Our Staff
Our therapy team is made up of postgraduate and third-year master’s degree interns from local universities who are supervised by licensed mental health clinicians.
All intern therapists undergo rigorous training and clinical supervision. Intern therapists have real life clinical experiences via a required field placement; many have also accrued significant clinical work experience prior to attending graduate school.
Licensed staff members are always available for guidance and emergency intervention. Our Pre-Licensed team is composed of post-graduate practitioners who receive clinical supervision as well.
DIRECTOR
Bill Monroe, LCSW, LAC
He/Him
Bill Monroe is a licensed clinical social worker and licensed addiction counselor. He received his master’s degree in social work in 2001 from the University of Washington. Bill’s professional background reflects one of his core values, to be on a path of continued growth and learning. As such, Bill has provided mental health and addiction recovery services in varied settings, from the outdoors (Wilderness Therapy), to primary care offices and hospital emergency rooms, to inpatient and outpatient programs. He has worked with clients of all ages and with diverse populations including Native Alaskan and Indian youth, homeless individuals, and our military veterans.
Bill offered leadership and program development to Boulder County Public Health’s (BCPH) teen substance abuse services, detox and transitional residential treatment for six years prior to those direct substance abuse services transitioning from BCPH to Mental Health Partners. He also earned an MBA from the University of Colorado in 2011 with a focus on leadership and organizational development and provided leadership development, coaching and training for a few years during Medicaid expansion.
Bill’s training, therapeutic style and interventions include Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting and Harm Reduction. When not at work, Bill is likely skiing in Colorado’s mountains, playing guitar with friends, or spending time with his low-rider Cardigan Corgi and his family.
CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
Jessica Whitesel, LPC ATCS
She/Her
Jessica is a licensed professional counselor, a board-certified art therapist, and an art therapy clinical supervisor. She is core faculty member at Naropa University, and teaches at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Jessica maintains a private practice working with children, adolescents, and adults, specializing in trauma, dissociation and attachment issues. Her focus includes the integration of EMDR and creative arts therapy, dissociative processes, and Jungian and psychoanalytic approaches to trauma. While working as an art therapist at Mount Saint Vincent Children’s Home in Denver, Jessica co-authored a treatment manual to help clinicians utilize somatosensory approaches in working with traumatized children, called Doodles, Dances, and Ditties: A Somatosensory Handbook, which includes an introduction by Dr. Bruce Perry.
As a clinical supervisor, Jessica is passionate about supporting clinicians in developing and deepening their clinical capacity and understanding, finding their own voice as clinicians, and building a sustainable and sane approach to clinical work through self-awareness and self-care. She aspires to incorporate a feminist, just, and transpersonal lens into both her clinical and supervisory work. She is a painter, beekeeper, and astrologer, and loves yoga, magic, and all things Star Wars.
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
Alexia James, CPCO
She/Fae
Alexia has been in healthcare for over 10 years. The last five years were spent at a Florida LGBTQIA+ medical and behavior health clinic. The LGBTQIA+ community is very important to her and she enjoys teaching people about it. Fae is a Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO) and has dedicated herself to making sure everything is in place for things to run smoothly around the clinic.
She’s relatively new to Colorado and exploring just what there is to do in the area. When not exploring she is spending time playing both video and tabletop games.
Pre-Licensed Therapists
Anna Hallinan
Anna holds a Masters of Social Work from Metropolitan State University. In her therapeutic practice, Anna firmly believes in the transformative potential of a safe, empowering, and non-judgmental environment. She understands that the therapeutic relationship can be a powerful catalyst for change, and is dedicated to creating a space where clients feel supported, heard, and valued.
Drawing on her background as a social worker, Anna employs a client-centered and strengths-based approach in all her therapeutic interactions. She recognizes the inherent strengths and wisdom within each individual and works collaboratively to help them tap into these resources for personal growth and healing. With a genuine belief in the capacity for change, Anna empowers her clients to engage with their inner strengths, fostering a sense of agency and confidence in their journey.
Anna's therapeutic toolkit includes evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (MBCBT). By integrating these approaches, she provides clients with practical tools and insights that facilitate self-discovery and promote positive change.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Anna finds joy in her personal life. She cherishes moments spent with her beloved cats and treasures the simple pleasures of nature. Whether it's going for leisurely walks with friends and her spouse or immersing herself in the outdoors, Anna knows the importance of self-care and finds inspiration in the world around her.
