COACH

Maryann (she/her) has been a Life Coach for 15 years and has walked along side countless individuals and couples. She has experienced and believes that there can be peace and contentment regardless of life circumstances.

Through her many years of experience in mentoring, and leading, Maryann brings a fresh encouragement to life change and negative thought patterns that keep us stuck, scattered, and frustrated.

Maryann is a 1987 Graduated of University of Northern Colorado and a certified life and executive coach. She has extensive experience in women’s ministry, elder care and is certified with Prepare/Enrich Inventories as a couples coach and facilitator trainer.

She loves being a part of the CTS team, and her wish is to help her clients find freedom and vibrancy in all that they are designed to be.

In her spare time Maryann likes reading, long walks, cooking, and spending time with her 4 grandsons and family.

CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH INTERN

Mike (he/him) is a counseling intern through Adams State University. He lives in the North Fork Valley and loves the western slope.

Mike's theoretical orientation is humanistic, with strong roots in existentialism, feminism, and family systems. He is a firm believer in the interconnectedness of all things and personal accountability. Mike is looking forward to gaining experience with a variety of populations.

Originally from Manchester, New Hampshire, Mike graduated from NHIA with a bachelor of Fine Art, focusing on ceramics. He is now in the Adams State Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's program.

In his free time, Mike is likely trying to be self-care incarnate, riding two wheels or pretending to be a starfish on a warm patch of dirt.

OWNER & CLINICAL DIRECTOR

Erik (he/him) is a marriage and family therapist with over 30 years of experience and is the author of “Shall We Dance: A Guide to Happiness.” Erik works with clients with a wide range of concerns including: depression, marital problems, anxiety, individual psychological problems, and child-parent problems.

Erik is also trained in EMDR and TFCBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) – helping clients who have experienced trauma, physically, emotionally, mentally and or spiritually.

Erik believes of the most important building blocks for growth in therapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Because of this, Erik’s approach is different with each individual, depending on their specific needs.

He can help you regain your perspective and focus by providing you with tools to help you get back on track. It’s time to exchange fear, anxiety or panic for peace.

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES

Yesenia (she/her) obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Human Communication and a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism with an emphasis in Telecommunications. She has over 15 years experience in working with youth and families in conflict along with those involved in the judicial system.

Her work experience includes working in residential facilities for youth as well as a Probation Officer working with individuals struggling with finding their way. Her knowledge of systems including the Child Welfare System and other community agencies is a benefit to assisting others navigate challenging processes. Her personal journey as a mom and wife add to her repertoire of knowledge.

She is energized by helping others grow and find their passions as a coach, as well as supervisor of the CRT team. Her professional experience working within community systems helps the team to foster community engagement and improve relationships for individuals and community partners alike. 

Her ultimate goal is to utilize her skills and knowledge of systems to build more connected communities and find creative solutions for individuals, families, and the professionals she supervises.

THERAPIST

Sam (he/him) graduated with his Master of Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University in December 2024. Sam completed his Bachelor of Social Work degree in May 2022 at Castleton University and has experience working in residential treatment for adolescent boys, wilderness therapy, and crisis resolution.

Sam enjoys working with a variety of age groups and is especially gifted at engaging with middle and high schoolers. He wants his clients to know therapy doesn't have to be boring or intimidating. He loves using alternative approaches and often utilizes experiential and expressive art therapy techniques such as throwing a frisbee around, shooting hoops, drawing, coloring, journaling, etc. Most importantly, he aims to engage with people where they are in their healing process. Sam acknowledges he is still learning (as most of us are in some way or another) and is eager to gain more education and explore various modalities as he works his way toward full licensure.

When not working he loves to spend time outside when he has energy, often finds himself watching reality television when he has no energy, and can never quite shake the adventure bug.

OWNER & CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

Kristi (she/her) is a licensed professional clinical counselor who specializes in the treatment of adolescents, young children, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Kristi is trained in EMDR for trauma based treatment and the treatment of numerous other challenges such as addictions and behavioral issues. She focuses on attachment based therapies and believes the relationship is the catalyst to success.

