Originally from the suburbs of Chicago, I have been a Colorado resident since 2011. I recently received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. I obtained my undergraduate degree with concentrations in Anthropology, Sociology, English, and Art from Fort Lewis College here in Durango. My infinite curiosity and desire to learn, as well as my deep passion for the Durango community, all contribute to the work I do as a therapist. From a young age I have faced many challenges related to mental health in my family system. These challenges have led me to a depth of appreciation for the power of compassion, validation, and open-exploration of mental health difficulties. My goal is to guide others to integrate their life difficulties in healthy and productive ways so you can live the life you truly want to lead. I have experience working with grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and dream analysis.
I use an overall eclectic approach to counseling that works to determine which counseling approach might be best for you and your concerns. Overall, I follow existential, strengths-based approaches. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and have experience working with systems concerns. Often, I employ elements of Acceptance and Commitment based Therapy (ACT) which aims to explore and accept the various parts of ourselves. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to work with difficulties in our thought patterns. I have training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), a modality often used with substance abuse, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which often helps with emotional regulation concerns. I also am qualified to work with grief and loss and have experience using mindfulness/somatic based approaches for trauma.
In my free time I enjoy using nature as therapy in a multitude of ways, painting, and spending time with my loved ones.If you would like to connect further I would be honored to join you on your journey of self-exploration, healing, and growth. I strongly believe in the power of the circuitous path and the great growth which can occur with another by your side. Please reach out and we can take the next step in your deep and meaningful journey of self exploration together!
Meghan Doenges, LPCC
She/her/hers
970-422-3830