Serving Southern Colorado
Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy *Now offering Equine Therapy*
IT CANNOT BE OVERSTATED: IT MATTERS THAT PEOPLE MATTER
-Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Dial 988 -National Sexual Assault Hotline (free. confidential. 24/7)Call 800-656-HOPE -National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE
Remember YOU matter!
Congratulations! Leah Williamson, a school social worker at My Therapy Matters and Risley International Academy of Innovation, was named the 2023 Trailblazer of the Year by the Colorado School Social Work Association.
"I am here, I care." Leah Williamson
Our Amazing Clinical Team
Laura Reinert, PsyD
Darce DeWitt-Doctoral Candidate
Amanda Walter, MS Psych
Dr. Reinert is a Licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist who is bilingual in Spanish and English. She has 10 years of experience in offering talk therapy and in conducting psychological assessments for diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations. She can offer Pre-Bariatric Surgery psychological testing as well. She special
Dr. Reinert is a Licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist who is bilingual in Spanish and English. She has 10 years of experience in offering talk therapy and in conducting psychological assessments for diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations. She can offer Pre-Bariatric Surgery psychological testing as well. She specializes in working with adults and adolescents struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder. In addition, she has a background working with the forensic population. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills, Motivational Interviewing and Humanistic/Existential Psychology. In 2014, she received her Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University/California School of Forensic Studies.
Amanda Walter, MS Psych
Darce DeWitt-Doctoral Candidate
Amanda Walter, MS Psych
Amanda has a Masters of Science degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Forensics from Grand Canyon University. Prior to this, she received a Bachelors of Science from Colorado State University Pueblo, in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. Amanda has been working with those on the autism spectrum as a behavioral technician, provid
Amanda has a Masters of Science degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Forensics from Grand Canyon University. Prior to this, she received a Bachelors of Science from Colorado State University Pueblo, in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. Amanda has been working with those on the autism spectrum as a behavioral technician, providing behavioral therapy for those in need, for the last 3 years. She is striving to grow in the field of psychology by broadening her horizons in family, marriage, and couples therapy. Amanda is passionate about helping individuals and couples better understand themselves, as well as their partners and family members.
Darce DeWitt-Doctoral Candidate
Darce DeWitt-Doctoral Candidate
Darce DeWitt-Doctoral Candidate
Darce is a Registered Psychotherapist and Doctoral Candidate. She specializes in trauma informed therapy and provides Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment for her clients. EMDR is a specialized treatment that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress of disturbing and traumatic life experiences.
Kaylene Larimore, MSW
Kaylene Larimore, MSW
Darce DeWitt-Doctoral Candidate
Kaylene is a registered psychotherapist who received her master’s degree in social work from Newman University. She has experience with utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She focuses on a non-authoritative approach that allows clients to take more of a lead in discussions so that, in the process,
Kaylene is a registered psychotherapist who received her master’s degree in social work from Newman University. She has experience with utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She focuses on a non-authoritative approach that allows clients to take more of a lead in discussions so that, in the process, they will discover their own solutions. She listens without judgement and acknowledges the client’s experiences. She encourages and supports the client and guides the therapeutic process without interrupting or interfering with the client’s process of self-discovery.
Glenn Anderson, MFTC
Kaylene Larimore, MSW
Glenn Anderson, MFTC
Glenn is Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate. He has a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. He also has a Bachelors of Science from the University of Maryland College Park in Criminal Justice. Glenn specializes in Solution Focused and Narrative Therapy. Glenn works hard to establish a safe and productive therapeutic environm
Glenn is Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate. He has a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. He also has a Bachelors of Science from the University of Maryland College Park in Criminal Justice. Glenn specializes in Solution Focused and Narrative Therapy. Glenn works hard to establish a safe and productive therapeutic environment that allows clients to tell their stories, recognize their strengths, and re-author alternative outcomes by constructing positive solutions. Glenn's collaborative approach instills hope and motivation for clients that allows for their desired behavioral change.
