Becoming a Marriage and Couples Therapist
As one of 4 daughters raised by a single mother, I learned first-hand about the difficulties faced when there is a divorce. My experience growing up taught me about the value of healthy relationships.
In my early 20’s, I struggled in a highly conflicted relationship that lasted for 10 years. I understand how frustrating and hurtful it is to be in a relationship that is stressful and not meeting your needs.
This relationship also taught me that deciding whether to stay or leave a relationship is challenging. Making a decision to leave a relationship is not as easy as it sounds and takes time and careful consideration.
After leaving my difficult relationship, I underwent a healing process where I reworked many of my unconscious relationship patterns and eventually married a man I’ve now been with since 2004.
My current relationship is not all roses (no healthy relationship is). However, we’re both happy and are committed to working on our relationship and growing together.
My life journey is the reason why I chose to become a Marriage and Couples Therapist
A Counseling Philosophy and Style That Facilitates Healing and Growth
Relationships are at the core of your development and healing. My goal in therapy is to help you heal your pain, increase your self-awareness, and develop the skills necessary to sustain a relationship in the long term.
As a marriage and couples therapist I can help you communicate more effectively, become more tolerant of the differences between you and your partner, and be more understanding and of yours and your partner’s imperfections.
Being emphatic of each other’s weaknesses does not mean you do not work on improving yourselves. To the contrary, relationship therapy is designed to help you grow and become more loving towards each other.
I’m authentic, caring and non-judgmental. I’m open to hearing any relationship problems you have and will help you work on any type of relationship you may have.
As a trained sex therapist, I’ve been exposed to a full range of sexual concerns that clients bring to sex therapy. Regardless of how unique or unconventional your sexual problems may seem, you can be assured that you’re safe to talk with me about anything that you concerns you.
I’m practical and down to earth. I explain counseling concepts and processes using clear and simple language.
While I try to keep our sessions light and engaging, I’m also directive and goal focused. I want to ensure that our sessions help you grow so that you can be more fulfilled within yourself and in your relationships.
We’ll evaluate your progress and our process periodically and make any changes that are necessary to ensure you’re getting what you want.
Counseling Experience
Since 2006, I’ve been successfully providing therapy to a range of people, first within organizations, and now exclusively in my private practice in Denver.
In addition to my expertise in relationship and couples counseling, I have a proven track record counseling adults and children with mental health issues in individual and group settings.
Counseling Training and Memberships
- M.A. in Marital and Family Therapy, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA, 2006
- B.A. in Liberal Studies, Minor Sociology, San Marcos, CA, 2004
- Colorado Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #932
- Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist ATCB# 12-220
- Certified Discernment Counselor, Doherty Relationship Institute
- Sex Therapy Certificate Program, California Institute for Integral Studies
- Trained in the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy, The Couples Institute
- Level 2 Therapist Training, Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT)
- Approved Supervisor, The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
- Member of the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapy, National and Colorado Division
- Member of the American Art Therapy Association, National and Colorado Division
- Member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists
My Personal Life
In my free time, I enjoy all types of arts and crafts. I am physically active and participate in hiking, skiing, and yoga. I’m happily married to a charming Brit that shares my interest in art, nature, and world travel.
Office
Marriage Counseling Testimonials
“Cara is skilled, down-to-earth, and direct with clients. She is able to connect with both partners in a couple, creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can be honest and vulnerable as you navigate what you want in or out of your relationship. Her approach helps clients to improve communication, connect emotionally, and navigate issues with clarity.”
“Cara is incredible. It can be really hard to find a therapist that fits the style of counseling you’re looking for and that balances listening with prompting and moving the session forward. She is empathetic but (my favorite part) will not hesitate to challenge you. I love her style and techniques. You can tell she is just a really good person, non-judgmental, and wants to help. Couples counseling and sex/intimacy are areas of expertise but I would see her for individual counseling too. No need to wait until your relationship is struggling, we went to see her to discuss ideas of how we can improve our communication skills and conflict resolution skills, should future conflict arise. Also, her office has the most well cared for vibrantly green plants, I think a reflection of her attention to detail and caring personality.”
“Cara is very good at suggesting helpful tools to apply in challenging situations. These tools have proven so useful in improving communication and managing conflict within my relationship! Cara is effective at getting to the root of issues. You can tell that she truly cares about her clients and their well-being. Highly recommended!”
“Cara is an excellent counselor and has really helped a lot!”
