Tamara’s Journey to Becoming a Counselor
As a fourth-generation Coloradan, I have spent my life exploring nature, playing in the dirt, hiking in the mountains, enjoying the changing seasons, and always appreciating fresh air, big views, and beautiful skies. My journey to counseling was fueled by my high school psychology teacher, who not only sparked my curiosity about the mind, body, and spirit connection but also helped me navigate the process of losing my mom during my senior year of high school. I then worked with at-risk children in an after-school program that taught me the importance of support systems, community, and role models. Through my own life experiences and challenges, my heart always pulled me in the direction of counseling. I believe my purpose is to give back the gift of healing that I have received.
My journey led me back to school, where I am pursuing an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I would not be where I am today without that high school teacher and a few amazing counselors along the way. It is an honor that I may be a part of one’s journey of growth and healing.
Tamara’s Approach to Counseling
I believe every person deserves the opportunity to experience life’s beauty and live their purpose. My aim is to create a safe space, one that is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and empathetic. I view healing from a holistic perspective and strive to build a genuine, collaborative partnership that fosters a healthy and empowering connection between your spirit, body, and mind. While counseling often delves into the realm of thoughts, I believe that a significant part of healing comes from stepping outside of our thoughts and immersing ourselves in a sensory-filled world. My counseling approach is somatic, client-centered, and strengths-based. I am excited to utilize therapeutic approaches from Gestalt Therapy, Trauma-Informed Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Eco-Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, and Equine Therapy.
My Areas of Desired Specialties
I work within the modalities of play therapy, nature based therapy, equine therapy, animal assisted therapy, emotional freedom tapping techinque, talk therapy, and experiential therapy. I am interested in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who have experienced or are experiencing:
- Trauma
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Grief/Loss
- Life Adjustment
- Self-confidence
- Personal Growth
Memberships, Certificates, and Trainings
- M.A., Clinical Mental Health Counseling- Grand Canyon University (in progress)
- Member of the American Counseling Association
- Clinical Emotional Freedom Technique Certification (EFT/Tapping)
- Level 1 Certification for Behavioral Health, Radiation Response Unit, Colorado Mobile Volunteers, FEMA
- Psychology First-Aid
- B.A., Psychology, Organizational Behavior Focus – Colorado Technical University