We Believe in Combining Compassionate Care with Proven Expertise

At Sacred Self Counseling, our journey began with a deep understanding of trauma and a commitment to serving those who often fall through the cracks. Our founder, Alyssa Klugh, comes from a family of first responders and has witnessed firsthand the unspoken toll that trauma can take on those who dedicate their lives to serving others. From the sleepless nights to the constant battle of keeping it together when the world feels like it’s falling apart, Alyssa saw how trauma can strip away one’s sense of self, safety, and worth.

It became clear to Alyssa that there wasn’t enough being done to support the mental health of first responders, trauma survivors, and their families.

These are the individuals who show up for others every single day, yet when they reach their breaking point, they often find themselves alone, misunderstood, or overlooked. 

Alyssa knew that it was time to create a space that wasn’t just another “how does that make you feel” therapy session, but one that offered real, evidence-based solutions with genuine compassion and understanding.

This is why Sacred Self Counseling was born—to be the place where people can experience therapy that’s pragmatic, tailored to their unique stories, and rooted in the belief that healing isn’t about changing who you are, but rediscovering the strength that has always existed within you. 

We believe that therapy should be a journey of uncovering and reclaiming the parts of yourself that have been buried under years of stress, pain, and survival mode.

The Team That’s Ready to Support You

When you reach out, you’ll be matched with the right therapist for you. 

Alyssa Klugh, LPCS, CAS

Offering Comprehensive Counseling Services, Group supervision for professionals, and couples intensives 

Alyssa Klugh brings years of dedication and passion to her role as a substance abuse counselor, having worked with diverse populations since 2008. Alyssa believes that the most important relationship we have is with ourselves, and she’s committed to helping her clients rediscover this sacred connection. Her approach is direct, pragmatic, and focused on guiding individuals through their past traumas while building practical skills for managing relationships and life.

Alyssa's background includes working within various educational settings, probation, and the Department of Human Services, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the challenges individuals face. Her ultimate goal is to help clients rebuild their self-love, set healthy boundaries, and find joy in life. Alyssa is also dedicated to nurturing the next generation of counselors, offering practicum and internship opportunities for students eager to make a difference.

Stephanie Van Wijk, LPC

Children, adolescents & adults 

Stephanie has worked in the counseling field since her undergraduate studies at Western State Colorado University, where she began as a domestic violence victim advocate. She later transitioned into corrections while completing her master’s degree in 2018 and has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2022.

Stephanie uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and grief work to support healing. Her goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel comfortable beginning their healing journey.

Tina Bezona, LPC

Specializing in Adults

With over 25 years of experience, Tina Bezona has devoted her career to guiding adults through their journey to overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. Holding a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Adams State University, Tina offers a practical, goal-oriented approach to therapy, rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She’s committed to meeting each client where they are, tailoring her approach to support them in achieving meaningful change. Tina’s expertise includes EMDR and her full provider status with the Sex Offender Management Board, underscoring her dedication to offering compassionate, evidence-based care.

Catherine Desponette, LMFT, LAC, SAP, PRE

Specializing in treating adults


I’m a trauma-informed therapist specializing in relationships, addiction, and life transitions. As an LMFT, LAC, and SAP, I work with individuals, couples, and families to address communication, recovery, and emotional well-being.

Using evidence-based tools and a compassionate, collaborative approach, I help clients find clarity, rebuild trust, and move toward lasting change.

Brianne Ireland, MA

Empowering Adolescents, Children & Adults Through Creativity

I'm a passionate advocate for healing through creativity and empathy. My journey began with a degree in Music Performance from the University of Kansas in 2019, where I discovered the profound impact of artistic expression on emotional well-being.

Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, I integrate my background in music, dance, and writing into therapy sessions, fostering a holistic approach to healing. My therapeutic style is person-centered, rooted in the belief that every individual possesses the innate tools needed to achieve their goals and cultivate resilience.

I am dedicated to supporting individuals through their trauma by providing a safe space to explore and heal. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and personal growth.

Elizabeth Miller, LPC

Supporting Adolescents & Adults in Their Journey to Growth

Elizabeth Miller's path to counseling began during her time in education, where she discovered her passion for supporting individuals beyond academics. Now a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate at Sacred Self Counseling, Elizabeth integrates various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, CBT, and DBT, to offer a tailored approach to each client. Her holistic, person-centered practice aims to help individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.

