With 14 years of experience in high-risk and demanding work environments -- including ski patrolling and running an emergency room -- Erin is a healthcare professional and a leader who thrives in the world of anything-can-happen. She possesses a unique set of executive competencies, and is a team player who is happiest when she can empower staff with the confidence and skills to serve our communities' physical and mental health needs. Through it all, she maintains a lighthearted nature and exudes positivity.
Recognizing that our agency represents just one niche of the big picture, Erin welcomes all opportunities to collaborate with other providers to ensure access to resources for those in need and to tailor services to appropriately address the unique aspects of our valley. Erin is thrilled to have joined Aspen Hope Center in carrying out its mission, and she holds a special place in her heart for the agency's work in our valley's schools where the focus is on prevention and early intervention.
When Erin is not helping others, she enjoys her greatest passions of traveling the world by ski and bike.
A Colorado native, Shanda grew up on the Front Range and the Western Slope, and attended Rifle High School and Mesa State College. A Jill of all trades and self-acclaimed autodidact, Shanda wears many hats professionally and personally. Over the last two decades, she has gained vast experience in finance, business development, business management, human resources, philanthropy and more. Utilizing her sharp and diverse skill set, Shanda takes great pride in her work and in delivering the best of the best. Since 2021, Shanda has been putting to use her myriad of skills in various roles at Aspen Hope Center. In her "spare" time, alongside her husband, Shanda co-owns and operates a fast-paced vehicle-upfitting company, overseeing the business and even helping to build vehicles.
Shanda enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring the mountains. One of her favorite pastimes is archery -- which seems quite fitting, since it lends itself metaphorically to Shanda's life with her focused attempts to direct projects toward their respective goals. A mom to four, there's nothing more important to Shanda than the wellbeing of her family. From coaching U10 soccer to volunteering for school and youth events, she is always thrilled to be an integral part of her kiddos' lives. And, no matter the setting, Shanda continually seeks out ways in which she can serve the community.
Originally from Aspen, Colorado, Lily is a Spanish-bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Lily received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Denver with a dual focus in clinical social work and organizational development. In 2011, Lily returned to the Roaring Fork Valley to be the first school-based clinician for the Hope Center. Lily's work with women, children and families has spanned a variety of settings including outpatient mental health care, child protection services, crisis intervention, school-based mental health services and women’s health with a focus on maternal mental health. Recently, Lily has turned her focus to developing and implementing mental health training programs for community partners in the hopes of providing support to the critical services and frontline workers in our valley.
Lindsay attended the University of Northern Colorado where she studied accounting. Over the last 15 years, Lindsay has practiced accounting and finance with a focus on local nonprofit and architectural firms. Her experience spans working with the Spring Gulch Nordic Center, Ragged Mountain Sports, National Geographic photographer, Land + Shelter, 2757 Design + Build Co and other small businesses around the Roaring Fork Valley.
Having grown up in Carbondale, Lindsay is a mountain girl through and through. She is passionate about all things outdoors including skiing, trail running, mountain biking, hiking and camping -- and her favorite experiences include her daughter and dogs. Lindsay's athletic pursuits led her to be a professional athlete in the ski mountaineering world, and her hard work earned her a sponsorship from La Sportiva and the opportunity to race in the World Skimo Championships in Verbier, Switzerland in 2015 and in Italy in 2017. Her greatest achievement in this space was in Verbier in 2015, when she placed 11th in the world for the vertical race, 20th in the individual race and 6th in the teams race. Being incredibly active and health-oriented, it comes as no surprise that Lindsay also holds a BA in Dietetics.
After graduating from University of Colorado, Stevie began her career with Aspen Hope Center as an intern. She started by answering suicidal phone calls but quickly began filling in to help with finances, client intakes, fundraiser websites, technology support and much more. She went on to change the Hope Center at its electronic core by building out the program for nonprofit development, organizing thousands of donors and creating a system that has lasted long after her moving on to other aspects of the agency. Stevie has overseen expansions to different counties and has served as a key point person for the agency, always working around the clock to ensure the Hope Center's technology is up and running for the 24/7 staff.
Stevie's biggest achievement was found when she adapted a platform to the ever-changing needs of crisis by making information searchable and configurable, and providing the community with statistics that demonstrate the importance of this work in the mountain valleys. To help achieve these challenging tasks, Stevie attended the University of Denver to study software engineering, never leaving the Hope Center.
Having a personal interest in suicide after her stepdad passed away, Stevie has devoted nearly a decade to trying to make life a little easier for the crisis clinicians who work so hard to support others in our community. As the Hope Center continues to grow, Stevie's biggest dream is to further customize programs to fill the gaps that desperately need to be filled.
Shannon has worked in nonprofit administration for the past 17 years, most recently with Hope Pregnancy Care Center in St George, Utah. Graduating from the University of Arizona in 1997, with an Interdisciplinary Studies degree in Spanish, Art History, and Chemistry, Shannon went on to certify as a high school chemistry teacher. With a temporary move to New York in 2001, she put teaching on hold and became program coordinator for Everybody Wins, a nonprofit literacy program in New York City schools. It was there that nonprofit work captured her heart and she’s been involved in supporting the efforts of grassroots organizations ever since. Shannon appreciates the meaningful and impactful work of Aspen Hope Center and counts it a privilege to be part of the team. When not working, you’ll find Shannon outside spending time with her husband and two kids exploring the mountains and rivers around our beautiful valley.
