Affordable Counseling Program Interns

A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal. ~Steve Maraboli

We hope all of you who want to improve your personal development, but may lack the financial resources for professional therapy, will consider taking advantage of this low cost counseling program, it will empower your life!

Philosophy

We believe that counseling should be accessible to everyone regardless of income. That is why we offer an Affordable Counseling Program, designed to serve those unable to afford full-priced psychotherapy. Our perspective is holistic, starting with the premise that the development and integration of mind, body, and spirit are necessary to become healthy, fulfilled and productive.

About the Counselors

The counseling interns who staff this program are master's level students or graduates acquiring experience for professional licensure with the State of Colorado. They are carefully selected based on life experience and personal development to ensure the highest quality for our clients. All of our interns are supervised by Licensed Mental Health Professionals. At this time our intern counselors can only see clients that reside in the state of Colorado.

About the fees

Counseling by People House interns is on a sliding scale of $25-$65 per hour or more, depending on the ability to pay. It is designed for those who make under $65,000/annually, serving individuals, couples, families, and children. We take life circumstances into account when looking at the annual household income.

Ready to Find Out More?

You can fill out our Affordable Counseling Request Form by click HERE.  Or, you can give us a call at
303-480-5130
or email [email protected] for more information or to find a counselor.

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Meet our Affordable Counseling Interns

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Taylor Arroganté-Reyes

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hello! I’m Taylor Arroganté-Reyes (she/her). My work as a therapist is focused on healing our relationships with ourselves, one another, and our world. Most of us feel thrown out of balance for one reason or another, and I see my work as a way to walk alongside you in your specific context and help you investigate your inner world in order to create a path toward transformation.

From my perspective, people come to therapy because something inside of them is calling out for change. And, as a therapist, I aim to help you confront yourself in order to create the lasting change you seek.

Therapy is collaborative and highly individual, no two people are the same! Which is why each person will require a slightly different approach. The work we can do together is centered around your needs, your concerns, and your goals- and we can work together to create a therapeutic relationship and process that suits you, specifically.

As a therapist, I lean into Existentialism, Gestalt, and Internal Family Systems. My perspective is also heavily influenced by my Filipina-American identity, my family’s indigenous Filipino practices and history, and the inter-connectedness of all existence. In my free time I love to move my body outdoors with people I love, read, write, make art, and cook meals with friends.

Please reach out so we can chat and discover if we might be a good fit. I’d love the opportunity to hear from you, witness you, and potentially walk alongside you on your journey.

Sarah Avant

Affordable Counseling Intern

My name is Sarah Avant, and I am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The University of Colorado at Denver. I believe deeply in the power of counseling as an essential tool in navigating the complexities of life. To be human is not for the faint of heart. My core values—integrity, humor, self-knowledge, growth, and compassion—guide my approach to counseling. I utilize a combination of evidenced-based counseling theories, namely: Internal Family Systems, Narrative, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), and Humanistic approaches with an emphasis on the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. I have a strong systems view of the world and believe that our cultural and environmental contexts – past and present – play an important role in our mental health.

As a therapist, I want to create a space where clients can be honest and feel respected. I strive for excellence in cultural competence and welcome clients of all identities. I believe the counseling relationship is one that should be approached with reverence, and I am honored to walk alongside the people I work with. At this time, I am drawn to working with people seeking end-of-life or grief care, as well as those experiencing existential concerns and/or depression, though I would warmly receive clients with any myriad of different presenting concerns. I look forward to working and learning with you.

Kyrie Boyarski

Affordable Counseling Intern

“Hello there! I’m Kyrie Boyarski, a Counseling Intern working toward my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. Together, we’ll build a compassionate, trusting relationship to help you navigate challenges and discover your strengths. I take a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach, tailoring each session to your unique needs. My focus is on fostering self-compassion, resilience, and lasting growth while empowering you to tap into your inner wisdom. I also honor the diverse experiences and values that shape who you are, providing care rooted in respect and cultural humility. I work from an integrated model to provide collaborative therapy inspired by personal experience, guided by educational and clinical training. Additionally, to support comprehensive care, I can maintain working relationships with healthcare providers, such as your general practitioner, psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, and/or other physicians. 

