Meet Our Team
Cathryn Derman, LPC, LMFT, ACS – Founder
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I’m Cathryn Derman, founder of Movement Counseling + Wellness. After years of working in a variety of clinical settings, in 2019 I launched a therapy practice. I aim to offer a multi-faceted approach to wellness from a team of like-minded and creative individuals. When providing care, I ask the question “Where have you been and what have you experienced?” instead of “What is wrong with you?". Each client is tasked with setting personal therapy goals so that we can work together in a specific direction.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a trained EMDR clinician specializing in a holistic, whole-body approach to diagnosis and treatment. As an avid animal lover, I frequently incorporate animals into my work. My dogs, Luke and Lucy, are trained therapy dogs who share time in the office.
In 2013, I received a Master of Science degree in Marriage, Child and Family Therapy. I started my therapeutic career working with adolescents in a substance abuse treatment program and in community mental health. I have been in private practice since 2014. In addition, I served as a clinical supervisor with the WINGS Foundation.
Although I love Colorado, I am a proud New Englander. I am from south of Boston and received my BA in Music from Middlebury College in Middlebury, VT. I am a devoted fan of all Boston sports teams. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my animals and my friends, and listening to true crime podcasts.
In addition to my Colorado licenses, I am a Vermont Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I can provide telehealth to Florida residents, and I maintain a Florida Telehealth Provider registration.
Welcome to Movement Counseling + Wellness! We’re so glad you’re here.
Sierra Smith, LPC
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Hi! My name is Sierra and I am a wellness enthusiast. There are many components of holistic health and it is my passion to help others connect with themselves emotionally, physically, and mentally. I am also a personal trainer and find such value and intention in the way we move our bodies. Exercising and nourishing our bodies is not only amazing for our physical health, but there are arguably more reasons why it is even better for your mental health.
Therapy is not bound to a couch and four walls; the healing benefits of therapy can take place in nature, through music, and experienced through various movements like dance, lifting, spin class, yoga, hiking, etc. As a therapist and personal trainer, it is of most importance that I take a unique approach with every person I work with. I love working with client-created goals, fostering accountability, and motivating my clients to be the best versions of themselves. However, what I value most about therapy is developing a safe and unique relationship with each one of my clients.
Therapy is a guide for examining our past to explain our present challenges, and this allows us to make plans for a more fulfilling future. Therapy is also an invitation to cultivate a deep awareness and love for self. Therapy offers space. A space to break barriers of shame, addiction, intrusive thoughts, depression, anxiety, and all other things that prevent us from living our most authentic life. I empathize deeply with pain and loss, as it has shaped who I am today. However, I have found that it is often in our sorrows and times of suffering that we can connect more authentically with ourselves, the world, and the people around us. There is empowerment, strength, wisdom, and resilience on the other side of pain and suffering. And the cool thing is, you don’t have to do it alone.
Dunnavin McMunigal, LPCC
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Dunnavin graduated from Regis University in 2023 with his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Dunnavin is passionate about working with kids and teens through the use of creative interventions and play therapy. He believes in giving his clients practical tools that they can use immediately in their everyday lives in order to make a change in their behavior and emotional states for the better. He approaches each client with a natural curiosity to learn all about them and to accompany them on their journey to become the best version of themselves.
Dunnavin loves to use Reality Therapy as well as Child-Centered play therapy in his work with kids and teens. Through these theories, he allows his clients to have control over their experience in therapy while also providing meaningful ways for them to make the change they want to see in themselves.
Dunnavin is originally from Sioux Falls South Dakota and moved to Colorado in order to be close to the mountains. He spends his winters snowboarding at his favorite mountains like Winter Park and Steamboat, and his summers hiking and finding new areas to explore! In his relaxation time, Dunnavin enjoys playing videogames with his friends or by himself, he appreciates the stories and the challenge they can bring
Maya Owens, MFTC
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Hi there! My name is Maya and I work with individual kids, teens, and adults, as well as couples and families. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth and exploration. I believe deeply in each person’s innate capacity for positive change. I understand that each individual’s journey is unique, and I am committed to meeting you where you are.
