Meet the Aspire Counseling Team
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.​​​​
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).
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
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.
​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.
Englewood Office
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.
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!
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.
Dave Littleton
MA, LPCC
As a counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals understand themselves more deeply and create meaningful change in their lives. My primary therapeutic approach blends parts work with a solution‑focused model. I have found that this combination works best for helping clients establish clarity and momentum in their lives, both of which I believe are essential for lasting growth.
While exploring past experiences/traumas can be valuable in certain contexts, the most transformative work happens when we look closely at the different “parts” of ourselves that continue to show up in the present. These parts—our protectors, our critics, our motivators, our wounded selves—each carry their own perspectives, needs, and intentions. When we understand how these internal voices influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, we are able to gain the insight needed to shape a healthier future.
By pairing this approach for developing greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence with a solution‑focused framework, I help clients identify what’s working, clarify their goals, and build practical steps toward change. My role is to support you in understanding your strengths and internal self-dialogue in a way that will allow you to move forward with a greater level of resilience and ability to successfully navigate life's challenges.
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 in community mental health, crisis intervention, behavioral health, and private practice, helping clients navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and other emotional challenges.
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Paresa takes a trauma-informed, integrative approach to therapy, tailoring treatment to each client's unique needs while utilizing evidence-based practices. When appropriate, she also incorporates neurofeedback to support nervous system regulation and emotional well-being.
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She is passionate about creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to foster resilience and lasting growth.
Outside of work, Paresa enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, exploring Colorado's outdoors, traveling, and continuing her professional education to provide the highest quality care.
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.
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
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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.
Colorado Springs Office
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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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.
Ava Hegg
BS, Graduate Intern
Ava holds a BS in Applied Psychology with an emphasis in Clinical Counseling and is currently a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Colorado Christian University.
Drawn to the counseling field by a desire to help others navigate life’s challenges, Ava believes in the capacity of every individual to grow through adversity, build resilience, and move toward meaningful change. She values the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative and essential part of the counseling process, striving to ensure clients feel understood and seen.
Her approach is holistic and person-centered, recognizing how past experiences, relationships, and personal beliefs shape overall well-being. She works to support clients in accessing their inner strengths through a compassionate and supportive counseling environment.
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Ava works with individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns, and seeks to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth. For clients who desire it, she is able to incorporate a faith-based perspective into the counseling process.
Outside of her clinical work, Ava enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, reading, and investing in meaningful relationships.
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.
Evan Hudson
MA, LPCC
Evan Hudson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) and Special Education teacher who works closely with students with autism and diverse learning needs. His professional background spans both clinical mental health and education, allowing him to support clients through a uniquely informed, whole-person approach. Evan understands how emotional, behavioral, academic, and social challenges often intersect, and he works collaboratively with clients and families to address these areas in meaningful and practical ways.
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Evan has experience across inpatient, outpatient, school-based, and community mental health settings. He has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families facing concerns such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, behavioral challenges, trauma, family conflict, and major life transitions. His work in special education has strengthened his understanding of neurodiversity, individualized support, and the importance of meeting clients where they are while building on their strengths.
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Evan believes therapy should be a supportive and empowering process grounded in trust, respect, and authenticity. He strives to create a safe environment where clients feel heard, validated, and understood. His approach is strengths-based and evidence-informed, integrating practical coping strategies with deeper insight to help clients build resilience, improve emotional awareness, and develop skills that carry over into daily life.
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In addition to his clinical and educational work, Evan is pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD), reflecting his commitment to continued growth, leadership, and advocacy within the mental health and education fields. He is especially passionate about supporting individuals and families navigating autism-related challenges, school stress, and complex life transitions. Above all, Evan believes that meaningful change is possible when clients are supported with compassion, collaboration, and care tailored to their individual goals and experiences.
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.