Therapists for college students near Denver, CO

​In 2015, I began my own therapy journey, and it truly transformed my life. Understanding myself better and gaining awareness of why I respond the way I do gave me a sense of control and empowerment that I had never experienced before. For the first time, I realized that I could change how I show up in my daily life, how I respond to challenges, and how I engage in relationships. This profound experience inspired me to pursue a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling, so I could help others feel the same sense of empowerment and growth. I prioritize creating a space where my clients feel heard, seen, and validated. When they're ready, I gently challenge them to increase their self-awareness, shift their perspectives, and focus on what they can control. My approach is rooted in compassion and understanding, and I use a combination of person-centered therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help my clients process trauma, manage anxiety, and build healthier thought patterns.

Hello and welcome! I'm a licensed clinical social worker and licensed addictions counselor providing virtual therapy to BIPOC individuals and families in Colorado who are navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. I received my master's degree in social work and bachelor's degree in psychology from MSU Denver and my professional background includes over 10 years of experience working with BIPOC adolescents, families, and adults in various settings. Clients would describe me as down-to-earth, grounded, validating, and easy to talk to. I value creating a therapeutic relationship that feels genuine and supportive while also encouraging growth and self-reflection. I'm trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps with exploring emotions, attachment patterns, and relationship dynamics to create deeper emotional connection and security; EMDR which allows us to process difficult or traumatic experiences that may continue to impact the present; and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy which provides practical tools for managing emotions, navigating stress, improving relationships, and building resilience.

I work primarily with young adults who are navigating that in-between stage of life—college, early career, shifting relationships, and figuring out what’s next. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of themselves, often dealing with anxiety, depression, or big life transitions. I tend to be a good fit for students who are looking for more consistent, ongoing support outside of a short-term counseling model. I also have experience working with clients who are struggling with higher levels of distress, including suicidal thoughts or self-harm, and I aim to provide a steady, supportive space where they can feel safe and work toward stability. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I focus on helping clients better understand what they’re going through, build coping skills, and feel more grounded and confident in themselves and their decisions. Because my practice is fully virtual, I’m able to offer flexible scheduling that works well for students balancing classes, work, and other responsibilities.

What if getting better didn't mean spending years talking about everything that's ever gone wrong? I work with college and grad students to build real, lasting change by providing insight and skills that actually help. With over a decade of clinical work in the US and abroad, I've helped young adults manage anxiety, quiet the perfectionism and imposter syndrome that follow them into every exam and internship, while creating a healthy type of confidence that remains under pressure. My clients describe working with me as supportive, direct, collaborative, and nothing like what they expected therapy to be. We figure out what's driving the pattern. Then we work on changing it. I specialize in: anxiety, burnout and stress, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. My approach pulls from CBT, ACT, Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness, grounded in a trauma-informed model. You don't have to have it figured out to start. Currently offering Online Therapy throughout Massachusetts, New York, Colorado, Vermont, and Florida. Whether you are in Boston, NYC, or Denver, I am ready when you are.

Currently accepting new clients. I earned my Clinical Psychology doctorate degree from the Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver. Throughout my time in practice, I have worked with a variety of individuals and specialize in working with adults who are struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment and life transitions, family problems, learning problems, and issues related to culture/identity. I use a direct, open, and collaborative approach to foster a supportive and non-judgmental environment for you to engage in creating meaningful change. Ultimately, I want to help you create a life where you are truly thriving. I am passionate about supporting my clients in moving toward goals that will lead to increased fulfillment and overall well-being. Because every person is different, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs, keeping cultural factors and unique identities in mind. If you have been feeling down, anxious, confused, stuck, or are lacking clarity in one or more areas of your life, please contact me. I would love to discuss how we can work together.

Do you ever feel like whatever normal is, it just isn't you? Do you feel like you need to diminish yourself in order to "get along", or like you are always getting in your own way? My passion is to help you tune in to and express the "you" that feels most authentic. I work with teens and adults around issues of ADHD and anxiety, trauma, gender and sexual identity, open relationships/ENM and healthy boundaries, and navigating a changing world. I specialize with recent ADHD diagnoses.

Hi, and welcome! My name is Katelyn, I am a therapist with a background working in university counseling centers. I enjoy supporting students, through the unique challenges of college life. Now in private practice with CoCal Counseling, I continue to help students navigate stress, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions through online sessions. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can gain insight, build resilience, and find strategies to thrive both academically and personally. Let’s work together to help you feel more confident, connected, and grounded. You don’t have to navigate this season of your life alone.

My ideal clients are adolescents and young adults who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. A lot of the people I work with are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity questions, or relationship challenges. I also work with children when play-based therapy feels like the best fit for helping them express what they’re going through. In our work together, my focus is on creating a space where you can show up as you are without judgment. I take a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach and often draw from DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and psychoeducation to help you better understand what you’re experiencing and build tools that actually fit your life. More than anything, I want therapy to feel like a place where things start to make more sense and feel more manageable over time. We’ll work together to build insight, confidence, and practical coping skills so you can move forward in a way that feels more grounded and supported. My goal is to make starting therapy feel simple and welcoming.