With a background in both musical theatre and psychology, I’ve come to value the profound impact of storytelling, creativity, and human connection. This led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Regis University, where I cultivated my passion for systemic therapy. The primary modalities that inform my approach include Emotionally Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I view therapy as a journey towards self-compassion, empowerment, and fostering deeper connections. I am passionate about hearing your personal story and developing a collaborative relationship to promote healing and growth.
When I am not in session, you can find me spending time in the mountains, seeing live music, singing, cooking, crafting, and spending time with my family and dogs!
Michael Risdon, LPCC
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Michael is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC), having earned his Master’s Degree in School Counseling from the University of Phoenix, Colorado. In addition, he has received an MA in Mid/Mod Special Education Teacher and an MA in School Administration. He continues his work in public education within Douglas County Schools and has been in the counseling field since 2015 while working with adolescents, teens, and families.
Michael’s prior experience includes working in the public education system for 32 years.He has worked with a variety of students at various levels and disabilities ranging from autism through affective needs. He has held an administrative position as an assistant principal at the elementary level. Michael continues his work as a middle school counselor while working with students and families from diverse populations and backgrounds. He has experience supporting young adolescents and teens who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bullying, divorce, neglect, peer pressure, boundary setting, self-esteem, anger management, grief/loss, self-harm, suicidal ideation, sexual and gender identify, and academic challenges. In addition, he has worked with families and outside agencies focused on wrapping appropriate/necessary support around each child. Michael incorporates a variety of counseling techniques to best support his clients to include Mindfulness-Based Counseling, Sand-Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT informed), Traditional Talk Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Michael is dedicated to cultivating an environment that facilitates personal growth in a holistic manner. He believes the body, mind, and soul are intertwined as part of each individual. He trusts that each human has the power, creativity, and accountability in managing their individual responses to external stimuli. Michael believes there is a purpose to each life and the experiences that cross our path are the building blocks in creating something special and unique. Establishing a working relationship built around trust and respect enhances the lives that we touch.
Providing a safe environment and an empathetic approach are building blocks towards establishing a positive working relationship with clients. Gaining an understanding of one’s self is a vital component to the therapeutic process. Michael is committed to fostering a safe, supportive space where he and his clients can establish a working relationship with the intent of creating a positive change for the future
Stephanie Jaramillo
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Stephanie earned her Master of Sciences in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix and is an experienced clinician working in Colorado since 2013. Stephanie is passionate about working with individuals and couples who are experiencing troubles with addiction, codependency, incarceration, reintegration, trauma, infidelity, chronic pain, and navigating a new diagnosis within the family and parents of children with disabilities and the complexities that brings.
Stephanie is a Colorado native as well as a wife, a mother of twins and a special needs child. Stephanie brings her own unique experiences and perspective into the sessions. Stephanie is a nationally recognized volunteer for the Children’s Tumor Foundation and enjoys outdoor activities especially hiking and visiting the mountains.
Claire Cassidy, Counseling Intern
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Claire graduated in 2020 with her Bachelor’s degree in Theater and Dance from Ball State University. She is currently attending Adams State University and is working towards a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health. The world of theater and dance taught Claire that there is a need in this world for an emotional escape. She spent years performing and teaching the performing arts to children. This led her to discovering that she wanted to help children in their everyday lives through counseling. With her passion for helping children, Claire plans to dive deep into Child-Centered play therapy as she moves along her journey to become a counselor.
Claire is not originally from Colorado. She spent her whole childhood in Indiana. This is where she met her husband about five years ago. The pandemic inspired Claire and her husband to start an adventure somewhere new. They moved here four years ago and fell in love with all that Colorado has to offer. When she is not working on schoolwork, you can find her hiking all over Colorado with her husband and three rescue pups, performing at your local theater, baking, or curled up reading a good book!
