Emily Aughenbaugh, LMFT, LAC, BSW, CATP, CST
– Therapist –
About Me
I was born and raised in Castle Rock, CO and have lived here for the vast majority of my life. However, my thirst for adventure lead me to attend college in Kansas on a cheerleading scholarship, and then to move to Texas for a short time afterwards. I ultimately headed back to my home state of Colorado to plant my roots, and have lived here ever since then.
I really enjoy spending my free time working out, hiking, or reading. Colorado’s beautiful scenery offers the perfect environment for these hobbies, so I try to get outside to do those things whenever I can. When I get together with friends or family, we love to play a variety of board games and card games.
“I thoroughly enjoy helping people find solutions to the problems that they face in their own lives, and make the necessary changes in their thoughts or behavior to work toward their goals.”
My Background
I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Metro State University, and subsequently pursued a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University.
Since graduating with my MA, I have continued my education further by completing additional certifications in CBT and DBT, and have become a Licensed Addiction Counselor, Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Therapist, as well.
Both my formal education and my work history has prepared me to provide support to individuals and couples of all ages with a wide range of needs. I began my career working with those who have been impacted by the criminal justice system, Child Welfare, as well as those involved with adoption services. Additionally, I spent some time as a high-school counselor, and have also worked at a Sober Living Community before coming to Relate Family Therapy.
My Approach
When working with children, pre-teens and adolescents, a huge part of therapy sessions include the use of creative interventions such as Play, artistic expression, and sand tray activities, to bring about healing in a fun and natural way. I strive to provide a safe and creative place for children to enjoy coming to on a weekly basis, while also providing therapeutic support and intervention relevant to their needs.
When working with adults, I provide direct communication as well as creative assessments to not only build a connection with my client but to ensure that the work that we are doing is guided and appropriate to their specific needs.
I work with individuals and families in a range of situations. For example, I offer co-parent coaching for those who want to improve their co-parenting skills, and I offer discernment therapy for couples who are trying to decide whether or not to continue with their relationship.
“I want you to feel as though there is someone on your side in your darkest moments.”
In a therapy session, I will utilize the most relevant evidence-based practices that would best fit your needs and work towards your goals. To do this, I often use narrative-based therapy techniques, as well as CBT and DBT to help you process the past and create new habits for the future. My approach to therapeutic treatment is Solution-Focused, so I might also incorporate Motivational Interviewing to assist with stretching your comfort zone and taking steps forward.