Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Salida, CO covered by Aetna

I am trained in helping you (and the people you care about) to work through challenges in life like sensory issues, anxiety, depression, loss and grief, and trauma. My background includes training in trauma-informed expressive arts therapies and strengths-centered approaches so that we are supporting you living your best life.

I graduated with my MSW in 2000 from the University of Kansas. Over 26 years, I have worked in school based behavioral health, healthcare, in home family therapy, and community based mental health. I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Counselor in the state of Colorado currently.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with teenagers and older and I believe that the therapeutic relationship is vital to the success of therapy. I have years of experience working with children, teenagers and young adults, focusing on anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. My approach is to be open-minded, compassionate, supportive and encouraging with an end goal to help you develop the coping skills or address the issue to be able to navigate life to its fullest. My goal is to challenge you while offering a non-judgmental space for you to process feelings and discover your inner self.

I earned my graduate degree in Social Work at the University of South Carolina and my undergraduate at Iowa State University in Child Adult and Family Studies and Psychology. My background includes years in settings working with at-risk youth, school social work and more recently in person at an equine therapy agency working with teenagers and adults. All of these experiences have shaped how I view mental health and how important it is to treat the whole person.

I have 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field and supporting clients with evidence based skills and lived experience. Together we can explore your goals, struggles and successes. I specialize in anxiety, depression, substance use/misuse issues, stress and life transitions. My main approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Motivational techniques to help guide your self discovery. Professionals looking to navigate work related demands, I provide coaching and direction to maximize professional and leadership skills to meet your potential. We will work at your comfort level in a supportive environment of exploration and change.

I provide a calm, supportive space grounded in trust, empathy, and respect. My approach honors each person’s uniqueness, recognizing that no two journeys are the same. Therapy is a collaborative process where your voice, experiences, and goals guide our work. I focus on self-empowerment, helping you build insight, confidence, and resilience while moving at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you are seeking healing, growth, or clarity, my goal is to support meaningful change in a way that feels authentic, steady, and aligned with who you are.

I am a Master's level Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about supporting you in your journey toward wholeness. I have worked with clients from children to older adults, supporting them around anxiety and mood disorders, trauma and abuse, and relationship concerns. My clients come from diverse cultures. I enjoy finding what we have in common as well as what makes us each unique. While acknowledging your struggles, I want to help you move toward your strengths in your own context.

I'm an LCSW with six years in the mental health field. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues, working with both adolescents and adults, including bilingual and Spanish-speaking clients. Having been a therapy client myself, I know how daunting it can feel to start, and my goal is to make it a warm, affirming, and empowering experience.