Neena Massey, Counseling Intern
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Neena Massey is a current Master’s level student at Adams State University, working towards licensure in Clinical Mental Health. She is receiving certification in Somatic EMDR at Embody Lab. She currently holds an MFA-IA in Performance Art from Goddard College. She has taught elementary education in all academic areas, including art and choir, at a Chicano social justice school in Denver, CO. Neena strives to incorporate her skills as an artist, educator and counselor to help people heal through creativity, movement and wellness. Neena is a Denver native, enjoys all forms of artistic expression, family, and meaningful relationships.
Jenn Budden, Social Work Intern
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I am an intern at Movement Counseling, currently working toward my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential. With over 20 years of experience in education, I bring a deep understanding of child, adolescent, and family development into my clinical work. I have taught across the full K–12 spectrum, from kindergarten through high school, and even photography classes, giving me a unique perspective on learning styles and strategies, creativity, and the diverse ways individuals express themselves.
I am currently a middle school teacher, which allows me to stay closely connected to the real-world challenges students and families face today. Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with individuals of all ages in special education settings, supporting clients with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, executive functioning challenges, and those identified as gifted and talented. These experiences have shaped my belief that strengths and struggles often coexist, and that both deserve to be understood.
As a mom of teenagers, I have a personal appreciation for the complexities of adolescence, family systems, and the balance between independence and connection. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are, honoring their lived experiences, and viewing growth through a systems theory and trauma-informed lens. I believe meaningful change happens when we consider the whole person within the context of their relationships, environments, and life experiences. . I strive to create a supportive, collaborative, and compassionate therapeutic space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered to move forward at their own pace.
Outside of my professional work and my family (including the furry ones), I love to travel and explore new cultures, photography, reading, watching movies, coffee, chocolate, and the outdoors, including paddleboarding and hiking.
Stephanie Payne, Intern
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Stephanie Payne, MSN, RN, APRN, WHNP-BC, CEN is a women’s health nurse practitioner and certified emergency nurse who is currently enrolled in an online post-master’s certification program through University of Cincinnati to expand her practice to include the treatment and management of complex psychiatric conditions. As part of her clinical requirement, she is rotating with the practice as a student to gain experience and exposure to different types of therapeutic modalities. Passionate about the intersection of reproductive health and mental health, Stephanie brings nearly 10 years of experience in emergency services and forensic nursing, specializing in medical forensic exams on patients across the lifespan who have experienced violence. Currently working as a pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner at Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Stephanie is guided by a trauma informed lens that utilizes evidence-based research with this population to promote harm reduction and to guide the healing process, while focusing on empowering women and other communities who have historically been disenfranchised. Originally from California, Stephanie also enjoys the multitude of outdoor activities Colorado has to offer, is an avid swimmer, and plays the trumpet in a band.
Jeliver Castro, Practicum Student
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I believe therapy should feel real and genuine. My goal is to create a space where people can be themselves, feel supported, and know they don’t have to go through things alone. I see therapy as a team effort where clients bring their own wisdom and experiences, and I’m here to walk alongside them as they explore, grow, and find what works best for them.
I’m a practicum student at Adams State University, working toward my Master’s in Counseling, and I earned my BA in Psychology from Florida International University. Before starting graduate school, I worked as a behavior technician with children with disabilities and those on the spectrum. I’m still developing my counseling style, but I’m especially drawn to Person-Centered and Solution-Focused approaches because they fit with my belief that people already have the answers within them and they sometimes just need support to see it.
When I’m not at school or in session, I’m usually with my dog, checking out thrift shops, playing video games, or going outside for a run.
Emma McIntire, Practicum Student
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Hello, my name is Emma! I graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences and a minor in Family Studies and Human Development. I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adams State University. Before beginning my practicum at Movement Counseling + Wellness, I worked in behavioral therapy, an experience that sparked my passion for supporting children and adolescents through developmentally informed, compassionate care. I am committed to gaining experience with a diverse range of clients as I continue to grow as a counselor. My goal is to explore different populations and present concerns to help determine the group I feel most called to serve. I approach each client with genuine curiosity, empathy, and a desire to help them build practical tools that support emotional regulation, resilience, and well-being. Although I attended the University of Arizona for my undergraduate studies, Colorado has always been home. Outside of my academic and clinical work, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and discovering new places around my community. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and serve clients during my time at Movement Counseling + Wellness.