Do you find yourself putting yourself to the side because you’re busy managing others? Engaging in people-pleasing tendencies to keep everyone around you happy? Feeling guilty for taking time for yourself? Or for having emotions at all? Maybe it’s challenging to communicate your emotions? boundaries? To have emotional intimacy? Maybe your self-esteem is lower than you’d like to admit? And it’s hard to manage your emotions when they finally spill out? And you feel lonely even when you’re not alone? I know that struggle all too well. Through collaboration, authenticity, & humor, you & I can create a safe space to practice experiencing emotions, setting boundaries, & start healing. Together we can process these experiences on a deeper level, identify the root causes, & set realistic goals to make meaningful change in your life. You can live a more whole & happy life. Let’s share the load. If this sounds like the kind of healing journey you’re looking for, send me a message. We can schedule a consultation to make sure we’re a good fit, get your first appointment booked, and start making your dreams a reality.

Over the last 25 years I have worked with clients who are seeking, peace, healing and develop insight and self-awareness. In my work with clients, there are several treatment modalities utilized, primarily CBT, Somatic Therapy, Whole Person and art therapy. One of my primary focuses with my clients is to create and/or improve their self-care plan since it is instrumental in managing daily stressors and mental health concerns. Self-care is important for me to also have in place and my self-care plan includes photography, being an avid football fan (and most sports), time with my friends and family

I work best with students who feel overwhelmed by the pressure to keep everything together on their own. Many of my clients are juggling classes, relationships, family expectations, and their own mental health, and they're tired of pretending they're fine. I especially connect with students navigating anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, or big transitions like starting college, switching majors, or returning to school after time away. Clients often come in feeling stuck, stressed, or unsure of what they want, but they're also thoughtful, motivated, and ready for a space where they don't have to perform. If you're someone who wants support untangling what's working, what's not, and how to move toward a life that feels more balanced, grounded, and genuinely yours, we'll be a great fit.

Hi, I’m Shannon Gavin, LCSW. I made the move to Colorado in 2020, right after earning my master's degree in Social Work. Since then, I've had the opportunity to work with a broad range of mental health challenges, which has helped me develop a flexible and personalized approach to therapy. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all method. Instead, I tailor each therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and personality of the individual I’m working with. You can expect a laid-back and approachable atmosphere when we work together, but I’m also direct and straightforward when the situation calls for it. My focus is on empowering you while providing a warm and supportive space where you can feel safe to explore your feelings. Whether you've experienced inpatient behavioral health care or are seeking outpatient therapy, I bring experience and genuine care to every session. I’m here to support your journey and help you find practical, meaningful ways to improve your mental well-being.

If you are feeling dissatisfied in your relationships or if you are feeling anxious and stuck adjusting to changes, we will work together to find hope in your life and growth towards your goals. I work with couples and adults who are highly motivated to learn communication strategies that lead to genuine connection, collaboration and compromise, and unlearn communication patterns that lead to disconnection, disappointment and despair. As a life long learner, I am passionate about helping individuals, students and professionals identify their purpose, meaning and "why" as an antidote to burnout and stress. I have experience with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy which provides a helpful set of tools to cope with distress and help you be more present in the moment. I have Level 2 training in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy. As a fellow parent, I enjoy supporting couples and individuals as you adjust to the joys and stressors of becoming parents and helping you balance the flexibility and structure required in expanding your family unit. I have Level 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy which offers evidenced-based accessible, practical, take home communication tools to build your relationship. Please reach out to schedule a free video consultation to see if we're a good fit!

With over 25 years of experience in substance abuse and mental health, I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by many underserved populations. While I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, my approach is centered on helping each client—regardless of background—discover their strengths, build resilience, and create a path toward healing and personal growth. My focus is helping individuals in these communities address issues such as anger management, substance abuse, and overall emotional well-being. My culturally sensitive therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to empower clients to overcome obstacles and build a fulfilling life. I believe in the strength, resilience, and wisdom each person brings to therapy, and I am committed to providing a space where healing and growth can occur.

The intake process typically spans about four sessions, during which the emphasis is on assessing the compatibility between you and me. This initial stage is crucial as we establish a foundation for our therapeutic alliance and become acquainted with each other. A central element of my practice involves being fully present during our sessions and attuned to nonverbal cues. I listen to not only what you are saying but how you are feeling in the moment. I encourage you to observe and share your experiences during our discussions, fostering a sense of being present 'in the room' together. The therapy session serves as a secure space where we can explore your beliefs about yourself, how you make sense of the world, and your ways of connecting with other people. It provides an opportunity for you to practice assertiveness, express your emotions and needs, and challenge any assumptions about my perceptions and interactions with you.

