Peninsula Community Health Services (Cottonwood)

Click on a provider's image for bio.

MEDICAL PROVIDERS

EYE CARE PROVIDERS

DENTAL CENTER PROVIDERS

PSYCHIATRY PROVIDERS

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROVIDERS

MEDICAL PROVIDERS

Our doctors and medical care providers are the best in the field. Our team comes from top medical universities and have the experience and knowledge to offer you the best possible medical care. More than that our providers love working with patients and will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable about the care you receive.
Brian Fremaux

Brian Fremaux, DO

Education and Training:

 Undergraduate: Texas State University
Medical School: Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine - University of North Texas Health Science Center 
Residency: MacNeal Family Medicine Residency, Berwyn, Illinois


Profile:

I am trained in Family Medicine and offer first-line and standard-of-care treatment for a wide variety of diseases and ailments. My residency training included training in hospital medicine for adults and children with a focus on outpatient or clinic medicine. As a D.O., I am also trained in Osteopathic Manipulation Medicine which can be used to help patients with a variety of ailments beyond musculoskeletal issues. 


Hobbies:

I have recently moved to Alaska from Chicago where I completed my training in Family Medicine. Prior to that I lived in both Louisiana and Texas having grown in the New Orleans and Houston areas. I enjoy diverse cultural experiences having traveled to several countries during my time in college and Medical School. I also enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and getting to the gym on my time off. I hope to expand my life experiences with some outdoor adventures on the Kenai Peninsula and Alaska!

Bryan Pherson, MPAS, PA-C

Bryan Pherson, MPAS, PA-C

Education and Training:

Undergraduate: University of Alaska Anchorage

Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA Masters of Physician Assistant Studies


Profile:

I have been a Physician Assistant in Alaska for over 15 years. I have provided primary care to wounded soldiers and worked in family practice, occupational medicine and urgent care settings. I believe healthcare is a partnership between the patient and provider. I enjoy helping patients achieve their healthcare goals.


I grew up in Kodiak and I have lived in Alaska most of my life. I love Alaska. I am married with three children and three grandchildren. In my free time I enjoy woodworking, photography, camping, fishing and spending time with family.

Carlos A. Valenzuela, MSN, ANP, FNP-BC - Director of Medical of PCHS

Carlos A. Valenzuela, MSN, ANP, FNP-BC 

Education and Training: 

Bachelor’s and Master’s of Nursing, University of Tampa


Profile: 

Carlos A. Valenzuela is a family nurse practitioner who has worked in orthopedics, family practice, and emergency care settings for over 12 years.


His professional interests include preventative health, chronic disease management and sports & rehab medicine. Mr. Valenzuela enjoys helping patients and their families understand their health problems to take better control of their lives.


Carlos enjoys the Alaskan lifestyle and looks forward to every opportunity to go fishing, hiking, hunting and exploring the Alaskan wilderness. He is married with 3 children. He was born in Bogota, Colombia and was raised in Tampa, Florida before moving to Alaska.

Peter Cannava, PHD of PCHS

David Albritton, FNP-C 

Education and Training:

MSN Walden University

BSN Grand Canyon University

ADN Pearl River Community College

Certification through American Association of Nurse Practitioners


Profile:

I have been in the field of Nursing for 15 years. I have been a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner for 2 years and I chose family health because I enjoy being part of all aspects of care throughout a patients lifespan. My goal for the past 15 years has been to provide every patient with the best care possible that is both easily accessible and exceptional.


My favorite job title and interest is being a Dad to my 3 children and a husband to my wife. I also love the outdoors hunting, fishing, trapping and all other outdoor activities. I truly love caring for people during their time of need.

Katsiaryna (Katya) Malykhina

Katsiaryna (Katya) Malykhina, MS, MD

Education and Training: 

Undergraduate - University of Pennsylvania

Masters - Touro University California

Medical School - Geisinger Commonwealth SOM

Residency - Ventura County Medical Center


Profile: 

I am moving to Alaska from Ventura, California where I completed training in a full spectrum family medicine program that included caring for patients in the hospital, clinic and in their homes. I believe that good healthcare cannot be achieved without truly hearing what is most important to my patients, and that we have to work together to meet our goals. My special areas of interest are in women's health and substance use disorders. 