Shawn is committed to a leadership path in philanthropy and brings energy and passion to all she does. She was initially pre-med at Lehigh University and later obtained a master’s in early childhood education. After graduating, Shawn went to Africa and found her way into philanthropy. Throughout her career, she has spent over 15 years executing successful fundraising events, launching capital campaigns, and leading teams to meet and exceed development fundraising goals with a strategic flair and focus on results and attention to detail, all while building excellent relationships to support a positive experience. Shawn has worked for the Ralph Lauren Foundation, Donna Karan’s Urban Zen, Vail Valley Foundation, Roundup River Ranch, YoungLife Africa, and more. And she’s now excited to bring her skills and expertise to the Aspen Hope Center. Her underlying goal in all settings is to help organizations succeed and to assist supporters in finding joy and confidence in giving, all the while ensuring both can leave a legacy.
Initially from New York, Shawn traded the big city for mountain life in 2011. She loves to travel and is always up for a challenge and stepping outside her comfort zone. Last summer, she hiked Mount Kilimanjaro. She spends her free time outdoors and loves all activities outside; skiing, camping, hiking, water skiing, yoga, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Kiley's love for nonprofit work started in college where she studied nonprofit management and Spanish at Indiana University in Bloomington. After college, she returned home to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to work for Ronald McDonald House Charities Eastern Wisconsin (RMHC). In 2020, she decided to fulfill her lifelong dream of living near the mountains and moved to Denver. There, she worked in volunteer management roles for Goodwill of Colorado and RMHC Denver. After a few years in Denver, Kiley moved to Rifle for her partner's job placement and she spent a year pursuing other work interests including retail, dog grooming and starting a pet care business. Kiley is excited to get back into the nonprofit field with Aspen Hope Center. When she is not working, you can find her outside: running, hiking, skiing or walking her German Shepherd, Theo.
Franklin graduated from the University of Memphis with his degree in accounting. During his final years of school, Franklin worked for a very small accounting firm in Memphis that focused on helping a plethora of small businesses in the area. Shortly after that, in April of 2021, he moved to Basalt to fulfill his dream of living out here in the valley. Since living out here, Franklin has worked remotely in corporate accounting as a business analyst and consultant. Besides working as an accountant, Franklin has had a passion for working with athletes and, in particular, coaching high school lacrosse. He has coached kids of all ages since 2015, and even coached the women’s lacrosse team at the University of Tennessee when he was playing for the men’s team. Franklin has continued that tradition by coaching the Aspen High School boys’ lacrosse team the past two seasons and is continuing to do so.
Sonja Hendrickson-Linman has worked as a youth and family advocate in the Roaring Fork Valley for over thirty years. She is committed to the power and healing found in our personal stories, and uses her teaching, counseling and leadership skills to integrate mental health and wellness into our lives, our families, our schools, our workforce and our community. Most importantly, Sonja truly loves humanity, and has spent her life in public service. Her web of experience includes serving on numerous task forces, non-profit boards, and in volunteer positions as well as serving in political office while working in day to day response with our most vulnerable youth and families.
Sonja has a Bachelors in Education, an MA in Curriculum and Assessment, an Educational Leadership Principal license, and is a certified Colorado Addictions Specialist. Her life work continues to contribute to the evolution of our public education systems as the incubators of our youth, our cultures, and our futures, and she is committed to the training, education and care that affects each of us every day. Sonja recently joined us at the HOPE Center after working for years as an Intervention and Colorado Addiction Specialist in Glenwood Springs, CO. She is as comfortable in Legislative Chambers as on the streets, and would be honored to show up at Dinner Parties, Staff Trainings, or in Integrative Circles as we meet each other where we are…to help each other toward where we would like to be.
In her quiet time, she hangs out by the creek with her dogs and family, tending to 7th Elder, A Silent Place to Serve the Servants, and where she continues to research and write.
A California native, Natasha landed in the Roaring Fork Valley in the summer of 1997. Shortly after moving to the valley, she started working for Aspen Skiing Company and spent more than 13 years gaining experience in mountain operations and marketing. In 2011, Natasha joined the dynamic team at Backbone Media where she worked on both sides of the business – paid media and public relations – over the course of nearly eight years. At the end of 2018, she made an intentional shift to the nonprofit world in hopes of doing even more meaningful work in our community. That led her to the role of development director at Family Resource Center of the Roaring Fork Schools where, for almost three years, she had the pleasure of being part of a passionate team that increases stability and self-sufficiency for children and families. After serving Aspen Hope Center as the operations director for over two years, Natasha is honored to continue providing backend support for this outstanding team of professionals who deliver critical services in our valley and to remain part and spending time with family and friends. She feels blessed to call this amazing valley home and to have access to the beautiful playground in which we live.
Admin
Skylar was born and raised in Oklahoma where she attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated with a Bachelors in Sociology with an emphasis in Criminology. Throughout her undergraduate program, Skylar focused on the impact of incarceration on the family system and Native American and Indigenous Studies.
After graduating with her B.A. and working as a defense paralegal in Oklahoma, Skylar moved to Colorado to pursue her masters at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work, concentrating in mental health and substance use counseling.
Her passion for crisis was sparked when she began working in Denver, CO at a residential community for individuals living with severe and persistent mental illness. Her love of working alongside community partners stems from her time on the triage team for the Denver District Attorney's Family Violence Unit. It was a combination of these experiences that led her to become a crisis clinician and clinical social worker with the Aspen Hope Center.
In Skylar's spare time she enjoys playing sports, cooking, reading books, volunteering, and traveling as much as possible.