Shandi Hajek, MSW
Kaylene Larimore, MSW
Glenn Anderson, MFTC
Shandi Hajek is a master level graduate from Colorado State University Pueblo. Shandi spent time in Albuquerque, New Mexico as she attained her bachelor’s degree at Highlands University. She worked
with at risk, homeless, vulnerable, and state custody youth. She also has spent time learning the DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) model and
Shandi Hajek is a master level graduate from Colorado State University Pueblo. Shandi spent time in Albuquerque, New Mexico as she attained her bachelor’s degree at Highlands University. She worked
with at risk, homeless, vulnerable, and state custody youth. She also has spent time learning the DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) model and MST (Multisystemic Therapy). Shandi is passionate about
seeing young people flourish and parents find confidence in their parenting skills. Shandi has worked in an acute treatment facility which helps support individuals with mental health diagnosis and in emotional crisis. Shandi is hopeful in achieving her goal to become an advocate for eliminating the
stigma around mental health and receiving services. Shandi takes the time to create a safe sharing environment for her clients and wants to help her clients see the great in themselves as they achieve their personal goals.
Leah Williamson, LCSW
Leah Williamson, LCSW
Leah Williamson, LCSW
Leah graduated with her Masters in Social Work in 2021 from Colorado State University-Pueblo and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She has experience working in crisis services as well as providing services as a mental health clinician in the Pueblo County Jail. She currently works full time as a school social worker/mental he
Leah graduated with her Masters in Social Work in 2021 from Colorado State University-Pueblo and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She has experience working in crisis services as well as providing services as a mental health clinician in the Pueblo County Jail. She currently works full time as a school social worker/mental health therapist and services an elementary school and middle school. Leah specializes in anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma informed therapy. She utilizes CBT, DBT, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and has a strength-based approach. Leah specializes in elementary aged children, adolescents and young adults, but works with all populations. Leah takes pride in never judging those she works with on their past experiences or present situations, but focuses on helping support the client in creating better futures for themselves. Leah is passionate about clients seeing their potential for positive change and working to create that for themselves with support. Leah plans to continue to grow her education by adding specialized certifications to offer the best care for her clients.
John Garcia, LPCC
Leah Williamson, LCSW
Leah Williamson, LCSW
John is a Professional Counselor Candidate and has his National Counselor Certification. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Spanish from Colorado State University- Pueblo in 2008. He completed his Masters of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2015. John has worked in the mental heal
John is a Professional Counselor Candidate and has his National Counselor Certification. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Spanish from Colorado State University- Pueblo in 2008. He completed his Masters of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2015. John has worked in the mental health field over 9 years and has experience with adults in multiple areas including Anxiety/Depression, substance abuse issues, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. He has experience in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. His passion is assisting clients from diverse backgrounds work to develop methods and coping skills to understand and overcome current issues and barriers as well as be prepared for future stressors. John works with clients with a variety of theoretical techniques and interventions in order to assist in managing irrational decision making, focusing on goals, and managing stress.
Julia Vargas, LPCC
Leah Williamson, LCSW
Julia Vargas, LPCC
Julia is a graduate from Adams State University with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. She has experience working with all populations and during her undergraduate studies emphasized working
Julia is a graduate from Adams State University with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. She has experience working with all populations and during her undergraduate studies emphasized working with the youth population. She recognizes the importance of talk therapy and her passion is to help clients discover their personal strengths to guide their solutions. Her goal is to help clients maintain a healthier and happier lifestyle as well as guide the personal change clients strive for.