Susana Levy
She/Her
Susana comes from Mexico City and has felt at home in Boulder for two years. She is in her third year at Naropa University, pursuing her master's degree in the Transpersonal Psychology and Art Therapy program. As a contemplative artist, Susana uses art to understand the self, the world, and the relationship between both, placing art in service of the other. Susana is passionate about rituals and rites of passage in times of challenge and celebration; outside of NCC, Susana is a cacao facilitator and yoga teacher. Susana practices a mindfulness-based and person-centered approach. She values creating a space where creativity and expression can be invited to explore thoughts, emotions, and sensations with a compassionate presence grounded in the present moment. When not at work, Susana enjoys walks with her dogs and spending time with her family.
Katie Jones
She/Her
Whether you are a teen that is finding life to be difficult and confusing within today’s society, an individual who is constantly asking yourself "Will I ever feel 'normal' again", or a couple that is at a crossroads within your relationship there can be a better way, and I am here to provide an avenue towards more joy and peace in your life.
Clients have the innate ability to be the expert in their path of healing. Life brings about unexpected changes and at times it feels almost impossible to overcome or even speak about it. Not everyone has the initial ability or desire to be verbal when entering therapy. Working from an art therapy background art or mark-making can provide space for the non-verbal to become verbal.
So, what exactly is art therapy? It is another form of communication using materials such as colored pencils, clay, even small figurines and a box of sand! You DO NOT have to be an artist (I love stick figures!), in fact the messier the better. Think of the art as another part of your mind and body that is speaking for you when digging into the hard stuff is just too difficult or shameful to say out loud.
I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist with a Master of Arts degree from Naropa University in Transpersonal Art Therapy. I spent over three years working with women in crisis, severe trauma and substance use. I incorporate various techniques and modes of therapy based on individual, client-centered approaches. I collaborate with my clients to explore their habitual patterns and emotional landscapes, to cultivate healthier coping skills towards courage and confidence in their healing journey.
INTERN THERAPISTS
Aaron Grobler
He/Him
Aaron is a graduate student in the Buddhism-Informed Contemplative Counseling Program at Naropa University. Through a calming grounded presence, he can help you better understand yourself and allow space to explore thoughts and feelings without judgement. Aaron aspires to use a multicultural and social justice lens when working with clients. As a gay/queer person, he wants to support others experiencing oppression of any kind. He uses mindfulness, compassion, and holistic practices to facilitate growth and healing. Through an integrative approach, Aaron draws upon relational, existential, and Buddhist theories to help people relieve suffering and improve life satisfaction.
Working together, you can expect to explore thoughts, emotions, and experiences of the past and present to cultivate an intimate understanding and acceptance of yourself. Using a trauma-informed perspective, Aaron believes that everyone is brilliantly unique and that healing can occur on many levels, including the physical, cognitive, emotional, energetic, and spiritual.
Aaron has a background in the arts, nonprofit work, leading meditation and yoga nidra classes, and working at retreat centers worldwide. Aaron enjoys meditation, hiking, cycling, painting and drawing, and going on meditation retreats. He is passionate about traveling, has lived in four countries, and is deeply curious about the world’s cultures.
Alex Robertson
He/Him
Hello there. My name is Alex. I am a student currently enrolled in Naropa University's Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling Program.
It is my genuine belief that we all have an innate ability to heal and grow, even from the most difficult experiences of life. My greatest desire in working together is to help you uncover your innate wisdom in order to find more wholeness, wellbeing, happiness, and meaning in life. I integrate a wide range of therapeutic modalities but am particularly interested in exploring through mind-body practices, working with narrative, using art materials, and parts work. I aim to create a holistic, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space together. I am here to help you in holding your unique background and needs while we work with each other.
Professionally, I am coming from a background in the Geosciences (driven by my passion for the natural world), and, more recently, as a massage therapist (driven by my passion for people and helping work). Outside of the therapy space I enjoy getting out in nature for a hike, skiing, playing tennis, making both art and music, and spending time with friends and family.
I hope all this helps in making a decision whether you wish to work with me and I look forward to the possibility of working together!
Audrey Wilson
She/Her
Audrey is currently in her final year of a Masters in Social Work at MSU Denver. She brings a gentle, compassionate approach to working with clients - cultivated through her previous work in Early Intervention with families of children with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays, and with students in crisis at the Basic Needs Center at CU Boulder. Audrey believes in following her clients’ lead, and in the importance of recognizing our interconnectedness with each other, our bodies, and the environment around us.
Audrey grew up in the mountains of Colorado and has lived in the state most of her life, aside from a brief period of time spent in Atlanta, GA working in film and TV. Audrey enjoys analog photography, practicing yoga, and trail running around Boulder. She has a strong connection to nature, and was most certainly a cat in a previous life.