Laura comes to the Roaring Fork Valley from Austin, Texas with knowledge and experience in mental health crises. Laura attended Penn State University (We Are…!) for her bachelor’s degree in psychology and Texas A&M University for her master’s of science in clinical mental health counseling. Laura is a retired military spouse with a deep understanding and respect of our armed services, veterans and their families. Laura is passionate about trauma-informed care and is mindful of the challenges those who have experienced trauma face.
Having served as a clinical advocate and therapist for high-risk adults and adolescents with pervasive mental health and substance use issues, Laura brings experience working in crisis management. She is skilled in the treatment of trauma, borderline, schizoaffective, Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. She has experience in treatment planning, crisis and management, diagnostic evaluations, group therapy, individual therapy, case management and client advocacy.
Laura’s self-care regimen includes spending time with her family, hiking, road trips, exploring new places and adventures, listening to music and podcasts, cooking and storytelling.
Riley was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and is an unrepentant Astros fan. As an undergraduate, he studied Human Biology at the University of Texas at Austin. He obtained a Doctorate in Medicine at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, and completed an internship in Psychiatry at the same institution. In his practice, Riley has trained in emergency care, inpatient hospitalization and outpatient care, working with children, adolescents and adults. Riley has extensive experience serving Veterans, seniors, people at risk of or experiencing homelessness and people living with disabilities. Riley is excited about his new role as crisis supervisor for Aspen Hope Center. In his free time, Riley enjoys hiking, bicycling and hanging out with his cats.
Crisis
Matt grew up in Taos, New Mexico and graduated from Hobart and William Smith Colleges with a BA in Psychology and a Minor in Child Advocacy in 2010. He earned a Master’s in Social Work from Hunter College in 2014. Matt began his career as a school clinician in New York City before moving to the Front Range of Colorado, where he obtained his LAC and began working in various community mental health programs specializing in crisis management and dual diagnosis therapy.
Matt’s mission is to support individuals in crisis, guiding them toward stability and resilience. He believes this process begins with youth through prevention and interventions and, in order to be successful, we must incorporate parents and community resources. Matt’s extensive experience includes direct client care and leadership in supervisory roles, where he has mentored and guided other clinicians in best practices. He is committed to fostering environments where individuals can heal and thrive, reinforcing the importance of community and connection in the process.
Having been raised in a small, close-knit community where the idea of “it takes a village” was front and center, aligning perfectly with the mission of Aspen Hope Center. He believes his experience can best serve people in smaller communities, helping them grow and connect; and he looks forward to being involved professionally and personally in the Roaring Fork Valley and surrounding areas. An avid skier, biker and triathlete, Matt is passionate about the outdoors and feels that personal growth requires a connection with both the place and the people around oneself.
Brian was born and raised in Iowa where he studied Neuroscience and Psychology at Wartburg College. His undergraduate research focused on the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences and the brain structures associated with substance use. He attended The Chicago School where he graduated with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Brian has experience in community mental health working with all ages. Brian was introduced to crisis services in his graduate internship where he worked at a walk-in crisis center. He is passionate about providing trauma-informed care, assisting in instilling hope and connecting people to the services they need. In his free time, Brian enjoys playing guitar, watching sports, hiking, biking and cooking.
A Midwesterner by birth and temperament, Chris originally hails from in and around Chicago but has called Colorado home for almost 20 years. He studied Political Science in college with the aim of changing the world, but eventually realized that the best way to do so might be one person at a time. Hence he began working in social and human services, eventually earning a graduate degree in Psychology and working in education, hospice and mental health. He has worked with a broad range of people in a variety of treatment settings, from inpatient facilities to integrative health clinics to outpatient agencies, where he has supported people experiencing various kinds of social, psychiatric and spiritual distress and crisis. He is grateful to work and play in the mountains and deserts of Colorado and, when not on shift, he’s likely to be camping with his family, reading a book, listening to almost any genre of music or sighing plaintively while removing burrs or foxtails from the too-long fur of a mischievous juvenile Bernedoodle.
Taylor is native to the Roaring Fork Valley. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. She went on to complete her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adam's State University. She started crisis work at a residential treatment facility for youth and found a passion for it there. She has continued crisis work throughout her career and has a love for helping the community in which she grew up.
Alden was born and raised in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Spartanburg, SC. He has always been passionate about spending time in the outdoors, which led him to the Roaring Fork Valley in 2015. He enjoys skiing, hiking with his yellow lab, fishing and biking. Alden is an Eagle Scout and NOLS graduate. He has a BA in History from the University of South Carolina. Alden holds a deep sense of empathy and an ability to connect with and meet people where they are, free of judgment. He has experience working with high-acuity individuals, homeless outreach, individual and group counseling, case management and diagnostic evaluations. He loves giving back to the community that has given so much to him and that he has called home for nearly a decade.
Lexi earned her BS in Psychology from the University of Southern Indiana, then went on to complete her MS in Forensic Psychology from Arizona State University in August 2023. Lexi has been working in the mental health field since September of 2020, and most recently fell in love with the work she did as a crisis responder at her local community mental health center. She did not always know that she wanted to work in the mental health field, but as she completed her degrees and gained more experience, there was something unique that drew her to crisis services — the fact that she was helping pull people out of some of the darkest moments of their life and reminding them that their life is worth living and that people do care, even if they are just a stranger. Lexi recently relocated to the Roaring Fork Valley to join the Aspen Hope Center team. Given the hard work associated with crisis services, Lexi enjoys spending her off-time with her dog Ocean and with her family, as well as exploring nature and learning more about her surroundings. Most importantly, Lexi is looking forward to exploring the local hiking trails and creating her home in the Roaring Fork Valley.