I believe that people inherently want to move towards healing, but life is complex and things get mixed up along the way. I work to help clients move towards their most authentic & genuine selves. Within the counseling relationship, I strive to help clients feel supported & empowered so they can explore themselves, their current circumstances, past experiences, & future aspirations. I believe that people are the experts of their own lives but sometimes need a roadmap to help get back to where they want to be. One of the most powerful gifts that you can offer the world is to heal yourself & I would love to be a part of your journey. I work with clients to help them live more balanced and meaningful lives. I integrate nature therapy (including walk & talk therapy) into my work with clients & am an EMDR trained therapist. My counseling experience includes working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship stressors, life adjustments, self-esteem, addiction & sport performance. Contact me if you are looking for an individualized & unique approach to therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to create & implement goals that resonate with the client. I am a registered yoga teacher & utilize yoga as well as sound healing practices into my work. I enjoy working with athletes who are wanting to improve their performance & focus.

In my years of providing therapy, I have witnessed a clear trend. Emotional wounds heal best when surrounded by hope, support, and a sense of self. In other words, I believe that people can best heal from the past when they find what they’re running towards. Pain can leave us feeling defined by our wounds, insecurities, fears, regrets, and unwanted patterns. We can feel trapped by trauma, depression, anxiety, and desperate attempts to keep it together. But no matter how much space the darkness fills, it cannot erase the underlying “self” within us. We can shrink the darkness by understanding it, exploring how it informs our patterns, and taking necessary steps to address it. Simultaneously, we can expand ourselves by exploring what makes us care, what helps us connect, what makes us laugh, and what stokes the fire to fight for something better. It is my privilege when I’m trusted enough to help hold the pain, and an honor to watch someone embrace who they want to be.

As an openly queer, ADHD, highly sensitive, kinky, and non-monogamous therapist with 12 years of experience, I provide a deeply affirming, non-judgmental space for alternative relationship dynamics and sex-positive lifestyles. My approach is practical and structured, specializing in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relational concerns. I am Level 3 Trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, fully trained in EMDR, and utilize concrete tools from DBT and CBT to help clients break through stuck core beliefs, manage triggers, and foster authentic self-acceptance.

Hi, I’m Joanna Lester—founder of First Circle Therapy, a Colorado-based virtual practice. I specialize in working with college and grad students who are thoughtful, creative, and sensitive—but overwhelmed by the pressure to keep it all together. If you're juggling deadlines, relationships, family expectations, and big questions about who you're becoming, you might feel anxious, unmotivated, burned out, or just not yourself. You’re not alone—and therapy can be a space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what really matters to you. Our work can help you move through cycles of self-doubt, people-pleasing, or perfectionism and into a more grounded, self-led life. Whether you're processing trauma, navigating identity shifts, or learning to set healthier boundaries, I offer space to explore your inner world with clarity and care. In our sessions, we’ll use nervous system tools (to help your body shift out of fight-or-flight and feel more at ease) and parts work (to help the different sides of you—like the achiever, avoider, or inner critic—work together instead of against each other). You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. I offer free consultations to see if we’re a fit, and I accept several major insurance plans to make therapy more accessible. Feel free to reach out—no pressure.

Sometimes our minds get the best of us, creating unhelpful stories that leave us feeling overwhelmed and seemingly without hope. Reaching out for help in these times can be a difficult but strong first step because problems gain power in isolation and can keep us from thriving. I believe that our lives are made up of stories told and known through our relationships and community. Some of these narratives have provided us with a nourishing source of connection, health, and meaning, while others have disempowered us and left us feeling stuck. Identifying and exploring how you feel about these experiences and relationships can provide us roadmaps to your unique hopes for the future in stronger alignment with your core values and strengths. I am an affirming and inclusive licensed clinical mental health counselor who specializes in treating problems from a relational and holistic lens. In my work with clients, I integrate complementary methodologies including narrative therapy, experiential work, and somatic parts exploration to recover the contexts where thriving and connection have been possible despite the problems influencing your life. I have served diverse populations in private and group practice settings, residential facilities, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. I am passionate about accompanying individuals experiencing personal life challenges and transitions, including depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. Many of my clients are navigating challenging interpersonal relationships and complex family dynamics as well as having suffered personal trauma and oppression, both within their family-of-origin and systemically as marginalized identities. Whether you’ve had experience with therapy previously or if this is your first time trying something new, I would be so happy to guide you through the process and help you regain agency in your life. If any of this resonates with you, our conversations will provide you with a safe space to begin exploring and empowering the lost parts of your experience, emotions, and identity from a new vantage where wholeness and connection are once again possible. Working together from a place of curiosity and heart, I would like to help you to re-author the life story you are writing. I look forward to speaking with you about the work that is possible together!