Our Team

Dr. Lora Ward, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Dr. Lora completed her Masters of Arts in Counseling at Siena Heights University and began her career at Hospice of Hillsdale County companioning individuals experiencing grief and loss after graduation she was employed there for 14 years; she also completed her doctorate degree at North Carolina Bible College shortly after. Lora initially entered the field of grief and loss due to experiencing her own grief due to loss at a very young age. Lora has a passion for education and facilitates her grief processing groups as a classroom format to help clients learn about the “Ten Touchstones” of grief particularly created by Alan Wolfelt’s work as well as apply the touchstones to their life; this particular idea normalizes the different stages of grief and helps participants begin to understand their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through the journey of losing a loved one.

Lora works with clients to assist them in finding their purpose after a loss while continuing to carry their love and memory for the person they have lost. Even losses that have contributed to negative feeling or uncertain thoughts have something to teach us, Lora works to bring meaning to every experience shared by her clients.

Lora also has partnered with local schools to assist staff and students when a loss or traumatic incident occurs. In addition, she has had the privilege of partnering with various organizations to educate and provide support to employees during loss of a colleague.

Lora aims to utilize warmth and validate her client’s emotions throughout the transitions of life and or the grief, loss and healing journey.

Specializes in & Treats: Grief and loss including various bereavement needs due to Covid 19 stressors, miscarriage, still birth, pets loss, adoption/guardian loss, loss when the family was unable to be present, trauma from abandonment, sexual abuse, and loss of a partner/spouse/child. Veterans grief and transition, depression and anxiety. In addition, grief and loss educational groups including grief maintenance and management.

See What Are Clients Say About Us

Joseph C.

I’ve only been to one session, but I have a great feeling that this will help me with my problems. Alfonzo Watkins seems like a very professional, knowledgeable, and pays attention well kind a guy.

Joseph C.
MD, Cleopatra
Judy K

Except for a bit of a wait due to Lorinda dealing with an emergency, my visit was excellent! She was very easy to talk to, seemed interested in my issues, listened to my concerns and addressed the issues as needed. I came away without any changes to my medications, but new ways to improve the meds I was taking… as in when to take them. All in all, it was a very good experience for me.

Judy K
MD, Cleopatra
MARTIN J

This clinic is blessed to Have Dr. Donley & Paulette! Krystal she has been a blessing in my brothers mental healing journey after my father passed away unexpectedly, along with her assistant Paulette. They have always gone above and beyond with his care, returning phone calls and or emergency appointments for Martin to be seen. I actually was referred to this clinic from a patient of mine, and it was the BEST decision for a clinic that takes mental health seriously. Especially with mental health these days, I feel like there is very little help out there. If you are looking for a place that will help, guide, and take care of your loved ones, this is the place! I HIGHLY recommend this clinic to others, coming from someone in the health care industry, I give this team KUDDOS for the type of clinic and what they endure daily… and they are still happy and smiling and giving the patients exceptional service. THANK YOU SO MUCH KRYSTAL AND PAULETTE!

MARTIN J
MD, Cleopatra
Justin M

I met Alfonso during a difficult time in my life and it couldn’t have been more than divine intervention. I’ve seen a few counselors in my life and he by far exceeds all expectations. He’s very experienced, professional, has a vast knowledge of self and how one applies this in daily practice. I highly recommend Alfonso.

Justin M
MD, Cleopatra
Lichen N

Great with my 10 yo boy. They connected very well and fairly quickly. Very understanding and tries to think outside the box in order to find new ways to help him.

Lichen N
MD, Cleopatra
Leon C

Scott is a good listener and is encouraging because he shares his own life experiences. Helps me know Im not alone. I feel comfortable opening up to him.

Leon C
MD, Cleopatra
William S

Veteran with lingering issues that I was to embarrass to seek help for. Felt relaxed and heard from initial meeting. Five stars.

