St. Raphael Counseling

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St. Raphael Counseling

St. Raphael Counseling

PROVIDING HEALING AND HOPE

(720) 377-1359

St. Raphael Counseling

St. Raphael Counseling

PROVIDING HEALING AND HOPE

(720) 377-1359

St. Raphael Counseling, the largest Catholic therapy practice in the country, offers individual, couple, family and school-based counseling. Spanning the Archdiocese of Denver, our team of clinicians provides therapy and counseling in alignment with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Get started today.

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ST. RAPHAEL LEADERSHIP

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

MICHELLE CONNOR HARRIS

DR. MICHELLE CONNOR HARRIS

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Michelle Connor Harris is a licensed clinical psychologist; has a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver as well as a master's degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the Illinois Institute...

GINA LANZ

GINA LANZ

Licensed Professional Counselor

Gina Lanz has been working with young people and families for over 20 years in the areas of school counseling, drug and alcohol abuse prevention, catechesis, and youth leadership. Gina's area of interest is...

DR. ALBERT PACE

DR. ALBERT PACE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Pace is a licensed clinical psychologist. He earned his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR. Dr. Pace works with adolescents and adults struggling with a...

MARK SANDERS

MARK SANDERS

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mark Sanders is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Addiction Specialist.  Mark is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, and the University of Pittsburgh (with a master's in...

ANGELA WALL

DR. ANGELA WALL

Licensed Clinical & School Psychologist

Dr. Angela Wall is a licensed clinical, and a licensed school psychologist. She received her doctorate from the University of Denver and has a Masters Degree from the University of Colorado. Dr. Angela has worked...

STACIE WEBB

DR. STACIE WEBB

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Webb is a licensed clinical psychologist. She received her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences (now Divine Mercy University) in Arlington, Virginia. She is a...

ADULT INDIVIDUAL

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

DR. ALBERT PACE

DR. ALBERT PACE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Pace is a licensed clinical psychologist. He earned his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR. Dr. Pace works with adolescents and adults struggling with a...

ALLISON ANYAMELE

ALLISON ANYAMELE

Licensed Professional Counselor

Allison Anyamele is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her M.S. in Clinical Psychology from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences in Arlington, Virginia. As a student of the Theology of the Body...

MARK SANDERS

MARK SANDERS

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mark Sanders is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Addiction Specialist.  Mark is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, and the University of Pittsburgh (with a master's in...

Sara Lugo

RAY CARLETON

Therapist

Ray comes to St. Raphael's Counseling with a wide array of therapeutic experience, given over 25 years of working with people across the lifespan. Areas of specialty include trauma healing, managing anxiety and...

JESURE EATON

MFT-C

Entering therapy as an individual, with your family, or with your spouse, can be very vulnerable, yet courageous. Jesure's goal as a Catholic therapist is to provide a space for self-acceptance and growth regardless of...

GRACE COLE

GRACE COLE

Licensed Professional Counselor

Grace Cole is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).  She earned her Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University.   She comes to St. Raphael's Counseling Counseling with a...

PEDRO PABLO

MA LPCC

Pedro is a Professional Mental Health Counselor Candidate. He earned his Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University, Sterling, Virginia, and his Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with...

FR. SALES PATHROSE

OFM Cap, MA, LPCC

Fr. Sales is a Franciscan Capuchin priest and a Licensed professional counselor candidate. He has a bachelor's in philosophy and theology. He graduated from St. Mary's University, San Antonio, Texas, with a master's in clinical...

DEREK RUSNAK

DEREK RUSNAK

MA, LPCC

It is a profound blessing to be able to share in Christ's healing ministry to his Church. As both a psychotherapist and a spiritual director, I bring a unique perspective to my work, blending both fields in collaboration with...

DR. RANDY VETTE

Postdoctoral Resident

Randall (Randy) Vette is a postdoctoral resident at St. Raphael Counseling working toward licensure for practice of clinical psychology. He completed a B.A. in Philosophy from Saint Mary's University of...

