Alcoholism is a chronic disease that affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. It is common for alcoholics to struggle with maintaining healthy relationships, including romantic ones. Many experts argue that an alcoholic cannot truly love in the traditional sense of the word. At AspenRidge, an alcohol rehab center based in Denver, […]
Alcoholism is a serious disease that affects not only the mind and body but also the skin. Alcohol-related skin issues range from dryness and redness to severe conditions like rosacea, eczema, and even skin cancer. Chronic alcohol consumption disrupts the skin’s natural defenses, making it prone to inflammation, infection, and premature aging. This article explores […]
When most people think about harmful substances, alcohol rarely tops the list, but it should. Despite being legal and socially acceptable, alcohol is a leading cause of preventable health issues and deaths in the United States. Each year, around 88,000 people die from alcohol-related causes, outpacing even some of the deadliest drugs. The diseases caused […]
Have you ever found yourself pouring a drink not to celebrate, but simply because there’s nothing else to do? Drinking out of boredom is more common than you might think, and it’s not as harmless as it seems. Studies show that boredom can trigger unhealthy behaviors, from excessive drinking to other forms of substance misuse. […]
If beer is the alcohol of choice, it’s easy to assume that alcohol abuse is not possible. For many, drinking beer is associated with hanging out with friends and relaxing. Typically, having a few beers, even as a nightly ritual, doesn’t seem very risky. After all, it’s not the same as slamming a few shots […]
Alcohol use can range from occasional social drinking to problematic behaviors that disrupt daily life. Many individuals struggle to determine whether their drinking patterns are harmless or indicative of a deeper issue. If you find yourself resonating with statements like “I Don’t Drink Every Day But Can’t Stop I Do,” it might be time to […]
For many, alcohol is considered a large part of socializing and a way of relaxing. But, when do we recognize that a quiet drink on the weekend has turned into a more frequent occurrence? Can alcohol affect the way your body feels and functions? More specifically, does alcohol affect progesterone levels? If you or someone […]
Alcoholism is a chronic and progressive disorder affecting millions worldwide, leading to physical and mental health issues, relationship problems, and financial instability. Knowing when casual drinking becomes alcoholism can be challenging, as the transition is often gradual and difficult to recognize. However, understanding the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction is crucial to help individuals […]
Alcoholism is a chronic and progressive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The physical signs of alcoholism can be subtle or obvious, depending on the severity of the addiction. For individuals struggling with alcoholism, recognizing these signs can be an essential first step toward seeking treatment and recovery. At AspenRidge, a leading rehab center […]
Alcohol is more than a substance used on special occasions. Alongside parties and weekends out, it’s sometimes used to relax and self-medicate. American culture is tethered to alcohol and the depths to which we experience everyday life. Although legal and widely accepted, alcohol has the power to tap into our emotions and infiltrate our […]
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Originally from Boca Raton, Florida, Danny moved to Denver to study at the University of Colorado and earned a master’s degree in counseling. Danny spent the first nine years of his career working in youth residential treatment. After managing that program for six years, Danny moved to AspenRidge and now leads the clinical team.
Danny specializes in brainspotting and reality therapy. He describes his area of expertise as treating substance use disorders, compulsive behaviors, and co-occurring mood disorders such as depression and anxiety that may travel with a substance use disorder. Danny has extensive experience in effectively treating incidental and complex trauma. He further describes his approach as science-driven, constantly reviewing the latest literature and theory. Danny ensures he has as many techniques as possible to help people improve their well-being and achieve their goals. Outside of work, he divides his time between family, basketball, and rock climbing. If Danny won the lottery, he’d start a tech company focusing on deep learning to support people in coping strategies. And, you know, keep working here.
Originally from Chino Hills, California, Chanel began her education at Gonzaga University, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Philosophy. She continued her education at the University of Denver and earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. Chanel completed internships at AspenRidge during her studies and eventually joined the team as a full-time primary clinician.
Chanel describes herself as a humanistic therapist focused on building rapport and trust. She knows that when both of those are realized, they can accomplish each client’s unique goals together. She specializes in mood and personality disorders as they relate to addiction and is passionate about healing trauma by way of brainspotting and other trauma therapy methods. She has a goal to visit every state capitol and has been to 29 so far! If she won the lottery tomorrow, Chanel said she start a bookstore with a bakery inside for guests to enjoy their favorite books with an excellent coffee and dessert.
Karlie is originally from Dayton, Ohio, and began her education in psychology at the University of Cincinnati. She participated in research studying ADHD in children, mindfulness and anxiety, and embodied cognition. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she continued her education at the University of Denver and earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling with a side specialization in addiction. During grad school, she treated clients involved in the legal system as well as at a detox facility. After graduating, Karlie gained experience working in a residential program for eating disorders and a private practice before joining the AspenRidge team.
In her time here, Karlie trained as a clinical supervisor and an Acudetox therapist. She has a passion for working with clients to help them develop a more profound sense of identity to navigate depressive and anxious symptoms. She’s passionate about working with clients to work through trauma and improve mental stability. In her personal life, Karlie likes reading sci-fi and fantasy and going to Marvel movies. She enjoys playing board games and having home karaoke nights with her friends. Karlie says the best advice ever received is to not fall in love with potential. Fall in love with what is, then work to grow from there.
Jill is a Colorado native who received a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis on women’s studies from the University of Houston. Jill has worked in several inpatient and outpatient centers, treating clients in all levels of care in both individual and group settings.
She is a trauma-informed clinician who prioritizes the relationship between clinician and client. Addiction impacted her own family and influenced her compassionate and empathetic relationship with clients. She believes in healing the whole person in a safe and supportive environment. Jill enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, friends, and pets when she is not in the office. She spends most weekends in the mountains hiking, fishing, 4-wheeling, and camping. Jill is an avid photographer and particularly enjoys Colorado sunsets. If she won the lottery tomorrow, Jill would create a pet sanctuary where the community would unite. And, you know, keep working here.