Casey is a mental health professional who transitioned from central Pennsylvania to the scenic Roaring Fork Valley. Her academic journey began with an undergraduate degree in Business and Communications. Her initial engagement in event sales hinted at her knack for connecting with people and facilitating meaningful interactions which led her to pursue a graduate degree in Educational Leadership with a specialization in School Counseling. Upon completing her academic endeavors, Casey found her true calling within the mental health field where she found herself drawn to crisis intervention, recognizing the profound impact she could have in supporting individuals during their most challenging moments. This specialization became the cornerstone of her career as a mental health professional.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Casey is an avid enthusiast of outdoor activities. Whether it's hiking through picturesque trails, skiing down powdery slopes, or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds her, Casey finds solace and joy in the great outdoors.
Casey graduated with her Master’s Degree in Psychology in 2021. Throughout school, she gained experience in a myriad of mental health environments to shape her perspectives. Such roles include serving as a recovery coach in a transitional vocational and residential program for individuals with mental health and substance use histories, residential program supervision for individuals with autism, crisis intervention casework for inpatient hospitalization in Philadelphia during the pandemic, and co-response in Mesa County. Her self-care regimen includes hiking with her dog, practicing yoga and anything in the kitchen.
Jillian was born and raised in Canyon, Texas. She attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Counseling. Jillian has experience working with individuals from all walks of life. She grew up playing sports and has a love for the outdoors. She enjoys hiking, snowboarding, water sports, swimming, and all the activities associated with water. She is adventurous and always open to trying new and exciting things. If she is not working, you will find her outdoors. Jillian recently relocated to Colorado with her two Australian shepherds. She is passionate about mental health and works as a crisis clinician with the Garfield County team.
Jacob grew up in southeast Virginia and chose his first career path in architecture and design. Sitting behind a computer all day didn't sound that exciting so he chose to focus on the human side of things, how we interact and the relationships we build with the world and systems around us. For his undergraduate degree, he went to Christopher Newport University and majored in childhood psychology, minoring in religious studies.
After traveling for some time, Jacob then enrolled at Prescott College for his Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a concentration in Adventure Based Therapy. Jacob has been in the crisis field since 2014 and wants to continue to support people in finding adaptive and systemic ways to help them overcome crisis situations. He also really likes coffee and exploring outside.
Karmen moved to the Roaring Fork Valley in 1988. After working in many non-profits and customer related fields, she moved to Denver to pursue a degree in Social Work. Karmen received her MSW from the University of Denver in 2001.While pursuing her degree and thereafter, Karmen worked in several residential treatment centers as a milieu supervisor and a treatment coordinator for adolescent males and females. She developed treatment plans, coordinated clinical service delivery, provided assessment, facilitation of groups, and direct treatment services to clients.
Lauren was born and raised in New Jersey, and has always had a passion for traveling. She ventured to New Orleans for her undergraduate studies at Tulane University, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology.
Growing up skiing, Lauren felt a strong connection to the mountains, which led her to move to Aspen a decade ago. She pursued her graduate education at the University of Denver, earning a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health and specialization in Addictions. During her graduate internship, she gained valuable experience providing walk-in and mobile crisis services in the Denver area.
After completing her graduate program, Lauren returned to the East Coast, where she worked in Manhattan and the Bronx providing case management for individuals suffering from mental illness and housing insecurity. Missing Colorado, she decided to move back to the Roaring Fork Valley. Since 2019, Lauren has continued her dedication to crisis work with Aspen Hope Center, where she supports individuals in their most challenging moments.
Suzanne relocated with her family to the Roaring Fork Valley in 2007. She holds a BA from Yale University and recently earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Denver, specializing in mental health and trauma-informed clinical skills.
Suzanne takes an integrative approach to therapy, blending elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques. She works collaboratively with clients to develop coping skills, effective strategies, and greater self-confidence. Suzanne supports individuals of all ages through life transitions, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, trauma, and parenting challenges. Her empathetic and tailored approach empowers clients to navigate their unique journeys with resilience and clarity.
Rachael has called Colorado home since 2009. She completed her BA at CU Boulder and her Masters in Social Work at Smith College School for Social Work. Between the two, she was employed in middle and high schools, a shelter for victims of domestic and dating violence, adult outpatient and wilderness therapy settings.
Rachael's approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that the relationship between therapist and client is the most important element of healing and growth. She is trained in trauma processing modalities of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level 1 and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She grounds her practice in attachment and trauma theories with an emphasis on client nervous system regulation. Rachael's approach acknowledges and celebrates each client's unique identities and incorporates her training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Drawing on a range of evidence-based interventions tailored to each client's needs, Rachael is committed to providing affirming care and ensures a safe, supportive environment for all clients including LGBTQIA+. Her strength-based approach and anti-oppressive framework make her a fierce advocate for client empowerment. Rachael sees mental health as a journey to heal attachment wounds and patterns of nervous system dysregulation with the trajectory toward a sound relationship with self and others. She is passionate about supporting clients to find internal understanding and develop new skills so they can thrive!
In her free time, Rachael can be found cooking a new recipe, reading an enthralling book or adventuring up and down the mountains of Colorado.
Click here to learn more about Rachael.
Kathryn moved to the Roaring Fork Valley from Connecticut in 2016. In conjunction with her 15 years in private practice, she worked as a Treatment Coordinator for several years in the Adult Recovery Center at Greenwich Hospital and Yale New Haven Heath. Working with a multidisciplinary team, under the supervision of an addiction MD, Kathryn assessed, evaluated and facilitated groups, as well as individual therapy, for patients in detox and intensive outpatient treatment. Prior to Kathryn’s work at Greenwich Hospital, she was on full time staff at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Westport Connecticut, as a Treatment Counselor in both the Adolescent and Adult Intensive Outpatient Programs. Kathryn received her Master’s Degree in Counseling from Fairfield University, graduating Magna Cum Laude, where she also worked for several years as a Clinical Supervisor to graduate students. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Colorado, a member of the National Board for Certified Counselors, a member of the International Association of Trauma Professionals, and a Certified Addiction Counselor.
