Our Team of Clinicians

Dr. Amber

 

I pride myself on my ability to work with persons in a supportive and encouraging setting. I strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. I hold a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology and will meet you at 1st Priority Institute for Better Living where the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow:).

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Mickey

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You have taken the first step to creating the most fulfilling life possible. It can be difficult to create change when life feels as if it is a whirlwind. As a counselor, I am here to help you make sense of your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I will work alongside you to help you facilitate the changes you would like to make, as well as achieve the goals you set for yourself. As you begin a journey of change, I can use my experience to help you discover the tools and skills you need to have a successful journey.

Helen

 

(Hablo español)

Do you sometimes feel like you’re putting on a brave face to hide your struggles from loved ones, friends, or colleagues? Our self-talk or the stories we tell ourselves about our difficult experiences can become our greatest barriers to achieving personal goals and living a peaceful and satisfying life. Our work together is based on respect, empathy, care, and supporting you as you work in achieving your therapeutic goals. We will work as a team to examine thinking, emotional, and behavior patterns that contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, and traumatic responses. Together we will explore life experiences and personal narratives, and collaborate to sow seeds of insight, self-compassion, and thinking styles that are conducive to your wellness journey.

I use a variety of approaches including person-centered, existential therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, as well as Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Feminist therapy techniques. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and am also invested in supporting clients on the autism spectrum, clients with ADHD, as well as addressing mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship, and family issues. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor and my goal is to create a safe space for you to feel validated, supported, and empowered with practical tools that will equip you to live a joyful and fulfilling life.

I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adams State University in May of 2024, my Master of Science in Bilingual Education from Nova Southeastern University in 2007, and my Baccalaureate of Arts in English Creative Writing from the University of Houston in 1998. I am a clinician with previous work experience as a board certified hypnotherapist. I graduated from the Hypnotherapy Academy of America in Santa Fe (now in Albuquerque), New Mexico in 2010, I utilize hypnotherapy and teach clients self-hypnosis upon request as a tool they can use for relaxation or to achieve specific goals. My mission as your counselor is to support you in your journey as you empower yourself to say YES to the life you deserve.

Gina

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I believe that having the self-awareness and strength to seek counseling when you are in need is one of the bravest and most inspirational things a person can do. I began my professional career as an attorney and mediator specializing in collaborative law. I have always held a desire to help my community and this was at the heart of why I decided to become an attorney and a mental health counselor. Years of working in conflict resolution gave me the understanding that communication and self-awareness are not only the key to resolving conflict in our own lives but also the key to having and maintaining healthy relationships. I am a certified yoga and movement arts instructor. I have taught mindfulness, meditation, and wellness classes internationally. Years ago my children were in a school shooting. While they came out of the shooting physically unharmed, the next year of our lives was spent healing from and trying to understand the depth of the impact a tragedy like that has. Through my own recovery from PTSD and the daily anxiety the shooting caused, I learned that life events can have a cellular impact on us and affect us deeply in unimaginable ways. I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Juris Doctor (a doctorate degree in another field). I wish to help our community and individuals through cognitive and mindfulness-based behavioral therapy, EMDR, existential therapy, narrative work, and positive psychology. I love working with teens, adults, couples, and families and specialize in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/trauma, couples counseling, and neurodiverse individuals (ASD, Highly Sensitive, Gifted and Talented).

Cara

 

Watching things grow is one of my greatest joys in life — be it tending my houseplants and garden, spending time in nature, or supporting my clients in working toward their personal potential, happiness, and fulfillment. I believe that we all have the capacity for personal growth within us and the strength to overcome the challenges that we face in life. I am here to help you find the clarity and self-knowledge that can allow you to visualize and move forward on your path ahead. I am a counselor in training and will complete my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in spring of 2024. I look forward to meeting you and providing a safe and supportive space to explore your emotions, beliefs, behaviors, and relationships. Together, we can identify what is holding you back from living your happiest, most authentic and empowered life, and create a plan to overcome the obstacles in your way.