Laura Sweatt, Practicum Student
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My professional background includes teaching and supporting individuals across a wide range of ages and populations within primary education since 2017. I have experience promoting healthy mental awareness, identity development, and professional growth in students and young populations. I have also worked extensively with neurodiverse individuals, supporting children and adolescents ages 5–21 through behavioral support, and adults ages 21 and older with autism and developmental disabilities through day programs, job training, and life-skills development. I believe clients are the experts in their own lives, and my role as a counselor is to serve as a supportive facilitator in their healing and growth. I approach counseling from a humble, multidimensional perspective that honors each person’s unique experiences and values. I am a practicum student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s program at Adams State University. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, which deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity and the ways culture shapes identity and meaning. My therapeutic approach integrates person-centered, existential, and cognitive-behavioral perspectives to support clients in building insight, resilience, and meaningful change.
I am originally from Texas, and have lived in Kansas and Illinois before ultimately finding my forever home in Colorado. I have traveled to 26 countries and hope to continue exploring the world, as travel has deeply shaped my appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. Outside of counseling, I enjoy skiing, hiking, rock climbing, camping, video games, and crafting. I value spending time outdoors with my husband and our two dogs; we often take them on walks and hikes
Emily Kassowitz, Marketing Manager
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Emily is a current MSW student at MSU Denver. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in American Sign Language from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. She is deeply committed to making mental health services and concepts accessible, understandable, and approachable for all communities.
Emily splits her time between an eating disorder treatment center and Movement Counseling + Wellness, where she serves as the Marketing Manager. In this role, she oversees community outreach, digital content, and brand strategy, translating MCW’s mission into clear, engaging communication across platforms. Her background in direct client support, combined with her marketing experience, gives her a uniquely integrated perspective on relational care, organizational flow, and creative messaging.
When she’s not designing in Canva or polishing a newsletter draft, you can find her lifting at the gym, doing yoga, writing, painting, listening to music, binge-watching a tv show, or cuddling her cat.
If you’d like to connect regarding community partnerships, outreach opportunities, or collaboration with MCW, click here!
Meet Our Acupuncturist
Brianna Kraus
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A proud Colorado native, Brianna was born in Steamboat Springs and grew up in the Littleton/Centennial area. She earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Drake University and her Master’s of Science in Acupuncture from Southwest Acupuncture College.
Brianna first started receiving acupuncture treatments at the age of 16, after a strong flu-like illness left her anxious, depressed, and chronically exhausted. Although all Western tests came back normal, these results left Brianna feeling frustrated by a lack of effective solutions. However, through acupuncture, Brianna not only felt happier and more energetic, but she also felt heard and validated by her acupuncturist. Later in life, these positive early experiences inspired Brianna to pursue a career in acupuncture. She now specializes in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, women’s health (including cycle regulation, fertility, prenatal/postnatal care, and menopause), and musculoskeletal pain. She strives to educate, support, and validate her patients, and, above all, make them feel better. To schedule a session with Brianna, please visit our Acupuncture page at this link.
Meet Our Academic Support Tutor
Joe Cook
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For me, it is more about growth than straight A’s. I believe deeply in setting students up for success for the rest of their lives through skill building, organization, and a thirst for knowledge and understanding. Every student deserves respect and the greatest opportunities for success. I have been privileged to represent many students during the IEP/504 process, support all aspects of college applications, and teach all subjects except foreign languages through the AP level, including college prep and ACT/SAT prep. I love specializing in students with learning challenges and helping often overlooked students succeed and gain confidence. I fervently believe in diversity, equality, and integration; I am committed to providing a safe space and consider myself an ally of the LGBTQ+ community.
I grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, playing chess, Dungeons and Dragons, and reading fantasy and sci-fi. I earned a BA in English Literature and an MFA in Writing and Poetics and have had the honor of helping students for nearly 15 years. I have created and taught my own curriculum in creative writing and math. I also play way too many video games and am obsessed with collecting Platinum Trophies. As an author, my first book, FoundHome, was released on 12/08/25, with the next slated for June 2026.