Click here to learn more about Kathryn.
Kelly graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. After graduation, she traveled the world studying human and animal behaviors. Kelly lived in New Zealand for a year, where she worked with the endangered Kiwi birds. She became interested in the intersections of human and animal survival behaviors. She traveled to Nepal and worked alongside Sherpas and yaks while learning about mental health in the Everest and Annapurna regions. She moved to Hawaii and worked at a Horticulture therapy program where she learned more about Wilderness Therapy and ceremony. While working with mustangs and wolves, she found a passion for animal-assisted therapy. She graduated with her Master’s degree in Wilderness Therapy from Naropa. Kelly has been a wilderness guide for the past 10 years where she incorporates her yoga teacher training from Kripalu, PSIA-Professional Ski Instructors of America, AASI-American Association of Snowboard Instructors, Rope’s Course Critical Skills, Wilderness First Responder, and Leadership development skills to help facilitate both external and internal growth. Kelly is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has specialized in crisis work since 2016.
Click here to learn more about Kelly.
Patti is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has more than 20 years of experience in the Mental Health field. She believes that how you think affects the way you feel, which in turn, is why we behave the way we do. She uses a variety of practical strategies and brain research that help her clients gain a better understanding of how to navigate life’s transitions and recover from the disappointments so they can discover personal fulfillment. Patti is a Military Life Counselor and has worked with active military members as well as their family members. She is an EMDR certified therapist and supports clients with complex trauma. She has extensive training in dying, death and the grief process. Her expertise in these areas has offered her opportunities in working with Emergency Response Teams, First Responders, and military members and veterans throughout our country and worldwide.
In her career as an educator, Patti has vast experience working in various school environments as an administrator, teacher, counselor, and national educational consultant. Patti studied with Dr. Judith Wallerstein, the leading researcher on children of divorce. While at UC Berkley, Patti developed an award winning program in helping families in understanding the nature of the divorce process and its consequences which was featured on NPR. Using her model, she supervised Master of Social Welfare students as a field supervisor.
Patti has been honored to work with many master teachers in the field and is dedicated to sharing her knowledge so that others can gain skills for positive change in their lives, their community, and our world.
Click here to learn more about Patti.
Therapy
Lauren was born and raised in St. Louis and has called Colorado home since 2012. After receiving an MA in Counseling from the University of Colorado-Denver, she relocated to the Roaring Fork Valley in 2017 and has experience counseling in a variety of settings including schools, community mental health and partial hospitalization programs. Honored to synthesize these experiences and join the Aspen Hope Center team as a school-based clinician, Lauren is passionate about fostering the holistic well-being of youth and their families. Guided in the belief that every child has the capacity to thrive, she uses a warm and relational approach to create an affirming space to explore their strengths, goals and experiences. Lauren’s clinical framework integrates practical tools from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness and Strengths-Based to promote resiliency, self-advocacy and healthy coping strategies to empower young folks in their journey of navigating life’s challenges, creating meaningful change and living authentically.
In her free time, you can find Lauren hiking and spending time in nature, adventuring to new places, dancing to live music, cooking or hanging out with her cat, Tuna.
Klare was born and raised in Colorado and spent her time growing up between the Western Slope and the Denver-Metro area. She received her BSW from Colorado Mesa University in 2023 and continued directly into her MSW that she received in 2024. During her degrees, Klare interned working with the juvenile justice population in her bachelor’s and focused on working with individuals that experience substance use in her masters. She has focused on the use of polyvagal theory, cognitive restructuring, trauma-informed counseling, motivational interviewing and dialectical behavioral therapy, however Klare believes in lifelong learning and works towars developing her skills in other modalities. Klare has always had a passion for working with youth and being able to support families through genuine authentic connection and relationships.
When Klare isn’t engaging with professional development through looking at research or reading, she enjoys spending time with her partner and their dog Tucker. On her breaks and in her free time, she enjoys watching live music and sports, playing video games, traveling, getting outdoors, and returning to the Denver-Metro area to spend time with family and friends.
Originally from Michigan, Megan has called the Roaring Fork Valley home since 2019. After obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering and working as a data analyst, she set out on a search for a more meaningful career before discovering a passion for special education. After five years working in schools with students with disabilities, she completed her Master's in Social Work through the University of Denver. Megan is excited to return to working in schools in this new capacity and to work with diverse students and families. When not at work, Megan can be found out on the trail - running, biking or skiing. In the winter, she can also be found playing ice hockey, or occasionally even reading a book.
Emily is originally from Iowa where she revived her bachelors degree in social work at the University of Northern Iowa. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, Emily attended Arizona State University where she earned her masters degree in social work with a concentration in children, youth and families. Since completing her masters degree Emily has earned her social work candidate (SWC) and is working on getting her license as a clinical social worker (LCSW).
Emily has completed an internship as a direct care provider working with adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. Emily has also completed an internship working as a school social worker at a middle school in Tucson, Arizona. Emily is extremely passionate about helping children and families grow and thrive while serving as a beacon of hope in the community.
In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time outside going on hikes; playing tennis, basketball, softball, and golf; swimming; and biking. She also enjoys doing arts and crafts and reading books.
