This is Kate McDonald's avatar and link to their profile

Kate McDonald

Offering therapy in CO
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! I'm Kate, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of Colorado. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person. No matter where you come from or what you have been through in your life, you have value, just as you are. These beliefs guide my life and my work as a counselor and psychotherapist. If you choose to work with me, my role will be to meet you where you are, to listen to you, and to offer support along your way. Together, we will explore your needs and goals and figure out how to move forward. Some details: I grew up in Virginia and completed my undergraduate education at Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2012, I moved to Colorado to complete my Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology at the University of Denver. Since then I have worked primarily in community mental health care, providing care to adolescents and adults from all kinds of backgrounds. I have specialized in addiction issues, trauma, and mood and anxiety disorders. Although I adapt my approach for each client's individual needs, I often draw from acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. I am also trained in Brainspotting, which uses the mind-body connection to heal the impacts of trauma and other difficult emotions and experiences. In 2021, I moved to the United Kingdom where I am now a counsellor for the National Health Service. I remain fully licensed in Colorado and am also a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. When I'm not doing therapy I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with family. My hobbies include knitting, bullet journaling, and trying not to kill my houseplants. Struggling is hard. Sometimes reaching out is harder - I am glad you have taken this step! If what I have said sounds good to you so far, let's get connected and talk about what you need.

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Lorri Wesson

Offering therapy in CO
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, my name is Lorri Wesson. My experience in the mental health field includes extensive work with children, adolescents, families, and adults. My primary areas of expertise include attachment, trauma, behavioral disorders, parenting, mood disorders, anxiety, loss and grief, and communication. My treatment approaches include Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy. What is most important is that you feel heard and valued in our work together, as your relationship with a helper is critical to your overall progress.

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Dr. Carolyn Hughes

Offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
45 years of experience

I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work! I have been a practicing social worker since 1985. I have worked in many areas of practice including active duty military members and families, VA hospitals, and community mental health. I currently specialize in treating trauma of all kinds, depression, anxiety, women’s issues and life transitions. I enjoy supporting people seeking positive life changes. I am a firm believer in real change being very possible. For me, therapy is a support system offering a course of treatment. I usually work with a client for 8 to 10 sessions with a goal of active change and renewed energy and confidence. Give therapy a chance...give me a call.

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Brian Lentz

Offering therapy in CO
License: LCSW,CSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello, My name is Brian A. Lentz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and Colorado with 7 years experience in both the outpatient and inpatient mental health environments. My focus is supporting those with a wide range of mental health issues (Bipolar, PTSD, Anxiety, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, Delusional, Depression, GAD, OCD, Panic, Social, Dependent, Paranoia, etc.) or familial challenges, motivational issues, work burnout, personal struggles, or any of a myriad of life circumstances that may have become overwhelming/ difficult to manage. It is my goal to collaboratively work with clients to achieve a better quality of life, overcoming obstacles, to live a happier, healthier, more fulfilling life. I am person centered, solution focused, direct engagement, with a "not one size fits all" approach. I try hard to "meet clients where they are" in their particular circumstances and support them to achieve their goals for recovery. I am experienced in many different therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Reframing, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Trauma-Focused, Holistic, Life Coaching, Client Centered, Emotionally-Focused, and Narrative Therapies. I am also a Combat Veteran (14 yrs USAF) and understand many of those unique challenges our service persons have. Thank you for coming to Better Help. It takes real courage to seek support for the many different areas of life that we encounter that may have become overwhelming. This decision could be your first step to a more balanced and happier life. I would be honored to join with you in that journey to support and encourage you! I look forward to working with you. Be Well

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Brenda Perea

Offering therapy in CO
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
33 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide array of concerns to include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, and challenges with career. I have also helped individuals who have experienced trauma. My therapy style is warm and caring. I believe in treating others with respect and compassion in a non judgmental environment. I enjoy empowering others and believe in teaching skills to help cope with life's ups and downs. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile and for taking the steps toward feeling better, and a more satisfying life. I will provide a safe, nurturing, confidential space, so that we may begin working toward the goals you would like to achieve for yourself. I look forward to meeting you!

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Kathryn Salazar

Offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Lois Winchell

Offering therapy in CO
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, coping, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Jerald Hamill's avatar and link to their profile

Jerald Hamill

Offering therapy in CO
License: MA, MPA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
4 years of experience

Life is hard. Despite all of its challenges, I have had an incredibly rich and abundant life. The lessons I’ve learned have added to the meaning and depth of my experiences. I hope my life experiences can help me to be a source of strength and guidance for my clients. The relationship between therapist and client is one of the keys to successful counseling. It is essential to find a counselor whose areas of focus and style of therapy match your needs. I hope this brief introduction can help you decide if we might be a good partnership to tackle life’s problem’s. I believe a lot can be learned about our current difficulties by better understanding our past. I believe the key to an abundant life is to find meaning and purpose in the things that we experience every day. Both the good and the bad. I describe my style as being relational and use psychotherapy, behavioral techniques, and experiential opportunities to build solutions to help you live a more abundant life. I enjoy the abundant life that Colorado offers both in the mountains and around Denver. You can find me enjoying the outdoors skiing, hiking, camping, or cycling with my family. I also love to travel and experience different ways people live both within the U.S. and throughout the world. I’ve been to all 50 states and 4 continents. I find energy in experiencing life in a variety of ways - I look forward to learning more about what you enjoy!

This is Jennifer Droski's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Droski

Offering therapy in CO
Stress, AnxietyDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Bridget Rowe's avatar and link to their profile

Bridget Rowe

Offering therapy in CO
AddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Pagosa Springs

Finding the best therapist close by in Pagosa Springs can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Pagosa Springs. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Pagosa Springs, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Pagosa Springs or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Pagosa Springs area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Pagosa Springs, elsewhere in Archuleta, or in the greater state of Colorado.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Pagosa Springs area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pagosa Springs therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Pagosa Springs due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Pagosa Springs may not take health insurance, some in the state of Colorado may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Colorado you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Pagosa Springs, Colorado working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Pagosa Springs above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Pagosa Springs helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Pagosa Springs therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Pagosa Springs therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Pagosa Springs therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CO, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 81147 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Pagosa Springs counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Pagosa Springs licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Pagosa Springs, Colorado can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Pagosa Springs has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Pagosa Springs.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Pagosa Springs:

81147

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