Faculty
Jonathan Aligada, PsyD, LP
Dr. Aligada was raised in Jamestown, North Dakota. He earned his bachelor's degree in
Philosophy from St. John's University in Collegeville, MN. He earned his doctorate in
psychology from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Twin
Cities. His clinical internship was completed through the Arrowhead Psychological Clinic in
Duluth, MN. Dr. Aligada also completed his postdoctoral fellowship through MCARPT during the
2008-2009 academic year. After completing his fellowship, he took a position as a licensed
psychologist at St. Mary's Innovis Health Department of Geriatric Medicine in Detroit Lakes,
where he focuses on the delivery of mental health services to older adults. In addition to
working in an outpatient capacity for geriatric mental health, he also sees clients over the age of
18 in a generalist practice at the outpatient clinic. Furthermore, Dr. Aligada also provides
outreach services to area nursing homes. He provides clinical supervision for the MCARPT
rotation at Oak Crossing Nursing Center.
Gary L. Bowman, PhD, LP
Dr. Bowman completed his PhD in Counseling Psychology at the University of Minnesota in
1996. Research interest focused on the impact of parental interpersonal dynamics on female
adolescent development in alcoholic families. Clinical internship emphasized delivery of
psychological services in rural areas of South Dakota with particular attention to Native
Americans. Currently Dr. Bowman provides clinical services at Lakeland Mental Health Center
in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. He provides individual, marital, and family therapy for clients
ranging from young adolescents to older adults. Prior experience includes psychological
service in an emergency room setting, oncology unit, and a crisis shelter for runaway
adolescents. Additionally, Dr. Bowman has taught graduate and under-graduate courses
related to clinical services, and worked as a teacher in the Minneapolis Public Schools for
seven years.
Brian Gatheridge Ph.D., L.P.
Dr. Gatheridge was born and raised in the rural NW Minnesota town of Kennedy. He earned
his bachelor's degrees in psychology and sociology from North Dakota State University (NDSU)
in 2001. Subsequent to graduation he enrolled in the clinical psychology graduate program at
NDSU, earning his master's degree in 2003. From there he enrolled in the doctoral program in
clinical psychology (child and adolescent emphasis) at Washington State University, earning
his Ph.D. in 2007. Through the academic year of 2006-2007 he worked to complete his
predoctoral internship training in pediatric psychology through the University of Minnesota
Medical School. His postdoctoral fellowship was completed through the MCARPT program in
2008-2009. It was through the MCARPT program that his fondness for rural practice was
enhanced and subsequent to the end of his fellowship he accepted a position with MeritCare
Health System. In this position he works as a licensed psychologist in and around the Detroit
Lakes community, while also remaining involved in the MCARPT program as a clinical
supervisor.
Don Janes, M.S., L.P.
Mr. Janes is a licensed psychologist. He has worked several years in community mental
health. He currently supervises children's mental health and developmental services and
chemical dependency services at Becker County Human Services. Mr. Janes obtained his
bachelors' degree in 1976 in sociology and psychology from Northern State College in
Aberdeen, South Dakota. He went on to earn his master's degree in community counseling
psychology from St. Cloud State University. He then went on to do additional training in
marriage and family therapy at St. Mary's University in Minneapolis. Before taking on his job
with Becker County Social Services, he worked for Lakeland Mental Health Center for 10 years,
both as a psychologist and later as the adult services director.
SARA JENSEN-FRITZ M.S., L.P.
Sara is a graduate of the University of North Dakota (BA, Psychology), North Dakota State
University (MS, Psychology-Clinical Behavior Analysis), and Moorhead State University (PsyS,
Specialist Degree, School Psychology). The first part of Sara's career was spent in a clinical
setting at Southeast Human Service Center in Fargo, ND, where she completed psychological
evaluations, behavioral consultations and was involved with individual and group therapy. Sara
became a Licensed Psychologist in 1998. Currently, Sara is a School Psychologist for Detroit
Lakes School District. She conducts special education evaluations and is an active participant
on student assistance teams and child study meetings. As a member of these teams Sara
consults with teachers and parents to develop individual and classroom interventions.
PAULA JONES-JOHNSON M.Ed.