The human experience contains an array of joys, challenges, and sacred moments. Personal and professional relationships may lack satisfaction, have room for improvement, or be a source of great suffering. Anxiety, depression, grief, or loneliness can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can keep us from acting or feeling like our true selves. Transitions can upheave our sense of meaning and hope. Whatever concern brought you here, you are welcome. Although relationships can harm, they also have the power to heal. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you toward healing and growth. I believe we are always arriving, and it’s never too late to take good care. Great explorers affirm the wisdom that today is the first day of the rest of your life, and any state of mind is workable! I aim to facilitate your dynamic journey from surviving to thriving. I provide developmentally appropriate care to individuals (ages 6+), couples, and families for concerns such as anxiety & depression, transitions, relationship challenges, parenting & family dynamics, identity & sexuality, stress management, personal growth, grief & loss, existential crisis, faith, spiritual integration & more. Feel free to reach out and together, we can create a therapeutic relationship that bolsters wellness and wholeness. I look forward to meeting you!”

Tracy Crawford

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi! My name is Tracy (she/her/hers), and I am passionate about helping couples, families, and individuals navigate life’s transitions and obstacles. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree as a Marriage and Family Therapist at Regis University where I have the privilege of working with clients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support your journey towards positive change.

Life is filled with transitions and challenges, whether it’s starting a new relationship, adjusting to parenthood, coping with loss, or managing conflicts. My approach is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain insight, and develop the tools you need to thrive. I draw on evidence-based practices and tailor my approach to meet your unique needs and goals.

Together, we can work to enhance your communication skills, build resilience, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself and your loved ones. I am committed to supporting you on your journey towards greater well-being and fulfillment.

Christine Fernandez

Affordable Counseling Intern

I’m currently enrolled in Naropa University’s Master’s Program in Mental Clinical Health, specializing in Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Psychology—a mouthful, right? Essentially, my education revolves around diverse therapeutic approaches rooted in mindfulness techniques. These methods empower us to be fully present within our thoughts, emotions, and actions, fostering invaluable space for personal growth and achievement.

I am deeply committed to promoting health and empowerment for individuals across diverse populations. My approach revolves around a holistic perspective that considers the interconnected aspects of the mind, body, and spirit. Emphasizing present moment awareness, I encourage individuals from all backgrounds to be attuned to their experiences in a comprehensive manner.

Rather than focusing on problem-solving, my goal is to facilitate progress-making, with fostering an inclusive and transformative environment. Empowering individuals to transform diverse life experiences into avenues for personal growth and self-awareness is at the core of my approach. The focus is on enabling clients to drive continuous progress and move forward, fostering a space where they have the autonomy to evolve and thrive. By facilitating open dialogues, I facilitate reshaping perceptions, turning various life experiences into opportunities for personal growth and self-awareness no matter who you are. The emphasis lies on continuous progress and forward movement, creating a space for individuals to evolve and thrive.

As I continue my journey toward becoming a therapist, I aim to cultivate an all-encompassing and integrative method. I strive to create a space where every aspect of your experience is valued, whether navigating through the challenging moments or rejoicing in your triumphs. It’s about embracing the entirety of your journey, offering support through discomfort, and honoring and celebrating every step of progress and success along the way.

Rae Fuqua

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi there! My name is Rae (they/them) and I am currently in the process of getting my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Systemic Sex Therapy from Northcentral University. I aspire to be licensed under both the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, and the American Association of Sexuality Therapists, Educators, and Counselors.I believe that everyone is operating through their own version of reality that is developed by your family of origin, past experiences, and intersecting identities. The intersections I hold are female-bodied, Black, neurodivergent, and Queer. I feel it’s important to highlight intersections that one holds in order to give some insight on the perspective their reality might be developed from. The more we know ourselves, and how the systems around us inform our experiences, the more peace we have in moving throughout the world and developing healthy relationships. My goal is to take time to understand each of my client’s realities, and work within that framework to bring about transformative change.I usually like to utilize both the Narrative and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy models in my work, which means that our beliefs about ourselves affect the stories we tell about ourselves, and in turn, how we interact with our environment. My job is to help you reframe your story! I also see the therapist-client relationships as collaborative. Healing, learning, and unlearning can be difficult, and it often is not linear. We will work together to understand your concerns, develop your goals, and carry out the work. So come prepared to roll up your sleeves!

Dylan Gassert

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hello! My name is Dylan, and I am currently pursuing my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Regis University. My past experience working in a wilderness setting with adolescents and their families instilled in me a reverence for the healing power of relationships and the growth that can be achieved when our pain is witnessed and validated. I view my role as your therapist as providing a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen and respected, not just for your problems, but also for your strengths and successes.

I draw upon strength based approaches to therapy that emphasize the role of emotions in shaping one’s close relationships as well as the untapped solutions and strengths you intrinsically possess that can be utilized towards navigating life’s challenges. I believe that my core values– curiosity, personal agency, and integrity– serve as a scaffold to my approach to working collaboratively alongside you to identify what it is you want, what you wish to change, and the best way to get to that point.

