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.

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 COMMUNICATIONS & COACH

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.

Her passion to begin working with others as a Coach was fueled by what she loved the most in her previous careers: celebrating small wins and seeing those that never believed in themselves get a spark back.

Her ultimate goal is to help youth, young adults, parents and families work through their own fears and judgments to help them become the best version of themselves and increase individual and family resilience.

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.”

EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPIST

Kate (she/her) is a long time resident of Montrose. As a former dance studio owner in Montrose, Kate brings her passion for artistic and creative expression to the healing space. Kate’s primary focus is working with children and families and brings over 20 years of child and family experience as a teacher, mentor, and caretaker for other families, and as a mother to two young boys.

There is something uniquely special about seeing the world through a child’s eyes which fills Kate’s heart every day. Using art, movement, drama, music, writing, and play with expressive arts therapy promotes an opportunity for people to express and process their wounds and worries without directly talking about it, which Kate finds truly magical.

When she’s not studying, practicing therapy, or spending time with her kids, husband, and Yaussie, Kate enjoys knitting, walking near the river, and dancing in her kitchen.

COUNSELING INTERN

Myra (she/her) is pursuing a master's degree in clinical mental health at Adam's State University. She takes a warm and empathic approach with a strengths-based perspective while pulling from cognitive therapy and mindfulness to help guide clients.

She believes in meeting clients where they are and aligning her approach to a client’s specific needs as they unfold. Her hope is to encourage the healing and growth process and for clients to come away feeling fully seen and heard. Myra understands seeking treatment is a courageous step and is here to offer compassionate support.

Myra finds joy in being with her family, especially when getting outdoors with their two pups in tow. Any body of water draws her close, but oceans call her name.

PROGRAMS DIRECTOR & THERAPIST

Lindsey (she/her) received a Bachelors 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.

COACH

Caleb (he/him) grew up in the woods of North Carolina.

After getting his physics degree from Asheville State, Caleb spent time as a paraprofessional with students with special needs, garlic farming in Vermont and building tiny homes and providing support for the unhoused community in Denver. He landed in Montrose with his wife in 2019 and Caleb got his WFR and became the lead field instructor at a new wilderness therapy program and enjoyed journeying with teens with a variety of experiences such as ASD, ODD, Tourette's, different learning challenges and depression.

Caleb loves coaching elementary to adult clients and helping them process life through hands-on projects and outdoor adventures.

In his spare time he enjoys working with his hands, welding, and creating.

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.

COUNSELING INTERN

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 is currently pursuing a 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.

MSW INTERN

Robin (she/her) grew up in southwest Colorado and returned home in 2020 with the intention of serving her community by building a career in clinical social work and offering accessible mental health services. Robin began her career in victim advocacy and crisis services, and is currently pursuing her master's degree in clinical social work through Boise State University.

Robin is excited to work with individuals from all walks of life and applies different modalities depending on the needs expressed by her clients. She takes a person-centered approach in her sessions and strives for the treatment she offers to feel collaborative and inclusive. Robin provides in-person counseling as well as tele-health services.

In her free time, Robin enjoys exploring the mountains on foot, her skis, or her bike. She also loves to nurture her creative side through pottery and painting. Above all, she tries to prioritize spending quality time with her family and her community.

COUNSELING INTERN

Carrie (she/her) will graduate in May 2024 with an MA in clinical mental health counseling from Adams State University. She holds bachelor’s degrees in fine arts and nursing and worked as a nurse for 17 years before entering the field of counseling.

Carrie’s approach to counseling is integrative and embraces a holistic perspective that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. She incorporates trauma-informed, person-centered, and narrative approaches and utilizes art and other creative modalities to foster self-discovery and healing. She is trained in EMDR and trauma-focused CBT. Carrie finds joy and fulfillment in helping individuals navigate their emotional landscapes and supporting their journey towards healing and self-discovery.

In her spare time, you may find Carrie hiking, snowboarding, visiting hot springs, and otherwise soaking up the Colorado sunshine. She also enjoys creative self-expression through art and dance, diving into a good book, and enjoying quality time with her children.

Carrie provides in-person counseling in Paonia and Montrose, telehealth services, and co-leads teen group/wilderness experiences. She works primarily with adolescents and adults.

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 with an art minor 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 adolescents, adults, and marginalized community members.

Kendra also has a deep appreciation for the outdoors, has wilderness first aid training, and helps facilitates wilderness therapy experiences.

MSW INTERN

Steven (he/him) is a transdisciplinary scholar-practitioner-leader in the fields of education and mental health.

As a social worker, he has years of experience working alongside humans who are underrepresented, underserved, and marginalized in the United States. He has centered his work as a social worker around individuals who live with pscho-socio-physical dis/Abilities.

Steven works with children, adolescents, and adults. In practice, his therapeutic modality is transfunctional which includes behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and human centered therapy.

Through education and mental health well-being, Steven addresses systemic oppression that has real effects on human quality of life.

MSW INTERN

Laine (she/her) is originally from Wisconsin, but has spent her adult life in the mountains and canyons of the American West and lived abroad in Norway. She has an undergraduate degree in Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies from CU Boulder and worked in the outdoor education and guiding world for 10 years before shifting her career into therapy.

Her work with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School), Women's Wilderness and global guiding companies has created a foundation of hard work ethic, an open mindset, a deep connection to nature and building meaningful relationships with people of a variety of backgrounds from around the world. She is currently obtaining her Masters in Social Work with an emphasis in clinical therapy through MSU Denver.

Laine is empathetic, kind and honest. You can expect her to challenge you, work with you in a collaborative relationship and offer tool based solutions. Laine has a direct communication style and focuses on building trusting relationships with her clients in order to work together to solve problems, deepen understanding and work towards healing.

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

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.