Paula is a graduate of Hamline University, where she obtained her Masters in Education. She
has a Bachelors degree in Social Work from Moorhead State University. Currently she is a
Licensed School Social Worker at Roosevelt Elementary School in Detroit Lakes, MN. Paula's
daily activities include: providing group and individual work emphasizing building skills
necessary for being a successful life learner, teacher / Parent consultation and support,
Behavior mod program monitoring, Crisis intervention, Student advocate, Screening &
Assessment, and Individual & group skill building. Paula serves on the Roosevelt Elementary
STAR (Student, Teacher, Assistance, Resource team) as well as the Child Study team.
Jeffrey Leichter Ph.D., L.P., Training & Clinical Director
Dr. Leichter was born and raised in Long Beach, California. He graduated from the University of
California with a bachelor's degree in biological sciences in 1982. He enrolled in the graduate
program at the California School of Professional Psychology (now Alliant University) in Los
Angeles and obtained a master's degree in 1985 and a Ph.D. in 1987 in clinical psychology.
From 1987-1989 he was a postdoctoral fellow and instructor in primary care health psychology
at St. Joseph's Hospital/Michigan State University State Department of Family Medicine. From
1989-1990 he was a staff psychologist and the director of behavioral medicine at National
Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington, D. C. In 1990 he joined the staff of MeritCare Clinic in
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota as a clinical psychologist and served in that capacity until 2000. From
2000-2001 he was Director of Clinical Training for the Harold Abel School of Psychology at
Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and subsequently was a core faculty member in
the clinical psychology doctoral program until 2007. In 2001, Dr. Leichter returned to MeritCare
Health System and continues to work as a clinical psychologist in a rural primary health care
clinic. He is a member of the American Psychological Association, licensed to practice
psychology in Michigan, Minnesota, and Arizona. He is also listed in the National Register of
Health Service Providers in Psychology, holds the Certificate of Professional Qualification
(CPQ) from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, and was a consulting
editor for the journal Professional Psychology: Research and Practice from 2001 to 2006.
Gail Pickett, Ph.D., L.P.
I consider a small community in Northeast Missouri to be by hometown. Growing up in a
community of 2,000 people and graduating from a high school class of 74 provides me with
front row knowledge of what "rural" means. Working with a consortium dedicated to providing
post-doctoral training to psychologists desiring to work in rural communities is exciting and a
"good fit" for me. I earned my undergraduate degree in secondary social studies education
from the University of Missouri - Columbia in 1983. Master's degree (1993) and doctorate
(1998) in clinical psychology were earned at the University of Missouri - St. Louis. Pre-doctoral
internship was with the VA Medical Center, Jefferson Barracks campus in St. Louis. My
researach focus centered around PTSD and trauma issues, including the effects of trauma
work on the therapist. I have worked for the state of North Dakota in a regional outpatient
"human service center" for almost seven years before coming to Minnesota. This opportunity
has allowed me to appreciate the need for good collaboration between and among treatment
providers when working with clients of all ages and needs within a rural setting. I will bring an
attitude of cooperation and partnering to my clinical practice and supervisory involvement.
Donald Preussler Ph.D, L.P., Assistant Clinical Director
Dr. Preussler received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 1989 from the University of North
Dakota and did his residency training at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, TX.
He did his post-doctoral work in clinical child psychology and holds a masters degree in
human development. He is a licensed psychologist in the states of Minnesota and Illinois and
is a member of the National Association for Rural Mental Health as well as other professional
organizations in the fields of psychology, medicine and religion. His professional background
includes over fifteen years of academic employment and various clinical positions including
administrative and supervisory responsibilities for all levels of training in clinical psychology.
His research interests have been in the areas of psychometric assessment, the integration of
psychology with health and religion, psychopharmacology and most recently rural psychology.
He is currently employed by MeritCare Clinic in Detroit Lakes, MN.
Sue Sailer, LSW
Director of Social Services, Perham Memorial Hospital & Home. Sue graduated with a
bachelor's Degree in Social Work, with minors in Psychology & Sociology from Bemidji State
University, May 1977. She has maintained social work licensure through the State of MN since
licensing began with the MN Board of Social Work. She started working on her master's degree
in Social Work with an emphasis on Indian Child Welfare through the University of MN-Duluth.