KATHLEEN WIDLUND

KATHLEEN WIDLUND

Licensed Professional Counselor

Kathleen is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota, and her MA in Counseling Psychology from the University of St.Thomas in St.Paul Minnesota. She is...

HANNAH IRRER

HANNAH IRRER

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Hannah her Bachelor's in Social Work from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her Master's in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh. Her previous experience includes conducting cognitive behavioral therapy...

MARY ANN LOOBY

MARY ANN LOOBY

LCSW, LAC, School Counselor

I enjoy helping clients to articulate their goals and create solutions for challenges in daily life, relationships, the workplace and career pursuits. I am energetic with broad counseling experience working in healthcare, schools...

CLARE ECKARD

CLARE ECKARD

MA, LPCC

Clare is a psychotherapist with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and concentrations in Crisis and Trauma Counseling as well as Christian Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is passionate about...

TIFFANY GUNNELLS

DR. TIFFANY GUNNELLS

Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Addictions Counselor

Dr. Gunnells is no stranger to the behavioral health field, having spent almost 25 years in the field in various roles, she has a passion to help people grow. Most recently she worked...

COUPLES

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

Sara Lugo

RAY CARLETON

Therapist

Ray comes to St. Raphael's Counseling with a wide array of therapeutic experience, given over 25 years of working with people across the lifespan. Areas of specialty include trauma healing, managing anxiety and...

JESURE EATON

MFT-C

Entering therapy as an individual, with your family, or with your spouse, can be very vulnerable, yet courageous. Jesure's goal as a Catholic therapist is to provide a space for self-acceptance and growth regardless of...

MARK SANDERS

MARK SANDERS

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mark Sanders is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Addiction Specialist.  Mark is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, and the University of Pittsburgh (with a master's in...

PEDRO PABLO

MA LPCC

Pedro is a Professional Mental Health Counselor Candidate. He earned his Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University, Sterling, Virginia, and his Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with...

KATHLEEN WIDLUND

KATHLEEN WIDLUND

Licensed Professional Counselor

Kathleen is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota, and her MA in Counseling Psychology from the University of St.Thomas in St.Paul Minnesota. She is...

DEREK RUSNAK

DEREK RUSNAK

MA, LPCC

It is a profound blessing to be able to share in Christ's healing ministry to his Church. As both a psychotherapist and a spiritual director, I bring a unique perspective to my work, blending both fields in collaboration with...


FAMILIES

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

LYSETH SILVA ORTEGA

LYSETH SILVA ORTEGA

Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate

Lyseth is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who received her Master of Arts from the University of Northern Colorado. She has a special passion for working with young children and their...

MARK SANDERS

MARK SANDERS

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mark Sanders is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Addiction Specialist.  Mark is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, and the University of Pittsburgh (with a master's in Clinical...

CAREER COUNSELING

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

DR. ALBERT PACE

DR. ALBERT PACE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Pace is a licensed clinical psychologist. He earned his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR. Dr. Pace works with adolescents and adults struggling with a...

CLARE ECKARD

CLARE ECKARD

MA, LPCC

Clare is a psychotherapist with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and concentrations in Crisis and Trauma Counseling as well as Christian Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville...

MARK SANDERS

MARK SANDERS

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mark Sanders is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Addiction Specialist.  Mark is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, and the University of Pittsburgh (with a master's in...

DEREK RUSNAK

DEREK RUSNAK

MA, LPCC

It is a profound blessing to be able to share in Christ's healing ministry to his Church. As both a psychotherapist and a spiritual director, I bring a unique perspective to my work, blending both fields in collaboration with...

JESURE EATON

MFT-C

Entering therapy as an individual, with your family, or with your spouse, can be very vulnerable, yet courageous. Jesure's goal as a Catholic therapist is to provide a space for self-acceptance and growth regardless of...