Mariana's journey began in Lima, Peru, where she spent her formative years before moving to Basalt, Colorado at the age of 13. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience from Colorado State University, igniting her passion for behavioral neuroscience. After graduation, Mariana dedicated herself to supporting the community as the youth program coordinator at Stepping Stones in Carbondale, Colorado, a nonprofit committed to empowering local youth and families.
Recognizing a critical need for accessible bilingual mental health resources in the Roaring Fork Valley, Mariana pursued a Master of Science in Mental Health Research in Barcelona, Spain. There, she collaborated with renowned research labs pioneering advancements in mental health through cutting-edge neuroimaging technologies. Currently, Mariana is pursuing her second master's degree in counseling, driven by her commitment to making a significant impact at the Aspen Hope Center—an organization she deeply admires. With her bicultural and bilingual background, Mariana aims to leverage her expertise as a vital resource for mental health within her community.
Rachel grew up in Glenwood Springs and is very happy to be back living in the Roaring Fork Valley. She earned an Associates of Arts degree from Colorado Mountain College, a Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology from Fort Lewis College and a Master of Social Work degree from Colorado State University. Rachel has an SWC certificate and is pursuing a LCSW certificate. Rachel uses techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and somatic therapy; and she focuses on the strengths and unique experience of each person with whom she works. As a school-based clinician, Rachel will support the mental wellness of students and the school community to the best of her ability. She believes in the power of listening, resilience, mindset, curiosity and the impact that experiences and environments can have on people.
Rachel loves hiking with her dogs, spending time on the river, snowboarding, hanging out with her family and rock climbing.
Ericka grew up in Carbondale and is grateful to call the Roaring Fork Valley home. She is a Spanish bilingual licensed clinical social worker. Ericka earned her MSW from the University of Denver where she was awarded the Dean F. Alter Merit Award for exemplifying the best of professional social work. She is passionate about providing quality mental health care using techniques from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, PolyVagal Theory, Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Sandtray and Mindful Self Compassion. Ericka believes in meeting clients where they are and walking alongside them on their path towards healing. Outside of work you can find her out on the trails enjoying nature.
Stephanie is a Clinical Social Work Candidate in the state of Colorado. She received her Master’s degree in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago in 2019, and she graduated with completion of all courses and fieldwork on the school social work track. Upon graduation, she worked as a school social worker in the Chicagoland area’s high schools. Stephanie also has experience working as a trauma therapist with youth in foster care and as a life-skills worker who provided equine-assisted therapy with clients.
Stephanie has a passion for working with adolescents and their families. She believes it is important that adolescents have the opportunity to receive therapeutic support as they navigate exploring their internal and external systems during their teenage years. She uses a trauma-informed approach and utilizes motivational interviewing in her practice, to help clients heal from difficult experiences that shifted the foundation of their lives, and to also help them discover their interests and passions and build a life that aligns with their values. Stephanie’s areas of focus are anxiety, depression, complex/chronic trauma, LGBTQ+, grief/loss and life skills. She approaches her work with her clients with compassion and curiosity, and is honored to be a part of a client's journey as they engage in therapy to create change in their own life.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys skiing, hiking, walking her toy Australian Shepherd Althea, reading a book and spending time in coffee shops throughout the Roaring Fork Valley.
Mary Jo (MJ) is from Athens, Georgia and graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice. In 2021, MJ moved to the Roaring Fork Valley to begin her Master of Social Work at the University of Denver’s Glenwood Springs program, and began working in the substance use field at a community mental health center. MJ’s experiences underscored the critical importance of prevention, inspiring her to transition into a role where she can have a proactive impact on young lives. As a strengths-based therapist, MJ aims to create a safe and nurturing environment where clients can express themselves freely, promoting emotional well-being and resilience through tailored therapeutic interventions. MJ is thrilled to join Aspen Hope Center as a school-based clinician, where she looks forward to fostering positive growth and development in students.
Brandon holds a master’s degree in social work from Metropolitan State University of Denver and serves as a school-based clinician at Basalt Middle School. He's called the Roaring Fork Valley home for seven years. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, he moved to Longmont, Colorado at the age of nine. Prior to joining the Hope Center, Brandon spent a decade working in environmental education, youth leadership, and conservation. In addition to his MSW, he holds degrees in Outdoor Education from Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs and Sociology and Community Leadership at the University of Colorado. He has dedicated his career to supporting youth and adults as they connect to the natural world, to their communities, and to themselves.
Transitioning to the field of social work has allowed Brandon to have deeper relationships with students and their families. He finds great importance in working with clients to address many of the same issues that were revealed over his years as an educator. At Basalt Middle School, Brandon will offer bilingual (English/Spanish) individual and group therapy for students, as well as education on various mental health topics. Brandon will encourage students to grow confidently into their unique identities with grace and self-compassion.
While not at school, Brandon can be found listening to community radio, foraging for wild foods and crafting (occasionally delicious) meals, and having as much fun as possible with friends and family.
Caitlin is originally from northern Utah but fell in love with western Colorado the moment she first arrived in the mountains. She found her way home to the Roaring Fork Valley in 2021 where she quickly became involved in the community as a dancer and as an intern at a therapeutic ranch in Carbondale. Caitlin is earning her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus in Dance/Movement Therapy from Lesley University. She believes our bodies and movements have a lot to tell us and she’s looking forward to helping folks fortify the relationships between their mind, body, feelings, art, and spirit. Caitlin will work with her students to uncover the knowledge, wisdom and stories their minds and bodies have to share about their past, present and future.
