About Life’s Hope Therapeutic Services
Colorado Counseling
A full service Colorado counseling practice serving Coloradans seeking therapy services for themselves, their relationships, and their families. Our in-person office is located in Westminster, Colorado.
Individual Counseling
Mental health therapy to address depression, anxiety, ADHD and lots more in individuals of all ages.
Couples Counseling
Strengthen communication and connection with the people you love. Life’s Hope is LGBTQIA+ inclusive.
Family Counseling
For parents and families seeking guidance and empowerment in their familial roles.
Why Life’s Hope Was Founded
Life’s Hope Therapeutic Services is more than just a mental health practice; it is a beacon of hope, a testament to compassion, and a driving force for positive change. Established in 2014, our journey began with a singular mission: to bridge the gap in mental health care for those with Colorado Medicaid. Over the years, our dedication has only grown stronger, and we’ve expanded our services to include a wide range of insurance options, ensuring that no one is left without the support they need.
We believe in the profound impact that mental health wellness can have on individuals and communities alike. It’s not just about providing therapy; it’s about fulfilling a personal responsibility to uplift the very communities we serve. At Life’s Hope, we embrace a trauma-informed approach, recognizing the importance of understanding and healing the scars that life may have left behind.
Our commitment goes beyond the clinic doors. We see ourselves as stewards of mental health wellness in Colorado. We are driven by a sense of duty to advance the cause of mental well-being, working tirelessly to remove barriers and create pathways for individuals to access the support and care they deserve. We understand that mental health is not a privilege; it’s a fundamental right, and we are here to ensure that right is realized for all.
Every day, we stand ready to make a positive impact, to bring hope where it’s needed most, and to empower individuals to lead happier, healthier lives. Life’s Hope Therapeutic Services is not just a practice; it’s a lifeline, a source of strength, and a catalyst for change. Join us on this journey as we continue to build a brighter, more mentally healthy future for Colorado, one person and one community at a time. Together, we can transform lives and make a lasting difference.
The Values That Guide Us
Our Mission
We connect families, children and adults to qualified counselors who specializes in trauma informed counseling that treat the whole person with respect, dignity and care no matter their insurance status.
Our Vision
We Accept Insurance
CURRENTLY IN-NETWORK WITH MEDICAID, BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD, OPTUM/UNITED HEALTHCARE, KAISER, CIGNA & AETNA
Colorado Counseling
Our Team
The highly trained therapists and administrative team members that create Life’s Hope are here to help you.
Chistina Murphy MA, LPC, CPP, NCC, CNED.
The founder, owner, and CEO of Life’s Hope. Chistina Murphy MA, LPC, CPP, NCC, CNED, graduated from Regis University with a Masters Degree in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She also has advanced training and certifications in clinical supervision, as well as co-authoring the book The Empowerment Model of Clinical Supervision.
Learn More
In addition, she was the President & CEO of the Griffith Centers for Children for over 4 years and served in various clinical and executive capacities at the Griffith centers for 11 years prior. During her time at the Griffith Centers she became certified as an Executive Director and was asked to join the private and powerful network of executive women at Chief in April of 2022.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Christina worked extensively with children who were in the care of social service agencies and were at risk of being placed out of home or in foster care. Her specialization in working with children is caring for the child and family as whole so that the “system” is healed and no one is left behind. Christina comes from a family preservation background which has enabled her to see the need to include the family in care of the child. While she has worked with children and for children, Chirstina also has worked with teens and adults and has been successful with helping those age groups move beyond their traumas to see hope and healing.
Due to Christina’s vast knowledge of clinical counseling and business background she worked to establish Lifes Hope Therapeutic Services PLLC, a mental health clinic located in Arvada, Colorado. This practice is unique in that it is designed with the clients in mind as well as the counselors. Her goal was to ensure that clients get the best individualized care while not burning out the counselors at the same time. Our unique model of onboarding, reasonable clinical case loads, and on-going support helps the counselors and clients have the best environments for hope, healing and the best therapeutic alliance available.
Mike Murphy, BA: Chief Operations Officer
Mike has a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology and has been in the field of mental health for about 10 years with Life’s Hope and as a volunteer in various capacities with other mental health providers. His background also includes being a Custom Trim Carpenter with his own business for over 20 years. Now he serves as the COO at Life’s Hope where he uses his expertise of being an entrepreneur to keep the office in order and all of the counselors supported!
Leslie M. Anselmo, MA, LPC, NCC
Clinical Supervisor
Leslie started the journey of becoming a therapist when she was diagnosed with breast cancer 11 years ago. During her treatment, she noticed that everyone was focused on her physical health but no one asked her about her mental health. She knows from experience that while everyone living with a life changing diagnosis is focused on physical survival, she believes you need to incorporate mental health as well. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space. In that space, you will practice real life experiences so when they present themselves outside of therapy, you have the tools to handle them with confidence.