Ian

 

Beginning the therapy journey can be intimidating, but it can be the start to a beautiful process of growth and personal change. Being an aid in your story is important to me, providing resources and a supportive therapeutic relationship that can give you the space you need to learn more about yourself and what you want and need. I am a graduate student in Colorado Christian University's Clinical Mental Health program. Being EMDR-trained and trauma-informed as a clinician, I integrate several perspectives into how I approach therapy, focusing on what is being experienced in the present and how previous relationships in the past have formed who we are today. I look forward to meeting you and becoming a part of your healing story.

Kerry 

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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate and hold a second master's degree in criminology. I am an end-of-life midwife,  certified by the Center for Hoarding and Cluttering, and a member of the American Red Cross’s Disaster Response team. AND… I’m a mom, world traveler, reader, and movie/theater lover. I’m the author of a dozen+ books. I love to laugh and believe laughter has a place in therapy.  I’ve walked more than 700 miles of the Camino de Santiago. I have a very large, very strange cat named Kenosha. My little sister’s murder many years ago drives my work with trauma victims. I believe that each individual is unique, and treatments should be customized to suit the personality and needs of a client. I work with adults, and couples seeking growth, understanding, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma. If what I’ve shared resonates with you, let’s start our journey together. 

Stephanie 

Thank you for choosing 1st Priority Institute for Better Living. My name is Stephanie, I am a veteran, a sports lover, and a member of a two-person book club. I began my journey into the counseling world at Colorado Christian University where I received my undergraduate graduate degrees in psychology in 2019. Soon after, I completed my graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling. I take a person-centered approach in therapy, I use a cognitive behavioral therapy approach, and I also understand that every client deserves treatment that is tailored to their specific needs. I work with children, adolescents and adults. I am committed to sharing my expertise and providing ethical and compassionate care to everyone who comes to me for help. Thank you again for this opportunity, I look forward to working with you!

Carol "Caj"

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As a physician assistant, I
have enjoyed many years in my specialty of pediatrics and adolescent medicine. As a mental health
therapist, my approach to mental health counseling is not only person-centered and cognitive
behavioral therapy, but I also have found that using an integration of different types of therapies has
been most beneficial for the client. By using good listening skills and employing a variety of measures –
including psychodynamic exploration, these will help the client in goal setting and self-empowerment;
all of which will increase the likelihood of having a positive outcome. I hold a Master of Arts in mental health counseling from Colorado Christian University, and a Master of
Science in child health from the University of Colorado School of Medicine. 

Tiffany

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Life can be a whirlwind of change and difficulty. One of the great things about therapy, is that we do not
have to do it alone! I have a passion for helping others reach their full potential and am dedicated to
viewing each client from their viewpoint and experiences, and to helping them achieve their goals and
highest potential in a teamwork centered relationship. My view of therapeutic work draws from
multiple theories but is grounded in the Cognitive approach. My belief is that we are a product of
learning through our environments, but that learned behaviors can be adapted and changed into 
positive and goal achieving strategies. I also draw from theories of Family Systems, Person-Centered,
and Multicultural theories as a holistic approach to everyone’s personal experiences. I received my
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Sociology from the University of Northern Colorado. I am
currently a student in the Masters of Clinical Mental Health Psychology program at Adams State
University.

Steph

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I am a licensed professional counselor candidate (LPCC) certified in brainspotting, a valuable methodology that helps process varied traumas. I am a graduate of Adams State University with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. I also hold degrees from James Madison University and Metro State University in International Business, Economics, and Accounting. In 2006, I established Mandala Monkey LLC for counseling and yoga instruction. I am a recent trauma survivor from August 2020 in a near-fatal BASE wall strike accident at Mt. Blue Sky (formerly Mt. Evans). I grew up in various Southeast Asian countries, including Taiwan, South Korea, The Philippines, and Indonesia, and I am also part Filipina. I want to utilize a person-focused therapeutic style, including mindfulness techniques and Brainspotting. I appreciate supporting clients of varied ethnic and economic backgrounds. I am also interested in working with trauma survivors, particularly athletes recovering from traumatic injuries. I hope to help empower clients by processing traumas and growing self-awareness, resulting in more profound self-acceptance

Dave

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I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Ball State University, Muncie, IN in Psychology and have a Masters of Science in Information Communications from Ball State University. For the past twenty years I have worked in the technology and finance sectors working for large telecommunications and consulting companies. I have a passion for health in working with the mind, body, and spirit.  I am a person that believes that we can maintain mental and emotional stability by working on all aspects of our health to help stabilize our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.  My therapeutic approach consists of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Gestalt, meaning that I believe that we must focus on acceptance of ourselves (thoughts, feelings, and behaviors) and others while being responsible for the decisions that we make in the “here in now”.  I am a person that believes that we cannot change the past and the future does not exist so that we must focus on how we feel in the present moment to begin to make the necessary changes to lead a more meaningful and productive life while being connected to the present moment.