In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, cooking and pottery. I hope to learn how to fish and garden during my time here on the Kenai Peninsula!

abigail jorgensen, dnp

Kylie Jones, MSN, FNP-BC

Education and Training: 

Bachelors of Science in Nursing

Departmental Honors-Weber State University

Master of Science in Nursing-Simmons University


Profile: 

Kylie Jones is a family nurse practitioner providing care for all patients throughout their life. She believes in the holistic approach of medicine and providing care in collaboration with her patients. Kylie enjoys educating patients to empower them to understand their health. She has a special interest in Women's Health and preventative health. She has past medical experience in home health, acute care, family practice, women's health, senior medicine and vascular surgery.


Kylie and her husband fell in love with the Kenai area and are happy to be a part of this great community. She enjoys pickleball, tennis, running, hiking, fishing, downhill skiing, wildlife viewing and pretty much anything outdoors. She also loves spending time with her family and German Shepherd.

Marguerite McIntosh, MD of PCHS

Marguerite McIntosh, MD

Education and Training: 

M.D.C.M. - McGill University, Montreal, Canada

Quick Track program which included undergraduate studies, pre-med and medical school. Medical degree conferred by McGill University. Specialized training in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) through the University of Washington, Seattle

Profile:

Dr. McIntosh has been a provider with PCHS since 2003. She is now semi-retired and is not accepting new patients. However she does continue to serve our community by providing care to a defined group of existing PCHS patients. 


Dr McIntosh has a special interest in developmental pediatrics and is part of the FAS Diagnostic Team for Alaska which locally holds clinics through Frontier Community Services.


She believes that her medical practice is a partnership with her clients in which she educates, empowers and advocates for them. In return, she believes they educate and inspire her as a physician.


Dr. McIntosh is married and has three grown children. She volunteers for the Special Olympics and is an active participant in her church. Dr. McIntosh loves the Kenai Peninsula and is grateful to live here.

Samantha Garner

Samantha Garner, APN, FNP-C

Education and Training:

I became an LPN in 2004 from Arkansas State University, RN from University of Arkansas Community College Batesville, BSN Chamberlin University, MSN Chamberlin University.


Profile:

I’m a Family Nurse Practitioner, I provide care for newborns to geriatric patients. I have worked in many areas in the medical field such as: wound care, pediatrics, and family practice. I enjoy educating patients on how to have a healthier life. I believe that providing good care to a patient requires a commitment from both provider and patient. 

Outside of work I enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities, as well as time with my family.

Peter Cannava, PHD of PCHS

Sarah Schoner, MSN, ARNP, FNP-C

Training/Education: Bachelor’s and Master’s of Nursing, Walden University

Bachelor's Science Health Services Administration, Mount Mercy University


Specialties/Approach to Care: I have worked in health care for the past twenty years in various nursing capacities. My experience spans across multiple services including outpatient and inpatient settings in acute care, long term care, assisted living, geriatrics, and primary/urgent care clinics. I am passionate about preventive care and empowering patients to make healthy lifestyle choices that work for them, while managing any chronic disease with an emphasis on quality of life.


Hobbies: I enjoy gardening, cooking, outdoor activities, music, and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeye's.

Peggy Westner, ANP

Stacey Pault, PA-C

Education and Training: 
University of Northern Colorado: Bachelor of Science/ Chemistry Minor.  
University of Nebraska Medical Center: Master of Physician Assistant Studies. 

Profile:
Stacey Pault, PA-C, was raised on the Kenai Peninsula. She graduated from Kenai High School and continued her education at University of Northern Colorado (2000-2004). She then went on to earn her Physician Assistant degree at University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2010. Prior to returning home, she spent 4 years in family practice in Pueblo, Colorado with Dr. Richard Rivera.  

She worked alongside Dr. Marc Deede (2018-2020) at Peninsula Medical Center prior to merging their practice with PCHS. She is currently accepting new patients and has experience in general medicine of all age groups including pediatric and adult medicine with special interest in women’s health and preventative medicine. She has training in contraceptive management including implants and IUDs.  

Her experience while living and traveling internationally promotes human connection. She takes great pride in her relationship with her patients and wants to remain a resource for quality health care in her local community.

She remains humbled by the barriers to accessible medical care across the world, and has volunteered in 3rd world countries, primarily in Africa and Asia. In her free time, she enjoys mountain trekking, skiing, triathlons, fishing, camping and playing piano and guitar.
Stuart Marcotte, DO

Stuart Marcotte, DO

Education and Training: 

Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

MacNeal Family Medicine Residency


Profile:

I have been practicing Family Medicine in Alaska for over 6 years. I thoroughly enjoy getting to know my patients. My goal is always to establish a therapeutic alliance with people so they can become invested in their healthcare. I promise to listen and provide thoughtful and honest feedback for those I care for.