Ashley Eakman-MFT intern
Ashley Eakman-MFT intern
Ashley Eakman-MFT intern
Ashley is a Marriage and Family therapy intern through North Central University. She has an undergraduate degree in art with a minor in psychology from Colorado State University of Pueblo. Ashley has experience working with the homeless, trauma, and individuals in crisis through treatment unit settings and on an outpatient basis. She ha
Ashley is a Marriage and Family therapy intern through North Central University. She has an undergraduate degree in art with a minor in psychology from Colorado State University of Pueblo. Ashley has experience working with the homeless, trauma, and individuals in crisis through treatment unit settings and on an outpatient basis. She has spent time learning, DBT, CAMS, MST, and Narrative therapy. Ashley strives to create a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients. She encourages growth and creativity within her client’s lives, to help clients create their preferred changes.
Amber Irving-LPC
Ashley Eakman-MFT intern
Ashley Eakman-MFT intern
Amber is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated from Walden University with her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Trauma and Crisis Counseling and from West Texas A&M University with a BA in Psychology. She has experience providing mental health, family therapy, and substance abuse tr
Amber is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated from Walden University with her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Trauma and Crisis Counseling and from West Texas A&M University with a BA in Psychology. She has experience providing mental health, family therapy, and substance abuse treatment in both residential and outpatient settings. She has treated people with domestic violence and sex offenses. She utilizes Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and impact therapy techniques to help her clients feel empowered to manage and overcome symptoms of mental health and interpersonal conflicts.
Jennifer Masson-LPCC
Ashley Eakman-MFT intern
Jennifer Masson-LPCC
Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate. She holds a masters in professional counseling from Adams State University. Jennifer also works as a full-time middle school counselor and has had training and experience working in clinical counseling during the Counseling Master’s degree program at ASU. Jennifer’s approach to the
Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate. She holds a masters in professional counseling from Adams State University. Jennifer also works as a full-time middle school counselor and has had training and experience working in clinical counseling during the Counseling Master’s degree program at ASU. Jennifer’s approach to therapy is in order to have fulfillment you need to be true to yourself. She also emphasizes that what you tell yourself becomes your reality. Jennifer has experience working with all populations but specializes in working with children. Children are her passion. Jennifer feels it is important to help and support the youth in our community as they are our future leaders. Jennifer utilizes the use of talk therapy by helping clients identify problems that are causing emotional stress. In using this type of therapy modality clients are able to discover solutions to their problems, gain their sense of self and explore their emotions. Jennifer also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) by helping clients learn how to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that have a negative influence on behavior and emotions. Through CBT, these thoughts are identified, challenged, and replaced with more objective, realistic, and healthy thoughts.
Joe Green, LPC, LAC
Orlando Rodriguez, MSW, CAS, LCSW, LAC
McKenna Arellano, MSW
Joe is a dually-credentialed Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with more than a decade of experience working with co-occurring disorders. He graduated with his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2011, and since then has worked with a wide array of populations and numerou
Joe is a dually-credentialed Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with more than a decade of experience working with co-occurring disorders. He graduated with his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2011, and since then has worked with a wide array of populations and numerous diagnoses. He works from a psychodynamic approach with an emphasis in Reality and Humanist approaches, and believes that a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship is the key to cultivating change.
McKenna Arellano, MSW
Orlando Rodriguez, MSW, CAS, LCSW, LAC
McKenna Arellano, MSW
McKenna graduated in 2022 from CSU Pueblo with a Masters of Social Work. McKenna has spent time at DHS working in Child Welfare and is currently a school social worker, working with middle school to high school aged students. She also volunteers with CASA (court appointed special advocate) and advocates for children in the court systems.