Jamie Soucie, LPC

Healing Adults & Couples with Over Two Decades of Experience

Jamie Soucie’s journey in mental health spans over 20 years, starting as a Sex Offender Therapist with the Colorado Department of Corrections. Now specializing in trauma treatment for first responders, Jamie's practice centers on creating a secure space where clients can explore their burdens and begin their healing journey. With her pursuit of a PhD in Psychology, Jamie's commitment to advancing her knowledge and mentoring future mental health professionals is evident in her work. Her approach is one of compassion, expertise, and a steadfast dedication to helping clients find clarity and meaningful change.

Amy Bergant, MSW

Supporting Adults & Adolescents with Compassion and Expertise

With over seven years of experience in mental health, Amy Bergant offers a unique blend of empathy and evidence-based practices to support adolescents and adults. Armed with a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California, Amy focuses on helping teenagers navigate the complexities of life with resilience and self-discovery. Outside of her work, Amy finds inspiration in nature, grounding herself in its serene beauty, which she brings into her therapeutic practice. Her mission is to empower clients to thrive, equipping them with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges.


Kari Yamada, MA Intern

Services for children & Adolescents 

EMDR & TF-CBT Trained | LGBTQ+ Affirming | Trauma-Informed

Kari is a clinical intern at Sacred Self Counseling and a graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. She brings a compassionate, trauma-informed approach with specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT.

Kari supports clients navigating trauma, anxiety, identity, and life transitions, with a focus on survivors of abuse and LGBTQ+ individuals. Her background in crisis support with the Trevor Project and 988 Lifeline informs her grounded, nonjudgmental presence.

She is passionate about creating a safe, empowering space for healing and growth.

Leah Gonzales, MA, LPCC, LACC

Helping Adults & Couples Reconnect with Themselves

Leah Allen is a dedicated mental health professional specializing in trauma and addiction treatment. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) and Licensed Addiction Counselor Candidate (LACC), Leah brings strong clinical expertise and a compassionate, client-centered approach to her work.

She holds a Master of Arts in Developmental Psychology and earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in March 2025, allowing her to integrate a deep developmental lens into clinical practice. Leah is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and is certified in AcuDetox, supporting addiction recovery, emotional regulation, and stress reduction.

Leah practices from a trauma-informed, person-centered framework, drawing from reality therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and evidence-based practices to empower clients to build insight, resilience, and meaningful change. She values collaboration and autonomy in the therapeutic relationship and often incorporates nature-based and mindfulness strategies to promote holistic healing, grounding, and mental clarity.

Leah is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, reconnect with their strengths, and move toward lasting growth and recovery.

Jessica Smith, LPC, LAC

Helping Adults to build skills to navagate life

Jessica Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Addition Counselor (LAC) based in Canon City, Colorado and working with client's statewide via telehealth. She completed her graduate degree in clinical counseling with the University of Northern Colorado. She works with adults of all ages and specialize in anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, addictions, self-injury, trauma, and adjustment concerns. She utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy comprehensive/skills training. She feels these modalities help client's gain skills to navigate lives' difficulties and work towards living a life that is fulfilling.

Gary Wade, Life Coach

Supporting Adults as they Navagate life challenges 

Meet Gary Wade, a dedicated father of two and a six-year veteran of law enforcement, now embarking on an exciting new chapter as a life coach. Rooted in a foundation of service from his time in the US Army, Gary brings a disciplined and dedicated approach to empowering others. Having navigated the complexities of life, including divorce, he deeply understands the importance of a strong family foundation, the discipline of maintaining peak physical fitness, and the pursuit of overall life happiness, often finding joy and rejuvenation through outdoor adventures. His diverse experiences have forged in him a unique blend of empathy, resilience, and a passion for guiding others toward their own fulfilling lives.

Detrich Hay, LPCC

Helping Clients Connect to their true selves

Detrich Hay is a veteran from Las Vegas, Nevada, and a dedicated mental health professional since 2018. At Sacred Self, he supports first responders by integrating his military background with an existential approach, meeting clients where they are. Trained in CBT, DBT, and ACT, he tailors his approach to each client’s unique needs, helping them build resilience and balance in high-stress environments.

Tracy Sockriter, MA

Addiction Counseling | Trauma-Informed Care | Holistic Wellness


Tracy is an Addiction Counselor Candidate and Registered Psychotherapist with advanced degrees in behavioral science, psychology, and health & wellness. She has experience facilitating mental health groups, leading wellness workshops, and providing trauma-informed, holistic care. Tracy holds certifications in suicide prevention, pastoral care, chaplaincy, and Mental Health First Aid.




