GET TO KNOW ME

Craig A. Freund MA, LPC

Because counseling is a deeply interpersonal process, it can be helpful to know a little bit about the therapist you’ll be meeting with. I try to be pretty open with my clients, so feel free to ask any questions in our initial meeting. I grew up in Logan, Utah and graduated from Logan High School as class valedictorian. I attended Colorado College where I played D-III football and received a BA in Psychology with a minor in Psychoanalysis. Having had a passion for helping, it was around this time, after spending a month studying at the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis that I felt called to become a psychotherapist. My early career in the field of mental health included working as a Mental Health Counselor in residential, crisis and hospital settings for almost 5yrs. During my graduate studies at Regis University, I completed a rigorous practicum where I began my practice as a psychotherapist. Under close supervision through video recordings and one-way mirrors I was guided by some of the leaders in the field. In addition, I was honored to be accepted to practice as a therapist intern at People House. My time at this competitive internship site and well respected organization, while under close supervision by highly experienced professionals, has further guided my abilities as an effective psychotherapist. I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis University where I grew not only as a psychotherapist, but also as a person. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Colorado, as well as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) by the Center for Credentialing in Education. As the founder of Elevated Counseling & Wellness, PLLC I am passionate about this work on a variety of levels!

In addition to being a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, I am a passionate writer and make regular blog postings, as well as engage in writing important mental health articles for various organizations, including The Good Men Project.  I continually look for ways to give back to the community and have volunteered my time at People House as Vice President of the Board of Directors. Currently, I donate my time as a a mental health consultant for Fishing the Good Fight and am always offering reduced cost services to those in need. I firmly believe that any successful psychotherapist must not only work to stay current on new research and evidenced based practices, but must continue their own personal work as they encourage their clients to do the same. Accordingly, I regularly engage in clinical or leadership trainings and continuing education, as part of my professional studies and responsibilities. I enjoy traveling, fishing, as well as sporting events and spending precious time with friends, family. and of course my dog Cooper. In addition to being a furry companion, at times Cooper can be seen around the office as a certified therapy dog through Professional Therapy Dogs of Colorado.

I believe that life is a journey, and our experiences shape the ways in which we view ourselves and the world around us. Having experiences working with adolescent and adult clients, I am effective at encouraging resiliency and personal growth. I strive to create a judgment-free, safe environment with true empathy and unconditional positive regard. I integrate theoretical perspectives that have been shown to encourage immediate and longer lasting change. My specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, EMDR and Men’s Issues. Believing that everyone is unique, I tailor my approach to each person and their individual needs. I am a passionate person and I work hard to help my clients reach personal goals and to discover new heights. I find it an honor and a privilege to help others to find hope and satisfaction on their life path, and hope that together, we will navigate the complexities of your life and reach new heights!