EMDR is Kristi’s preferred method for the treatment of trauma. This modality quickly provides symptom relief for most people. For play therapy she prefers the use of Child Centered Play Therapy as it allows children the freedom to be self directed and increase their resiliency.

As a therapist who is focused on attachment, the relationship is of utmost importance to Kristi. She says, “a good therapeutic relationship allows clients to practice real life situations within the context of the therapeutic relationship allowing for more success in their natural and chosen relationships and life.”

PROGRAMS DIRECTOR & THERAPIST

Lindsey (she/her) received a Bachelor's in Recreational Therapy in 2014 and returned for her Masters in Clinical Mental Health from Adams State In 2020.

She primarily works with adolescents, women and families through strengths based orientation, fostering healthy relationships with themselves, others, and their world as a means to manage mental health challenges, and focuses greatly on the use of the outdoors to heal trauma.

Lindsey is trained in EMDR and values continued learning to meet the needs of her clients and families.

SOCIAL WORK INTERN

Diana (she/her/ella) is a graduate student pursuing her Master of Social Work at Colorado Mesa University, with an anticipated graduation date of May 2025. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Colorado Mesa University. She has gained valuable experience working with survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as with young children and adolescents within the school district, and working with parents on developing their parenting skills and increasing their knowledge on child development.

Diana is particularly passionate about serving adolescents and children, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the Latino/a/e community. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and is dedicated to providing therapeutic services to the Spanish-speaking population. Additionally, she has obtained a certification in LGBTQ-affirmative care from Yale University and aims to further develop skills that directly support marginalized communities. Diana's approach is grounded in principles of intersectionality and social justice, employing a human-centered, eclectic therapeutic methodology that embraces decolonization and trauma-informed care to meet the unique needs of every individual. She aspires to specialize in assisting individuals who have experienced trauma, fostering healing through self-discovery and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and emotions.

In her free time, when she is not in school or practicing therapy, Diana spends her time with her family, friends, and three dogs. She is an avid reader and proclaims herself a lifelong learner.

Diana es estudiante de una Maestría en Trabajo Social en la Universidad de Colorado Mesa, con graduación prevista para Mayo de 2025. Con una licenciatura en Psicología, tiene experiencia trabajando con sobrevivientes de abuso sexual y violencia doméstica y apoyando a niños, adolescentes y padres en escuelas. Ella esta apasionada por servir a las comunidades LGBTQIA+ y Latino/a/e, Diana es bilingüe en inglés y español, y cuenta con una certificación en cuidado afirmativo LGBTQ de la Universidad de Yale. Su enfoque se basa en la interseccionalidad, la justicia social y el cuidado informado sobre el trauma, con el objetivo de ayudar a las personas a sanar de traumas. En su tiempo libre, disfruta estar con su familia, amigos y sus tres perros, y se dedica a aprender de por vida.

THERAPIST

Alex (he/him) was born and raised in Colorado and has been living in Montrose for the past 16 years. He earned his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from CapellaUniversity. In addition, he holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and an associate degree in criminal justice. Alex is also certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the International Kettlebell Lifting Federation (IKLF).  

 Accompanying the academic background, Alex has diverse experience, including law enforcement, personal training, and crisis response. Alex believes that the therapeutic relationship is the most essential factor in creating positive change. He is eager to gain experience with a variety of clients and approaches each one personally. Alex aspires to combine movement and counseling to develop a more holistic approach to well-being.  

In his free time, Alex enjoys outdoor activities with his wife and son. He always seeks to push his limits and explore his potential through ultramarathons.

THERAPIST

Claire (she/her) has over 22 years experience serving individuals and families in crisis. She is EMDR trained through Rivers Edge Institute and graduated with her MSW from Boise State University.

She provides individual, teen, couples, family and group therapy. Claire uses a variety of modalities such as EMDR, CBT, MI, and Mindfulness and her dog, Cora, will often join in during sessions. Claire also facilitates wilderness therapy experiences for individuals, groups, couples and families.

In addition to therapeutic and wilderness therapy, Claire offers case management, outreach and consultation contracting focusing on the needs of the unhoused community. Claire also leads individual and group discernment retreats for burnt out leaders, folks in a transition, family reconciliation, or communication intensives.