Hannah Olson, LPCC

Trauma-Informed | Children and adolescents and adults

Hannah Olson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who earned her degree in Counseling Education from Western Michigan University. Since graduating in 2018, she has spent the past eight years working in the mental health field, developing a strong foundation in supporting children, adolescents, and their parents.

Hannah is passionate about helping young people and families navigate periods of growth, transition, and emotional development. She brings a warm, thoughtful presence to her work and is committed to creating a supportive space where clients feel understood, encouraged, and empowered as they move through life’s changes.

Deaven Sais, MA Intern

Trauma Informed Adolescents and Adults 

Deaven Sais is a counseling intern in Colorado, graduating in December 2025 with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Substance Use Disorders from Colorado Christian University. She brings over two years of experience in correctional and clinical settings.

Deaven is passionate about supporting clients navigating personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum challenges, and trauma recovery. Her work is grounded in a trauma-informed, person-centered approach and integrates DBT skills and expressive arts to support healing, insight, and emotional regulation.

Shelby Hill, LPCC

Holistic | Trauma-Informed | EMDR Trained

Shelby is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who offers holistic, trauma-informed therapy for adolescents, adults, and groups. She integrates somatic practices, energetic awareness, and relational presence to support deep healing.

Trained in EMDR and HeartMath, Shelby also incorporates breathwork, mindfulness, meditation, and mind-body consciousness to help clients reconnect with their innate wisdom. Her approach is shaped by both professional training and lived experience, allowing her to provide a grounded, empathetic, and genuine therapeutic presence.

Tristi Buchanana, MA Intern 

Trauma Informed Children, adolescents, Adults 

Tristi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With over 10 years of experience in healthcare, she brings a strong foundation of compassion, professionalism, and real-world insight to her work.

Tristi has experience working with troubled youth and is deeply committed to expanding her training and clinical skills as a children’s therapist. She is passionate about helping meet a growing need in the community by supporting children and families with thoughtful, attentive, and developmentally informed care.

Deaven Sais, MA Intern

Trauma Informed Adolescents and Adults 

Deaven Sais is a counseling intern in Colorado, graduating in December 2025 with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Substance Use Disorders from Colorado Christian University. She brings over two years of experience in correctional and clinical settings.

Deaven is passionate about supporting clients navigating personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum challenges, and trauma recovery. Her work is grounded in a trauma-informed, person-centered approach and integrates DBT skills and expressive arts to support healing, insight, and emotional regulation.

Tracy Sockriter, MA

Addiction Counseling | Trauma-Informed Care | Holistic Wellness


Tracy is an Addiction Counselor Candidate and Registered Psychotherapist with advanced degrees in behavioral science, psychology, and health & wellness. She has experience facilitating mental health groups, leading wellness workshops, and providing trauma-informed, holistic care. Tracy holds certifications in suicide prevention, pastoral care, chaplaincy, and Mental Health First Aid.




Hannah Olson, LPCC

Trauma-Informed | Children and adolescents and adults

Hannah Olson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who earned her degree in Counseling Education from Western Michigan University. Since graduating in 2018, she has spent the past eight years working in the mental health field, developing a strong foundation in supporting children, adolescents, and their parents.

Hannah is passionate about helping young people and families navigate periods of growth, transition, and emotional development. She brings a warm, thoughtful presence to her work and is committed to creating a supportive space where clients feel understood, encouraged, and empowered as they move through life’s changes.

Deaven Sais, MA Intern

Trauma Informed Adolescents and Adults 

Deaven Sais is a counseling intern in Colorado, graduating in December 2025 with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Substance Use Disorders from Colorado Christian University. She brings over two years of experience in correctional and clinical settings.

Deaven is passionate about supporting clients navigating personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum challenges, and trauma recovery. Her work is grounded in a trauma-informed, person-centered approach and integrates DBT skills and expressive arts to support healing, insight, and emotional regulation.

Disclaimer

Sacred Self Counseling is a collaborative group practice. Our clinicians practice independently and bring their own professional training, judgment, and experience to their work. Each provider maintains responsibility for their own clinical services, while Sacred Self offers shared resources, space, and administrative support.

We empower trauma survivors and first responders to heal and reconnect through evidence-based therapy

At Sacred Self Counseling, our mission is to empower trauma survivors and first responders to heal and rediscover themselves through evidence-based therapy. With over 80 years of combined experience, our team brings compassion, expertise, and a no-nonsense approach to the therapeutic process.

We do more than ask “how does that make you feel?” here.

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