My personal interests include hiking and biking, especially with my lovely wife.

Samantha Garner

Zachary Huot, PT, DPT

Education and Training:

Undergraduate: University of North Dakota

Graduate School:University of North Dakota     

School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Doctorate of Physical Therapy 


Profile:

I am a Physical Therapist and have been in Alaska since 2020. I really enjoy working in rural areas because I get to treat a variety of patients, including various orthopedic, musculoskeletal, and neuromuscular conditions. I work with all ages and tailor my treatments to patients' specific needs. I focus on gold standard evidence based treatments to ensure best patient outcomes. I emphasize patient education to promote patient autonomy, further enhancing current/future functional improvements.


Interests:

I am from the Midwest originally and have grown up being in the outdoors. I love Alaska and the many adventures each season has to offer. In my free time, my wife and I enjoy fishing, hiking, backpacking, and skijoring with our energetic Alaska huskies.

EYE CARE PROVIDER

We provide our patients with quality eye care services in a welcoming environment and a very professional setting. Whether you want to complete a thorough and full eye exam or want us to check your eyes for visual diseases and acuity, you've come to the right place at Peninsula Community Health Services of Alaska.

April Walgenbach, MSN, ANP, FNP-BC - Director of Medical of PCHS

April Walgenbach, Optometrist

Education and Training: 

Northern Arizona University

BS in Biology 2013

Pacific University College of Optometry

Doctor of Optometry 2021

NBEO Board Certified


Profile: 

Optometry has always been my passion. My main interest is in ocular disease, but I enjoy working with all patients, from children to seniors. I completed Internships in hospital-based optometry at an IHS and VA. As well as an internship working alongside ophthalmologists assisting with pre and post-operative procedures. 


Born and raised on the Kenai Peninsula. Graduate of Soldotna High School. I love to play volleyball, basketball and of course fishing is a must around here. Especially with my husband who is a fishing fanatic. I enjoy spending time with my family and my two golden retrievers.

Bradley Cross - Optometrist

Bradley Cross, Optometrist

Education and Training: 

Pennsylvania College of Optometry - O.D. 1993

SUNY College at Cortland, NY B.S. - 1989


Profile: 

Personalized, caring, and relatable is what you will find in your encounter with Dr. Cross. His easygoing demeanor will put you at ease, while at the same time his depth of experience will make you feel confident that you have recieved the highest level of care possible. There is not much that Dr. Cross hasn't seen or is uncomfortable treating when it comes to your eyes.


Dr. Cross and his wife, Kym have 2 adult sons that both live locally on the Kenai Peninsula. When not working, they love to travel and hike. Dr. Cross also enjoys golf and fishing even though he does not claim to be an expert in either.

DENTAL CENTER PROVIDERS

Our dental staff is second to none. We only hire the most qualified and best dental professionals who have top training. You can count on us for quality dental care and excellent customer service. Our dental care professionals are not only top medical minds but love working with you and providing personal attention to ensure you feel comfortable about any procedures.

Sarah Palmer, RDH of PCHS

Jay Rohloff, DDS

Education and Training:

B.S. Chemistry, Southern Oregon State College

D.D.S. Georgetown University


Profile:
I like to take a complete view of our patients. Treat what is needed and educate in prevention. Try to treat everyone as a family member.


Dr. Rohloff's personal interest include, "All that Alaska has to offer!"

Jonathon Einowski - Soldotna, AK - Peninsula Community Health Services (Cottonwood)

Jonathon Einowski, DDS

List training/education:

BS Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of California Davis

Doctor of Dental Surgery, University of the Pacific, Dugoni School of Dentistry

Profile:
After graduating dental school in 2012, I practiced in California for two years before moving to Washington State and running my own private practice for 8 years. I stay current with modern technology and techniques and my passion is making patients comfortable and free from pain.


After enjoying 8 years of metropolitan living in Seattle, my wife and I sought smaller town life surrounded by nature and are grateful Alaskans have welcomed us. In my personal life I enjoy hiking, sight-seeing, caring for my dogs, and most of all spending time with my wonderful wife.