McKenna graduated in 2022 from CSU Pueblo with a Masters of Social Work. McKenna has spent time at DHS working in Child Welfare and is currently a school social worker, working with middle school to high school aged students. She also volunteers with CASA (court appointed special advocate) and advocates for children in the court systems. She is very passionate about overcoming childhood trauma and ending the stigma around mental health. She takes a solution-focused approach and helps clients overcome their traumas and turn it into success. McKenna creates a safe environment for clients to be in their most vulnerable state. "Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn't mean you can, should, or need to do it alone."- Lisa Olivera
Orlando Rodriguez, MSW, CAS, LCSW, LAC
Orlando Rodriguez, MSW, CAS, LCSW, LAC
Orlando Rodriguez, MSW, CAS, LCSW, LAC
Orlando Rodriguez is a Master of Social Work graduate from CSU-Pueblo, with his LAC and LCSW licensure and aspirations to carry his lived experience of personal recovery into a career field emphasizing substance misuse and mental health treatment. Orlando devotes his time to advocating for treatment and access to Substance Misuse and M
Orlando Rodriguez is a Master of Social Work graduate from CSU-Pueblo, with his LAC and LCSW licensure and aspirations to carry his lived experience of personal recovery into a career field emphasizing substance misuse and mental health treatment. Orlando devotes his time to advocating for treatment and access to Substance Misuse and Mental Health treatment for the Pueblo community, challenging the stigma of each by sharing his personal experience. He believes in a humanistic approach to therapy that honors an individual’s cultural and spiritual diversity and values while incorporating several techniques such as CBT, DBT, trauma informed care, and ACT. Ultimately, he hopes to utilize his knowledge and experience to help empower individuals in joining them on their path to wellness. “I don’t see people as puzzles to solve; doing so is a disservice to them. Everyone is unique, each with their own experiences. Sometimes, we can get in the habit of telling people what’s the matter with them rather than taking the time to ask what happened to them; and that can make a world of difference.”
Crystal Soto, MSW
Robert Caruso, Intern
Robert Caruso, Intern
With a steadfast commitment to enhancing the well-being of children, young people, and their families, Crystal Soto has dedicated the past 10 years to supporting individuals facing behavioral health challenges. Her impactful work has encompassed a resolute focus on fostering mental and behavioral health services for diverse populations w
With a steadfast commitment to enhancing the well-being of children, young people, and their families, Crystal Soto has dedicated the past 10 years to supporting individuals facing behavioral health challenges. Her impactful work has encompassed a resolute focus on fostering mental and behavioral health services for diverse populations within the state. Crystal's unwavering dedication extends to aiding children, young individuals, and families grappling with substance and mental abuse difficulties.
Crystal's mission is to orchestrate the state-wide expansion and enduring sustainability of High-Fidelity Wraparound—an indispensable component of Colorado's behavioral health care continuum. Simultaneously, she is deeply invested in cultivating transparency within the systems that underpin these essential services, a commitment that spans across all facets of care for children, young individuals, and families.
Crystal's academic foundation is a testament to her comprehensive understanding of human psychology and social dynamics. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Women’s Studies emphasis from Colorado State University of Pueblo, she delves into the intricate intersections of behavior and society. Bolstering her qualifications, Crystal has earned a Masters of Social Work from the same institution, augmenting her skillset and perspective. Notably, she is in the process of credentialing as a Licensed Addiction Counselor, further elevating her capacity to guide individuals towards recovery.
A perpetual learner at heart, Crystal Soto's thirst for knowledge fuels her pursuit of a Doctorate in Social Work. This commitment to ongoing education underscores her aspiration to remain at the vanguard of innovation and progress in the dynamic field of behavioral health. Crystal Soto's profound impact, anchored by her academic achievements, professional objectives, and unrelenting pursuit of self-improvement, make her an exceptional advocate and therapist in the realm of behavioral health support.
Robert Caruso, Intern
Robert Caruso, Intern
Robert Caruso, Intern
My therapeutic focus is on religious trauma, gay and bisexual men issues, spiritual
direction, disgrace, shame, depression and anxiety, and couples counseling. I am a pre-
licensed person-centered and Adlerian marriage, couples, and family therapist intern, active-duty Army veteran and chaplain with over 17 years of experience. Your counse
My therapeutic focus is on religious trauma, gay and bisexual men issues, spiritual
direction, disgrace, shame, depression and anxiety, and couples counseling. I am a pre-
licensed person-centered and Adlerian marriage, couples, and family therapist intern, active-duty Army veteran and chaplain with over 17 years of experience. Your counseling experience with me will be warm and inviting with a genuine focus on your struggles, hopes, and joys. My practice aims at creating a counseling experience that is humanizing and supportive.