William S
MD, Cleopatra
Jack A

My life has gone through so many changes in the last several months. Dr. Ward is traveling this journey with me. She listens carefully and helps me through some difficult hurdles. I am a senior, going blind, and isolated. Dr. Ward is like a best friend that cares. She is an amazing therapist — the best that I have experienced. My doctor lined me up with Dr. Ward. She came in my at a perfect time.

Jack A
MD, Cleopatra
Maria G

Great experience!

Maria G
MD, Cleopatra
Dietrich C

Dottie is a cool therapist. She taught me how to filter out the negatives in my life and focus on the positive thoughts only. During this month, I am telling her my background. If anyone is having mental health issues, talking about it helps. To get it out to a professional therapist. Nothing is a big issue when talking about it helps you every problem you face. There is always a solution. I get moody because I’m bi-lingual and its to difficult to process the words to each language. I hope to use this service again and again.

Dietrich C
MD, Cleopatra
Cynthia L

Dr Ward is so relatable that I feel like I’m talking to a very wise and insightful friend.

Cynthia L
MD, Cleopatra
Amy C

As a busy Mom and wife who works full time in the healthcare industry, I have procrastinated finding time for myself to work through life experiences and trauma. At the beginning of 2024, I made a vow to myself that I would make my healing and mental health a priority. My employer offers EAP sessions, and by chance, Desert View Counseling was one of the recommended practices. When I called the front office and described what type of service I thought I was seeking, Lyndz was recommended to me. She was new to the practice so I was a little apprehensive, but felt she had the qualifications that would fit my needs. To say that I am relieved, thankful and excited that I took that chance is an understatement. During our intake appointment, I felt that we “clicked” immediately, and I knew from the start that I would feel safe in her competent hands. I had what I would describe as a “crash” emotionally about a month into treatment with her, and I don’t know what I would be doing if it weren’t for her. She is leading me through EMDR therapy right now. Her kindness, flexibility, insight, humor (sometimes laughter is the best medicine) and expertise are truly life saving right now. She is gentle, but also knows when to “push” you just a little bit further to really explore your thoughts, memories and triggers. I can’t recommend her enough, and I am so incredibly thankful that I found her when I did. As ridiculous as it sounds (because lets face it, counseling and therapy are HARD work), I actually look forward to our sessions. Do not delay taking care of your mental health. If you are skeptical about counseling, or worried about finding someone who is authentic-spend some time with Lyndz. You will not regret it.

Amy C
MD, Cleopatra
Erica M

We starting seeing Alfonso at the beginning of 2024. I feel like he’s the first counselor that actually “gets” my son. We’ve seen great improvement in my son’s behavior and mood since starting with him. He is compassionate, but holds my son accountable. I would highly recommend him, especially for preteen & adolescent boys. Thank you, Alfonso!

Erica M
MD, Cleopatra
Chris W

I was apprehensive at first, but Alfonzo immediately made me feel comfortable. He has been helpful on so many levels and I look forward to our conversations every week! Everyone around me has noticed the changes I’ve made as a result of our sessions.

Chris W
MD, Cleopatra
N/A Dr. Lora Ward, LPC image
N/a
Dr. Lora Ward, LPC

Dr. Lora completed her Masters of Arts in Counseling at Siena Heights University and began her career at Hospice of Hillsdale County companioning individuals experiencing grief and loss after graduation she was employed there for 14 years; she also completed her doctorate degree at North Carolina Bible College shortly after. Lora initially entered the field of grief and loss due to experiencing her own grief due to loss at a very young age. Lora has a passion for education and facilitates her grief processing groups as a classroom format to help clients learn about the “Ten Touchstones” of grief particularly created by Alan Wolfelt’s work as well as apply the touchstones to their life; this particular idea normalizes the different stages of grief and helps participants begin to understand their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through the journey of losing a loved one.

Lora works with clients to assist them in finding their purpose after a loss while continuing to carry their love and memory for the person they have lost. Even losses that have contributed to negative feeling or uncertain thoughts have something to teach us, Lora works to bring meaning to every experience shared by her clients.


13260 N 94th Drive
Suite 100

Peoria AZ 85381