Hailing from Boulder County, Courtney embarked on her academic journey by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She furthered her education by completing a master’s of science in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University. Additionally, Courtney obtained certificates in Alcohol and Drug Studies and is certified in Branspotting, a clinical treatment technique aiding individuals in processing trauma.
Courtney’s professional experience in substance use treatment began in a holistic residential treatment center. Since then, she has worked across various settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community corrections programs.
Describing her therapeutic approach as evidence-based, Courtney champions a humanistic or person-centered approach as the ideal foundation. She integrates her expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor interventions according to each client’s distinct needs.
Beyond her clinical practice at AspenRidge, Courtney finds solace in outdoor activities, sports, reading, and cherishing quality time with her family and beloved dog.
Justin was born and raised in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he began his clinical education at Colorado State University. He received his bachelor’s in health and exercise science with a concentration in sports medicine and eventually earned a master’s of psychology in addiction counseling. During his time as a therapist, Justin has worked in a residential addiction treatment facility, private practice, and outpatient settings.
Justin’s goal as a clinician is to help clients rediscover their own sense of agency over their lives. He knows therapy is a sacred process, and treatment is rarely as simple as finding the solution to one’s problems. Justin meets clients where they are and aims to help people learn to cultivate self-compassion, presence, and curiosity toward their pain. When he is not working with clients at AspenRidge, Justin plays basketball and disc golf, noodles on the guitar, and spends time with his wife and family. Justin says if he invented a holiday, it would definitely involve cookies, ice cream, and all sorts of sweet things.
Originally from Southern California and later the Hudson Valley area of New York, Brionna pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the State University of New York at Oswego and completed her master’s in addiction counseling at Colorado State University.
Specializing in Compulsive Hoarding and Behavior Addictions, Brionna guides clients towards healthier relationships and boundaries. Additionally, she is trained in Brainspotting, offering a unique approach to trauma-informed care. Brionna’s therapeutic approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), empowering clients to challenge negative thinking patterns and manage intense emotions through mindfulness practices.
Outside of work, Brionna finds solace in arts and crafts, particularly crocheting and creative writing. She cherishes quiet moments with a good book, her two beloved cats, and the tranquility of nature’s walking trails.
Kathleen was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, but spent half of her life in California. She holds a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy. Additionally, she has a master’s in holistic wellness and is trained in EMDR therapy for both in-person and virtual settings. Kathleen has more than 15 years of experience treating people who have a substance use disorder.
She typically works with people interested in taking a holistic approach to treating their addictions. This will include healthy eating, movement, meditation, mindfulness and spirituality. Outside of work, she’s a devotee of Krishna, and her friends call her Karunya Shakti, which means compassionate energy. She enjoys singing and dancing in kirtan and reading ancient Vedic literature like the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam. If she weren’t so damn good at her job, she says she would probably be an electrical engineer.
A Denver native and lifelong Colorado resident, Megan embarked on her academic journey at the University of Northern Colorado. There, she earned dual bachelor’s degrees before pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. During her academic years, she dedicated herself to assisting refugees fleeing war and violence in their home countries.
Megan’s therapeutic approach is multifaceted, drawing from narrative, feminist, and existential therapy modalities. By employing these frameworks, Megan empowers her clients to confront their realities and comprehend the tangible impact of systemic factors on their lives.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Megan finds joy in the company of her partner and pets. She relishes spending time with friends, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring the great outdoors during milder weather.
Christy Schuett, originally from Aberdeen, South Dakota, holds a master’s degree in counseling from Northern State University. Her journey began with crisis intervention for families, evolving into roles in community counseling, corrections, and residential facilities. Christy’s worked inthe field for more than 30 years.
Specializing in diverse mental health challenges, including depression, addiction, and trauma, Christy embraces a person-centered approach. She tailors interventions to individual needs, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR.
Outside of work, Christy finds solace in nature, enjoying activities like gardening and mountain biking, alongside cherished moments with her family and dogs. If she weren’t excelling in her current role, Christy would likely champion environmental activism, advocating for nature’s preservation.
Originally from Center Point, Iowa, Darcie pursued her academic journey at Walden University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then relocated to Alamosa, Colorado, where she obtained a master’s degree from Adams State University.
Describing her approach as eclectic, Darcie seamlessly combines person-centered and evidence-based practices. Drawing from her background in local improv groups, she infuses sessions with laughter and humor, fostering a non-judgmental space for clients. Darcie believes in collaborating with her clients, tailoring interventions to suit their individual needs.
Her expertise encompasses group and individual work, with a particular focus on trauma. Darcie finds fulfillment in working with the LGBTQ+ population, leveraging her skills to support and empower. The best piece of advice she’s ever heard is to never take advice from someone who does not have what you are seeking.
Originally from Nashville, TN, Jordan moved to Colorado with her family at age five. She has worked in behavioral health since graduating with her bachelor’s degree in 2019. Jordan developed her clinical approach in various inpatient, hospital, outpatient, and private practice settings. Jordan continued her studies and earned a master’s in clinical and mental health counseling. Between post-graduate work and additional training courses, she honed her skills in treating first responders and military personnel from a trauma-informed perspective. In 2023, Jordan joined the clinical team at AspenRidge Recovery. Jordan describes her approach as eclectic but most beneficial and includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and family-oriented practices.
Outside AspenRidge, Jordan enjoys rock climbing, snowboarding, and playing volleyball and soccer. She believes she was probably a rodeo queen in another life and recharges by spending time with friends and family.
