My name is Tess and I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Colorado with 4 years of experience. My goal is to create a space where those I work with are not labeling themselves or seeing themselves as “broken” or “the problem,” or for them to feel powerless in their circumstances and behavior patterns. Instead of asking what you did wrong, we should be asking what you have done right to make it this far. How have you survived? That is no small feat and it should be celebrated! I believe that by focusing on your strengths we can shift the narrative and tap into your innate ability to heal and make positive, lasting change. Additionally, I believe you are the expert in your life and my role is to assist you in embracing and gaining confidence in being the expert in your life. I will work alongside you to explore your experiences and interactions, assist you in gaining understanding of the meaning you give to those experiences and, in turn, how that influences how you see yourself and the world. I believe that we become the stories we tell ourselves. Once we stop telling the story of how much it hurt, and instead begin to the tell the story of our strengths and how we survived, then we can fully heal. Primarily, I have worked with clients who feel challenged by anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, attachment issues, eating disorders, and abuse. I approach each client with authenticity, honesty, respect, humor and empathy to create a safe space in which real insight can be gained and lasting change can occur. Additionally, I specialize in utilizing creative interventions and approaches that are tailored to each of my clients, such as art, music and experiential activities alongside traditional talk therapy. I recognize that therapy and taking the step to heal can seem frightening and exhausting. As such, I take great care to go at your pace and to celebrate the bravery and strength that you have displayed in taking this first step! I am excited to meet you and hear your story.