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Meet the Aspire Counseling Team

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Laura Stuart

MA, LPC, EMDRIA, Supervisor, Owner

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 12 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 and works with a variety of ages and issues and offers faith based counseling upon request.

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

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Kiera Pelletier MA, LPC, Supervisor

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. 

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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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Molly Setchfield, BS Graduate Intern

Molly is a graduate-level intern who earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from North Dakota State University and is currently working toward a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University.

 

Using both talk therapy and Neurofeedback, Molly values holistic care that engages physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. A safe and collaborative environment is essential to Molly’s counseling foundation, and she tailors therapeutic relationships and sessions to each individual’s needs. Molly is passionate about using a strengths-based perspective to help clients build resilience, healthier coping skills, and deeper self-awareness.

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Emaya Hoff, BA

Office Manager

Emaya brings over five 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 . 

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. I mainly use Brainspotting, CBT, and other evidenced based methods in my work.

Through my practicum, I am committed to integrating sound clinical practices with biblical principles, when clients request a faith-based approach, and support clients as they navigate challenges and work toward lasting transformation. 

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Gracie Walters, BS Graduate Intern

Gracie completed her BS in Psychology from Mississippi State University and is currently pursuing her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University. She is excited to work with clients of all ages and gain experience helping each individual work toward feeling confident and safe within their mind and body.

As a student, Gracie is continuing to develop her counseling approach and enjoys learning how different therapeutic approaches can be adapted to meet each client’s unique needs. She is passionate about creating a comfortable and supportive environment where clients feel at ease while developing the confidence and skills needed to navigate their day-to-day lives.

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Teresa Hughes, MA, LPCC

Teresa is a compassionate, integrative therapist who works with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, identity exploration, and feelings of disconnection or not belonging. As a transracial and transnational adoptee, she is especially passionate about exploring how attachment, culture, identity, and past experiences shape the way clients understand themselves and relate to others. Her person-centered, trauma-informed approach incorporates attachment and existential perspectives, ACT, DBT, CBT, IFS/Parts Work, and Somatic Experiencing based on each client’s needs. Teresa is professionally conversational in Spanish and welcomes the opportunity to provide a supportive, authentic space for Spanish-speaking clients.

Teresa es una terapeuta compasiva e integrativa que trabaja con niños, adolescentes y adultos que viven con ansiedad, depresión, dificultades en sus relaciones, exploración de identidad y sentimientos de desconexión o falta de pertenencia. Como persona adoptada transracial y transnacional, tiene un interés especial en explorar cómo el apego, la cultura, la identidad y las experiencias del pasado influyen en la manera en que sus clientes se entienden a sí mismos y se relacionan con los demás. Su enfoque está centrado en la persona y tiene en cuenta el impacto del trauma, incorporando perspectivas de apego y existenciales, ACT, DBT, CBT, IFS/Trabajo con las Partes y Somatic Experiencing según las necesidades de cada cliente. Teresa tiene un nivel profesional conversacional de español y ofrece un espacio de apoyo donde los clientes de habla hispana pueden expresarse con autenticidad y sentirse comprendidos.

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.

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 goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel comfortable being yourself. I believe meaningful change begins with a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and experiences to better understand what may be causing distress or holding you back.

My approach blends mindfulness and grounding techniques with evidence-based practices to promote self-awareness, growth, and meaningful change. Along the way, you’ll gain practical tools to help you navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence.

Whether you’re facing a difficult season, seeking greater self-understanding, or simply need a supportive space to be heard, I’m here to walk alongside you. If you’re ready to take the 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, Brainspotting, and Neurofeedback to promote growth, healing, and resilience - while prioritizing each individual’s mind, body and soul.

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Cora Brzezinski, BA, Graduate Intern

Cora holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Psychology from Hope College and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University. Originally from Illinois, she now calls Denver home.

During her undergraduate studies, Cora was involved with Hope Advocates for Invisible Conditions (HAIC), supporting the disabled community on campus. This experience strengthened her passion for working with individuals with disabilities and mental health concerns.

 

Cora’s approach incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt techniques, and neurofeedback. She tailors sessions to each client’s individual needs and works collaboratively to develop meaningful goals, process emotions, and create positive changes in thoughts and behaviors.

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Paresa Farshidnow 

MA, LPCC

Paresa is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Metropolitan State University of Denver and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and other emotional challenges.

 

Paresa uses a trauma-informed, integrative approach, tailoring therapy to each client’s unique needs and incorporating evidence-based practices. When appropriate, she also uses neurofeedback to support emotional well-being and nervous system regulation.

She strives to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and empowered while developing practical tools for resilience and lasting growth.

Outside of work, Paresa enjoys spending time with her husband and dogs, exploring Colorado, traveling, and continuing her professional education.

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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.

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, including Brainspotting and Neurofeedback, to provide the best possible care for each client.   

 

  

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Lauryn Gatschet

MA, LPCC, BCN

Lauryn Gatschet earned her MA 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.

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 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. 

