/Her | Treats individuals 15+
Mackenzie Ross is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University and completing her practicum under the supervision of Hester Campbell here at Ignite. She brings to the counseling space a deep appreciation for the complexity of being human, blending warmth, curiosity, and a belief in each person’s inherent capacity for growth.
Before entering the counseling field, Mackenzie spent a decade as a creative professional, and more recently incorporating work as a yoga instructor. These experiences inform her ability to be present, attuned, and open-minded in her work with clients.
Mackenzie has a relaxed and intuitive approach that draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-based approaches, and Somatic Awareness.
Outside of counseling, Mackenzie enjoys traveling, photography, pottery, and spending time in nature.