Brian Scoles
He/Him
Brian hails from the Pacific Northwest and has a deep love for the outdoors and nature. Currently he is a third-year graduate student at Naropa University pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Transpersonal Wilderness Therapy. Prior to counseling he worked in a wide variety of fields, and understands just how winding and unpredictable our paths through life can be.
Brian has a deep background in meditation and present-moment awareness, and has studied extensively with Thomas Hübl and other renowned teachers. Brian's approach begins with curious and compassionate listening as he helps to gently unravel layers of experience and get down to the core issues and questions that shape your life. Whatever awaits you on your unique journey of healing - processing emotions, identifying goals, shifting relational patterns, building new connections, resolving past trauma, or anything else - Brian is excited to walk alongside you.
Danielle Smith
She/Her
As a third-year graduate student at Regis University pursuing a master's in counseling psychology, I am looking forward to continuing my work with clients through the Naropa Community Counseling Center. Before beginning graduate school, I worked in the outdoor industry in various capacities, and I am excited to incorporate the principles of connection and presence I learned through that work to address the needs of individuals in counseling. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered, existential understanding of grief, trauma, and unresolved issues stemming from disconnection with self and others. I utilize grief and trauma narrative exploration as well as mindfulness-based meditations and imagery techniques. I have professional experience in community mental health and I am honored to be able to continue this journey at Naropa.
Jacqueline Wright
She/Her
Jacqueline deeply believes in each client's unique wisdom, creativity, and capacity for healing. She is in her third year of graduate school at Naropa University, pursuing her master's degree in transpersonal art therapy & mental health counseling. She approaches therapy from a holistic mind-body-spirit perspective and seeks to support each client’s process with compassion, empathy, and grace.
Jacqueline sees art therapy as a form of alchemy that encourages the processing, integration, and transformation of life experiences. She appreciates how engaging in a mindful art practice can spark the discovery of new insights and offer opportunities to make meaningful connections between past, present, and future. Her hope is to inspire clients to continually grow towards an expanded capacity to see and be with life experiences in new & creative ways that elevate their overall sense of wholeness and well-being. Jacqueline has been invested in the healing arts field for over 15 years and is a life-long learner. In her free time Jacqueline enjoys exploring nature, traveling to new places, and photographing everyday life.
Laine Smith
She/Her
Laine is originally a mid-west woman from Wisconsin, yet was drawn to the mountains and canyons of the American West through attending CU Boulder. She graduated with a degree in Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies and spent the last decade working in outdoor education and expedition guiding. She lived abroad in Norway for 5 years before moving back to the U.S.A. and dedicating herself to the therapeutic world. She is currently obtaining her Masters of Social Work through MSU Denver.
Her work with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School), Women's Wilderness and global guiding companies has created a foundation of a strong work ethic, an open mindset, a deep connection to nature and focus on building meaningful relationships.
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.
Lucinda Conde
She/Her
My name is Lucinda, and I am studying Clinical Social Work at Metropolitan State University of Denver. In my free time I like to watch sci-fi movies, read, and be in nature. My approach to therapy is meeting people where they are and holding a warm and welcoming space for them to experience their feelings in a safe environment free of judgement. Empowering people to explore their gifts, talents and strengths through creative therapeutic modalities is my main philosophy when collaborating with clients.
I am familiar with diverse types of therapeutic modalities, but have deep connections to Narrative, Grief, Internal Family Systems, Jungian, and Problem-Solving therapies. This journey you are about to embark on is just as unique as you. I would be honored to walk alongside you through the healing process when you are ready to begin.
Marcella Shepherd
She/Her
I'm in my final year at Regis University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, and feel honored and excited to work with Boulder community members at Naropa Community Counseling Center. My practice asks the question: what is your truth? Our work together will aim to help you find your most alive and authentic self waiting beneath buried pain, fear, and the conditioned ways we are taught to live or have developed to survive, the self that can find and experience joy, love, connection, purpose and fulfillment. I’m studying and practicing emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) with individuals and couples as well as utilizing mindfulness and somatic techniques to connect you to your body and spirit, or to your partner in couples counseling. I practice with a social justice, multi-cultural and trauma-informed approach to guide truth-seekers and wounded spirits to explore and understand themselves more deeply, heal from trauma, and find their path.
Nate Jones
He/ Him
I have been working with individuals and groups seeking healing, transformation, and connection since 2016. I am a master's level intern at Naropa University in my final year of the Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology program.
