I've been going to the Carsten Institute in Tempe for over 20 years. I know that they recently stopped allowing customers to request a stylist and about 2 years or so ago, they stopped carrying Aveda product line and now carry Loreal (I think.).
My experiences can be hit or miss which is to be expected with a school. Dan is one of the teachers and he is always very friendly. I can usually tell if my haircut is going to be good or bad by the attitude of the stylist and whether or not she really pays attention to me and takes pride in her job or is headed for tech-school flunkie.
I received a facial for the first time and while it was a nice experience, the girl messed up on understanding that I had sensitive skin and so she treated my face with some harsh salylic acid treatment and then re-did it with sensitive skin treatment. Needless to say, my neck broke out in a slight rash as did my forehead but it was gone in a few days.
I also visit their main salon in the Arcadia district in Phoenix but come here when my budget needs a break.