
Brooke Bodar
Hello all! I was born and raised in a small town in Wyoming where I developed a love for horses and the outdoors. I then moved to Laramie, Wyoming where I graduated in 2013 with my Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Disorders. I enjoyed working with people who had speech disorders, but felt as though I wanted to focus more on the underlying issues that were influencing peoples’ lives. I then decided to go back to school to get a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling. I graduated in 2016 and moved to another very small town with my husband, dog, and 2 horses. Right after I graduated I began work in a community mental health practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I really enjoyed working with people of all ages and helping them through challenging times in their lives. I became a mom in 2017, which greatly changed my priorities and life trajectory. After I became a mom I decided to make a slight career change into becoming a school counselor, because I found my work with school age clients to be exciting and fulfilling. However, I still continue to see clients in my mental health private practice on a part time basis. I also am pursuing certification in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. I strongly believe that a healthy therapeutic relationship that fosters unconditional positive regard, empathy, and authenticity is the vehicle of change for clients. Creating a therapeutic relationship that is based on those three principles helps clients to explore their experiences, modify their perceptions of themselves and the world, and increase their confidence in making choices and pursuing a course of action. I also believe that people have the innate ability and wisdom to get through any problem they are facing. My strengths include being able to connect with people easily while making them feel heard and understood. In my free time I enjoy riding horses, spending time in the mountains, and being with my family and animals. I am excited to connect with people on the BetterHelp platform!

Mark Awdykowyz
Having been raised as an only child and a second generation American, my father was a functional alcoholic who taught me the meaning of hard work and relational disconnection. My Italian mom was nurturing, provided unconditional love and began teaching me how to cook at age 13. When my parents divorced when I was a young teen, it left me feeling hurt, angry, confused, lost and alone. At seventeen, I joined the US Marines, hoping to prove my worth or die trying in Viet Nam. Fortunately, I was never shipped overseas. That four-year stint resulted in drug addiction, two meritorious promotions and a spiritual awakening that has kept me sober since November 1976. After an honorable discharge, my formal education began in the allied health profession, followed by biblical studies, a Masters in Divinity, a Masters in Theology and a Masters in Community Counseling. My spiritual journey began taking root in 1978 through The Navigators ministry. In 1982, I married my one and only wife; she has been instrumental in helping me develop into a better man. After completing seminary, I served in inner city rescue ministry for nearly 12 years, then returned to active duty as an Army Chaplain due to 9/11, and retired in December 2013. I then worked for the Veterans Health Administration in a psychiatric residential treatment facility for mental health and substance abuse disorder; I retired in September 2019. Life is full of uncertainties and it rarely turns out as we had planned. I believe that we are sojourners in this world and need the support of a healthy community of family, friends and a life grounded in the truth that's wrapped in love. We all have made mistakes and poor choices along the way; I know that I am no exception here. I also know that the world isn't always a safe place and some of us have suffered trauma at the hands of others. Sometimes, those whom we had trusted to keep us safe actually caused the harm. So whether we struggle with guilt and shame, anxiety, depression, anger, substance abuse, addictive behavior or simply can't seem to make sense of life, we shouldn't allow ourselves to journey alone. I believe that there are solutions to life's challenges. Those solutions, though not always easily uncovered, are designed to be revealed by embracing the struggle together and pushing through them. We are not designed to navigate life alone, nor avoiding life's difficulties through denial, self-medication or any other unwanted or unhealthy behavior that masks the pain. I believe that as humans in the Western culture, we tend to suffer in silence. What is that about? Consequently, I believe we should all begin with a very short, but profoundly deep question: "Do I want to become well?" During my four plus decades of recovery, it has been a privilege to assist people as a chaplain, teacher and counselor. Listening to my clients' stories has also helped me become a better person and certainly, a more empathic listener and less of an interrogator. I consider myself a fellow pilgrim in this journey called life who longs for a place where righteousness, peace and joy abounds. I enjoy working out daily, cooking, reading for personal growth and professional development, teaching, encouraging others, meeting positive and like-minded people, driving my 1972 VW and seeking to maintain a healthy balance in my life. .

Dr. Sheri Wester
Hello! If you are exploring Better Help, it is likely that you are struggling with something significant in your life. Finding the right person to help you through these challenges is very important. If you don't have a good relationship with your counselor, you won't make the progress you are hoping to achieve. I want to provide you with some information about me in order to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you. I am a professional counselor licensed in Wyoming and Colorado and a National Certified Counselor. I have been counseling individuals since 2003 when I graduated with a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. In 2018 I graduated with a Ph.D. in General Psychology, which added to my knowledge base. Throughout the years, I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, community mental health centers, and schools. I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a wide variety of struggles, from everyday issues to depression and anxiety. My approach is client-centered and I use theory and techniques from humanistic therapy, solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I understand that each person's experiences and needs are unique and I will tailor our work to fit your goals. We can interact in the modality that is most comfortable to you - live voice, live video, or live chat. In between live sessions, we can use the messaging system to discuss scheduling and outside assignments, share thoughts and questions that come up between sessions, and share and discuss journal entries (if you use that feature). My availability is primarily in the evenings and on the weekends. I know finding a counselor can be difficult and I would be honored to take this journey with you.

