Craig Patera

M.S., Candidate • Master's Level Candidate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Virtual or In-person

About

With a compassionate approach and a diverse toolkit of therapeutic modalities, Craig Patera is on a mission to help individuals navigate life's complexities and foster mental well-being. As a Master's Level Candidate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Providence, Craig brings a fresh perspective to the field, combining cutting-edge techniques with a deep commitment to client-centered care.

Craig's therapeutic arsenal is as varied as the challenges his clients face. Specializing in Play Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), he tailors his approach to meet each client's unique needs. This versatility allows him to effectively address a wide range of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to more complex issues like OCD and trauma.

Drawing from his background in Communications and Human Behavior Studies from the University of Montana, Craig places a strong emphasis on effective communication strategies in his practice. He believes that the quality of our lives is intricately shaped by how we engage in dialogue, both with others and ourselves. This focus empowers his clients to become more adept communicators, enhancing their relationships and overall well-being.

Craig's passion for mental health was ignited during his time serving at-risk youth at the Montana Youth Challenge Program. This experience deepened his understanding of the complex issues that adolescents and their families grapple with, including addiction, legal issues, and trauma. As a result, he has developed a particular affinity for working with teens and young adults, helping them navigate the turbulent waters of adolescence and early adulthood.

In his therapeutic practice, Craig creates a safe and comfortable environment where clients can explore their experiences without judgment. He recognizes that each person is uniquely shaped by their past and is dedicated to helping clients break free from repetitive patterns and shape a future independent of past experiences. His approach integrates client-centered interventions that empower individuals to develop their capacity to intervene in their own problems, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Whether you're seeking support for OCD, anxiety, depression, or simply looking to enhance your mental well-being, Craig offers a compassionate and dedicated presence on your journey. Through virtual telehealth appointments, he provides accessible care to clients in Colorado and Montana, ensuring that geography is no barrier to receiving high-quality mental health support.

Qualifications

Education

  • Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Human Behavior Studies

Specialties & Expertise

Specializations

  • Addiction
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Stress
  • Substance Abuse
  • Teen Violence
  • Trauma

State Licenses

  • Colorado
  • Montana

Race, Gender & Sexual Sensitivities

  • LGBTQ+ Allied

Reviews

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Locations

In Focus Counseling - Lakewood Main Office
950 Wadsworth Blvd, #203
Lakewood, CO 80214

In Focus Counseling - Lakewood Secondary Office
550 S Wadsworth Blvd, #301
Lakewood, CO 80226

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