Cate grew up in northern Wisconsin and attended St. Olaf College in Minnesota, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with concentrations in Education and Race and Ethnic Studies. During college, she spent summers working with Summer Advantage in the Roaring Fork Valley and fell in love with the community. After college, she worked with ELL students through AmeriCorps, with adolescents in adventure therapy, and with young adults in residential substance use treatment programs.
Cate completed her Master’s in Social Work through the University of Denver’s Western Colorado program. She is passionate about building relationships, empowering youth and families, and supporting holistic wellness for all. In her work with students, she utilizes DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Solutions-Focused Therapy.
Heather was born and raised in Nebraska but has called Aspen home for the past eight years. She began her journey in social work by recognizing a need for more supports for youth and families in the school system. She received her PreK-12 School Social Worker Certificate from Colorado State University in 2020. From this experience, she knew that social work was her calling and began her Master’s degree. She graduated the University of Denver with her Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on clinical practice.
Heather has a passion and focus for working with youth and families. She enjoys providing individual and family therapy for youth and their caregivers and helping them navigate the stressors in their lives. Heather’s approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and applied through a biopsychosocial lens. Her training includes CBT, TF-CBT, CAMS, and she is trained in integrated behavioral health. Working as a clinical social worker in a community mental health center also helped her understand the need for wraparound care and community support for families. This experience ignited her desire to also look at systems level influences on families and the best ways in which to support the families in our community.
In Heather’s free time she enjoys hiking, biking, cooking, and spending time with her husband.
Mackenzie received her BSW from the University of Pittsburgh. She enjoyed the program so much that she continued straight on to earn a Masters in Social Work. While completing her degrees, Mackenzie participated in two internships and a fellowship. The areas of focus of these were addiction and mental health, health care social work, trauma-informed counseling, and social and emotional support. After relocating to Colorado, Mackenzie spent time working as a teaching assistant. With her love of children rekindled, Mackenzie decided to focus on supporting young children and their families. She loves being a part of the process in helping kids to develop new coping skills to live their best life. She has a passion for grief-work and understanding the effects of experiencing trauma at a young age on a person’s life. In her free time Mackenzie enjoys spending time in the kitchen, reading a good book, the outdoors, and hanging out with her dogs.
Steven is a passionate individual who feels incredibly grateful for his upbringing in Glenwood Springs. His strong connection to his hometown has been a constant source of inspiration. After completing his undergraduate studies at Colorado State University, he pursued a Master's in Social Work (MSW), driven by his commitment to social justice. Despite his introverted nature, he aims to dismantle systems of oppression. Having personally witnessed the warmth and support of his community, he is thrilled to return to his roots and give back to the place that has shaped him.
Bridget earned a Master of Arts degree in International Disaster Psychology from the University of Denver in 2013 and a BA in Sociology from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2008. Bridget has therapeutic experience working with youth and families in the school settings at Aurora Central High School, Place Bridge Academy, Carbondale Community School and Glenwood Springs Elementary School. In addition to her work in schools, Bridget has worked with families and children at The Kempe Center for the Treatment and Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect as an Instructor of Pediatrics, Program Manager and SafeCare Home Visitor, Coach, Trainer. Locally, Bridget has provided mental health services as the Lead Forensic Interviewer and Outreach Coordinator at River Bridge Regional Center and as the Clinical Supervisor of the Youth Recovery Center. Her therapeutic approach has a holistic framework and cognitive behavioral foundation. Bridget has published articles on Adverse Childhood Experiences, implementation of home-visiting programs and maritime piracy. Bridget grew up in Glenwood Springs and has three children. Her favorite things to do are travel, ski, mountain bike and spend time with her family.
Erin grew up in Boulder, Colorado and attended Colorado State University for both her undergraduate and Masters Degrees in Social Work. Erin obtained her LCSW in 2020, and has had the unique privilege of gaining experience in various settings such as community mental health, residential treatment and nonprofit work along the Front Range corridor and Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado. Erin has found her niche in school-based mental health services and utilizes a spectrum of clinical training to focus on the prevention of mental health challenges and suicide in young people and their families. You might see Erin riding her mountain bike around town or playing with her husky, Grizzly. Don't hesitate to say “hi!”
Gabby is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addictions Counselor who has been working in community mental health for over 5 years. She attended the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis and graduated with a master’s degree in social work in 2017. Additionally, she has a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and psychology from Indiana University. Gabby is passionate about improving the criminal and juvenile justice systems and has experience treating both adults and adolescents with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Her approach to therapy is holistic, strengths-based and person-centered and she is trained in a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR. She is most inspired by seeing her clients’ resilience and capacity for growth.
Paul earned his BA in Social Science at Colorado State University in 1992, and a Professional Teaching License from the teacher education school at the University of Northern Colorado 2 years later. After teaching in the classroom, instructing for Outward Bound, and a stint building cabinets, Paul returned to graduate school in 2004 to earn a MA in Counseling Psychology at Prescott College, concentrating in Adventure-Based Counseling.
Paul became a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS) while serving as a Primary Therapist at the Youth Recovery Center, an inpatient adolescent treatment facility housed within Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs. He went on to join the Roaring Fork Schools as a Prevention Specialist at Basalt Middle School, followed by work as a clinician in community mental health at Mind Springs Health. Paul’s counseling practice is grounded in CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. Outdoor adventure, wilderness experience, and plenty of good food continue to sustain Paul’s personal, professional, and family life.
Born and raised in the foothills of Colorado, Avy received her BA from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2008. After graduating she followed her wanderlust and her passion for working with youth around the world. She taught in South Korea, worked with refugees in Uganda, supported reforestation projects in Ethiopia, and eventually fell in love with experiential education. Avy spent a decade facilitating and directing international Gap Year programs, working with youth in India, East Africa, Latin America, and here in the American Southwest.
