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, MSW, LCSW, Psychotherapist & Owner at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

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

Heather Coughenour, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

Cecelia Bay

    PCSW - Psychotherapist

    Cecelia is a Provisional Clinical Social Worker with a rich educational background and practical experience in the field of social work. She has dedicated her career to understanding and addressing the complex needs of individuals through a person-centered, purpose-driven approach. With a strong belief in the power of individual experiences to shape perceptions and impact mental health, Cecelia is committed to empowering her clients to be the experts of their own lives. Her therapeutic practice is characterized by a compassionate and inclusive approach, making her a valued member of the Thrive Counseling Services team.

    Credentials
    • Provisional Clinical Social Worker, specializing in individual, family, and group therapy.
    • Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Northern Arizona University.
    • Graduate Degree in Social Work, Arizona State University.
    • Experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychoeducation, and Trauma-Focused therapies.
    • Focused on creating a safe and welcoming environment for clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
    Kyrsten Daniels, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

    Jeremy D. Bay, MS

      Jeremy does not accept individual, couples or family clients, he only runs groups at Thrive.

        Group Psychotherapist

        Jeremy brings over two decades of dedicated service from the United States Navy to his role as a provisionally licensed professional counselor. A native of Cheyenne, WY, he returns with a specialized graduate degree in Military and Emergency Responder Psychology from the Colorado State University System. Jeremy’s approach to therapy is deeply person-centered, valuing the unique stories and experiences of each individual. His belief is rooted in the power of narrative to influence well-being and treatment outcomes. With a focus on helping clients navigate life’s challenges, Jeremy is adept at working with individuals, couples, and families, offering significant cultural competency in military and veteran communities, emergency responders, and geek culture. His commitment to mental health and well-being is driven by a sincere desire to provide a space where people feel heard and supported in achieving their goals.

        Jeremy’s extensive background, combined with his professional and personal experiences, equips him to offer empathetic, effective counseling tailored to the diverse needs of his clients. His therapy approach is designed to empower individuals to navigate their paths toward recovery and resilience, ensuring they have the support needed to move forward in life.

        Credentials
        • Master of Military and Emergency Responder Psychology, Colorado State University System, January 2024.
        • Bachelor of Science in Human Services, Colorado State University System, 2020.
        • Associate of Science in Military Studies, Hawaii Pacific University, 2008.
        • Provisional Professional Counselor, WY #1445, supervised by John Steinbaugh, LMFT, #211.
        • Areas of specialization include person-centered therapy with a particular focus on military and veteran communities, emergency responders, and understanding geek culture.
        Heather Coughenour, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

        Samantha Cowper

          LPC - Psychotherapist

          Samantha is a provisionally licensed counselor with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Special/
          Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming and a Master of Science Degree in
          Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. Samantha has practiced in a clinical setting for over a year; providing mental health services to children, adults and families.

          Samantha has a wide variety of experience working with clients with anxiety, depression,
          personality disorders, substance abuse/alcohol use and developmental disabilities. She also
          has experience working with individuals who have experienced the effects of trauma. Samantha believes in the body and mind connection and uses approaches that target this connection. She utilizes a cognitive behavior approach as well as mindfulness techniques to help regulate the central nervous system.

          Samantha uses a client-centered humanistic approach, creating an environment where clients feel safe and comfortable. She hopes to help clients find more adaptive habits and strategies that lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

          Credentials
          • University of Wyoming: Bachelor of Arts Degree in Special/Elementary Education
          • Capella University: Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling
          • Provisional Licensure

          Clinical Experience: She has over a year of experience in a clinical setting, providing mental health services to children, adults, and families. This experience is essential for both licensure and professional competency.

          Specialized Experience: Samantha has worked with clients with a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance abuse, alcohol use, and developmental disabilities. She also has experience with individuals affected by trauma.

          Therapeutic Approaches: She utilizes cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness techniques, indicating specialized training or proficiency in these therapeutic methods.

          Kyrsten Daniels, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

          Kristine Axe

            Master Level Intern

            Kristine is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at 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

            Currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Clinical Counseling at Capella University.

            Kyrsten Daniels, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

            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
              Kyrsten Daniels, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

              Matthew Burns

                Master Level Intern

                Matthew is a second-year graduate student in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Wyoming. He is a dedicated and compassionate counselor with a person-centered approach to therapy, believing that every client deserves to feel heard, valued, and understood. Grounded in existential theory, Matthew helps clients explore the deeper meaning and purpose in their lives, guiding them through challenges with empathy and insight. By fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment, he empowers clients to navigate their personal journeys, make authentic choices, and find fulfillment in their true selves.

                Credentials
                • Master’s in Mental Health Counseling – University of Wyoming (Expected graduation May 2025).
                • Bachelors in Humanities – Literature – Wheelock College 2013
                • Certificate in Juvenile Justice and Youth Advocacy – Wheelock College 2013
                Kyrsten Daniels, Psychotherapist at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

                Brittany Loaiza

                  MSW Intern Psychotherapist

                  Brittany is pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Psychology. As a military spouse, Brittany enjoys learning, trying new experiences, and crocheting in her free time.

                  Brittany is passionate about supporting survivors of abuse and trauma, helping them realize their full potential. While still exploring her specialization, she is committed to guiding others through life’s challenges with compassion and faith, believing that all things can work out for good.

                  Credentials
                  • SYMBIS (Saving your marriage before it starts)-2024
                  • AACC (American Association of Christian Counseling)- member since 2016
                  • Liberty University, BS in Psychology- 2016

                  Administration

                  Dixie Gannon, Office Manager at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

                  Dixie Gannon 

                  Office Manager

                  Dixie works for us running the front end of the office. She is the first person you will see and likely interact with when contacting our office! Dixie is a friendly, fun and upbeat person to have in the office. She can assist with payments, scheduling and any other questions you may have.

                  Dixie enjoys spending time with her husband, gardening, and listening to live music. She has lived in Cheyenne for many years and enjoys the life she has established for her and her family.

                  Ann Boulter, Office Assistant & Billing Clerk at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

                  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.”

                  Ann Boulter, Office Assistant & Billing Clerk at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

                  Dawn Burgess

                  General Office Clerk

                  Dawn is the General Office Manager at Thrive Counseling Services, ensuring our office runs smoothly and efficiently. She lives in Cheyenne, WY, with her husband, Brian, and their four beloved “fur babies”—Bear, Rowen, Dorito, and Penny. An avid gardener and plant enthusiast, Dawn finds joy in nurturing both her garden and her relationships. She is passionate about her faith, connecting with people, and continually learning new things. Outside of work, she enjoys decorating, exploring history, cooking, and immersing herself in music.

                   

                  Additional Office Support

                  Willow Kietell, Therapy Dog at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

                  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!

                  Ann Boulter, Office Assistant & Billing Clerk at Thrive Counseling Services LLC

                  The Office Assistant

                  Billing

                  We partner with OA, a trusted billing company established in 1996, to manage our billing and collections. OA provides comprehensive coding, billing, and consulting services, allowing us to focus on delivering quality care to our patients. By outsourcing these functions, OA ensures our compliance with regulatory requirements, manages our revenue stream, and offers valuable audit and consulting services. This collaboration helps us maintain efficiency and reduces the administrative burden on our practice.