Thrive Counseling Services, LLC, welcomes you! Your journey to better mental health starts here!
“Our philosophy is to assist clients as their guide through therapy.
This is your personal journey and we’re along to help you seek out your own choices.”
Meet the Staff
Thrive Counseling Services, LLC, located in Cheyenne, WY is dedicated to helping people live to their full potential and live healthy productive lives! Learn more about our psychotherapists below!
Laura Kietell
Laura is currently not accepting new clients at this time.
MSW, LCSW - Psychotherapist & Owner of Thrive Counseling Services
I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused approach with experiential influences. My clinical beliefs stem from the social work model of Person-In-Environment utilizing unconditional positive regard. My interventions match each client where they are at emotionally, physically, and spiritually allowing them to pace the treatment to their comfort level.
I have several years of experience with children and adolescents working as a counselor after obtaining my bachelor’s degree up to becoming a primary therapist upon earning my Master’s degree. Issues addressed; grief and loss, attachment and abandonment, trauma, anger management, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, social skills, self-esteem, bullying, stress management, relationships, and parenting.”
Credentials
- MSW, LCSW
- ART Certified (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), April 2018
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker, WY-575
- University of Denver, MSW 2003
- Colorado State University, BA Social Work, 1996
- University of Phoenix, Human Resource Mgt Certificate, 2000
Professional training includes self-harm, substance abuse, eating disorders, suicidality, homicidality, sexual abuse, families facing multiple problems, PTSD, and personality disorders, trauma. I work with preteens through elderly. ART is similar to EMDR, please learn more from the ART website.
Therapists
Kristine Axe
PPC-1505
Kristine earned her degree in Clinical Psychology from Capella University. She strongly believes in the power of collaboration to achieve meaningful goals and outcomes. Kristine understands that facing and navigating life’s challenges can be daunting alone, but with empathy and compassion, she helps her clients start their journey of problem-solving. Her therapeutic approach focuses on equipping individuals with the tools and skills needed for empowerment on their path to recovery, maintaining a solution-focused perspective throughout the process.
Credentials
- Degree in Clinical Psychology – Obtained from Capella University.
- Therapeutic Approach – Solution-focused, emphasizing empowerment and equipping clients with tools and skills for recovery.
- Core Beliefs – Strong advocate for collaboration, empathy, and compassion in therapy to support clients through life challenges.
Lauren Kelly
Master Level Intern
Lauren is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus of trauma at the University of Denver. Lauren has experience in working with Juvenile Probation and Department of Family Services. She is a Marine veteran and enjoys engaging with military service members and other veterans. She hopes to connect with and help others through a trauma informed lens. She is enthusiastic about meeting new people from all over the world and learning their culture. Lauren practices holistic approaches and mindfulness techniques. She advocates for self-care and well-being. Her hobbies include socializing with diverse groups of people, playing video games, and arts and crafts in her free time. Lauren is interested in learning expressive therapy and other whole health techniques. Her favorite quote is, “Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.” by Camille Pissarro.
Credentials
- Currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Social Work – at University of Denver, anticipated graduation date March 2025.
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – American Military University, United States Marine Corps, October 2021
Heidi Weaver
Accepting clients January 9
PCSW-1163
Bio Coming soon!
Credentials
Taylor Ponce
Starting mid January
PCSW
As a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist, I am committed to empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. I have always worked the people; 7 years as a cna, 5 years as a correctional officer 3 years as a family and youth support partner, it’s my goal to help you achieve your goals.
My therapeutic interests after school involve CBT, SFBT and I hope to learn even more. I prioritize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and supported in their journey toward healing and self-discovery.
I hold a Masters degree in social work from Denver University and have pursued additional training in SFBT. My work is grounded in empathy, respect, and a belief in each individual’s capacity for resilience and growth.
Outside of my practice, I am passionate about becoming my best self. I like to hang out with my family, dogs and dragon. I am a very down to earth person and I want to know the very most about everything. A voice does not go unheard by my ears.
Credentials
- Master’s degree in Social Work from Denver University.
- Additional training in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
- Seven years of experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
- Five years of experience as a Correctional Officer.
- Three years of experience as a Family and Youth Support Partner.
- Therapeutic interest and practice in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and SFBT.
Wendy Cook
Intern/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner/Walden University
With over 20 years as a Registered Nurse and currently an intern at Walden University training to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of medical expertise to Thrive Counseling Services. My diverse experience spans Labor & Delivery, Same Day Surgery, and the Intensive Care Unit. As I transition from my service in the Air Force, I am focused on empowering individuals through cognitive and solution-focused therapies in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy spending time with my two dogs, Jackson and Daisy Mae. At Thrive Counseling Services, I am committed to assisting you on your journey to better mental health and personal growth.
Credentials
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Intern, Walden University
- Registered Nurse with 20+ years in diverse medical settings
- Training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- United States Air Force member
Administration
Jennifer Williams
Office Coordinator
As an experienced Office Support Specialist, I excel in providing exceptional customer service and ensuring smooth office operations. Proficient in the Microsoft 365 Office Suite, I leverage my clerical support skills to streamline processes and enhance productivity.
With a keen eye for detail and a task-oriented mindset, I thrive in fast-paced environments where I can tackle challenges and implement innovative solutions. I am adept at scheduling and coordinating tasks, ensuring that everything runs efficiently and effectively.
My problem-solving abilities allow me to think outside the box, finding creative ways to overcome obstacles and improve workflows. I am committed to supporting team success and fostering a positive work environment.
Ann Boulter
Office Assistant/ Billing Clerk
Ann works for us assisting in the accuracy of maintaining client files, end-of-month billing cycles and other related office duties. Ann moved here from Colorado and is adapting to “the Great Outdoors” and the windy conditions we have! Ann enjoys hiking, traveling and is a self-described “foodie.”
Charity Smith
Billing Specialist | Family Enthusiast
With nearly three years of experience in billing, I am dedicated to enhancing business financial processes with my strong attention to detail. Outside of work, I treasure time with my family, whether it’s weekends at the lake or camping trips. I value the balance between hard work and quality time with loved ones, striving to blend these aspects seamlessly in both my career and personal life.
Additional Office Support
Willow Kietell
Office/ Therapy Dog
Willow is a “Bug,” which is a mix between a Boston Terrier and a Pug. She has been coming to Thrive as an office/therapy dog since the age of 10 weeks. Willow was born in September 2019 and she loves to visit with people all day long! She may even get excited and ask for you to play with her! Willow has earned her Canine Good Citizen certificate and she loves her job! She will greet you when you enter the office and often will walk with you to the door on your way out! She loves back scratches and belly rubs and will often try to give you a thousand kisses!