Learn More
Leslie earned her Masters in Counseling from Regis University. Prior to joining Life’s Hope as a contract counselor, she worked with the underserved and underprivileged population in the northern part of Denver. At Safe Place Therapy, LLC Leslie used simple techniques to change negative self-talk and to process trauma. She also has 17 years of experience in the healthcare human resources field. She has experience with Autistic adults, women who have been sexually abused, those experiencing the challenges of motherhood and recovery from broken relationship.
LadyBug
Ladybug is a 6-year-old therapy dog and started at Life’s Hope in 2018. She specializes in helping the clients feel safe and at home when they are in session. Ladybugs favorite office pass time is running into each office and saying “Hi” about 10 times a day! Ladybug is a real social bug!!!
Our Private Practice Therapists
Highly trained therapists here to help you.
Vee Durian, MS, LSW: Mental Health Therapies by Vee
When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My greatest passion is helping individuals rebuild their lives one day at a time. I assist my clients, who include children, adults and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole and safe.
Learn More
Venissa’s skills include:
- Grief & Loss Counseling
- Functional Family Therapy
- Individual Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Mindfulness Meditation
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Anxiety, PTSD & ADHD Therapies
Joseph Bentley, LPCC Bentley Psychotherapy
Joseph’s career path has been inspired by education and experiential learning in various meditation, mindfulness, and holistic practices. Cutting edge research is showing cultivated daily practice in mind-body connection and mindfulness can be instrumental in transformation and skillfully moving through challenging emotions and experiences. Accumulated challenges, wounds, and stressors can be deeply impactful in personal and relational dynamics.
Learn More
Mindful awareness can be a foundational and powerful first step in the change process. Mindfulness, somatic based, attachment work, and integrative approaches can be instrumental in discovering more of ourselves and deepening our relationship with self and other.
In his work he incorporates techniques from mindfulness-based approaches/practices, Gestalt therapy, Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian Therapy), Transpersonal Counseling, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and parts work, among others. He is trained in and integrates Somatic-Based approaches (building the connection between mind and body) into his work.
Joseph’s approach is client-centered and humanistic, with the understanding that the individual is already whole, he facilitates individuals’ unique process in working toward goals, healing and growth, through challenges in relationships, emotions, mental health, and life experiences. Research has shown relationship can be an instrumental factor in healing, growth, and development and having a container with unconditional positive regard, validation, and empathy can be an integral support in healing and growth.
Joseph works with adults and emerging adults experiencing relationship issues, men’s issues, difficulty navigating life or career transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, interest in self-exploration, grappling with spirituality, or having difficulty integrating mystical or challenging experiences.
Joseph grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas and moved to Denver, Colorado three years ago and he is a master’s student at Naropa University studying Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling. He loves to snowboard, and he enjoys weightlifting, hiking, camping, traveling, meditating, reading, and being outside in nature. When he is not at work, he spends time with loved ones.
Ameerah K. LLC: Ameerah Kais, MA, LPC, NCC
I became a therapist because I believe that one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is our own love and acceptance. A deep understanding of ourselves is at the heart of healing and change. I believe in every person’s ability to heal and am committed to providing hope for all ages. My expertise lies in working with individuals who are suffering with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Learn More
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Candidate, receiving my Masters in Counseling from Regis University. Prior to joining Life’s Hope Therapeutic Services, I completed my internship hours as a community therapist where I provided in-home intensive treatment and case management for high-risk children and families. My approach is client-centered and solution focused. Utilizing the strengths of an individual to personalize a plan for each person. I am passionate about using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma – Informed Care during therapy.
Rachael Ruff MA, LPC-C
Rachael is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate working towards full licensure. She graduated from the University of Denver with a master’s in forensic psychology. Rachael works will all ages and is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Her previous experience includes: a registered behavior technician doing Applied Behavioral Analysis with children on the Autism spectrum; a deputy probation officer; an educator in competency restoration for people with traumatic brain injuries and developmental delays; and work as a therapist for legally involved juveniles.
Joey Stoops, LPC-C
Joey Stoops is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate working in Arvada and Boulder. He holds a master’s degree in clinical mental-health counseling from Naropa University, and works one-on-one with adolescents and adults, both in person and via telehealth.
