Grief counselors and therapists in Fort Collins, CO

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like chaos has overtaken your life? Yes, that Hot Mess is welcome.

I am Gena Hepworth, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping clients find their "brave." I work with adolescents (12+) and adults who are navigating trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. Whether you are dealing with family estrangement, navigating an empty nest, returning from a mission trip, or facing big-picture questions about your legacy and spirituality, I am here to help you make sense of your life story.

Education: BA in social work UMBC: University of Maryland Baltimore County Catonsville, MD. MSW from Augsburg University Minneapolis, MN.

My practice, Restore Grace Counseling, is a "no-shame zone." I work with individuals from a vast variety of backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals, those of many faith traditions, inclusive of those who are agnostic or questioning. While my own foundation is a Christian worldview, my primary goal is to meet you exactly where you are with respect, honor, and non-judgment.

Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes the challenges we face—whether it’s the stress of being a new parent, navigating a difficult relationship, managing trauma, or dealing with anxiety and depression—can feel insurmountable. I believe that every person has inherent strengths that can be harnessed to create positive change. In our work together, we will explore your unique needs and build practical, personalized tools that empower you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

With over 20 years of experience in diverse behavioral health settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and understanding to help you navigate challenges. I specialize in maternal mental health, trauma, women's issues, relational issues, family conflict, substance use concerns, anxiety, and work or career-related stress.

I believe that each person holds inherent wisdom needed to transform pain into healing. Although pain is a natural part of life, it doesn't have to define your future. My belief is that through a trusted relationship, you can access an inner sense of safety needed to heal wounds while honoring your unique journey.

I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their life journey, fostering an environment for healing, transformation, and empowerment through providing accessible mental health services. I hold training and experience in children/adolescent mental health, and utilize the therapeutic powers of play to meet children where they are.

I am trained in trauma, anxiety, addiction, grief and somatic treatments. I also help you build healthy relationships. I specialize in using Internal Family Systems (IFS) and integrating somatic techniques in therapy, such as Polyvagal Theory or Somatic Experiencing. I'm also trained in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and combine this with IFS and somatic work. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who welcomes clients ages 14 and older. I am a mother and retired Army veteran who served in military intelligence as a Chinese Cryptologic Linguist.

My work as a forensic interviewer for children who experienced abuse and neglect strengthened my ability to sit with difficult stories and provide safe, trauma-informed care. My lived experiences with trauma, abuse, and autoimmune illness have also shaped my understanding of the mind-body connection.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Fort Collins, Colorado, and the founder of A Place To Be Counseling. Before starting my private practice, I spent three years in a small group practice and four years working in inpatient facilities, where I supported individuals through some of the most challenging times in their lives. I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University and specialize in depression, anxiety, out-of-control porn use, and trauma-informed care. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, authenticity, and collaboration—I strive to create a space where you can explore your experiences with honesty and compassion.

I am a Native New Yorker, living in Colorado since the Mets won the World Series. I use my training in conjunction with my life experience in the therapy room, but it's always your therapy room.