Kris Isaacs, MA, LPC, CACII
Credential: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Addictions Counselor Level II (CACII)
Educational Background: Masters of Arts, Transpersonal Counseling Psychology, Naropa University, 2012; Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Lewis and Clark College, 2000
Trainings and Certifications: Certified Addictions Counselor Level II; Somatic Training Institute, Soma to Soul Trauma Training [completed]
Specialty Treatment Areas:
Transitional and adjustment issues, drug and alcohol issues (use, abuse, addiction and recovery), technology related issues, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, school issues, grief and loss issues, trauma, family issues, parent support, fatherhood, spiritual exploration and growth
I have been working as a counselor for over 10 years, working with teens, young adults and adults ranging in issues from anxiety & depression to failure to launch to substance abuse & addiction. I began working with teenage sex offenders in a residential setting in Oregon prior to moving to Colorado. Moving to Colorado allowed me to expand my experience and to work “in the trenches” with substance abuse and addiction at the Addiction Recovery Center and Detox on Boulder. I followed that up with over 6 years of experience at AIM House, LLC working with young adults in transitional living. While pursuing my master degree, I was privileged with the opportunity to work with Boulder’s Mental Health Partner, Home Based Team as well as complete a yearlong internship at the Boulder Vet Center providing individual and group counseling for “boots on the ground” combat veterans. It is through these varied experiences that have helped me create a solid foundation based in the therapeutic relationship that allows for a safe, trusting and healing environment.
My work has encompassed several areas with more of a focus on anxiety, depression, substance use/abuse/addiction, school related issues, low self-esteem/confidence, failure to launch, grief and loss and trauma. Many of these issues may show up in behavior issues, shifts in mood, isolation or low motivation and are often accompanied with substance abuse. It has been my experience that the ability to heal lives within each of us and through the safety of the therapeutic relationship, clients are able to develop greater awareness, make the necessary changes and move towards a healthier and authentic sense of self.
I feel strongly about our innate ability to strive and fight for optimal health. In the confusion and inner chaos that comes along with mental health issues or substance abuse issues, our desire to feel safe allows us to create coping skills which many times can be unhealthy and maladaptive. In viewing these with compassion and basic wisdom, it allows for an opening and understanding to support the individual working through the barriers and moving towards optimal health.
Outside of work, my life is full of family and friends. I have two sweet daughters, an incredible wife and a better than average dog, Gus. I enjoy time in the mountains and on the water. I love to hike, camp and fly fish as much as life allows. Exercise is a mainstay in my life and can on take many forms. I am a spiritual seeker who believes in the highest form of connection.