Learn More
As a therapist, Joey holds that the stories we tell are an important part of who we are—and often lead us to uncover, confront, and ultimately heal the unprocessed pain we’ve been carrying. He believes that we don’t have any bad parts of ourselves; instead, we have parts that have become disconnected from the eternal Self, causing suffering and discord. By reconnecting these lost parts with the Self, we can begin to live more empowered, authentic lives.
Pamala Vaughn MSW, LSW
I came to understand how I have this ‘authentic approach’ and ‘realness’ that cultivates relationships with individuals. With over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families affected by trauma, depression, anxiety, and coping with life’s struggles, my ultimate goal and priority are to build trust where you feel safe and supported. Rather you are seeking support for the first time or you have a history, just know you deserve to be heard and your needs be respected. My approach in practice works is focused on assisting individuals to get connected to a healthier version of themselves.
Learn More
My passion is working with individuals, adolescents, early teens, and families, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Brainspotting, specializing in trauma-informed and healing engagement best practices. I value your journey and will commit to walking with you. My approach is fueled by knowing that everyone has a story that is waiting to be released.
Brooke Yingling, MEd, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR: Thinking Gray Therapy
Brooke works with teens and adults and specializes in anxiety, depression, food and body issues, and trauma. Her approach is warm and empathetic. She creates a safe and judgment- free environment for clients to open up, be their authentic selves, and share their story. Brooke uses a variety of evidence-based practices (treatments that scientific research shows to be most effective) and alters the practices she uses for each client, as each client is unique.
Learn More
Brooke holds a Master’s in Education and was a teacher for 11 years before transitioning into the mental health field in 2017, where she started working with adolescents with eating disorders. She received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis University.
Brooke utilizes CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in addition to other treatment modalities to best serve her clients. She and her clients set goals to work on, so they have a clearer path to walk on their therapy journey together, and she often gives out “homework” so clients can continue to learn and progress in between sessions. She incorporates humor when appropriate and tends to be direct, as she will gently challenge her clients to grow and become the best version of themselves.
Brooke is allied with several communities which means she has experience working with and advocating for several specialty populations including LGBTQIA+, sex workers, and veterans.
Leya Sylvester, LPC-C: Pathway to Peace Counseling Services, LLC
Hello, I’m Leya Sylvester, a dedicated counselor with a wide range of expertise. With a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)/Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), play therapy and psycho-education, I specialize in helping individuals of all ages navigate through various challenges. My passion lies in addressing women’s issues, supporting adolescents, and working with children.
I provide a safe and empathetic space for women to explore their concerns, such as self-esteem, relationships, and life transitions.
Learn More
Additionally, I have a strong background in working with adolescents, recognizing the complexities they encounter during this critical stage of development. Through a collaborative approach, I assist teenagers in managing stress, building resilience, and fostering healthy coping mechanisms.
Furthermore, I have extensive experience in play therapy, a powerful therapeutic technique for children. By utilizing play as a means of communication, I help children express their emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and navigate through various life challenges.
My goal as a counselor is to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts and emotions. I believe in tailoring therapy to each person’s unique needs, utilizing evidence-based techniques to promote growth and well-being.
If you’re seeking support in any of these areas, I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards personal growth and healing.
Sur Rae Coleman: In Depth Therapy
My name is Sur Rae Coleman, (she/her, Black/Mixed). Together, we will work to co-create an authentic, safe, and equitable space that cultivates kindness, honesty, and trust.
I am passionate about holistic wellness, honoring and integrating the unique wisdom of your identity and experiences in the pursuit of healing and wholeness. I approach therapy from a trauma-focused, multicultural perspective. I do this by collaborating with clients because I believe they are the true experts in their lives.
Learn More
I have worked with diverse clients exploring gender and sexuality exploration, racial-cultural identity, life transitions, managing stress and anxiety, navigating sexual wellness and relationships, and gender affirmation.
I utilize an integrative approach with my clients, which best suits their needs. My treatment approach is eclectic in nature, as I utilize methods from multiple treatment modalities including CBT, person-centered, solutions-focused therapy, meditation, and mindfulness practices. I provide humor, kindness, and empathy throughout my sessions.
I look forward to working with you!
Jadyn Madden
I firmly believe that every individual possesses an innate capacity for healing, even when that potential might not yet be visible to them. Guided by this belief, I collaborate closely with my clients, honoring their unique journey and fostering a sense of hope. In our therapy time, I strive to create a safe, caring environment. Through compassionate listening, empathy, and curiosity, I help individuals reclaim strength and healing.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, attachment Disorders, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Learn More
I specialize in providing support to people experiencing relationship issues, grief, anxiety, and depression. I understand the impact that trauma can have on each of these issues, and have experience working with survivors of childhood abuse, sexual assault, religious trauma, and domestic violence. I also have worked with many clients of LGBTQ+ identity. I have experience working with all ages.
