Current Leadership
The purpose of AMCAP is to support and connect Latter-day Saint mental health professionals around the world and provide continuing education to all mental health professionals.
Executive Committee
President (October 2023- Present) - Brent A. Taylor, PhD
Brent A. Taylor, Ph.D., began his professorship at San Diego State University (SDSU) in 2000 when he also became licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in California. He served as the program director of the Marriage and Family Therapy program for 9 years and then as the department chair of Counseling and School Psychology for 7 years at SDSU. His educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from BYU, a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University, and he earned more master’s degrees along his path to completing his doctoral degree in Sociology with a clinical emphasis in MFT at the University of Southern California. He has served in various leadership roles and on boards of professional agencies and associations. His publications are in various academic journals and books, and he has presented numerous times around the country. He also maintains a clinical private practice. He is the father of three children and has one grandchild.
Vice President (October 2023- present)- Jared Neslen M.Ed, LCPC-S
After returning from a mission, Jared Neslen serendipitously discovered the book, “How the Mind Works” while working in a bookstore, igniting a deep fascination with every facet of human behavior and psychology. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Utah State University and a master’s in Professional Counseling from the University of Utah in 2009.
Jared’s professional journey has been diverse, spanning roles in testing and assessments, professional counseling for both non-profits and private practice, and a decade of dedicated service with LDS Family Services. Currently, he contributes his expertise to Dodini Behavioral Health, a prominent group practice located in Arlington, Virginia.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Jared cherishes family time and embraces a lifelong passion for learning, delving into subjects like music and history. His love for the fantasy genre adds an imaginative dimension to his interests.
Treasurer (December 2023-Present)- Nedra Toponce, LMFT
Nedra Toponce has been a marriage and family therapist for about twenty years. She is currently in private practice since 2009 mostly working with couples. She will also see some individuals and families. Nedra has written two guidebooks- one for couples titled “A Guidebook for Couples: Learning How to Counsel together as a Couple” and one for families- “A Guidebook for Families: Learning How to Counsel together as a Family.” She enjoys various cultures and likes to travel, and spend time with family and friends.
Executive Secretary (October 2023-Present) –Sara Kaylor, MPA
Sara Kaylor received a bachelor’s degree from BYU and returned to complete a master’s degree in public administration, hoping to work with nonprofit organizations. She came to AMCAP with significant experience in event management. Combining this with a distinct passion for the mental health professions, AMCAP has been an excellent fit.
Sara and her husband, Tysen, have two of the cutest girls you’ll ever meet. Nothing boosts Sara’s mood quite as fast as a run or hike through Utah’s gorgeous mountain trails. You can often find her making chocolate chip cookies, playing at the park with her girls, or trying to be an assistant on one of Tysen’s home-improvement or custom furniture projects.
Governing Board Members
Board Member (May 2020-Present) - Rachel E. Crook Lyon, PhD, licensed psychologist
Rachel E. Crook Lyon received her doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park. She taught at BYU for 9 years as a full-time faculty in the Counseling Psychology and Special Education (CPSE) program at BYU, and currently serves as an adjunct faculty at the BYU Salt Lake Center and maintains a private practice in Lehi, UT. Rachel currently serves as the continuing education coordinator for AMCAP (2018 – present). She previously served as an appointed (2003-2004) and elected (2004-2007) AMCAP board member over continuing education. In addition, she was the editor of AMCAP’s journal, Issues in Religion and Psychotherapy (2006-2012). She has over 30 invited and peer-reviewed publications.
Student Board Member (April 2023-present) Brandon Kemker
Brandon Kemker is an undergraduate senior at BYU pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He is interested in the philosophy of psychology and is planning to enter a Counseling Psychology graduate program in the fall of 2024. After graduation, he plans to practice psychotherapy. Brandon loves singing with the BYU choirs, skiing and hiking with his family in the lovely Utah mountains, and reading fantasy and science fiction novels. He is excited to contribute to the AMCAP community and to become acquainted with its bright, faithful, and professional members.
Student Board Member ( April 2023- Present) Jacob Tubbs
Jacob Tubbs is currently enrolled in the Psychology Ph.D. program at the University of West Georgia. His dissertation is on the nature of joy and how classic children’s literature can aid people in experiencing joy in their lives. He is married with three beautiful children.
Board Member (April 2023- Present) Brian Matthew Jensen, M.S. Psy.D, CPQ, HSP, CCTP- II
Brian Jensen has Worked in community mental health for 15 years. He is licensed in 2 states (CA and Utah). He is Specialized in the practice of pediatric and general clinical psychology, including psycho educational testing and neurofeedback. He is a 2 time recipient of National Health Service Corp (NHSC) student loan repayment award, a 2 time recipient of the California State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) award, and a Certified Health Service Psychologist by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists. He is a Certified Complex Trauma Professional – Level 2 and a Certified QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Instructor.
Brian is a married, father of 7 who Enjoys family time together. He is an Avid dog lover, especially Great Pyrenees. He enjoys snorkeling, the beach, and the philosophy of Aikido
Board Member (April 2023- Present) Raymond Wagstaff CMHC, LPC
Raymond Wagstaff received his B.S. in Psychology from University of Utah in 1997 and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 2011. He developed a passion for working with at risk youth in Salt Lake County encouraging strengths and empowerment to improve in those who struggle with adversity. His clinical experience has spanned 12 years including working with Odyssey House and more recently in Private practice. He has been a member of AMCAP for the past several years.