To me, this work is, above all, about relationship. Whether it's a relationship with oneself, other people, work, activities, or nature, life is an ongoing relationship. So, how do we operate in relationship with harmony, joy, energy, and love? The answer to that question is the essence of what this counseling work is all about. In the process, we will become more naturally who we are, face our fears, find humor and purpose in the mysteriousness of life, and discover how we most naturally give our gifts to the world.
I love working with couples, family members, and individuals. I welcome teens and see them as being at a prime stage in life to learn about themselves and begin to cultivate their unique greatness.
I wish you the absolute best on your journey and would be truly honored to join you along the way.
Noah Leavitt
He/Him
Hello! My name is Noah Leavitt. I am a second-year masters student at the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work.
After working several years in the direct care fields of wilderness therapy, alternative medicine and school social work, I find myself joining the wonderful community of professionals at Naropa Community Counseling (NCC).
I offer individual, group and couples counseling for adolescents and adults of all identities, faiths and spiritual walks of life. The therapeutic relationship in and of itself can be a powerful catalyst for growth and connection; creating a safe space for you to discover and share who you are, and what matters most to you, will be a foundational part of our work. I utilize mindfulness skills, somatic awareness, narrative theory, parts work and nature-based techniques while offering my clients a relaxed, open and playful environment for self-exploration. Together, we will gently shepherd your self-study through curiosity and reflection helping you feel more natural in your body and life.
Each of our sessions can take place either indoors at the counseling center or outdoors on the boulder creek trail nearby. For many clients, the presence of the natural world invites us into deeper connection and offers us the ability to resource and ground ourselves. There are numerous benefits to practicing therapy outdoors. We can walk and talk, find a place to sit by the creek, or practice observation and mindfulness skills in an inspiring environment.
Patrick McKinney
He/ Him
Are you wanting deeper relationships or perhaps experiencing anxiety or depression? Are there parts of yourself that you wish would change? I’d like to help you explore avenues for cultivating a richer, more meaningful life. Together we can look at the reactive patterns that keep you from a harmonious life and help you live with grace and intention.
I’m a Master’s level student at Naropa University in the Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Mental Health Counseling Program. What that means is I have learned many skills to help my clients connect more deeply to themselves, loved ones, community and the natural world in a deep and authentic way. At a pace that is comfortable for you, we can work towards realizing therapeutic goals you set . We can navigate internal challenges and start seeing external changes, explore the blockages to connection with self and others, and find misaligned parts and make peace with them.
I truly love sitting in the therapist’s chair. It offers a place to be clear, compassionate and supportive in a world that is often hard. When I’m not at work I love being in nature, connecting with loved ones, cooking, cloud gazing, and playing music.
Sun Kim
She/They
A native of Chicago, I've spent the last 25 years on the West Coast before coming to Boulder. I am currently in my last year in the Mindfulness Transpersonal Psychotherapy program at Naropa University. I am a mother of three grown children, two who are queer and one who is neurodivergent. Coming from a large extended family, I have experienced and witnessed many life passages. I'm passionate about helping folks throughout the lifespan as they navigate the sometimes surprising events that can mark turning points, intense life phases, and the exhaustion of everyday stress.
I respect the power of each individual's inner life. I value difference and the unique ways that your inner sanity shows up in the world--especially in difficult circumstances. I use a variety of modalities including Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Transpersonal and Mindfulness practices, and focusing. Holding a safe and compassionate container, I will work with you to explore your experiences and unfold the wisdoms in your mind, body, and heart which are your greatest allies.
In my spare time, I hang with family and friends--discussing existential questions, playing card games, and biking Boulder's many paths. As a long-time shamanic practitioner, I feel deep appreciation to the land and the powerful natural forces that are so abundant here.
Ylva Kroke
She/Her
My name is Ylva, and I am studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling specializing in Wilderness Therapy at Naropa University. I meet my clients with openness, curiosity, and non-judgment. I align with a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert for yourself and your life, and I, as a counselor, am honored to be with you on your journey. I aim to provide a space for you to explore and get to know yourself better, discovering the wisdom within. Simultaneously, I view therapy through a systemic and social justice lens, understanding that we are not separate from society and our immediate environments.
In my sessions, I like to offer somatic interventions aimed at supporting mind-body integration. Coming from the Wilderness Therapy program, I also invite nature into therapy as a co-facilitator through metaphors, walks, guided meditations, or any way that resonates with you. I always welcome your feedback about what is working or not working for you in therapy.