Erin Harrell

I work from a contemplative approach rooted in Buddhist psychology. This view holds that our fundamental nature is open, wise and kind and that in each of us there is basic healthiness that is always accessible. As we experience difficulties, we lose touch with this innate health becoming depressed, anxious and angry. You can learn to recognize and cultivate your basic human sanity. I hold a master’s degree in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology from Naropa University. My earlier education and experience includes a bachelor’s degree in religious ethics and a master’s degree in arts administration. My background includes work in social justice and arts organizations with a focus on using creativity to confront economic and racial oppression. With many years of experience in elder care, I also specialize in concerns related to long-term care giving, chronic illness, changes of aging, spiritual inquiry and end-of-life preparation.

We are more than isolated individuals. There is interplay between our personal responsibility to our health and the systems within which we live. Communities that I care for and directly relate to include: LGBTQIA, spiritual seekers, activists, artists, people with unconventional relationships and careers. I hold countless poets, artists, and scholars as my teachers. Mary Oliver, Alison Bechdel, Audre Lorde, Ursula Le Guin, Robin Wall Kimmerer, Alice Walker are examples. Studies show that the biggest predictor for success in therapy is the fit between therapist and client, so I invite you to a free 20 min consultation. Being a therapist is an amazing opportunity to put all of my life experience, emotional insight, intelligence and creativity in service of another person. I’d value a chance to talk with you about what you want more or less of in your life.