My Background
I grew up in a large family in rural America. One clear memory I have of being young was being perched on a stool and respectfully listening when neighbor women would come over to our house for coffee to talk with my mother about their children, relationships and life in general and how they were getting through their struggles and finding joy in their lives. Those were my first lessons on listening. My mother was a phenomenal listener and I noticed how people just felt so much better when they left because they felt the connection and knew that someone cared.
Oh, the comfort — the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person — having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping and with a breath of kindness blow the rest away. (Dinah Craik)
I have always been interested in people and their stories—the things they have faced and overcome, and the resilience they have found even when the way forward was difficult.
My Journey
I am from the northern part of the U.S. and moved to the Denver area in my early twenties. I have lived here since then and feel like I can call myself a native by now. I worked for a large corporation for a few decades as a supervisor. My true interest was leading and mentoring my people. I found joy in helping them plan their career paths, supporting them through family crises, and ensuring that they knew they were an integral part of the corporation. I knew that the best part of my job was talking and listening to people.
Leaving the corporate world was a major decision. I spent a lot of time wondering whether I was making the right choice, but I returned to school and earned a master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of Colorado Denver. I feel like one of the lucky ones to have found a career I truly love.
Living in Colorado
Colorado is a beautiful state. I enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, going to Rockies games, and living close to my three daughters and their families. My belief is that family is one of the most important things in life and spending time with family makes life worthwhile. Living in Colorado, we also spend time in the mountains where things are quiet and your mind can refresh and reboot.
I understand the struggles people face while raising a family, working long hours, and trying to keep up with the demands of everyday life—all while dealing with unexpected difficulties along the way. From experience, I know that life doesn’t always go according to plan. Difficulties arise, and it can be challenging to decide how to move forward or even which direction to take.
Whether you are trying to navigate what is happening today, heal from an old trauma, process grief and loss, or find your way through a life transition, I am here to help.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado.
Through my private practice, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults throughout the state. In addition to talk therapy, I specialize in The Cortina Method.
My education includes:
Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling, University of Colorado Denver
BA in Psychology, Metropolitan State University of Denver
Certified Rapid Resolution Therapist, Institute for Rapid Resolution Therapy
Ongoing advanced training in The Cortina Method for trauma, PTSD, and grief.
My counseling experience includes:
A non-profit Community Counseling Center
University of Colorado Denver Counseling Center
Private Practice: Inspired by Hope Counseling Services LLC
Philosophy & Approach
My belief is that individuals are the experts in their own lives. You have a remarkable capacity for self-healing and personal growth. It requires courage to take the first step and reach out for help. I invite you to begin today. In our work together, you will find a safe, supportive place to sort through what has happened and consider what you want life to look like moving forward. There is hope, and you do not have to find your way alone. All you ever have to take is the step that is in front of you. Life is short. Why not be happy?
I invite you to call for a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation 303.949.3654 or Contact Cathy.