In her free time, Claire loves conversations around a campfire, immersing herself in other cultures, costume parties, pasta, and spending time with her husband and dog.

THERAPIST

Taka (he/him) got started with therapy back in 2016 while working in residential treatment and wilderness therapy in Jackson, WY. Since then, he has settled in southwest Colorado and completed his Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health at Adam's State University.

Taka focuses on exploring emotion and cognition through rational emotive behavior therapy and cognitive therapy while adapting to the nuances of each therapeutic relationship to cater his approach to each individual.

Taka's playful demeanor helps him engage with children and adolescents, but he is also keen to empower people of all ages and backgrounds to realize their own strength and achieve personal and/or communal harmony.

In his free time, Taka is probably out exploring the San Juans, wrangling his two cats, or tackling yet another elaborate DIY project.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & THERAPIST

Kendra (she/her) is a social worker who utilizes a person-centered, strengths based approach in her practice. She recognizes each person is unique and is committed to tailoring treatment to meet individual needs and goals.

Kendra received her MSW from the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and has a BA in Psychology from Austin College. Kendra is trained in EMDR and is one of her preferred modalities for treatment.

She believes creativity and connection are the catalyst for growth and the foundation for sustained healing. She enjoys working with people from all walks of life and works primarily with adults, adolescents, and LGBTQ+ community members.

In her free time, you can find her sauntering around the San Juans, petting a dog somewhere, or dabbling in a mixed media project.

SOCIAL WORK INTERN

Bernice (she/her) is a student at Colorado Mesa University in the Masters of Social Work: Foundation Program and is expected to graduate in May 2026. Bernice obtained 6 degrees from Colorado Mesa University in December 2023; 3 Technical Certificates in Early Childhood Education: Entry Level Teacher, Early Childhood Education: Assistant Teacher, Early Childhood Education: Teacher, a Double Associate of Arts in Social Science and Universal Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice - summa cum laude.

Bernice has professionally worked with children since September 2021 in various settings: in the school system as an after school tutor for District 51 from 1st grade - 12th grade and as a Mentor for the District Attorney in Mesa County for their Juvenile Diversion program. She has a burning desire for children and immigration populations that are vastly overlooked for equitable opportunities due to their lack of knowledge, English being their second language, or generational poverty.

Bernice is eager to learn to be the best therapist and advocate for mental and social health that she can be. So, that she can enrich the lives of those who seek a safe haven from social norms that have worked against them. After this internship position, Bernice will be counting her education at law school to become an immigration and child abuse lawyer. Bernice loves human interaction; therefore, she is at your service. She promises to show up as her authentic self and a smile on her face.

ADMIN SUPPORT STAFF

Since she was a child, Karlie (she/her) knew that she wanted to pursue a career centered around helping others. She has always been intrigued by the power that even a small act of kindness can have to change the course of a person's day, mind, or even life. In her daily life, Karlie strives to make anyone who crosses her path feel safe, seen, and heard. Because of this, she takes great pride in being one of the first lines of communication for those who reach out to CTS looking to make a change in their life. Outside of doing administrative work, Karlie is working on her Bachelors in Psychology and has a long term career goal to obtain her Masters in Social Work. 

Karlie has previous experience working at a 24 hour Walk in Crisis Center and Detox facility. During her time there, she became truly passionate about helping those with mental illness and finding ways to close the gaps in the mental health care system. She also found a love for promoting any resources available in our community and making them more accessible.   

Karlie was born and raised on the Western Slope and comes from a family with deep roots in the area. She is a mother to a 5 year old daughter and loves showing her the magic of kindness and human compassion. She acknowledges as much as she loves teaching her daughter about the world, she feels her daughter has been her best teacher reminding her what it means to stop and smell the roses, literally. When she isn't working she loves to explore the scenic areas we live in, enjoys last minute fishing expeditions, soaking at the local hot springs, and curling up to watch a good true crime documentary.

TUTOR

Kristen (she/her) has been teaching at the elementary level in Delta County since 2005 and currently serves as a reading interventionist for grades K-5. She is passionate about empowering students to both navigate challenges and actively seek success by drawing upon their strengths.

