Natalie Real

"What matters more than what you know is how much you care" is a phrase I took with me from one of my professors in Grad School. I believe that statement embodies who I am and what I bring to the practice - lots of care! With that said, I have been in practice either working in both alternative and traditional high schools, as a school-based therapist in a facility school for students with special needs, and/or in the private setting since 2016. I have worked with a wide range of ages and populations, not just kids/teens but adults too! My experience includes helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, divorce/parenting/blended families, grief/loss, sexual abuse and other traumas, autism, intellectual disabilities with co-occurring mental health diagnoses, immigration issues, and even college/career counseling. I really enjoy working with all ages! I was a double major at University of Northern Colorado, studying both School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health. I completed all of the coursework for both tracks and the School Counseling internship, graduating in May 2017.

I offer a client-centered approach, meeting people where they are, hearing where they want to be, and helping to determine what roadblocks are in the way. Some of the techniques I use with adults are: ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), mindfulness and meditation activities in session, exploring Love Languages and relationship patterns/concerns, evaluating the human experience by determining values, growing in spiritualty practices (if desired), evaluating self-limiting behaviors that are contributing to one’s own suffering and the suffering of others, to name a few.

When working with children, I provide a safe and warm place for kids to feel comfortable and have fun too! I utilize basic behavior therapy techniques such as reinforcing desired behavior and “planned ignoring” for undesired behavior. I use some structure and build routines in session such as cleaning one area before moving to another. I utilize play therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness techniques in working with children also. In addition to my office, I have two amazing and well-stocked play therapy rooms and an outdoor space that your kiddo is sure to enjoy!

In working with teens, I have found relationship and trust to be crucial. I often follow that phase with components of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), exploring Love Languages, learning styles, and relationship patterns, as well as implementing mindfulness techniques.

I am not limited to any of these practices, merely highlighting some of my primary techniques.

I believe that cultural, familial, trauma response, and learning capacity are important attributes in understanding my clients. I believe in the importance of self-discovery, self-evaluation, and a growth mindset to have positive impacts on self and personal relationships, at any age!

Clients can expect to feel understood, supported, and empowered to be their own makers of change!