“We don’t feel shame over having to go to physical therapy for a stress fracture- why should we feel any different about allowing time and treatment to heal anxiety or depression?”
Hi there! My name is Kathleen Napoli and my mission is to provide clients with a fully integrative approach that treats the whole person, not just the problem. I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and attended DePaul University where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Although I loved my home city, it was time I followed my calling to the mountains. I moved to Colorado and earned my master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Denver. Following the completion of my master’s degree, I spent three years working full-time and participating in individual and group supervision so that I could sit and test for my License in Clinical Social Work. In 2004, I obtained the license I needed and then again returned to the University of Denver to obtain a post graduate certificate in trauma and response while working full-time. I believed it was important to gain a specialty working with people who have been exposed to trauma and how to find healthy solutions and coping strategies to integrate into a healthy lifestyle. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have over 18 years of mental health experience in a variety of settings including integrated mental health care in a physician setting, medical social work, and private practice. As well, over 14 years of my career has focused on working as a Mental Health Therapist in the college or education setting.
I specifically enjoy helping clients who are going through a major life transition. I believe that we all go through periods of adjustment. In different phases of our life, we have hills and valleys and at times we may need an adjustment or 'reset.' This is not atypical to pause and recognize that many people benefit from an independent person to help reevaluate relationships, personal and professional goals and identify new solutions that make sense for the future.
I bring a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavior Therapy Modality to working with my clients that is directed toward developing and achieving the client’s vision of solutions while always tapping into their strengths and innate resiliency. I believe it is important to view how the person is functioning within their environment. I have found that many times people who are seeking help are actually trying to negotiate difficult and confusing solutions to situations or people around them. I currently live in mountain town of Vail, Colorado about 100 west of Denver after being in the ski community of Crested Butte, CO for nine years. I have a husband and two young sons who are avid ski racers which explains how a girl from Chicago currently lives in ski and mountain biking meccas. Previous to living here in my career, I spent five years in Denver, Colorado and five years in Chicago, Illinois providing mental health services. I love traveling to new places and learning about new cultures. I believe traveling helps me look at the world in a new and better way. I also enjoy running, skiing, attending live music, writing short screenplays, and catching some great Improv Comedy.
Over 18 years in multiple settings, I have always advocating for reducing the or stigma associated with mental health issues as something that needs to be addressed globally and locally. It is important they we "Cure the Stigma' and instead begin to work with people by treating the mind and body together for optimal wellness. Mental and Physical health are equal and it is important that we treat both with the same quality of care. Lastly, I have also been a strong advocate for the Traumatic Brain Injury community and lead groups managing Post Concussive Syndrome. I look forward to connecting with you soon.
Additional areas of focus: LGBT, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Eating disorders, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder
CO LCSW 266