Catherine Thornber, MA, LPCC, CPC, CIHC
Therapeutic Philosophy
Many of us carry a quiet fear: that if we showed our truest selves to the people we love, we wouldn’t be accepted. I specialize in helping individuals and couples explore this fear, guiding them toward deeper connection and authenticity. I believe that no matter your story—your struggles, your traumas, your identities—you are worthy of love and belonging, exactly as you are.
My passion for relationships stems not only from my work but from my own journey of learning what it means to truly connect. Going from the wacky and weird relationships of my teens and early twenties to the relationships I have in my life now, the transition is substantial. I hope to support others in manifesting the relationships they seek most in this world - the ones they hold most dearly.
My Story
I have been on a mission toward the deepest sense of belonging to myself since I was 13 years old. From an upbringing dedicated to religion, academics, family, outdoors, and self-examination, I had the privilege to have a strong foundation in many ways. At the same time, trauma was a big part of my childhood as well. The effects of the trauma amplified when I began considerable treatment for epilepsy as a teenager. Read more about this journey here.
Over time with extensive therapy and family support, I began to thrive again more than I had known I could. Eventually, through many twists and turns, and a whole lot of help from professional healers, I grew deep resilience and contentment. I began to feel clear, capable, and happy - pretty much every day.
I believe every human is capable of deep change. You are too. I’m here for you to walk this journey of healing, growth, and love. It might not be easy most of the time, but it can have rewards beyond our wildest imagination. Reach out today if you’d like to chat, get referrals, or start therapy together. I’m here to listen and partner with you.
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.”
-Brené Brown
If You’d Like to Work Together
Taking the leap to start therapy can feel daunting, but it’s also a courageous step toward the life and relationships you truly desire. If you’re ready to explore what’s holding you back from being fully seen and embraced by those you love—or if you simply want to understand yourself better—I’m here to support you.
Together, we can create a safe space where you feel understood, valued, and empowered to be your most authentic self. Whether you're looking to strengthen your relationships, navigate personal challenges, or just find more calm in your life, I'm here to walk this path with you.
Let’s find out what’s possible when you dare to show up as you are—no masks, no filters, just you. If that resonates, I’d be honored to work alongside you in this journey of self-discovery and connection.
Ready to begin? Let’s take the first step together.
Training, Certifications, & Affiliations
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Naropa University
Two-Year Couples & Sex Therapy Certification, Sexual Health Alliance (enrolled)
Two-Year Sex Therapy Certification, Sexual Health Alliance (enrolled)
EMDR Institute Fundamental Training: Adults, Teens, and Children (enrolled)
Gottman II training, Gottman Institute (enrolled)
Gottman I training, Gottman Institute
Two-Year Sex Educator Certification, Sexual Health Alliance (enrolled)
Teen Success: Cultivating Purpose & Achievement, Gottman Institute
The Secret Life of Teens, Gottman Institute
Science of the Teenage Mind, Gottman Institute
Emotion Coaching: The Heart of Relating to Teens and Tweens, Gottman Institute
Ethics in Practice, Online Specialty Training Series, NAADAC
Certified Professional Coach, Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC)
Certified Health Coach, Institute for Integrative Nutrition
Ashtanga yoga teacher training
What is Trust-Based Relational Intervention?, Families Are Forever
Reiki I, Reiki Colorado
Member of: American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists; American Psychological Association; Western Psychological Association; American Counseling Association; Colorado Counseling Association; and Association for Addiction Professionals
Attended: American Psychological Conference, Western Psychological Conference, Wisdom 2.0 Conference, several TED conferences
Let’s work together.
Send me your info, and we can get started with a free consultation. I look forward to connecting for therapy, coaching, or speaking engagements.