Sarah Palmer, RDH of PCHS

Sarah Palmer, RDH

Profile:
Sarah comes to PCHS with over 21 years of Dental Hygiene experience. Sarah grew up in Northern California and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from UC Davis. She received her A.S degree in Dental Hygiene from Cabrillo College in Aptos, CA. Sarah also received special training in care for the elderly and special needs patients at University of Pacific in San Francisco. Sarah has lived in Alaska for the past 14 years. On her time off Sarah enjoys exploring the outdoors with her daughter and friends, gardening and cross country skiing in the winter.  

PSYCHIATRY PROVIDERS

Chad Andrews, APRN, PMHNP-BP

Chad Andrews, DNP

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner


Education:

Vanderbilt University, DNP

Vanderbilt University, MSN

Belmont University, BSN

Community College of the Air Force, AAS IT


Profile:

Chad is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is also a combat veteran serving three tours in the Middle East. His clinical experience includes providing therapy, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management at inpatient facilities, community health centers, and private practices. He enjoys working with veterans and provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for all behavioral health clients at PCHS.


Chad enjoys time with friends and family. He tries to spend as much time as possible outdoors. If he is not at work, he often can be found outside with his family and dogs. Hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping are common family activities. 

Karen Muncy

Karen Muncy, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Education and Training:
Otterbein University, MSN, ANP
Case Western Reserve University, PMHNP
Georgetown University, DNP


Profile:
I've been a nurse practitioner for 15 yrs and a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 10 of those. I believe that mental health issues don't occur in a vacuum, and taking an integrative approach to treatment is more likely to lead to positive outcomes. I have extensive experience treating children with behavioral/mental health issues, as well as treating adults for depression, anxiety, ptsd, and adhd.

I love animals....any kind of animal. I enjoy reading and spending time with family and my new puppy, Mishka.

Nicole See, ANP of PCHS

Shane Rall, MD 

Education and Training:

BS (Biology) - University of Alaska Anchorage

MD - Uni. of Washington School of Medicine

Psychiatry Residency - Spokane, WA


Profile: 

Trained to provide diagnostic clarification and help develop evidenced based treatment plans including medication management and behavioral modifications. Understanding that mental health impacts all arenas of health, working collaboratively with the patient and care team enables the greatest opportunity for wellness. 


He enjoys spending time with his family, playing guitar, listening/creating music, reading, board/card games, and all the great outdoor activities Alaska has to offer.

Anna Cowan, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Anna Cowan, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Education and Training:
University of Anchorage Alaska, MSN, PMHNP
Western Govenors University, MSN
University of Anchorage Alaska, BSN

Profile:
Anna is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from the University of Anchorage Alaska. She believes in providing a holistic approach to treatment to support clients on their mental health journey.


Anna has experience providing cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing techniques during therapy, and she has experience with mental health medication management for clients from childhood through adulthood, for a variety of mental health conditions. 



Anna enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and enjoying creative arts.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROVIDERS

Our behavioral health specialists have the knowledge, training, and skills to offer you the very best in mental health care. We focus on quality and personalized individual service for every patient that walks through our doors. You can trust that our medical care professionals will always provide you the best support possible and can give you the help you need.

Anna Foster — Soldotna, AK — Peninsula Community Health Services of Alaska

Angela Hairgrove, M.S.

Education and Training:

B.S. in Forensic Psychology from Walden University

M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling


Profile:

I like to work primarily with teens and adults. I have a background in Trauma trainings, and Intergenerational trauma. I am certified Strengthening Families Provider, and Certified Mending Broken Hearts facilitator. However, I work with any all types of emotional and behavioral needs. I believe in client self-determination, and I encourage open communication so I can support each client in their unique needs. My therapy approach is client-centered, empathetic, nonjudgmental, open, and accepting. I also embrace an approach that prioritizes self-determination, non-judgmental reflection, safety, and self-awareness. I work from Client Centered approach while utilizing CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, copings skills, and psychoeducation.


I enjoy outdoor activities and being on the ocean. I enjoy spending time with my daughter, and my two dogs. I love to travel and try new things and foods. I love to cook, watch TV with my daughter, reading books, and painting.

Anna Foster — Soldotna, AK — Peninsula Community Health Services of Alaska

Anna Foster, MSW

Education and Training:

Bachelor of Social Work from The University of Alaska Fairbanks with a minor in Psychology Master of Social Work from The University of Alaska Anchorage


Profile:

Anna has experience working with adults with alcohol and substance use disorders, serious mental illness, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Anna utilizes modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques with a client-centered, non-judgmental, and holistic approach.