She has had a wide range of social work experiences in the past 25+ years, including: child
protection, chemical dependency, mental health, geriatrics, medical social work, hospice and
end-of-life care. The majority of her experiences have involved social work in the medical
delivery system. Advocacy for patients and assisting them to navigate health challenges is the
most rewarding portion of her work. Sue advises: Maintaining a sense of humor is crucial.
James Torkildson Ed.D., L.P.
Dr. Torkildson earned his B.A. Degree in Psychology from Moorhead State University (1979),
his M.A. Degree in Counseling Psychology from Ball State University (1984) and his Ed.D.
Degree in Educational Psychology and Counseling from the University of South Dakota in 1986.
He has worked in community mental health for approximately 15 years and served as Chief
Psychologist for a long term placement children's home. He has also worked as a professor of
psychology while residing in Indiana. Dr. Torkildson returned to Minnesota in 2002 at which
time he accepted the position to serve as the Director of the School Based Mental Health
project for the Otter-tail County Family Services Collaborative. In July of 2007 he left this position
to assume the clinical director role for the Lakeland Mental Health Center in Detroit Lakes. In
2009 he became affiliated with Solutions Behavioral Health Associates where he directs the
0-5 mental health intervention program. He is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of
Minnesota.
Darryl Zitzow, Ph.D., L.P.
Dr. Zitzow earned his master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of North Dakota
in 1975 and completed his Ph.D. in psychology from Walden University in 1980. He is licensed
as a psychologist in both Minnesota and South Dakota and also holds licensure as a social
worker in Minnesota. He completed his doctoral internship at Aberdeen State University in
South Dakota. He worked as a professor of psychology at Northern State University in South
Dakota for 10 years where he directed the campus counseling center. He has worked for
Indian Health Services on the White Earth Reservation since 1985 where he directs the mental
health service department. His clinical interests and specializations include Native American
emotional/behavioral adjustment issues, suicide among Indian youth, gambling addiction, and
family development issues among Native peoples.
Dr. Aligada was raised in Jamestown, North Dakota. He earned his bachelor's degree in
Philosophy from St. John's University in Collegeville, MN. He earned his doctorate in
psychology from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Twin
Cities. His clinical internship was completed through the Arrowhead Psychological Clinic in
Duluth, MN. Dr. Aligada also completed his postdoctoral fellowship through MCARPT during the
2008-2009 academic year. After completing his fellowship, he took a position as a licensed
psychologist at St. Mary's Innovis Health Department of Geriatric Medicine in Detroit Lakes,
where he focuses on the delivery of mental health services to older adults. In addition to
working in an outpatient capacity for geriatric mental health, he also sees clients over the age of
18 in a generalist practice at the outpatient clinic. Furthermore, Dr. Aligada also provides
outreach services to area nursing homes. He provides clinical supervision for the MCARPT
rotation at Oak Crossing Nursing Center.
Gary L. Bowman, PhD, LP
Dr. Bowman completed his PhD in Counseling Psychology at the University of Minnesota in
1996. Research interest focused on the impact of parental interpersonal dynamics on female
adolescent development in alcoholic families. Clinical internship emphasized delivery of
psychological services in rural areas of South Dakota with particular attention to Native
Americans. Currently Dr. Bowman provides clinical services at Lakeland Mental Health Center
in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. He provides individual, marital, and family therapy for clients
ranging from young adolescents to older adults. Prior experience includes psychological
service in an emergency room setting, oncology unit, and a crisis shelter for runaway
adolescents. Additionally, Dr. Bowman has taught graduate and under-graduate courses
related to clinical services, and worked as a teacher in the Minneapolis Public Schools for
seven years.
Brian Gatheridge Ph.D., L.P.