My approach to therapy is rooted in genuine care for each client. This leads to a person-centered and attachment focused approach, meaning I believe in the power in connection and relationships. I know that it is an honor to be invited into the most vulnerable parts of someone’s life, and I do not take this journey lightly. That said, our therapy time together can still be full of laughter and joy! Let’s work together to find emotional freedom, a sense of well-being, and healing.
Ty Fischer
My name is Ty, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate for MFT-C in Colorado. I am also a Regis University graduate, and I trained at their Center for Counseling, Family, and Play Therapy. My practice is centered around play and family therapy, which I approach from a unique blend of solution-focused brief therapy and a strength-based perspective. I primarily work with children and their families, along with individuals of all ages, helping them find solutions and desired outcomes as they navigate life. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my golden retriever, Milo, and with friends and family. Some other hobbies I enjoy are hiking, working out, and reading.
Learn More
When working with children in a therapeutic setting, a traditional talk therapy
model may be less effective because children’s brains are growing and changing
daily, meaning it may be more difficult for them to understand traditional talk
therapy interventions to their fullest. Through time and research, child
psychologists established that children’s growing brains communicate best
through play.
“Play is the children’s language, and toys are the children’s words.”
– Gary Landreth, PhD.
Research on play therapy from the Association for Play Therapy or APA suggests
that play therapy can improve and support children with a variety of concerns,
including academic performance, ADHD, anxiety, depression, disruptive
behaviors, autism, PTSD, and many others. Overall, play therapy includes
effectively working through common mental health disorders while guiding the
child into growing up into a responsible, emotionally intelligent adult in today’s
world.
Blair Browning, LPCC
In our space together, no feelings are “wrong” – they’re all welcome. Let’s embrace the hard parts – scary, sad, intense, shameful, gross, angry, or embarrassing – because creating safety is crucial for transformation. And we ALL have those parts, so commend yourself for having the courage to show up for you!
The core of my therapeutic approach is rooted in radical self-acceptance, where the full range of your thoughts and emotions are acknowledged without avoidance or denial. It’s how we build safety for your mind and body as we explore your internal landscape. Our therapy sessions will be inspired by parts work, body-based somatic practices, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Learn More
Through these modalities, we’ll work on understanding and managing your thoughts and behaviors, enhance the mind-body connection, and address parts of yourself you feel resistance towards, fostering self-compassion and reducing self-criticism.
Imagine me as your co-pilot on this cosmic self-discovery journey! Together we’ll explore your inner universe, navigate uncharted galaxies, traverse black holes, and uncover the constellations shaping your unique path. I look forward to working with you!
Masters Candidate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, University of Northern Colorado (2024)
Jamie Williams, MSW-C : Holistic Souls Therapy
My name is Jamie Williams and I am a MSW-C (Master’s of Social Work Candidate). I have over 3,000 hours of clinical experience with individuals who have experienced trauma, substance use, and incarceration. I am also certified in MRT for individuals who are in need of more support post incarceration.
As humans, we need a space to “just be” before we can make change. As a therapist, I believe all of our experiences within our lives play a role in our mental health and lack of connection with the self. Everyone has a story, and no story is the same. This is where the idea of “Holistic Souls Therapy PLLC” came into play.
Learn More
According to SAMSHA there are 8 dimensions of “Wellness” that contribute to the “holistic approach.”
They are:
Environmental
Intellectual
Emotional
Physical
Financial
Spiritual
Social
Occupational
As humans, we deserve the right of connection, understanding, and living life instead of merely surviving.
I utilize DBT techniques to assist with the connection to the self, connection of others, and connection with something “greater” than us. I utilize the 4 components of DBT that consist of mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
If this resonates with you, please reach out for a consultation.
Deana Bianco, CMHC
I work side by side with clients to help them use their compass and assist them in using it with curiosity and self-assurance. In a safe, secure environment, clients will learn how to maneuver through life and develop skills to help them navigate challenging thoughts and situations through a holistic (mind, body, spirit) lens. Together, we can reach your therapeutic goals.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to counseling individuals. My therapeutic
approach is through a biopsychosocial mindful lens, including inner child work, mindful exercises, somatic practices, and attachment theory. I have a Master of Arts degree from the University of Colorado in Denver: Clinical Mental Health. I spent my clinical internship hours working with clients dealing with addiction, family relationships, transition, grief, and trauma.
Learn More
In addition to being a counselor, I am a journalist who has freelanced for publications such as Vice, Teen Vogue, Business Insider, and Allure. I am also a trail runner, avid reader, and a DJ at a community radio station.