I welcome individuals, romantic partnerships, and families from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, a passion of mine is working alongside adolescent and adult men who may be reluctant to seek therapy, wishing to address problematic behaviors and dysfunctional patterns of communication in their close relationships. I look forward to working with you and the opportunity to be of service in helping you achieve the growth you are striving for.

In my free time I can be found enjoying a good book, cooking, exploring the wilderness of Colorado, and spending time with my partner and our dog.

Allura Heiburg

Affordable Counseling Intern

I deeply believe that there is something ever present in human nature that is drawn toward health and wholeness. 

Even the reactions, strategies, and patterns of behavior that now cause us trouble, were once brilliant solutions to difficult or even impossible situations. 

Instead of efforting for change, I help people accept, allow, and include more of themselves just as they are. As Carl Rogers once said, “When I accept myself as I am, then I can change.” 

I facilitate an environment that enables clients to learn to follow and trust their own inner knowing—to uncover, feel, and digest the pain of the past—and open up the possibility for shifts to new ways of living.

Rachel Jensen

Affordable Counseling Intern

I believe curiosity fosters connection, awareness, and action. When we become curious about ourselves, others, and our circumstances, paths reveal themselves that had previously remained hidden. For those struggling to find meaning or standing at a difficult crossroads, working with a therapist who holds a deep, open curiosity can illuminate movement in places that once felt stuck.

In our sessions, I pay careful attention to what is spoken and what wants to be heard—the quiet whispers of your unconscious. Together, we will attune not only to the details of your life but also to the sensations in your body, recurring symbols in your world, and even themes emerging from your dreams. With a depth-focused approach, we’ll move beyond living in the mind alone and reconnect you with your purpose and relationships in new, more fulfilling ways. My approach combines a depth lens with a strong imaginal and somatic orientation. 

I am a native of Colorado and love exploring rivers for fly-fishing and discovering hidden hot springs across the Southwest. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in depth psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute. After spending 15 years as a marketing consultant, I changed careers to pursue a life enriched with soul and purpose.

I work with individuals who find themselves at a crossroads or who feel deeply stuck in patterns they struggle to break.

Phone:‪720-449-3857

Email:[email protected]

Nicole Kalinowski

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi there! I’m Nicole, a Counseling Intern at People House, passionate about guiding others on their journey to self-discovery and healing. My approach is rooted in person-centered and humanistic therapy, emphasizing empathy and authenticity. I believe that each person has a unique story, and I am here to listen, support, and help you tap into your inner strengths.

When I am not in the therapy room, you’ll find me hiking the beautiful trails of Colorado, soaking in the serenity of nature. I find that the great outdoors has a way of grounding us, and I often draw inspiration from its calmness. Whether you are navigating life’s challenges or simply seeking a space to explore your thoughts and feelings, I am here to walk alongside you. Let’s embark on this journey together, embracing growth and the beauty of being human.

Morgan Kautz

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi there! My name is Morgan (she/her/hers), and I’m passionate about guiding individuals and couples on their path to self-discovery and deeper connection. With a background in philosophy, I embrace life’s complexities and uncertainties, helping clients cultivate resilience and uncover personal meaning. My therapeutic approach integrates Existential, Gestalt, and Emotionally Focused therapies, fostering self-awareness, mind-body-spirit connection, and authentic, present-moment living.

I believe counseling is a collaborative journey where we work together as equals exploring your unique story and uncovering the patterns that shape your life. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel empowered to face challenges, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with your inner vitality.

Currently, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University. I’m committed to working with clients from all walks of life and belief systems, and I specialize in supporting those navigating spirituality, identity, life transitions, unresolved issues, and diverse relationship structures. I have a deep connection to the LGBTQ+ community and am honored to help clients explore the unique challenges and strengths that come with these experiences.

Phone:720-443-3117‬

Email:[email protected]

John Papini

Affordable Counseling Intern

I am a therapist-in-training that will meet my clients exactly where they need to be met. My intention is to leave as much of my “small” self out of the room as possible so that we can share space and heal on a level where we are already connected and present.  I have roots deep into spirit enabling me to offer the fruits of my own practice to you, the fruits of tranquility, lovingkindness, gratitude, equanimity and compassion. You might say that I have adopted lovingkindness as my religion, the cultivation of which makes me a better human in all of the roles I play, particularly as therapist. I am delighted to invite those with spiritual leanings as someone who can relate directly to your experiences as a spiritual being struggling to flourish in this human incarnation.