Joy

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Joining an individual in the sacred counseling space has always been my passion. I first entered the field when I earned a BA in Psychology from UCLA in 1984. However, life had its own agenda, and it wasn’t until much later that I returned to pursue my dream of becoming a counselor. I earned my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in July of 2023. Holding space for others, actively listening for nuances, and helping people untangle from self-doubt, self-criticism, negative self-judgment, and other self-inflicted wounds has always been my life’s work. Though it took me a while to get here, I believe my life experiences only enhance my understanding of the challenges we face in this beautiful, complicated existence. It would be my honor to join you in your journey of self-understanding and acceptance while helping you develop or hone skills to make this journey more enjoyable.

 

I am a wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, business owner, dog owner, mentor, and lover of life, even in the most difficult of times. I have learned much through both business and the myriad of volunteer positions I have held, including a year on the crisis text line. Although I was exposed to many modalities in my graduate studies, I am most passionate about mindfulness and somatic therapeutic approaches. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of the process. The fact that you are reading this bio means you have already taken a big step, and whether you choose to work with me or another therapist, bravo for having the courage and fortitude to take this most important step in your healing journey. Many blessings to you today and always.

Molly

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I received my Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Virginia and my Master of Arts in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech. I am experienced in providing a wide variety of therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with an array of presenting mental health concerns among diverse client populations, including treating eating disorders. I utilize an integrative, trauma-informed approach to my clinical work incorporating cognitive behavioral, as well as acceptance and commitment, strategies. I value approaching each session with empathy, curiosity, and respect to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves as a whole person. 

Laura

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I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a certificate in Gerontology from the University of
Colorado, Colorado Springs and my Masters in Public Affairs and Administration with a certificate in
Domestic Violence from the University of Colorado, Denver. I am currently enrolled in the Masters in
Clinical Mental Health program at Adams State University and am supervised at 1 st Priority Institute for
Better Living. I am experienced in working with those victimized by gender-based violence and those
living with a chronic illness. I too live with a chronic illness and may at times need to reschedule due to a
flare. I am trained in a humanist approach to therapy and come from a feminist theory background. I
work to meet a client where they are in their journey showing positive regard and aim to empower their
journey.

Kerry Monique

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I am a masters level counseling student  with Adams State University and will graduate in 2025. I am a Cajun from New Orleans, Louisiana and have been in the Denver area for over 12 years. For the last 20+ years I have been working my way up positions in the medical field ultimately earning my BS in psychology and nursing from UMass-Boston in 2011. Not only am I a trained nurse, but I have also been a patient for over 30 years due to a rare genetic disorder. My approach comes from a holistic
perspective and my training embodies humanistic theory. Depending on the needs of my client, I build an eclectic approach utilizing several theories including Person-Centered, Rational
Emotive Behavioral, and Narrative, among others. I like to embrace each person’s experiences,
attributes, and personality as an exclusive mosaic that needs customized care. My goal is to provide a safe place where you feel open to examine your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgement. Using casual, developmentally appropriate language, metaphors, and humor in treatment I keep an easy-going, understandable, but slightly challenging, and
ultimately healing vibe. My experience includes, but is not limited to, Intimate Partner Violence, PTSD, C-PTSD, trauma recovery, and the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in treating
people with chronic health problems, illnesses, and/or pain with specific focus on adjustment, creating a life worth living, and understanding and embracing the parts of life that can be and the ones that cannot be controlled. 