Kristen completed her Bachelor's degree and teacher licensure program at Mesa State College in 2005 and received her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in Literacy from Lesley University in 2009.

Like many Colorado natives, she spends most of her free time mountain biking and cross country skiing but also appreciates opportunities to paddle board, hike, ride dirt bikes, and go camping.

"Every adversity carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit." -Unknown

CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH INTERN

Sometimes life can be messy. As someone who has personally experienced burnout, anxiety, and struggling to identify a career, Nikole knows what it is like to feel stuck. Raising your hand and saying, “I want something different,” can be hard and make you feel vulnerable.

As an intern therapist, Nikole (she/her) aims to collaborate with you as you take steps toward the change you want in your life. You don’t have to be on this path alone. Together, we can identify the change you are looking for and collaborate to work towards your goals. At the same time, Nikole understands that there is no right way to make a change. Taking the first step is the hardest part.

As a native Coloradoan, Nikole loves getting out on the water on her stand-up paddle board, taking her dogs for walks, exploring the local mountains, and enjoying all the fresh produce that grows on the Western Slope. Nikole has had several businesses since 2014, and she is now pursuing her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Adams State University.

COUNSELING INTERN

Kaity (she/her) is a counseling intern through Adams State University. Originally from Illinois, she moved out west to pursue a different lifestyle and continued to rediscover her passion for mental health throughout various careers.

Kaity takes a human centered approach and works with clients of all backgrounds. She incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques and feminist therapy into her practice. She takes a holistic approach and appreciates the impact that nutrition and physical health play in our mental health, and the interconnectedness of our mind and body. As a previous early childhood teacher she understands the importance of supporting the social emotional needs of young children.

Kaity resides in Telluride with her son and puppy and enjoys spending as much time as possible outside with the healing powers of nature.

THERAPIST

Kenzie (she/her) is committed to helping individuals confidently discover and embrace their great qualities and strengths. Kenzie believes in helping individuals grow and shape confidence around healthy decision making, emotional understanding and life choices.

In 2014, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Colorado University (Double Major: Psychology emphasis in Clinical Mental Health; Sociology emphasis in Criminal Justice). Since, she remained in Gunnison and spent several years volunteering and working with Project Hope as a Victim’s Advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. In 2022 she graduated with a Master of Arts degree from Adams State University (Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling).

Kenzie takes an eclectic approach in providing counseling services to Gunnison County residents and beyond.

Currently, she provides in person counseling services in Gunnison, Colorado as well as telehealth appointments for those living across the state of Colorado.

Specializations include teen counseling, emotional regulation, coping skills, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, stress & anger management, therapy for men, SOMB treatment, self-discovery and trauma related to sexual assault and domestic violence.

CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH INTERN

Gretchen (she/her) has a natural warmth and intuitive nature. She’s also grounded, curious, and caring, laying a solid therapeutic work foundation. Her wide-ranging experience allows her to provide clients with appropriate tools that feel authentic, easily digestible, and sustainable. While she draws from evidence-based therapies, Gretchen customizes client care through a person-centered lens, as everyone has unique experiences, stories, and needs. Gretchen is passionate about helping clients with trauma recovery, managing anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders, self-empowerment, building healthy relationships, and healing attachments. In addition to traditional talk therapy, she utilizes somatic tools, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices.

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Gretchen also lived in New York City, a small fishing village in Mexico, and now calls Telluride home. She’s been a yoga teacher for more than a decade, leading physiotherapy-inspired yoga classes to teens, adults, and seniors and providing therapeutic massage. She’s hosted dozens of wellness events, provided people with mindfulness tools, and most recently, supported women with menopause transition workshops.

Gretchen (she/her) is a counseling intern set to graduate from Adams State University in May of 2025. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from St. Cloud State University in 1998 with a degree in Speech Communications. She’s had several careers in between her degrees but has always been drawn to the uniqueness of people and the experiences that connect us all. She has two rescue dogs, is an award-winning baker, loves cooking, and enjoys the outdoors. Gretchen credits her diverse family experience, being the youngest of seven children - five of whom are adopted and bi-racial - as her initial motivation to advocate for and serve her community, wherever she finds herself.