Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Denver, CO covered by United Healthcare

Hi, I'm Ben! I use he/him/his pronouns, and identify as a white-bodied, straight-ish, neurotypical, cisgender man in long-term recovery from a substance use disorder. My direct experiences with mental health systems and professionals are what led me to become a therapist. My overall approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative. I earned my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus in Contemplative Psychotherapy from Naropa University.

My introduction to helping people and psychology both came about, as a result of following my mom’s example and the Bob Newhart Show. My mother was a natural people person with a keen interest and background in psychology. My take-away from the Bob Newhart Show drove home the needs for humor and light-heartedness as well as a genuine love for what you do. I believe that those qualities: love for people and my passion and seeing the humor in things truly define me, both as a therapist and a person. My academic journey led me to both bachelors and masters degrees from The University of Northern Colorado and included intensive training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Hypnotherapy during my sabbatical in between my degrees. With a strong theoretical base supporting me, I moved forward and was able to blend my education with twenty years of real-world experience. I went on and diversified my experience as I worked in community counseling, community corrections, Inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and private practice. Although our learning never ceases, I feel very comfortable and sincere in offering clients my wealth of experience, knowledge of human behavior, and most of all, a kind ear.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, University of Northern Colorado (1990) • Master of Arts in School Counseling/Community Counseling, University of Northern Colorado (http://www.colorado.edu/) (2001)

Licenses/Certifications

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) • Certified Addiction Counselor- Level 3 (CACIII) • Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) • Neuro-Linguistic Programming- Certified Practictioner (NLP-P)

Specialties/Areas of Focus

• Anxiety • Addiction/Substance Abuse • Couples Counseling • Hypnotherapy/Trauma • Individual Counseling • Depression/ Grief and Loss • Life Transitions

Professional Affiliations

• International Hypnosis Association (IHA) • American Psychological Association (APA) • National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCH)

Bruised Not Broken Therapy was born out of the lack of Afrocentric based psychotherapy that allowed people of color to embrace their journey of life through the context of color. HIV, substance abuse, mental health and the denial of the experience of being a person of color continues to plague communities of color, as we still have yet to talk about these experiences.

I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing or have experienced depression, anxiety, anger, grief/loss, relationship conflicts, addictions, gender/identity concerns, lack of motivation, abuse and trauma, life transitions and men’s mental health concerns. In addition, I have worked closely with the LGBTQ+ population. Prior to working in the private practice setting, I have 14 years of experience as a teacher and counselor in the public schools of New Jersey, Texas and Colorado.

Greetings, I'm Debbie Palmer Thomas, a clinical social worker from Colorado. My approach to counseling is both welcoming and engaging. I uphold the values of respect, understanding, and kindness in every interaction. I firmly believe that everyone possesses inherent strengths, and with a sprinkle of hope, resilience is within reach for all. When you're prepared to make that leap, know that I stand by your side, ready to uplift and guide you.

Hi there- I'm Christina! Therapy is a space where we can find ourselves exploring ranges of insight, pain, joy, love, and everything in between. There is no right way of doing therapy, and I foster a safe space that allows you to create your own therapeutic journey.

I have 13+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, loss/grief, self-esteem, and coping strategies.