Given my background as a graduate of Harvard Law School and former practicing attorney, I am also particularly excited to work with lawyers, doctors, bankers, consultants, and other professionals operating in high-stakes, high-pressure careers. After spending nearly 10 years as an international corporate attorney with BigLaw firms in the United States and abroad, I am particularly attuned to the difficulties and challenges facing professionals in fields where mental health difficulties are deeply prevalent. Having overcome my own challenges with depression, addiction and anxiety, I can authentically bring an understanding and attitude of non-judgment that invites trust and your full investment in the healing process that unfolds during committed therapy.

Whatever your background, I believe wholeheartedly that you have innate wisdom capable of meeting your life’s unique circumstances. I’m merely here to act as mirror and guide; you’re the singular expert on you!

Maddy Rosas

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hello, my name is Maddy (she/her). I am a Couple and Family Therapist intern working toward my master’s degree at the University of Colorado Denver. My therapeutic approach is grounded in collaboration. I hold the belief that you are the expert of your life, relationships, and experiences. I aim to understand who you are as a person, using a holistic, experiential, and systems-based perspective.

I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity for healing and to build a life that aligns with their needs, goals, and aspirations. I recognize that the path to healing is challenging and often nonlinear, which is why I will meet you exactly where you are. Starting therapy takes courage, and I recognize the bravery and vulnerability it requires. 

I am committed to creating a welcoming, safe space where you feel empowered in reaching your goals. I look forward to learning about you and accompanying you on your unique life journey.

Phone:970-286-7872‬

Email:[email protected]

Bre Smith

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi, I’m Bre Smith (she/they)! I am a queer woman from the South. My work as a therapist is focused on supporting and accompanying folks as they navigate the complexities of life, with a particular passion for nervous system regulation, social justice, 2SLGBTQIA+, racial healing work, religious trauma/deconstruction/spiritual reconstruction, creativity, self-discovery, recovery, and community. I believe that every person has the potential for transformation, and my role is to walk alongside you as we explore your unique journey, providing support as you create the changes you desire in your life.

My therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered, rooted in the belief that healing is most effective when we work together to uncover what truly serves you. I draw from an eclectic variety of therapeutic models, including Relational-Cultural, Humanistic, and Existential theories, which emphasizes the importance of relationships in growth and healing, non-judgment, and client autonomy. I believe that we are all shaped by the connections we make with others, and healing occurs through building authentic, empathetic relationships. I also incorporate trauma-informed care, expressive arts, holistic health, mindfulness, nervous system regulation, and eco-therapy as core elements of my work.

In my current graduate studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Saybrook University, I continue to explore new ways to merge my academic learning with my passion for wellness and mental health. As the Vice President of my school’s Queer Alliance Collective club, I am particularly focused on creating spaces that are safe, inclusive, and affirming.

When I’m not working or studying, I enjoy moving my body, exploring the outdoors, traveling, playing music, practicing mindfulness, creating art, cooking, baking, or working with herbs, and spending time with loved ones.

I am deeply moved by the opportunity to build from my experience in adult mental health case management, residential behavioral support, and foster care counseling, to accompany others on their personal journeys toward healing, recovery, and growth.

Kali Swindell

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hello! My name is Kali Swindell (she/her). My work as a therapist is rooted in the belief that you are enough, just as you are, in this moment. I hope to act as a resource and a guide in your therapeutic journey, recognizing that your unique life experiences are shaped by the relationships and systems you engage in. I use a narrative, client-centered approach combined with internal family systems therapy. I strive to create a warm and inclusive space for individuals of all backgrounds where you feel free to be the most authentic version of yourself.

As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I specialize in supporting you as you navigate concerns related to relationships, identity, sexuality, self-worth, and healing from various forms of trauma. I have a background in nonprofit development, group mental health care and nature-based therapy, and am also a certified yoga instructor. I believe the wilderness can be a powerful tool for grief, healing, and liberation. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Colorado Denver.

Please reach out to see if we’d be a good fit. I look forward to connecting with you!

Megan Thomson

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hello! I’m Megan (she/her/hers), a graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University, currently serving as an intern at People House. I believe counseling is a powerful opportunity to undo aloneness, diminish pain, and cope with life’s challenges while enhancing joy and self-acceptance. As a counselor, I draw from narrative therapy, IFS and parts work, and attachment theory in an authentic, relational approach to therapy.