MARY ANN LOOBY

MARY ANN LOOBY

LCSW, LAC, School Counselor

I enjoy helping clients to articulate their goals and create solutions for challenges in daily life, relationships, the workplace and career pursuits. I am energetic with broad counseling experience working in healthcare, schools...


SCHOOL COUNSELING

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

GABI BEACH

GABI BEACH

LPCC

Gabi is an M.A. Candidate Intern for School Counseling and this is her second year at SRC. She received her Bachelor's in International Studies and Spanish from the University of Mississippi, and will graduate in...

MEG BECKMAN

MA

Mrs. Meg Beckman has been working with young people and families for over 20 years in the areas of school counseling, special needs advocacy, youth ministry, evangelization, and discipleship within the Catholic Church...

TRACY DIRRANE

LPC, School Counselor

Tracy Dirrane is a Licensed School Counselor (SSP) as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She received her bachelor's degree from Franciscan University in Mental Health and Human Services and her...

BELLA FARAJ MUSLEH

BELLA FARAJ-MUSLEH

LCSW-C

Isabella Faraj-Musleh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Candidate. Isabella received her Bachelor's in Social Work from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her Master's in Social Work from Aurora University. Isabella...

SARAH GREEN

Therapist

I am passionate about children, parenting and helping families come together in all aspects of life. As a school counselor I get to support and walk with children as they progress in academic and spiritual formation. My focus...

KIM MACK

School Counselor

Kim Mack has over 14 years of experience working with children, adults and families from diverse cultural backgrounds with a variety of needs. Kim is passionate about helping children and families strengthen and...

MARY ANN LOOBY

MARY ANN LOOBY

LCSW, LAC, School Counselor

I enjoy helping clients to articulate their goals and create solutions for challenges in daily life, relationships, the workplace and career pursuits. I am energetic with broad counseling experience working in healthcare, schools...

MISTY LOZANO

School Counselor

Misty Marquez Lozano started her career as a mental health provider after graduating from the University of Denver in 2004. She found her way working with at risk families struggling with various traumas. Since then...

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ILA ROSENGARTEN

School Counselor

Ila Rosengarten graduated from Boston College with a degree in English and received her Master's in school counseling from the University of Denver. Prior to joining the SRC team, Ila spent six years at Mullen High...

SIERRA PALARDY

Therapist

Sierra is currently a school counselor at Our Lady of Lourdes and has her Master's degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville. She approaches counseling through the...

ELIZABETH RACCA

School Counselor

My approach to counseling has always been grounded in the belief that every person is inherently good, deserving of healing, and capable of transformation. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals of...

KELLY WEAKLAND

KELLY WEAKLAND

LPC, School Counselor

Kelly Weakland is a Licensed School Counselor as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She received her Bachelor's degree in Dance and Psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder and her...

MARY WHALEN

MARY WHALEN

LSW

Mary Whalen is a licensed social worker (LSW), who received her Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University and her Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell...

ABY GARCIA

ABY GARCIA

MSW, LCSW

Aby is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Aby received her bachelor's degree in applied psychology from Regis University and her master's degree in social work from Metropolitan State University of Denver. Aby is...

TEENS (13+)

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

DR. ALBERT PACE

DR. ALBERT PACE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Pace is a licensed clinical psychologist. He earned his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR. Dr. Pace works with adolescents and adults struggling with a...

CLARE ECKARD

CLARE ECKARD

MA, LPCC

Clare is a psychotherapist with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and concentrations in Crisis and Trauma Counseling as well as Christian Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville...

HANNAH IRRER

HANNAH IRRER

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Hannah her Bachelor's in Social Work from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her Master's in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh. Her previous experience includes conducting cognitive behavioral therapy...

DR. RANDY VETTE

Postdoctoral Resident

Randall (Randy) Vette is a postdoctoral resident at St. Raphael Counseling working toward licensure for practice of clinical psychology. He completed a B.A. in Philosophy from Saint Mary's University of...

