Our Therapeutic Philosophy: Trauma-Informed Care in Arvada
At 70 West Counseling, we believe that true healing requires more than just good intentions—it requires a trauma-informed care philosophy rooted in safety and compassion. Located in the heart of Arvada, our practice is dedicated to helping you find your path to mental wellness without the barriers of cost or stigma.
We understand that every person has a unique story. Whether you are navigating a difficult life transition or seeking relief from deep-seated pain, our therapeutic philosophy centers on providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be seen, heard, and believed.
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The Trauma-Informed Approach: “What Happened to You?”
We start with the truth: healing begins with being seen, heard, and believed because trauma involves more than just “bad memories.” Rather, it acts as a physiological response that gets stuck in your body and nervous system. So, whether you faced a single overwhelming event or a lifetime of chronic stress, your symptoms—like anxiety, anger, or shutting down—do not mean you are broken. On the contrary, they prove that you survived.
In fact, at 70 West Counseling in Arvada, we remove “being broken” from our vocabulary completely. Rather, we focus on helping you through “surviving brokenness.”
Because of this, we stand by our Trauma-Informed Promise:
- Safety First: We know that true healing stops when fear takes over. For that reason, we actively create an environment—both physical and relational—where your nervous system can finally rest.
- Empowerment: You remain the expert on your own life. Therefore, we collaborate with you, never on you, and ensure you always control the pace of your therapy.
- No Re-Traumatization: Additionally, we use gentle, evidence-based methods that help you process pain without letting it overwhelm you.
The Science of Healing: Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)
We believe true healing involves both the mind and the body. That is why we utilize Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB).
While this approach relies heavily on Attachment Theory—exploring how early bonds shape brain development—it goes further. We weave together Neuroscience (neuroplasticity), Complexity Theory, and Mindfulness with Somatic (Body-Based) Awareness. This allows us to move beyond simple ‘talk therapy’ to help you create lasting neurological change.
Our Evidence-Based Modalities
We believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to mental health. Our clinicians are trained in a diverse range of modalities to meet your unique needs, bridging the gap between neuroscience and human connection.
Body & Brain (Neuro-Based)
- EMDR: A gold-standard therapy for PTSD that helps the brain “digest” traumatic memories so they no longer trigger a fight-or-flight response.
- IPNB: We use the science of how relationships shape the brain to help you rewire neural pathways through safe connection.
Mind & Behavior (Cognitive)
- CBT: Practical, skills-based tools to identify and reshape the negative thought patterns that drive anxiety and depression.
- ACT: Moving from “fighting” your feelings to accepting them, freeing you to take action toward the life you value.
- DBT: Building concrete skills for distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
System (Relational)
- Family Systems & Structural Therapy: We view the family as an interconnected unit. By adjusting the “system”—patterns, boundaries, and roles—we help the individual thrive.
- Person-Centered Therapy: At our core, we offer unconditional positive regard, believing that every client has the innate capacity for growth when provided with the right environment.
Our Non-Profit Mission: Accessible Mental Health
Maryellen Stipe founded 70 West Counseling as a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization because she believes financial status should never be a barrier to healing. In a broken healthcare system, we are committed to closing the gap.
How We Make It Accessible:
- Diverse Insurance: Unlike many private practices that are “cash only,” we proudly accept Medicaid, TriCare West, and most major commercial insurance plans.
- Training the Next Generation: We offer reduced-rate sessions with our highly skilled Master’s Level Interns and Candidates, ensuring affordable care while mentoring the future leaders of our field.
- Community First: We are not just a business; we are a community resource dedicated to serving Arvada and the Front Range with integrity and compassion.
We believe mental health care is a right. Whether you have insurance, TriCare, or need our sliding scale options, we have a place for you.