I believe in holistic healing that nurtures the connection between our mind, body, and spirit. My hope for us as humans is to realize that who we are is enough and that we are inherently worthy of love and belonging simply because we exist. As a fellow human on this journey, I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy and respect for your unique experiences, honoring the cultural and personal narratives that shape who you are.

I enjoy working with adults facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, OCD, life transitions (including prenatal and postpartum), and spiritual issues. Outside the counseling room, I am usually out exploring the beautiful state of Colorado with my family, connecting deeply with friends, or reading with my cat on my lap.

Jamie Urie

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hello, my name is Jamie (she/her). I feel privileged to be pursuing a master’s degree in counseling at this time in my life, as I bring a broad range of life experiences with me into this important work. As human beings we all have a need to be seen, heard, and understood. Most of us want skills and tools to cope, and our work together will give you an opportunity to build those, as well as to take a deeper look at why things are the way they are. 

I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have worked specifically with complex trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, substance use, sexual abuse victims, Veterans concerns, career challenges, and relationship challenges facing families and couples. In my own journey, I’ve learned a lot about shame and self-loathing, and the idea that we can accept and love ourselves in the moment as we are, while also striving to grow and improve. 

I look forward to meeting you, exactly where you are.

Emily Warner

Affordable Counseling Intern

As we build our lives, challenges and setbacks in our social, professional, physical, or spiritual worlds can leave us feeling stuck, scared, or demoralized. Old survival strategies that once served us may now hinder our ability to create meaningful and satisfying lives. My approach to counseling offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space to process these difficulties and examine your deepest values and hopes for life. Together, we can explore thoughts and actions that may no longer serve you and work to develop new skills that will help you build your most joyful life.

I welcome people of all backgrounds and identities, with a particular interest in supporting those navigating health issues or chronic pain, career and workplace concerns, addictive behaviors, relationship issues, or feelings of loneliness. Whether you are experiencing a particularly difficult time or seeking relief from long-standing challenges, I am honored to support you on your path.

Michelle Whalen

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi! My name is Michelle, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Colorado Denver. I’m glad you found our page and are exploring whether counseling might be the right step for you. Making the personal choice to go to therapy isn’t always easy—it takes courage to be vulnerable, confront difficult truths, or process painful experiences. Finding the right therapist is an essential part of your journey toward self-discovery and healing.

My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where trust and positive rapport can thrive, making vulnerability feel less intimidating and overwhelming. I specialize in strength-based and solution-focused approaches, helping clients tap into their inner resilience and achieve meaningful, lasting change. By recognizing and building on each individual’s unique strengths, I empower my clients to develop practical tools and strategies to overcome challenges and reach their personal goals.

I look forward to collaborating with individuals from all walks of life, offering compassionate support as we navigate the path to growth and healing together.

Phone:720-588-3577‬

Email:[email protected]

Nicole White

Affordable Counseling Intern

Hi there! I’m Nicole (she/her), and I am a relational somatic therapist-in-training. I believe that we are each our own best healers, possessing innate wisdom that guides us forward. I aim to support this natural process, honoring the individual needs of every person I work with. Together, we can explore new ways to move through the challenges of life, and discover resources and strength from deep within.  

I believe that people are drawn to therapy for a vast array of reasons, and at the core often lies a journey into self-exploration and integration. I seek to help you form a deeper relationship with yourself and with others, creating spaciousness for new narratives to unfold.

My approach is holistic — valuing body, mind, and spirit. I draw from my knowledge of somatic healing and Internal Family Systems, and I work from an attachment-informed and polyvagal-informed lens. I often highlight whats happening in the here-and-now, tapping into the potency of the present moment. 

Outside of the therapy office, I love to dance, sing, and explore new facets of movement. I treasure my connection with community, the earth, and my two crazy cats. 

“Just where you are, that’s the place to start.” –   Pema Chödrön

Phone:720-600-6382‬

Email:[email protected]

Affordable Counseling Program

Psychotherapy (Counseling) $25  – $65 for a 50 minute session

However, please inquire about our sliding fee scale, we offer sessions from $25-65. 

 

If you are covered by health insurance, you are encouraged to consult with your health insurer to determine if it is to your benefit to find a provider that takes your insurance and what your financial responsibility would be for that particular health care service provided by that health care facility or practitioner.  If you are not covered by health insurance, you are strongly encouraged to contact us at 303-480-5130 to discuss payment options prior to receiving services from us,  since the above posted health care prices may not reflect the actual amount of your financial responsibility, since we offer a sliding scale.

Ready to take the next step?

Call 303-480-5130