PEDRO PABLO

MA LPCC

Pedro is a Professional Mental Health Counselor Candidate. He earned his Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University, Sterling, Virginia, and his Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with...

MARY ANN LOOBY

MARY ANN LOOBY

LCSW, LAC, School Counselor

I enjoy helping clients to articulate their goals and create solutions for challenges in daily life, relationships, the workplace and career pursuits. I am energetic with broad counseling experience working in healthcare, schools...

GRACE COLE

GRACE COLE

Licensed Professional Counselor

Grace Cole is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).  She earned her Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University.   She comes to St. Raphael's Counseling Counseling with a...

LYSETH SILVA ORTEGA

LYSETH SILVA ORTEGA

Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate

Lyseth is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who received her Master of Arts from the University of Northern Colorado. She has a special passion for working with young children and their...

KIDS (4+)

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

DR. ALBERT PACE

DR. ALBERT PACE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Pace is a licensed clinical psychologist. He earned his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR. Dr. Pace works with adolescents and adults struggling with a...

CLARE ECKARD

CLARE ECKARD

MA, LPCC

Clare is a psychotherapist with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and concentrations in Crisis and Trauma Counseling as well as Christian Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville...

LYSETH SILVA ORTEGA

LYSETH SILVA ORTEGA

Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate

Lyseth is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who received her Master of Arts from the University of Northern Colorado. She has a special passion for working with young children and their...

PEDRO PABLO

MA LPCC

Pedro is a Professional Mental Health Counselor Candidate. He earned his Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University, Sterling, Virginia, and his Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with...

MARY ANN LOOBY

MARY ANN LOOBY

LCSW, LAC, School Counselor

I enjoy helping clients to articulate their goals and create solutions for challenges in daily life, relationships, the workplace and career pursuits. I am energetic with broad counseling experience working in healthcare...

ASSESSMENT

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

CHRISTINA BORDEAUX

DR. CHRISTINA BORDEAUX

Postdoctoral Resident

Christina is a postdoctoral resident here at St. Raphael Counseling. She received her B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She recently completed her Psy.D. in School Psychology at the University...

DR. ALBERT PACE

DR. ALBERT PACE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Pace is a licensed clinical psychologist. He earned his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from George Fox University in Newberg, OR. Dr. Pace works with adolescents and adults struggling with a...

DR. RANDY VETTE

Postdoctoral Resident

Randall (Randy) Vette is a postdoctoral resident at St. Raphael Counseling working toward licensure for practice of clinical psychology. He completed a B.A. in Philosophy from Saint Mary's University of...

INTERNS

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

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MICAH ELLALASINGHAM

Intern

Micah has a bachelor's degree from Franciscan University in Clinical Psychology, and is completing her final year of graduate school at Regis University in Marriage and Family Therapy. Micah has experience in...

TAYLOR EMANUELSON

Intern

My name is Taylor Emanuelson. I have a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults navigate the trials and tribulations they encounter in life. Counseling is an active and creative process between the client...

KATIE HAMPTON

Intern

Katie is from Boise, Idaho, and received her Bachelor's in Communication from Boise State University and is going into her third and final year of her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Denver Seminary. Katie...

CHAPLAIN

Empathy, Professionalism, and Fidelity to Church Teachings

FR. SCOTT BAILEY

FR. SCOTT BAILEY

St. Raphael Chaplain

Fr. Scott Bailey is a Colorado native and he serves as the pastor of Risen Christ Catholic Parish in Denver. Though not a therapist, Fr. Scott has a deep appreciation for counseling and has been chaplain for St. Raphael's...