Megan "Meg"

The world of work can be hard, especially for managers and leaders!  After a long time as an organizational development, leadership development, and HR leader, I left the corporate world to support people more deeply with the challenges that are impacting them in their world of work.  The difficult thing is, sometimes those "work" challenges are really "us" challenges because we have healing and growth that makes working in a frequently quick and callous world even more difficult.  Sometimes work is our safe place, or "the only normal part of my life" and I'm here for folks in that situation as well.  Let's talk about what's not normal and all of the other things that you would like to be different in your life and find the insights and healing that can help you move forward.  I've worked in community mental health and crisis stabilization with adults, families, and kids over 12.  I bring a gentle yet practical approach to the brave exploration and healing that occurs in therapy using techniques from internal family systems, solution-focused brief therapy, and motivational interviewing.  A little bit corporate and a little bit hippy mama, I bring you or you and/or your family the right level of support and challenge for your continued growth and healing.

Mohamed "Mo"

I graduated from Temple University with a dual major in Psychology and Criminal Justice and a minor in Cognitive Neuroscience. I'm currently completing my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Adam's State University. My theoretical orientation is rooted in Existential and Attachment theory but I operate using an integrative approach based on client needs. I believe the relationship between counselor and client is the most valuable component in successful therapy. As such I strive to maintain a two-way street of honesty, genuineness, trust, and humor. I also believe you are the expert of your own life and the only one who can decide where it goes. My job is to collaborate with you and give you the tools to get there. We can work together to root out the past, manage the present, or plan for the future. Whatever demands life has of you, come as you are and we'll proceed from there.

Chessie

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My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that it is a collaborative journey, one in which I would be honored to walk alongside you. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can authentically explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. Together, we will work to understand and address the challenges you face, develop coping strategies, and foster personal growth. I incorporate a human-centered and existential approach, with elements of cognitive behavioral therapy. I focus on integrating your strengths and beliefs as we work to find meaning in your experiences and disrupt/change negative narratives. Whether you’re navigating a specific issue or seeking overall personal development, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. I look forward to embarking on this transformative journey with you.

I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Ohio State University and am in the process of completing my Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working under the supervision of Micaela Aviles, LPC, at 1st Priority Institute for Better Living. 

Corinna

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Are you struggling with negative self-talk, anxiety, or depression? Are you finding it harder and harder to
get through each day? Please know you are not alone; there is help to get out of the pit and to have a
more fulfilled life. I would be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey.
I am a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Colorado Christian
University. My Christian faith is a cornerstone of my life, providing me with strength and perspective, and I
believe that when people experience the love of God, their lives will be forever changed. I have been
happily married to my best friend for 33 years, and we are proud parents of four wonderful young adult
children. My life has been profoundly affected by the loss of my son, who passed away tragically last year.
This experience has deepened my empathy and understanding of grief.
I focus on creating a strong, empathetic connection with each client in my counseling practice. I strive to
understand and meet individuals where they are, recognizing their unique experiences and aspirations.
My therapeutic approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with the Person-Centered
Approach, offering a flexible, goal-oriented framework tailored to each client's personality and needs.
Together, we will work towards identifying and achieving individual personal goals, promoting positive
change and greater self-awareness.
I look forward to walking this healing journey alongside you.

Julie

 

Often, in our fast-paced world, it is easy to feel unseen. Sometimes, simply being heard
and validated can change the trajectory of the course we are on. I am a Colorado
Christian University Mental Health and Counseling program graduate student. My faith
and the intervention of positive counseling experiences have helped, and continue to
help me, battle life’s struggles. It is this that has brought me to the helping field, and I
am honored to be part of your healing journey.
Counseling with the understanding that every person is unique, I utilize an eclectic
approach pulling from various theories and techniques that best serve you! With that, I
also believe that our thoughts, feelings, and attitudes greatly influence the life we live.
Therefore, a cognitive approach will be foundational to our work as we continue to build,
integrating techniques as we grow.
I believe every person has the power to effect change in their own life; however, this
does not mean you have to do it alone! I am eager to partner with you as you bravely
confront what is impacting your own life. I look forward to providing a space that allows
you to explore, learn, grow, and restore. See you soon!

Anna

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I believe that everyone has a story worth sharing and a voice that deserves to be heard
and my goal is to provide you with a safe place to feel supported, seen, and empowered during
this chapter of your story. Whether you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, or building and maintaining relationships, I’d love the opportunity to work with
you. Through a person-centered approach, we will collaboratively practice mindfulness and self-
compassion, identify patterns, and set goals to meet your needs.I received my Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreational from Metropolitan State University in 2021, and became a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in 2022.I am completing my second year in the Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Adams State University.