Dr. Gatheridge was born and raised in the rural NW Minnesota town of Kennedy. He earned
his bachelor's degrees in psychology and sociology from North Dakota State University (NDSU)
in 2001. Subsequent to graduation he enrolled in the clinical psychology graduate program at
NDSU, earning his master's degree in 2003. From there he enrolled in the doctoral program in
clinical psychology (child and adolescent emphasis) at Washington State University, earning
his Ph.D. in 2007. Through the academic year of 2006-2007 he worked to complete his
predoctoral internship training in pediatric psychology through the University of Minnesota
Medical School. His postdoctoral fellowship was completed through the MCARPT program in
2008-2009. It was through the MCARPT program that his fondness for rural practice was
enhanced and subsequent to the end of his fellowship he accepted a position with MeritCare
Health System. In this position he works as a licensed psychologist in and around the Detroit
Lakes community, while also remaining involved in the MCARPT program as a clinical
supervisor.
Don Janes, M.S., L.P.
Mr. Janes is a licensed psychologist. He has worked several years in community mental
health. He currently supervises children's mental health and developmental services and
chemical dependency services at Becker County Human Services. Mr. Janes obtained his
bachelors' degree in 1976 in sociology and psychology from Northern State College in
Aberdeen, South Dakota. He went on to earn his master's degree in community counseling
psychology from St. Cloud State University. He then went on to do additional training in
marriage and family therapy at St. Mary's University in Minneapolis. Before taking on his job
with Becker County Social Services, he worked for Lakeland Mental Health Center for 10 years,
both as a psychologist and later as the adult services director.
SARA JENSEN-FRITZ M.S., L.P.
Sara is a graduate of the University of North Dakota (BA, Psychology), North Dakota State
University (MS, Psychology-Clinical Behavior Analysis), and Moorhead State University (PsyS,
Specialist Degree, School Psychology). The first part of Sara's career was spent in a clinical
setting at Southeast Human Service Center in Fargo, ND, where she completed psychological
evaluations, behavioral consultations and was involved with individual and group therapy. Sara
became a Licensed Psychologist in 1998. Currently, Sara is a School Psychologist for Detroit
Lakes School District. She conducts special education evaluations and is an active participant
on student assistance teams and child study meetings. As a member of these teams Sara
consults with teachers and parents to develop individual and classroom interventions.
PAULA JONES-JOHNSON M.Ed.
Paula is a graduate of Hamline University, where she obtained her Masters in Education. She
has a Bachelors degree in Social Work from Moorhead State University. Currently she is a
Licensed School Social Worker at Roosevelt Elementary School in Detroit Lakes, MN. Paula's
daily activities include: providing group and individual work emphasizing building skills
necessary for being a successful life learner, teacher / Parent consultation and support,
Behavior mod program monitoring, Crisis intervention, Student advocate, Screening &
Assessment, and Individual & group skill building. Paula serves on the Roosevelt Elementary
STAR (Student, Teacher, Assistance, Resource team) as well as the Child Study team.
Jeffrey Leichter Ph.D., L.P., Training & Clinical Director
Dr. Leichter was born and raised in Long Beach, California. He graduated from the University of
California with a bachelor's degree in biological sciences in 1982. He enrolled in the graduate
program at the California School of Professional Psychology (now Alliant University) in Los
Angeles and obtained a master's degree in 1985 and a Ph.D. in 1987 in clinical psychology.
From 1987-1989 he was a postdoctoral fellow and instructor in primary care health psychology
at St. Joseph's Hospital/Michigan State University State Department of Family Medicine. From
1989-1990 he was a staff psychologist and the director of behavioral medicine at National
Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington, D. C. In 1990 he joined the staff of MeritCare Clinic in
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota as a clinical psychologist and served in that capacity until 2000. From
2000-2001 he was Director of Clinical Training for the Harold Abel School of Psychology at
Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and subsequently was a core faculty member in
the clinical psychology doctoral program until 2007. In 2001, Dr. Leichter returned to MeritCare
Health System and continues to work as a clinical psychologist in a rural primary health care
clinic. He is a member of the American Psychological Association, licensed to practice
psychology in Michigan, Minnesota, and Arizona. He is also listed in the National Register of
Health Service Providers in Psychology, holds the Certificate of Professional Qualification
(CPQ) from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, and was a consulting
editor for the journal Professional Psychology: Research and Practice from 2001 to 2006.
Gail Pickett, Ph.D., L.P.
