Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Lafayette, CO

I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves. In my spare time, I work as an outdoor educator and manage my own private practice and guide Outdoor Retreats

I believe it is helpful and important to translate what is discussed in session and in telehealth meetings into lived experience and real change.

I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Walden University, with a concentration in trauma-informed care. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), as well as certified in Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Sandplay Therapy. My early career centered on supporting children and families navigating trauma, substance use, and instability, as well as individuals transitioning from incarceration and reintegrating into their communities. These experiences continue to shape my person-centered, integrative approach to care.

In my practice, I support adults and children through an individualized, holistic lens. My therapeutic philosophy draws from Person-Centered, Holistic, and Psychodynamic therapies—approaches that value empathy, self-awareness, and exploration of the connections between past and present. I believe all people have an innate capacity for growth, resilience, and healing when they are met with safety, compassion, and curiosity.

I'm Nicole Shelton, a double board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (APRN, PMHNP, FNP). My experience in ICU and the ER informs my holistic approach to care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, and trauma across the lifespan. As a military wife and mother, I emphasize lifestyle balance, encouraging patients to integrate nutrition and exercise. I am dedicated to breaking mental health stigma and advocating for veterans and those impacted by trauma, ensuring you feel seen, supported, and empowered on your journey.

I bring warmth, humor, and clear guidance to therapy. Cognitive techniques help uncover how thoughts shape emotions and actions, while mindfulness fosters calm and focus. We’ll also explore your values to guide our work. Humor keeps things light, and directness ensures we stay on track. Together, we’ll work toward lasting growth and confidence.I earned my Master’s in Counseling from Wake Forest University.

Credentials and Experience

I'm a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Oklahoma and Colorado, a board-certified counselor (NCC), and hold a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision - which means I don't just practice therapy, I train and supervise other therapists. That clinical depth shapes everything about how I work with clients.

My specialization is neurocounseling: integrating what we know about the brain and nervous system into practical, grounded therapy. I also hold specialized training in telehealth - so working with you virtually isn't a workaround, it's where I do my best work.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, trauma, identity, and the particular kind of exhaustion that comes from holding everything together for too long.

As a graduate of the University of Southern California and an active-duty Navy Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and families around the world including children, teens, spouses, GS employees, retirees, and active-duty service members.