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Samantha Schmidt, BA Graduate Intern

Samantha is a student therapist currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from Colorado State University Pueblo. Her professional experience includes working in Applied Behavior Analysis therapy as a Registered Behavior Technician and as a Residential Aide at Crossroads Turning Points, supporting individuals in developing behavioral, communication, and daily living skills.

 

Samantha approaches counseling with empathy, authenticity, and respect for each client’s unique story. She is committed to continued professional growth while providing thoughtful, individualized support and helping clients work toward meaningful change.

Colorado Springs Office

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Caitlyn Sears,

MFT, LPCC

With a lifelong background in sports and coaching, Cait understands the natural connection between coaching, counseling, and mental performance. She recognizes that athletes struggling with performance anxiety often experience anxiety in other areas of their lives as well. Her goal is to help clients develop coping and communication skills that improve both performance and overall well-being.

Cait is passionate about helping clients work through the obstacles holding them back. Her approach is supportive while also encouraging clients to challenge themselves, build healthier patterns, and make meaningful changes.

Cait uses evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Brainspotting, to support individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and sports performance challenges. She helps clients build greater self-awareness, confidence, and the tools to reach their fullest potential.

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Courtney Fraizer

MA, LPCC

With a diverse clinical background in school-based mental health, addiction treatment, and elementary education, she brings a strong understanding of child development, emotional regulation, and the importance of supportive relationships. She works with children and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, and life transitions.

Her approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered, creating a calm and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves. She incorporates evidence-based practices, including Brainspotting, to help clients process past experiences, develop coping skills, and build greater resilience.

She believes in helping clients recognize and utilize their own internal strengths to improve daily functioning and overall well-being. Her goal is to provide compassionate, collaborative support as clients work toward meaningful growth and greater balance in their lives.

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Ava Hegg

BS, Graduate Intern

Ava holds a BS in Applied Psychology with an emphasis in Clinical Counseling and is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Colorado Christian University.

Ava believes in each person’s ability to grow through adversity, build resilience, and create meaningful change. She values the therapeutic relationship and strives to create a supportive space where clients feel understood and seen.

Her approach is holistic and person-centered, recognizing how past experiences, relationships, and personal beliefs shape overall well-being. Ava works with individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns, helping clients recognize their strengths and move toward greater well-being. For clients who desire it, she can also incorporate a faith-based perspective into counseling.

Outside of her clinical work, Ava enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors, reading, and investing in meaningful relationships.

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Christina Schmidt, MA, LPCC

Christina primarily specializes in working with adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and identity exploration. In her therapeutic practice, Christina draws from multiple theoretical orientations based on her clients’ needs and goals, including Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rogerian/Person-Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Christina firmly believes that each individual seeking therapy deserves a nonjudgmental, empathetic space where they feel heard, understood, and empowered to enact the change they wish to see in their lives. She strives to provide a collaborative, affirming environment where clients can engage in self-reflection, learn effective coping strategies, and bring their goals to fruition in a meaningful, lasting way.

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Chrystal Navarro, MA, LPC, Supervisor

With over 10 years of experience in counseling and coaching, she is passionate about helping clients develop greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and lasting personal growth. She specializes in stress and trauma-related concerns, self-esteem, interpersonal challenges, perfectionism, and compassion fatigue. Her approach focuses on identifying the root causes of emotional distress while building healthier coping skills and resilience.

She incorporates Brainspotting and neurofeedback alongside traditional therapy to support emotional regulation, stress reduction, and deeper healing. By combining these approaches, she provides individualized support for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, sleep difficulties, and other challenges.

Whether clients are looking to improve cognitive performance, deepen personal or spiritual growth, build resilience, or break cycles of stress and burnout, she helps them move forward with greater clarity, compassion, and confidence.

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Evan Hudson

MA, LPCC

Evan Hudson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) and Special Education teacher who brings experience in both mental health and education. He works closely with students with autism and diverse learning needs and understands how emotional, behavioral, academic, and social challenges can intersect.

Evan has experience in inpatient, outpatient, school-based, and community mental health settings, working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. He supports clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation and behavioral challenges, family conflict, and life transitions.

His approach is supportive, strengths-based, and collaborative, with an emphasis on helping clients feel heard and understood while developing practical coping skills and greater resilience.

 

Evan is also pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) and is especially passionate about supporting individuals and families navigating autism-related challenges, school stress, and major life transitions.

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John Stuart

BS, Graduate Intern

As a counselor, my goal is to connect with you and create a space that is conducive and welcoming to help accomplishing your goals. Each client is unique and deserving of attention and understanding. With a background in journalism, I am curious about the narratives in people’s lives and how their stories can be brought into the counseling journey to help clients envision new possibilities for themselves and what they’re experiencing.

 

I have experience living overseas and bring an understanding of cross-cultural living and readjustment challenges, as well as multi-cultural relationships and aspects of our global world. I incorporate treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, and neurofeedback to encourage growth and help clients achieve their goals. I am pursuing a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. 

Contact

Denver Office

695 S Colorado Blvd., Suite 310

Denver, CO 80246

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