Frequently Asked Questions

St. Raphael, the Archangel, holds a special place as the patron saint of healing, travelers and health workers, as highlighted in the Book of Tobit. His dedication to supporting and guiding those in need serves as an inspiring example for all of us at St. Raphael Counseling. We strive to embody his spirit of compassion and care in every aspect of our work. Our mission is to be your trusted guide, walking alongside you on your unique journey toward healing and growth. We believe that with the right support, everyone can find their path to wellness, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

We are a dedicated team of psychologists, school counselors, therapists and support staff united by a shared mission: to integrate the principles of psychology with the values of the Catholic Church. Since our founding in 2010, we have grown to become the largest Catholic mental health program of its kind in the United States. Our diverse team brings a wealth of experience and expertise, allowing us to offer comprehensive mental health services that cater to the unique needs of individuals and families. We are committed to providing compassionate, faith-based support to help you navigate life's challenges and promote emotional well-being, all while fostering a deeper connection to your faith and community.

St. Raphael Counseling is a comprehensive, community-based psychological service ministry dedicated to fostering emotional well-being and resilience within our families and parish communities. We understand that mental health is a vital component of a thriving community, and our mission is to provide the support needed to restore and strengthen these bonds.

Our services encompass a wide range of counseling and mental health resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals at every stage of life. We offer specialized support for children, teens, couples, families and even schools, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they deserve. Whether you are seeking guidance through personal challenges, navigating family dynamics or looking to enhance the mental health resources, we are here to help. Our compassionate team is committed to empowering individuals and families to achieve lasting well-being and connection, all rooted in the values of our Catholic faith.

At St. Raphael Counseling, we believe in meeting you where you feel most comfortable and supported. To accommodate your needs, we offer therapy both remotely and in-person, ensuring flexibility for individuals, couples, and families seeking to address their unique challenges. Our sessions typically occur on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, allowing for consistent support and progress in your journey toward healing. Our hours vary depending on the situation.

Each session lasts for 50 minutes, with a standard fee of $205. We also offer a sliding scale to ensure that our services remain accessible to those in need. 

Additionally, we understand the importance of insurance coverage in accessing mental health care. We accept a range of insurance plans on a limited basis, including UMR (through the Archdiocese of Denver), Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, and United Healthcare. If you're ready to take the next step, we encourage you to get started with us today. Your path to healing and well-being is just a conversation away.

Psychological assessment utilizes objective, scientifically validated tests to gain insights into how individuals think, feel and behave. This thorough process is essential for diagnosing conditions such as ADHD, learning disorders and autism spectrum disorder, as understanding these factors is crucial for helping students achieve their full potential.

Additionally, our psychologists offer assessments for men and women who are seeking to enter religious life, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their spiritual journeys. For more information about our psychological assessment services, please call 720-377-1359.

If you're seeking a Catholic therapist or psychologist to provide valuable insights on mental health topics for your organization, we're here to assist you! We offer a variety of prepared talks covering important areas such as parenting skills, supporting kids and teens with anxiety and depression and guidance for couples in marriage.

In addition, our speakers are happy to collaborate with you to create a custom presentation tailored to your specific needs. To explore our menu of topics and to inquire about rates, please contact us at 720-377-1359. We look forward to helping you get started!

Appointments can usually be scheduled during your initial call, often within just 1 to 2 days. We strive to make the process as convenient as possible, ensuring that you can begin your journey to wellness without unnecessary delays.

Sí, ¡St. Raphael Counseling se enorgullece de brindar servicios en español! Ofrecemos terapia con un terapeuta que habla español y contamos con un consejero escolar bilingüe.

Además, tenemos opciones virtuales disponibles con un terapeuta que habla español si prefiere esta modalidad. Para solicitar estos servicios, por favor complete nuestro formulario de solicitud e indique que el español es su idioma preferido.

Nuestro equipo está comprometido a garantizar que reciba el apoyo que necesita en un idioma con el que se sienta cómodo. Si tiene alguna pregunta o necesita más ayuda, ¡no dude en comunicarse con nosotros!