Recognizing the need for more mental health services for youth, Avy pursued her Masters of Social Work and graduated from Portland State University in 2020. Most recently she worked as a school social worker in Portland, Oregon. Her trauma-informed and culturally considerate practice is rooted in a client-centered and strengths-based approach. She draws from solution-focused, somatic, cognitive-behavioral and narrative techniques, and believes wholeheartedly in every client’s ability to find resiliency and healing.
Avy is thrilled to be returning to her Colorado roots with the Aspen Hope Center, and when she is not working she can probably be found out exploring the trails with her adventure pup.
School-based
Originally from Minnesota, Jim moved to the Roaring Fork Valley in 1995. On a family ski trip to Aspen and Snowmass at the age of 10, he immediately knew where and how he wanted to spend the rest of his life. Jim has worked for Aspen Skiing Company for the past 20 years with responsibilities ranging from Human Resources to overseeing Retail Operations. Jim is currently VP and Chief Human Resources Officer, overseeing all employee related functions for Aspen Skiing Company.
Prior to moving to Aspen, Jim worked at Pillsbury and Rollerblade, both headquartered in Minnesota. He also attended undergraduate and graduate school at the University of Minnesota. Jim is very active in our local community, serving on several boards including Roaring Fork Leadership and Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club. He is an avid alpine and telemark skier, snowboarder and biker.
Jim and his wife Laurie have two children, William and Taylor, who both love skiing. Jim’s passion is sharing every aspect of our amazing mountain lifestyle with his family.
Jonathan Shamis was appointed as Lake County Judge in Colorado’s Fifth Judicial District in 2013. He previously was Executive Director of Alpine Legal Services. Since 2015, he has served on the Colorado Suicide Prevention Commission and currently serves on the Colorado Task Force on Attorney Well-Being. He is currently working on a national effort to develop standards of judicial competence in mental health for all trial judges.
Lady Fuller is a serial entrepreneur, and currently CEO of IGC (International Gifting Co.). Lady has been in the retail space for 15 years, and is the former owner of the national chain of The Blues Jean Bar stores.
Lady served most recently as President of YPO Aspen from 2016-2018. She has appeared on CNBC’s The Profit, she is a recipient of ICSC’s coveted “Hot Retailer” of the year award, has contributed to Sheryl Sandberg’s “Lean In” blog and is currently writing a memoir and producing a documentary on Suicide.
Lady has an MBA from University of San Francisco and has a passion for entrepreneurs, traveling to remote places in the world, and the environment. Lady lives in Woody Creek with her family.
Nancy has been working in the behavioral health field in Colorado for over 30 years as a clinician, researcher, administrator, consultant and advocate. She is passionate about improving access to high quality mental health and substance use services across the state. She is currently the managing partner of Innovela Consulting Group, providing consultation on behavioral health system design and service delivery. During her free time, she enjoys racing sailboats and camping in the Colorado mountains.
Rabbi Mendel Mintz is the Founder & Director of the Chabad Jewish Community Center. He moved to Aspen together with his wife Lieba in 2000. They are blessed with six children.
Sallie Bernard has been a board member of the Hope Center since 2013 and is Board Member. She is the Board President of the James Kirk Bernard Foundation which was established in 2010 to honor the life of her son Jamie Bernard who died from suicide.
Sallie is the board president of Ascendigo Autism Services, located in the Roaring Fork Valley, which provides outdoor recreation, enriched community-based opportunities and clinical services for children and adults across the autism spectrum. Sallie also serves on the board of SafeMinds and is an active member of the Cochrane Collaboration’s Consumer Network. She spent over 20 years in the marketing business before devoting herself full time to non-profit work in 2005. Sallie resides in Aspen and enjoys the Colorado outdoors.
Sandy Iglehart is the Board President of the Hope Center, which she helped found in 2010 after losing her daughter Courtenay to suicide in 2009. Previously, she was on the board of the Susan G. Komen Foundation and served for 11 years in Aspen.
Her passion to eradicate the shame and stigma surrounding mental health has been a driving force, and continues to fuel her to help others, in honor and memory of her daughter. She is married to Jim, and has two children and three grandchildren living here in this valley. She lives a very active lifestyle and is committed to this community and its well-being.
Board
AHC Substance Use Disorder Disclosure
AHC and its clinicians, including its licensed addiction counselors (LACs), are only employed by AHC to provide crisis and other mental health services, and do not provide, and do not hold themselves as providing diagnosis or treatment for substance use disorders. AHC is not publicly identified as a place where only substance use disorder diagnosis, treatment or referral for treatment are provided; nor are AHC’s clinicians publicly identified as only providing substance use disorder diagnosis, treatment or referral for treatment nor are any of AHC’s clinicians’ primary function at AHC the provision of substance use disorder diagnosis, treatment or referral for treatment. On occasion, in cases where an AHC clinician, in the course of providing crisis or other mental health services, determines that an individual being served for a crisis or other mental health condition may have a co-occuring substance use disorder, the AHC clinician may (i) recommend that the individual follow up with a substance use disorder treatment program, (ii) provide the individual with information about substance use disorder treatment programs that the individual can elect to follow up with on their own, or (iii) refer the individual to a substance use disorder treatment program and arrange for the coordination of follow-up care with the substance use disorder treatment program. However, in such circumstances, it is not possible to infer that an individual referred by AHC or an AHC clinician (including LACs) has or likely has a substance use disorder or is receiving treatment or referral for a substance use disorder.