Hi! I’M Tara McGovern Ortiz, MA, LPC
She | Her | Hers
I earned a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical-Counseling from Naropa University in 2019, and am currently working towards my license in Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC) under the supervision of Dr. Tina D. Shah, PsyD, LP. I’m also licensed as a professional counselor in Wisconsin, Colorado, and Minnesota.
Previously, I have provided counseling services for children, preteens, teens, young adults, and adults in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I have been privileged to counsel individuals, their families, and groups in the office and nature, and at times alongside animal companions as well.
My favorite part of this work
My favorite part of this work is holding space for people to learn and grow in truly remarkable ways. I love co-creating meaningful relationships as a counselor where people get to rediscover who they are and redefine how they want to be. I am humbled and inspired in every session as clients do the world-changing work of healing and owning their lives. It is a privilege to share in fostering the immense human capacity to cultivate purpose, integrity and joy no matter the circumstances.
Speaking of my clients
In particular, I specialize in working with individuals, who:
Are highly sensitive and easily overwhelmed.
Are prone to Anxiety and Depression.
Learn and perceive the world differently than is socially expected.
Are navigating various life stages and transitions.
Are impacted by generational, developmental or interpersonal trauma.
Individuals and family members impacted by challenging diagnosis.
I have a special interest in:
Grief work, stemming from both personal and global loss and hardship.
Integrating mindfulness, somatic awareness and movement in sessions.
Emotional and nervous system regulation through mind-body integration.
Working with individuals of diverse backgrounds, especially those who identify as biracial or BIPOC, as well as first and second-generation immigrants.
I am passionate about:
Integrating nature’s wisdom in the therapeutic relationship.
Exploring multicultural and racial diversity, identity, and justice in relationships.
Transpersonal experiences, spiritual exploration and owning intuition to enhance the experience and perception of life.
Feedback, courageous conversations, and humility.
“I love co-creating meaningful relationships where people get to rediscover who they are and redefine how they want to be.”
On Personal Note
As a second-generation Mexican and Irish American I see the unique circumstances and identities of every life as sources of challenge, wisdom, and strength. Having had the privilege of living in many countries and states allows me to hear and see others with an open mind and humble heart. These unique identities and experiences inspire my work as a counselor where I continue to cultivate compassion, courage, and curiosity in relationships with my clients.
When not at the office I can often be found walking, running, reading, singing, cooking, and connecting with loved people, places, plants, and animals both new and known. If I’m not doing one of these things, I’ll likely be practicing yoga or nourishing the seeds of silence.
Professional Experiences, Certifications, & Affiliations
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Transpersonal Wilderness Therapy, Naropa University
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Religious Studies, Lawrence University
Licensed Clinical Counselor, Colorado and Wisconsin
Previous Professional Roles:
Primary Therapist, New Vision Wilderness Therapy, Medford, WI
Clinical Counselor, Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute, Boulder, CO
Primary Therapist, BaMidbar Wilderness Therapy, Denver, CO
Clinical Counselor, Twin Oaks Farm, Boulder, CO
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:
National Latinx Psychological Association, Member
Therapeutic Approaches/Perspectives:
Somatic Awareness & Mindfulness
Brainspotting (BSP) Practitioner
Nature-Based
Ecopheminist and Multicultural
Client-Centered
Strengths-Based
Transpersonal Wilderness Therapy
Trauma Centered Trauma Sensitive Yoga
Ready to Collaborate?
Thanks for taking the time to read this and get to know me! I hope I have the opportunity to also meet and work with you!
Please connect with me to schedule your first appointment or a complimentary initial phone consultation.