CATHOLIC SCHOOL COUNSELING PROGRAM

St. Raphael Counseling's school program is, quite simply, revolutionary and life changing. Nineteen Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Denver receive behavioral health services from this Catholic Charities ministry. Launched in 2011, this program serves students in individual and group counseling sessions, exploring emotions, overcoming challenges and developing essential life skills. In the last year alone, 10,000 counseling hours were committed to the wellbeing of students.

"I imagine St. Raphael Counseling as having two arms - our outpatient clinics and our school counseling team," shared executive director, Dr. Michelle Connor Harris. "Together, these two arms wrap around the Archdiocese of Denver, providing comprehensive mental health services, consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church, to families, priests, parishes and schools."

The school counseling program has emphasized the role of collaboration between parents, teachers, administrators and counselors, fostering a network that enhances students' overall well-being. By advocating for the importance of mental health, St. Raphael Counseling has helped break down the stigma often associated with seeking help in a school setting.

"Counseling, now more than ever, is so important for our children's formation. With everything the world is throwing at our kids in terms of social media, body image and countless other subjects, it is essential to have a trained professional in our building that is equipped with the tools necessary for our students' proper development, but also the faith that provides the foundation for having these important discussions," shared Erich Hoffer, principal of Bishop Machebeuf High School. "The staff that we have worked with from St. Raphael have been a brilliant mix of counseling expertise and devotion to our core values. They prepare our children to faithfully face an ever-changing world, while not relying on that world to shape who they are."

The growth of school counseling in Catholic schools through St. Raphael Counseling demonstrates a commitment to the holistic development and well-being of students, ensuring they have the necessary support to thrive in all aspects of life.

CATHOLIC SCHOOL COUNSELING PROGRAM

St. Raphael Counseling's school program is, quite simply, revolutionary and life changing. Nineteen Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Denver receive behavioral health services from this Catholic Charities ministry. Launched in 2011, this program serves students in individual and group counseling sessions, exploring emotions, overcoming challenges and developing essential life skills. In the last year alone, 10,000 counseling hours were committed to the wellbeing of students.

"I imagine St. Raphael Counseling as having two arms - our outpatient clinics and our school counseling team," shared executive director, Dr. Michelle Connor Harris. "Together, these two arms wrap around the Archdiocese of Denver, providing comprehensive mental health services, consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church, to families, priests, parishes and schools."

The school counseling program has emphasized the role of collaboration between parents, teachers, administrators and counselors, fostering a network that enhances students' overall well-being. By advocating for the importance of mental health, St. Raphael Counseling has helped break down the stigma often associated with seeking help in a school setting.

"Counseling, now more than ever, is so important for our children's formation. With everything the world is throwing at our kids in terms of social media, body image and countless other subjects, it is essential to have a trained professional in our building that is equipped with the tools necessary for our students' proper development, but also the faith that provides the foundation for having these important discussions," shared Erich Hoffer, principal of Bishop Machebeuf High School. "The staff that we have worked with from St. Raphael have been a brilliant mix of counseling expertise and devotion to our core values. They prepare our children to faithfully face an ever-changing world, while not relying on that world to shape who they are."

The growth of school counseling in Catholic schools through St. Raphael Counseling demonstrates a commitment to the holistic development and well-being of students, ensuring they have the necessary support to thrive in all aspects of life.

Internships

St. Raphael Internships web

St. Raphael Counseling's Masters Internship Program seeks to build on the skills developed during a masters student's education and training to form competent entry-level mental health clinicians who can function in a variety of settings. We prepare future mental health clinicians to navigate issues of diversity and multiculturalism through various learning opportunities and, most importantly, through direct clinical experience with a wide variety of clients.

