Jetika’s Journey to Becoming a Counselor
I was born and raised in Connecticut, always surrounded by nature, animals, and art, three things that still hold important value in my life and that I am grateful to say I get to work with in my profession. From as young as I can remember, I always knew that my future would involve helping others. As a teen struggling to find the light most days, I began to learn about the mind and how our experiences can shape us. Deepening into my curiosity, I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in research. At the time, I was doing research that focused on yoga interventions with veterans suffering from PTSD; this was the beginning of my journey in naturopathic medicine. Wanting to grow my ability to assist others through life’s struggles in a holistic way, I pursued a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Throughout this journey, I began to find appreciation for my dark times, recognizing how pivotal they were to the growth of my self-understanding. From that awareness sprouted self-love and the beginning of healing. It has now become a passion of mine to help others grow their sense of self and find acceptance, understanding and peace in their lives.
Jetika’s Approach to Counseling
As a counselor, I view people from a “what happened to you” lens rather than a “what’s wrong with you” lens. I believe that so much of who we are today stems from the experiences that we went through in the past and the coping mechanisms that we formed to handle them. In a world fueled by competition and comparison, I strive to create a space for people where they can feel safe to be themselves and where self-love can grow and flourish. In practice I utilize talk therapy, art therapy, nature therapy and experiential activities. I also work in play therapy and animal-assisted therapy. My hope is to be able to help clients come into relationship with their mind, body, emotions, spirit/soul so that they may be able to step into lives that feel meaningful and authentic to who they are.
Jetika’s Desired Specialties
I am interested in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who have experienced or are experiencing:
- Trauma
- Anxiety
- Self-Esteem/Confidence
- Depression
- Relationships
- Substance Abuse
- Life Transitions
Degrees, Memberships, & Trainings
- Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Regis University (CACREP)
- Bachelors of Arts in Psychology (Research Concentration) – University of Connecticut
- Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) – State of Colorado
- American Counseling Association (ACA) Member
I am currently getting certified in Gestalt Equine Psychotherapy through the Gestalt Equine Institute of the Rockies.