I consider a small community in Northeast Missouri to be by hometown. Growing up in a
community of 2,000 people and graduating from a high school class of 74 provides me with
front row knowledge of what "rural" means. Working with a consortium dedicated to providing
post-doctoral training to psychologists desiring to work in rural communities is exciting and a
"good fit" for me. I earned my undergraduate degree in secondary social studies education
from the University of Missouri - Columbia in 1983. Master's degree (1993) and doctorate
(1998) in clinical psychology were earned at the University of Missouri - St. Louis. Pre-doctoral
internship was with the VA Medical Center, Jefferson Barracks campus in St. Louis. My
researach focus centered around PTSD and trauma issues, including the effects of trauma
work on the therapist. I have worked for the state of North Dakota in a regional outpatient
"human service center" for almost seven years before coming to Minnesota. This opportunity
has allowed me to appreciate the need for good collaboration between and among treatment
providers when working with clients of all ages and needs within a rural setting. I will bring an
attitude of cooperation and partnering to my clinical practice and supervisory involvement.
Donald Preussler Ph.D, L.P., Assistant Clinical Director
Dr. Preussler received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 1989 from the University of North
Dakota and did his residency training at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, TX.
He did his post-doctoral work in clinical child psychology and holds a masters degree in
human development. He is a licensed psychologist in the states of Minnesota and Illinois and
is a member of the National Association for Rural Mental Health as well as other professional
organizations in the fields of psychology, medicine and religion. His professional background
includes over fifteen years of academic employment and various clinical positions including
administrative and supervisory responsibilities for all levels of training in clinical psychology.
His research interests have been in the areas of psychometric assessment, the integration of
psychology with health and religion, psychopharmacology and most recently rural psychology.
He is currently employed by MeritCare Clinic in Detroit Lakes, MN.
Sue Sailer, LSW
Director of Social Services, Perham Memorial Hospital & Home. Sue graduated with a
bachelor's Degree in Social Work, with minors in Psychology & Sociology from Bemidji State
University, May 1977. She has maintained social work licensure through the State of MN since
licensing began with the MN Board of Social Work. She started working on her master's degree
in Social Work with an emphasis on Indian Child Welfare through the University of MN-Duluth.
She has had a wide range of social work experiences in the past 25+ years, including: child
protection, chemical dependency, mental health, geriatrics, medical social work, hospice and
end-of-life care. The majority of her experiences have involved social work in the medical
delivery system. Advocacy for patients and assisting them to navigate health challenges is the
most rewarding portion of her work. Sue advises: Maintaining a sense of humor is crucial.
James Torkildson Ed.D., L.P.
Dr. Torkildson earned his B.A. Degree in Psychology from Moorhead State University (1979),
his M.A. Degree in Counseling Psychology from Ball State University (1984) and his Ed.D.
Degree in Educational Psychology and Counseling from the University of South Dakota in 1986.
He has worked in community mental health for approximately 15 years and served as Chief
Psychologist for a long term placement children's home. He has also worked as a professor of
psychology while residing in Indiana. Dr. Torkildson returned to Minnesota in 2002 at which
time he accepted the position to serve as the Director of the School Based Mental Health
project for the Otter-tail County Family Services Collaborative. In July of 2007 he left this position
to assume the clinical director role for the Lakeland Mental Health Center in Detroit Lakes. In
2009 he became affiliated with Solutions Behavioral Health Associates where he directs the
0-5 mental health intervention program. He is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of
Minnesota.
Darryl Zitzow, Ph.D., L.P.
Dr. Zitzow earned his master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of North Dakota
in 1975 and completed his Ph.D. in psychology from Walden University in 1980. He is licensed
as a psychologist in both Minnesota and South Dakota and also holds licensure as a social
worker in Minnesota. He completed his doctoral internship at Aberdeen State University in
South Dakota. He worked as a professor of psychology at Northern State University in South
Dakota for 10 years where he directed the campus counseling center. He has worked for
Indian Health Services on the White Earth Reservation since 1985 where he directs the mental
health service department. His clinical interests and specializations include Native American
emotional/behavioral adjustment issues, suicide among Indian youth, gambling addiction, and
family development issues among Native peoples.
Faculty
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