Phone: 303-940-7740
Biography
As a therapist, I have specialized in treating anxiety and OCD using Exposure Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I value the opportunity to introduce clients to new and effective ways of living a full and meaningful. I prioritize collaborating with clients in understanding their concerns and finding individualized solutions that meet their needs.
I received my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver, where I previously also received my Masters in Forensic Psychology. While there, I prioritized my studies in learning and practicing behavioral therapies. I then completed my predoctoral internship with the Federal Bureau of Prisons at the Federal Correctional Complex in Victorville, California. I am currently completing my postdoctoral fellowship here at Anxiety Solutions of Denver.
When I’m done in the office, I am likely on the couch with my pup watching some good (or garbage) TV and playing videogames (Playstation only for me). As much as I love our beautiful mountains, you won’t often find me climbing a fourteener or hiking a trail, since I would much rather enjoy seeking out some good food and shopping with friends. Though any chance to enjoy the outdoor scenery without trail gear, I will happily take. I enjoy finding the little moments of rest and relaxation throughout the week, whether that is relaxing in a coffee shop with friends, taking the pup to the dog park, playing board games, or cooking dinner with family.
Q+A with Dr. Jay:
What’s your favorite movie
My favorite movie is tough, but if I had to choose, I would pick Wall-E (the Pixar movie). I have no idea why; everyone tells me it is really boring, but I absolutely LOVE it. It is so sweet and relaxing. I would also say that I love all things Star Wars, and my favorite one is Episode III—you can’t beat the drama of Anakin becoming Darth Vader!
What is your favorite TV show?
New Girl would have to win this contest merely because I have rewatched it too many times to count. No one is quite as quotable as Schmidt, and Winston is undeniably the funniest character ever written.
What is your favorite video game?
This is impossible for me since it is like picking a favorite child. My top three would have to be Red Dead Redemption (I absolutely cried while playing this game), Witcher III (I now want to live in Toussaint), and Horizon Zero Dawn. I am also a sucker for any Assassin’s Creed or Far Cry game.
Where are you from?
I usually tell folks that I am from all over the South. I lived in South Carolina (home), North Carolina, and Florida, so my accent can get very “drawly”, especially when tired or excited. I will use the word “y’all” at some point in every conversation.
Do you have any pets?
I have one little rescue named Audie. He is a super mutt who has made it his life goal to alert me to any and every dog that walks outside our window. You may hear him in the back of online sessions complaining that I am not taking his career seriously.
What would your clients say about you as a therapist?
I think my clients would describe me as genuine, encouraging, and direct, with a good sense of humor. I see my role as helping you understand your anxiety and then guiding and cheering you along as you work to make changes. My relationships with clients are often mixed with tears and laughter as we navigate life’s difficulties and absurdities. My clients quickly learn that I equally value moments of honesty and moments of levity. And each of them could attest to my insistence on creating a compassionate and accepting environment for whatever they face.
Do you have a guilty pleasure?
Watching Kardashians with my best friend. Somehow life seems more normal after watching them.
What is a weird fact about you that most people wouldn’t know?
I have an incredible talent for trivia especially bizarre animal facts and obscure history.
How would your friends describe you?
So I asked and was told that I am passionate, loyal, and determined.