FACES OF HOPE

Staying Stress-Free During the Holidays

The holidays can be a time of joy, connection and celebration—but they can also be stressful. Albert Pace of St. Raphael Counseling, a ministry of Catholic Charities of Denver, offers three practical ideas to help make the season more manageable. Setting the stage, Albert draws inspiration from the beloved holiday classic Christmas Vacation and points out … Read more

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When Prayer Becomes Painfully Impossible

By Derek Rusnak St. Raphael Counseling, a ministry of Catholic Charities Many people would rather endure electric shocks than be alone with their thoughts. This surprising finding from a 2015 study published in the journal Science echoes Blaise Pascal’s saying: “All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.” … Read more

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Connection Over Correction By Jesure Eaton, St. Raphael Counseling, a ministry of Catholic Charities

As a parent, God calls you to raise your children in faith and guide them through appropriate correction. However, there may be times when it feels like all you’re doing is correcting and directing. Whether your child is strong-willed or easy-going, each one deserves to be met with curiosity and connection. While correction is necessary, … Read more

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St. Raphael Counseling Prepares Teachers to Deal with Tough Subjects

As summer break 2024 ended, teachers at Holy Family High School in Broomfield prepared classrooms, revised lesson plans and reviewed student rosters. They reconnected with colleagues, met new teachers and agreed that summer had flown by. They also gathered for continuing education and team building. Representatives from St. Raphael Counseling, the largest Catholic therapy organization … Read more

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St. Raphael Counseling Expands Services to Support Mental Health in Catholic Schools

From a modest team of three school counselors in 2020, St. Raphael Counseling has quickly expanded its services within Catholic schools across the Archdiocese. Now with 15 counselors, one school-based therapist and one clinical and school psychologist in 20 schools, the ministry seeks to help every child attending Catholic schools receive the mental health services … Read more

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Rallying Hearts: Christ the King Church’s Remarkable Response to Urgent Donation Needs

“For I was hungry, and you gave me food, I was thirsty, and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.” Matthew 25: 35-36 In response to the increasing number of people in need throughout Colorado, … Read more

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Is it the most wonderful time of the year?

“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” is the timeless Christmas song by Andy Williams. It creates a beautiful picture of the perfect holiday season, where everyone is caroling and roasting marshmallows, where hearts are glowing. Everyone is telling you to be of good cheer! Doesn’t that sound lovely? This is the lyrical version … Read more

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St Raphael’s Volunteer Steps in to Help Schools Post Pandemic

Mental health is a hot topic in school systems across the country. To meet students where they’re at, St. Raphael Counseling’s school counseling team has grown, partly in response to the complex social emotional and academics setbacks stemming from the COVID pandemic. This expansion of school counseling throughout the Archdiocese of Denver stretching from Eagle … Read more

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Intentionality and Social Media

By Mark R. Sanders LPC, CACIII Catholic Charities of Denver’s St. Raphael Counseling I have a love and hate relationship with the internet. I must admit that my hobbies — watching English Premier League football and collecting Star Wars vintage memorabilia — couldn’t exist in the same way without it. However, there is also a … Read more

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Counseling team expands into more Catholic Schools across Colorado

COUNSELING TEAM HAS AMBITIOUS PLANS TO EXPAND INTO MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS St. Raphael Counseling’s robust and growing team has ambitious plans to offer counseling for every child in local Catholic schools. The team of compassionate and licensed counselors will double their days of counseling services in Catholic Schools this current school year and has plans … Read more

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St. Raphael Counseling: Children, families and seasons of change

By Mark Sanders, MA St. Raphael Counseling Those of us who are blessed to be parents constantly face challenges while raising a family – and the necessity to adjust our expectations, tactics and attitudes. As a father, I have found that this is one of the biggest opportunities for healthy growth. There may also be … Read more

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5 tips for managing back-to-school worries

As children are back in school and continuing to adjust to their new schedules, one of our experts from St. Raphael Counseling, a ministry of Catholic Charities of Denver, shares top tips on how to ensure it’s a smooth transition. By Stacie Webb, Psy.D., St. Raphael Counseling Class is now in session! Across the country, … Read more

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