Kelli Johnson
Hello! My name is Kelli Johnson. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and registered yoga teacher (RYT) based in Wyoming. I am a mother, daughter, sister, friend, auntie, niece, therapist, and a fellow traveler on this journey of life. I have experience in community mental health, private practice, and residential settings. I specialize in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, loneliness, unease, women's issues, and life transitions. I tailor my approaches to counseling based on you and your needs. I employ an integrative approach to healing, growth, and change utilizing tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic (body based) techniques including breath work, mindfulness, narrative therapy, bibliotherapy, and solution focused brief therapies. I see my role as a counselor as a collaborator. You are the expert of your own experience. Through my professional training, clinical work, and life experiences, I have acquired frameworks, skills, and tools to help you make meaning from your experiences, discover your own strength and resilience; to realize and create meaning from life challenges; to center yourself; and to move forward in your life with intention, wisdom, and peace. I consider walking with people awhile on their journeys of healing, growth, transformation, life, and love as a privilege and a sacred duty I embark upon with a compassionate, open, and accepting heart. I believe the key to productive work in therapy is the counselor client relationship. I am committed to building a strong working alliance with you grounded in respect, acceptance, empathy, and authenticity. I would be honored to walk with you awhile on your journey! Kindest regards, Kelli

Octavia Gallon
I have been working in the mental health field for 6 years. I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. I chose a career in mental health to assist others in maintaining a mentally healthy lifestyle. I have worked with children and adults who have symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, behavior disorders, depression, parenting problems, social issues, and more. I also work with military service members and their families when experiencing challenging times. My counseling style is warm and engaging. My treatment approach is that of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, every client is different; therefore, each treatment plan is tailored to accommodate the individual client's needs. I believe that it is important for individuals to understand the root of their issues and understand methods to recognize triggers, provide coping strategies, and allow them to see how their perspectives shape their view of the world. When changing their view, they positively change their behaviors. Whether you seek change for a healthier, happier life or need a non-judgmental party, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

Diana Lingren
Hello, my name is Diana Lingren and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 35 years of clinical experience working with children and families in group, individual, and family therapy. I have focused on the areas of trauma/abuse, depression, PTSD, anxiety, substance abuse, dysfunctional families, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attachment, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Severely Emotionally Disturbed children. Also, I have been a Registered Play Therapist for 24 years and have been trained in EMDR. My therapeutic philosophy begins with the belief that all people strive for healing and wholeness. We each have a place of inner wisdom that can guide us toward the healing we need. My job is to help you learn to listen to your inner wisdom and find that path. We will create a safe place where you can explore the experiences and emotions needed to move you forward. When working with you, I will bring a strengths-based approach that encompasses both the mind and body. I may use Mindfulness, Creative Arts, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and CBT techniques to help you discover your strengths, increase your awareness, and maintain your progress. I will go with you on this journey to find the answers within you. There is a reason you have come here. You are ready!

Dr. Victoria Murdock
I am licensed in Wyoming with 5+ years of professional work experience in clinical counseling with individuals, groups and families. In addition to direct practice, I have 10+ years of experience teaching clinical and community social work. Most recently, I served as an ordained minister, offering my listening ear and community expertise to folks in a faith setting. I consider spirituality to be a basic part of being human. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I use a strengths' perspective with a cognitive-behavioral focus. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am honored to walk beside you as you begin this journey!

Cathryn Ahanonu
I am licensed in Wyoming with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines client centered, strengths based, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic therapy modalities. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Patricia (Trish) Nichols
I am a licensed therapist in Wyoming with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, career challenges, and individuals that struggle with self esteem, and confidence. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. We all need a little support at times in our lives, and that is where counseling comes in. Everyone has a unique story, and I am eager to hear yours. My goal is to provide whatever support you might need to continue forward in a positive way. I hope to provide a safe place for you to share your story. I feel privileged to do this work and to be a part of people's lives.

Stephanie Hotaling
I am a licensed in counselor Colorado with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, families and individual women . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, behavioral concerns, learning disabilities and ADHD. I have also helped many people work through physical trauma, emotional abuse and the difficult journey through grief. I enjoy getting to know people and learning what life has been like through their eyes. I do not view life struggles as defeats or places of shame, I see these difficult circumstances as times where God is showing us our deep need for Him and His deep love for us. My therapy approach is cognitive behavioral and person centered. Many people are helped by having the opportunity think about their family history and life experiences and how these combine to impact the present struggle. Over the years I have learned that people receive the most help in counseling when their therapist gives attention to the whole person by exploring the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual side of their struggles. Life is so complex and our problems likewise become very complex and overwhelming. Often times change can come through making the complex more simple. My strength as a therapist is in my ability to encourage, support, and shower people with mercy as they tackle their therapy goals. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Reaching out for help is a big step towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to help you meet your therapy goals. I look forward to working with you!
Find a therapist serving clients in Wyoming
Types of therapists available to clients in Chugwater
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Chugwater that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Chugwater available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Chugwater therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Chugwater therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Chugwater region and in the state of Wyoming.
How a therapist can help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want
Therapists in Chugwater can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Chugwater may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.