In Anna’s free time she likes snowboarding, cross-country skiing, jogging,

and camping.

Heather Wien, LPC, CDWF of PCHS

Heather Wien, LPC, CDWF

Education and Training:

BA in Political Theory, CA State University, Sacto.

MS in Mental Health Counseling, Capella University

 


Profile:

Heather was born in Fairbanks, Alaska and most recently moved to the Peninsula from Colorado. Heather taught high school for 13 years prior to working in the Behavioral Health field. She has advanced training in Trauma, utilizing a variety of modalities including psychoeducation, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR with a client-centered, trauma-informed focus. Heather also works with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life challenges.


Heather enjoys spending time with her adult children when able, reading, hiking, cooking, watching TV and discovering new things since returning home to Alaska. She has recently taken up photography to record new areas explored and is looking forward to trying new things like kayaking and camping.

Jarred Gress - Soldotna, AK - Peninsula Community Health Services

Jarred Gress, MS

Education and Training:

B.A. of Psychology and M.S of Psychology from Capella

 


Profile:

I specialize in serving veterans, first responders, and individuals of all age groups. With a strong foundation in trauma training and a deep understanding of intergenerational trauma, I bring extensive expertise to my practice.


My therapeutic philosophy is firmly rooted in client-centered principles, emphasizing empathy, a nonjudgmental approach, and the cultivation of open communication. I highly prioritize client self-determination, striving to create a safe and accepting space for each person to explore their unique needs and experiences. To support my clients, I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, coping skills, and psychoeducation, all tailored to the specific needs of my clients, especially veterans, first responders, and individuals across all age groups.


My personal interests include hunting, fishing, hiking, and traveling.

Jed Rigby, MSW, LCSW of PCHS

Jed Rigby, LCSW

Profile: 

Jed is a licensed clinical social worker. Jed completed his graduate studies at Boise State University. During his graduate studies he completed a clinical practicum at an acute psychiatric facility. Jed enjoys working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse and other co-occurring disorders. Jed believes in a holistic approach to treatment and individualizes the treatment process to each client. In his spare time, Jed enjoys hiking, fishing, camping and spending time with his chocolate lab, Dezi.

Kristina Goolsby, MS, CDCII of PCHS

Kristina Goolsby, MS, LPC, CDCII

Education and Training:
BS in Psychology, University of Alaska, Anchorage
MS in Professional Counseling, Grand Canyon University, Arizona
Chemical Dependency Counselor II, (CDCII), Alaska Behavioral Health Certification

Profile:
Kristina was born and raised in Slovakia and she came to Alaska in 2003 as an Au-pair. She considers Alaska her home; however she visits her homeland and other European states every few years. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family, biking, hiking, and spending time on the water. 

At PCHS, Kristina works with both adults and children. She helps adults achieve and sustain recovery from drugs and alcohol using evidence based practices and offering individual, positive, and non-judgmental approach. Kristina practices Person-Centered Approach developed by Dr. Carl Rogers, along with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness. 

To help children become the best version of self, Kristina strives to offer a safe environment, where children are accepted as they come. Through Play and Narrative therapy, children are able to express and experience their emotions and discover their own abilities that can help them resolve challenges they are currently experiencing.  
“People are just as wonderful as sunsets if I can let them be…When I look at a sunset, I don’t find myself saying, ‘Soften the orange a bit on the right hand corner’…I don’t try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds.” —Carl Rogers
Karen Muncy

Michaelene Brownfield, LPC

Profile:
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 24 years having worked in a variety of behavioral health settings with diverse clients of all ages. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Co-occurring Disorders. My psychotherapy approach is client-centered, empathetic, nonjudgmental, open, and accepting. 

Peter Cannava, PHD of PCHS

Peter Cannava, PHD

Education and Training:

BS: Psychology Lewis and Clark College, Portland, Oregon

MS: Pacific Graduate School of Psychology Palo Alto, California

PhD in Clinical Psychology: Pacific Graduate School of Psychology Palo Alto, California

Internship: Yolo County Mental Health Sacramento, California

National Council for the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology


Profile:

Over 20 years experience in providing all facets of mental health services from inpatient treatment, psychological testing to emergency services and many years of community health center experience. Most recently working to provide brief behavioral interventions in medical settings enabling a wholistic approach to health. 


Lifelong alaskan resident with long standing ties to local community who enjoys outdoor activities including Running, Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Hunting.

Share by: