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Meet the Team

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Laura Stuart

MA, NCC, LPC, EMDRIA, NeurOptimal® Trainer, Supervisor, Owner, Myndlift Certified Coach

Originally from Florida, Laura received her BS in Telecommunication from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) in 2008. She then received her MA in Clinical Counseling from Denver Seminary in 2014.

 

With ten years of experience in the field, Laura's uses an integrative model of therapy to address a variety of issues. She often incorporates Brainspotting and neurofeedback into sessions. She works with a variety of ages and issues and offers faith based counseling upon request.

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Laura also specializes in using Brainspotting and Neurofeedback with Athletes addressing peak performance as well as trauma.​​​​

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Kiera Pelletier MA, LPCC, NeurOptimal® Trainer, Myndlift Certified Coach

Kiera is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her BS in Social Work from Metropolitan State University and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University. She specializes in working with clients healing from trauma as well as those living with chronic pain or chronic illness. She has experience working in youth residential treatment prior to private practice and now works with all ages. 

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Her therapeutic approach is collaborative, evidence-based, and grounded in both body and mind. Kiera integrates Polyvagal Theory (PVT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Brainspotting (BSP), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). All of which are supported by research as effective approaches for trauma recovery and nervous system regulation. She also draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which is especially helpful for navigating everyday stressors, relationship conflicts, and cultivating inner growth.

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Kiera is passionate about helping clients not only reduce symptoms but also build resilience, self-trust, and greater connection in their lives. She strives to provide a safe space where clients can come exactly as they are, explore what’s underneath their struggles, and begin to move toward healing.

Outside of therapy, Kiera enjoys trail running with her rescue pup, sketching and painting, and making the most of Colorado’s outdoor playground (though she still believes the state would be even better with an ocean).

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Madisyn Barnes

MA, LPCC, Myndlift Certified Coach

Madisyn earned her BS in Biobehavioral Health from Penn State and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from CCU. 

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Madisyn works with clients of all ages with an emphasis on kids, teens, and college students. She has specific training in autism and other developmental delays but also sees clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, stress, multicultural issues, transitions, eating disorders, self esteem, body image issues, spirituality, and suicidality.

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She works out of an existential, Adlerian, and Feminist approach and often uses Relational-Cultural therapy, CBT, and Brainspotting in treatment.​​​​​

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Barbara Clark

MA, LPCC (Telehealth Only)

Barbara Clark, MS, LPCC, is a Brainspotting Certified practitioner and trauma-informed therapist who specializes in supporting women and mothers on their healing journey. She helps clients navigate the weight of trauma, manage anxiety and stress, and reconnect with their sense of self.

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Barbara’s approach is warm, compassionate, and deeply rooted in understanding each client’s unique story. She integrates Brainspotting, somatic techniques, and gentle, client-centered strategies to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered.

As a military spouse and mother of three, Barbara understands firsthand the challenges of life transitions and the invisible burdens many carry. This personal experience fuels her dedication to creating a supportive, healing space where clients can find clarity, connection, and resilience.

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Whether clients are struggling with trauma, navigating perinatal challenges, or feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and stress, Barbara provides a steady, empathetic presence to help them move forward with care and confidence

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Bethel Medhin

BA, Graduate Intern

Bethel holds a BA in Psychology with a focus in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience and is currently pursuing an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She works with clients of all ages and strives to join them in their healing journeys with respect, care, and compassion. Her person-centered approach emphasizes creating a warm, supportive, and understanding space where clients feel safe to share their stories and work toward growth and change.

 

Bethel is committed to providing culturally responsive care and values the importance of honoring each client’s unique background, identity, and lived experiences. She is attentive to multicultural and systemic factors that may impact mental health and well-being and is open to incorporating clients’ personal values and beliefs into the counseling process when meaningful to them.

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Emaya Hoff, BA

Office Manager

Emaya brings over four years of experience in administrative and office management roles. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs in May 2024 and plans to further her education in mental health in the coming years. Passionate about helping others,

 

Emaya is dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys and seeing them succeed.

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Stephanie Guinn Groutas MA,

LPCC

Stephanie specializes in the treatment of trauma and abuse. She primarily works with adolescents and adults dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. However, she is trained to work with all population groups and a wide range of presenting problems.

 

Throughout her life, she has become passionate about the healing work of therapy. Depending upon each client's needs, she develops a customized approach drawing from the following theories: relational psychodynamic, person-centered, narrative, CBT, IFS/Parts Work, mindfulness, and somatic.

 

Stephanie has trained extensively in Narrative Focused Trauma Care (NFTC) developed by Dr. Dan B. Allender. NFTC brings together the strengths of both theology and psychology, embracing the whole person—mind, body, and soul—in a uniquely comprehensive approach to healing from trauma and abuse.

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​Daniela Mburunyeme

BA, Graduate Intern

I am currently completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University, with a specialization in addiction and substance abuse.

 

My passion for counseling is deeply rooted in my Christian faith, which shapes both my worldview and my approach to care. I believe in the power of Christ to bring healing and restoration, and I strive to create a compassionate, grace-filled space for individuals to grow and recover.

 

Through my practicum, I am committed to integrating sound clinical practices with biblical principles, supporting clients as they navigate challenges and work toward lasting transformation.

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Lauren Platter

MA, LPCC

I became a therapist because of the profound healing and personal growth I have experienced through my own time in therapy. I believe in the transformative power of slowing down, being fully present, and having someone genuinely attend to the thoughts and emotions that arise from our unique stories. My intention is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful changes that are aligned with your goals and values.

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I work with individuals of all ages to address challenges such as life transitions, grief and loss, parenting and relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, attachment theory, and systems perspectives, while also drawing from my training in Interpersonal Neurobiology, ACT, DBT, and MI. This flexibility allows me to tailor therapy to your unique goals and needs. Together, we will explore the dynamics within your relationships and your inner world, recognizing that no problem exists within a vacuum. As a former middle and high school math teacher, I have a particular affinity for working with adolescents and have always been fascinated by the patterns and themes that shape our lives. Helping others uncover their strengths and find resources to navigate life’s challenges is a passion of mine.

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In my spare time, I enjoy traveling and hiking with my husband and dog, board game nights with friends, and playing the piano. 

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I look forward to meeting you!

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Eugenia Sanford

MA, LPCC

Healing is not about fixing what is broken—it is about reconnecting with who you are beneath stress, trauma, and survival patterns.

 

At Aspire Counseling, I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where clients can slow down, feel understood, and do meaningful inner work. I support individuals navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, identity exploration, and the lasting effects of trauma, with an emphasis on building self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience.

 

My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, integrating CBT, DBT, Gestalt therapy, and IFS-informed interventions. I believe healing happens through safety, trust, and authenticity, and I work at your pace to help you reconnect with your inner resources and move forward with greater clarity and balance.

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Outside of therapy, I am a mother who values creativity and self-expression through the arts and design. I bring a grounded, attuned, and compassionate presence into the therapy space and would be honored to support you on your healing journey.

Englewood Office

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Stephanie Jaramillo,

MFT, LPCC

Stephanie earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix and has been a dedicated clinician serving Colorado since 2013. She is passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate challenges such as addiction, codependency, incarceration, reintegration, trauma, infidelity, chronic pain, adjusting to a new diagnosis within the family, and supporting parents of children with disabilities as they manage the complexities this brings.

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A proud Colorado native, Stephanie is also a wife, a mother of twins, and a parent to a special needs child. Her personal experiences provide her with a unique and compassionate perspective that she brings into her therapeutic sessions. Stephanie is a nationally recognized volunteer for the Children’s Tumor Foundation and enjoys outdoor activities, particularly hiking and exploring the mountains.

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Nicole Alipour

MA, LPCC, 

NeuroFeedback® Certified

As a therapist, my primary goal is to build a connection with you, creating a safe and welcoming space where you can freely express yourself. I believe that the foundation of our work together lies in the trust and understanding we cultivate in our client-therapist relationship. My approach revolves around exploring your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and life experiences, both past and present. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of your unique journey, we can uncover what might be holding you back or causing you distress. 

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I'm passionate about blending mindfulness and grounding techniques with evidence-based practices. This combination allows us to delve deep while also grounding our work in practicality and effectiveness. Together, we'll begin a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. 

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Whether you're struggling with personal challenges, seeking greater self-awareness, or needing a listening ear, I'm here to accompany you every step of the way.  In our sessions, you can expect a nurturing environment where we'll not only talk but also equip you with practical tools and techniques to navigate life’s ups and downs. Through our collaboration, we'll foster self-awareness and facilitate meaningful change.  If you're ready to take that first step, reach out!

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Janell Ray

BA, Graduate Intern

Janell is currently pursuing her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University. 

Her professional background includes experience in youth correctional facilities, behavioral health, and crisis intervention. These roles have equipped her with a strong foundation in supporting individuals during times of crisis and transition. 

 

Janell is dedicated to providing a safe and collaborative environment where clients feel valued and understood. She incorporates evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and neurofeedback to promote growth, healing, and resilience - while prioritizing each individual’s mind, body and soul.

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Yvonne Bimenyimana,

MFT, LPCC

Yvonne is a dedicated and compassionate individual with a degree in Psychology from Colorado Christian University. She is currently completing her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Yvonne is passionate about supporting families and adolescents, helping them navigate life's challenges with empathy and understanding.

 

Yvonne believes in creating a warm, welcoming space where people feel seen, heard, and supported. She considers it an honor to walk alongside you in this chapter of your journey. 

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Hannah Bolin

BA, Graduate Intern

Hannah is currently working on her Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA at Colorado Christian University.

 

Her experience as a middle school teacher in Aurora Colorado has given her passion and experience in working with adolescents and families from a variety of linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

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Hannah believes understanding and respecting the nuances of her clients’ needs in everything from their developmental and life stage to family history to whole body wellness and nutrition is vital in nurturing the growth and peace that they seek in counseling.

 

She is committed to using theory and research backed practices to provide the best possible care for each client.     

 

  

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Lauryn Gatschet

MA, LPCC, BCN

Lauryn Gatschet earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is Board-Certified in Neurofeedback. Her goal is to help clients reach their goals whether they are seeking greater self- awareness, struggles with anxiety or depression, or wanting to grow deeper within themselves.

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Lauryn is passionate about serving people of all ages through talk therapy and neurofeedback. She utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach to meet the client where they are at and walk through their difficult journey together. Each individual who is seeking counseling comes with their own set of beliefs and values. Therapy should be a place that reflects and honors these differences, thus each session should be tailored to that individual. Utilizing a combination of

Colorado Springs Office

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Caitlyn Sears,

MFT, LPCC

With a lifetime of experience in the sports world and coaching, I’ve seen the natural crossover between coaching and counseling. Many athletes struggling with performance anxiety also experience anxiety in other areas of their lives. My goal is to help individuals develop coping and communication skills that not only improve their performance but also enhance their overall well-being.

 

I chose Aspire Counseling because I strongly believe in their vision to support the community. I am fully invested in helping clients live their best lives. My approach is to challenge and motivate individuals to work through the obstacles holding them back, encouraging both personal growth and lifestyle changes, whether it’s improving eating habits, exercise routines, or mental health.

 

Repetition and the constant exploration of new therapeutic techniques are key to helping clients progress faster. I want my clients to know I’m here to work alongside them every step of the way. With confidence, I support individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and sports performance challenges, helping them reach their fullest potential.​​​​

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Cecelia North

BA, Graduate Intern

Cecelia is a dedicated Mental Health Therapist Student with a remarkable history of helping people overcome the odds. As a former college instructor, she worked with very high-risk students of all ages and earned the “Mission Impossible” award for guiding students from severe depression, anxiety, and neglect to becoming top performers in their class—students whom many others had given up on.

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Now advancing her career in mental health and applying for her PhD, Cecelia specializes in trauma, abuse, relationships, and parenting (preserving the family unit). She works with adolescents and adults facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and the lasting impacts of childhood neglect. Currently training in advanced EMDR, family systems therapy, CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based methods, she integrates cutting-edge science with genuine compassion. Drawing from psychodynamic, somatic, and parts-based approaches, she customizes each session to meet her clients’ unique needs.

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Her mission is to transform trauma into resilience and empower every client to thrive—mentally, emotionally, and relationally.

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Chrystal Navarro, MA, LPCC,

NeuroFeedback® Certified

Hi! I am a compassionate therapist and neurofeedback coach from deep in the heart of Texas, with a BA in Psychology from ORU and an MA in Counseling from CCU. For the past 10 years, I have been devoted to counseling and coaching clients towards cultivating deeper self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and lasting personal growth. I specialize in stress and trauma related disorders, self-esteem, interpersonal issues, perfectionism, and compassion fatigue. I chose these particular challenges because I have seen how deeply they affect one's sense of self, relationships, and overall well-being. My work focuses on helping individuals, through personalized therapeutic methods, address the root causes of their emotional distress and develop healthier coping strategies.

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In addition to traditional therapy, I incorporate neurofeedback into my sessions to help clients enhance brain function, reduce stress, and improve emotional regulation. Neurofeedback has been shown to be especially effective for anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and sleep disturbances by promoting neuroplasticity and helping the brain rewire itself towards flexibility and balance. The blend of Neurofeedback and Counseling creates an optimal, data-driven space for achieving the results you are looking for and is suitable for anyone ages 5+. 

Whether you're looking to enhance your cognitive performance, spiritual growth, build resilience, or break free from cycles of stress and burnout, I am dedicated to empowering you to move through life's challenges with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Taking the first step is an act of courage but a worthwhile investment. Reach out today and start your journey toward creating a more fulfilling future.

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Courtney Fraizer

MA, LPCC

I bring a diverse clinical background that includes school-based mental health support for children and families, as well as inpatient addiction treatment with adults. Prior to earning my degree in Clinical Psychology from Pittsburg State University, I spent several years as an elementary school teacher in both Colorado and Kansas, an experience that shaped my understanding of child development, emotional regulation, and the importance of supportive relationships. I am proud to be from Kansas and value the sense of community, steadiness, and authenticity that informs how I show up as a therapist. 

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I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful growth and healing, and I strive to create a calm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to share their experiences openly. My approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered, honoring each client’s unique journey and personal definition of happiness. I have a strong interest in working with individuals navigating trauma, emotional regulation challenges, anxiety, and life transitions. I take pride in supporting clients in ways that feel grounding, empowering, and collaborative. I view each person holistically and integrate evidence-based practices to promote balance, resilience, and overall well-being.

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I believe deeply in the power of the brain and enjoy helping clients better understand how to utilize their internal strengths to optimize daily functioning and quality of life. Whether you are building coping skills, processing past experiences, or working toward personal goals, I am committed to walking alongside you with compassion and consistent support.

Bella Health & Wellness Office

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Mark

Cadlaon,

MA, LPCC, BCN

Mark Cadlaon, M.A., LPC, BCN is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Neurofeedback clinician. Mark earned his B.S. in Psychology from The Ohio State University and M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Denver Seminary. 

 

Mark is passionate about helping men navigate the anxiety, uncertainty, and overwhelm that accompanies life transitions — whether you are navigating a move to a new city, the end of a significant relationship, a new career path, or a desire more from life in general.

 

Over the past five years, Mark has worked with kids, teens, and adults in a variety of settings — group practice, neurofeedback clinics, and integrative health. He has extensive experience in qEEG brain map analysis. And prior to his career in therapy, Mark was a life coach in Italy & Slovenia helping university students navigate the stressors of emerging adulthood.

 

Mark brings a warm and compassionate presence to each session, giving you a safe space to process. In addition to neurofeedback, Mark incorporates his training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR into talk therapy. Sometimes people want to do the deeper work but feel like something is “in the way.” Other times, people may be self-critical or don’t know where to begin. Mark can help you and your brain get “unstuck,” empowering you to take the next steps forward, wherever you desire to go.

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