I am not here to fix but to give witness to your pain and journey with you toward
better self-knowing and holistic health.
I meet clients where they are and work with them to achieve their life goals. I provide a
warm nonjudgmental listening presence to all my clients. You are no longer a stranger but a valuable guest when you enter my office. I foster a collaborative environment where you are an active co-participant in your healing process. I look forward to sojourning with you.
Education
MA in Marriage, Couples, and Families – Adler Graduate School
(Expected December 2023).
Doctor of Ministry in Military Chaplaincy – Wesley Theological Seminary
(Expected May 2024)
Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling – United Theological Seminary (May 2010).
MA in Religion and Theology – United Theological Seminary (May 2012).
Joy Neufeld, Intern
Robert Caruso, Intern
Joy Neufeld, Intern
Joy is currently a graduate student at National University working towards a master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a Colorado native. Her goal in therapy is to work with families, couples, and individuals on goals they would like to achieve. She enjoys working with adolescents and young adults on processing change and everyday c
Joy is currently a graduate student at National University working towards a master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a Colorado native. Her goal in therapy is to work with families, couples, and individuals on goals they would like to achieve. She enjoys working with adolescents and young adults on processing change and everyday challenges. Her main focus of therapy is experiential or emotion-focused.
BA in Criminal Justice, University of Phoenix
Master's in General Psychology., University of the Rockies
Our Wonderful Support Staff
Jen Hallam - Marketing Director/Business Manager
Jen Hallam - Marketing Director/Business Manager
Jen Hallam - Marketing Director/Business Manager
Jen is My Therapy Matters' Marketing Director and Business Manager. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Utah. She has previously served as the Marketing Director for multiple organizations including international businesses. Jen brings a creative perspective that enhances the clinical and administrative services provided by My Therapy Matters.
Karen Knerr - Administrative Assistant
Jen Hallam - Marketing Director/Business Manager
Jen Hallam - Marketing Director/Business Manager
Karen brings decades of highly skilled organization, secretarial work, and customer service dedication to our team. She is the first point of contact when you call to inquire about therapy. You'll enjoy her cheerful demeanor as she works with you to get scheduled with one of our clinicians. Karen enjoys time with her family, reading, and staying active at the gym.
Kim Colbert - Billing Assistant
Kim Colbert - Billing Assistant
Kim Colbert - Billing Assistant
Kim holds an associate's
degree in Veterinary Science. In 2015 she and her family moved to Pueblo where she took over as president of the family business as a Federal Postal Contractor. She has an extensive customer service background as well as strong community volunteer experience. She will be a strong point of contact for existing and potential clients.
Luke Hallam - Office Support
Kim Colbert - Billing Assistant
Kim Colbert - Billing Assistant
Luke is a hard-working, determined junior in high school, eager to hone his professional skills. Luke offers support to the office staff, assits with billing and does the heavy lifting with a smile on his face. Luke enjoys playing video games, running half marathons, performing card tricks, and hiking fourteen thousand foot mountains. He can make an amazing homemade alfredo sauce too!
Our Therapy
Depression & Anxiety
Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Trauma & PTSD
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing.
Relationships
Relationship counseling can be beneficial to couples and families who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection, in all stages of their relationship. Therapy sessions are held with the couple or family and is a supportive place to discuss issues and solutions to better strengthen your relationship.
Financial Information
Fees and methods of payment
Initial Sessions
The initial session is an opportunity to see if our services match your needs. Generally each session is one hour and is 130.00 dollars.
Subsequent Sessions
On-going therapy sessions are focused on your individualized treatment goals. These sessions are typically 53-60 minutes and are 100.00 dollars.
Methods of Payment
We accept Credit Cards, PayPal, Checks and Cash. My Therapy Matters also accepts: Medicaid, Kaiser, ParkCare Plus, Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, and United Health/Optum.