A new mental health resource, built with and for the Valverde community
We all need support sometimes.
The Valverde Collaborative Clinic - part of the University of Denver and located in the Valverde community - offers a safe and welcoming space for children and teens, young adults, and caregivers to talk, heal, and grow through therapy. Services are provided at no cost by graduate students at the University of Denver with the guidance of licensed faculty.
Valverde is a community full of strength and resilience, and we’re honored to be here alongside you. If you’re curious, want to learn more, or are ready to take the first step, we’d love to talk with you.
Interested in learning more? Fill out an interest form below:
We provide free counseling for children, teenagers, young adults, and caregivers.We’re here to support you to learn to handle emotional and behavioral challenges; copewith “big” feelings like anger, sadness, and anxiety; heal from trauma; & improvecommunication and relationships. Parents feel calmer and more confident, kids feel happier and better regulated, the family feels closer & better connected.
Flexible appointment times available, including limited evening hours. Please contact us to discuss scheduling options.
Our Location in the Neighborhood
The Valverde Collaborative Clinic is located inside the MotherWise/Thriving Families building at 191 Yuma St, Denver, CO 80223. Childcare can be provided at no cost between 8:30-4:30 pm Tuesday-Friday.
We also offer online services!
Our Team
Leah Waltrip
Graduate Student Therapist
I am a 4th year Clinical Psychology PhD Student at the University of Denver. At the University of Denver, I have developed a passion for helping individuals and families with complex trauma histories, including those shaped by displacement, migration, and the unique life stressors that come with building a life across multiple cultures. My work with survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as immigrants to the U.S., has shown me that healing doesn't happen in isolation, it happens through community and connection with those who care to know your story. I utilize evidence-based treatments to address challenges such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral outbursts with children and families navigating the lasting effects of trauma. I am also trained in evidence-based couples therapy approaches. I am currently working to improve my Spanish proficiency in order to provide culturally-informed care to Latinae clients in the Denver area.
Allie Stansell
Graduate Student Therapist
I am a 5th year Clinical Psychology PhD student at the University of Denver. I fundamentally believe in the power of the parent-child relationship as a source of strength in the face of adversity, and this has served as the basis for my work as a clinician. I have extensive training in supporting parents in learning practical skills to promote their child’s social-emotional development and increase positive behaviors, while also taking into consideration the parents’ mental health. Throughout my time at DU, I have developed a strong foundation in culturally responsive and trauma-informed evidence- based treatment for children, adolescents, caregivers, and couples. I also have experience working with clients experiencing a variety of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, behavioral outbursts, PTSD, inattention, and difficult interpersonal and family dynamics. I am looking forward to extending this work with families in the Valverde community.
For Urgent Support
If you find yourself or another needing urgent support, go to Colorado Mental Health Line | 988 to be directed to the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line page where you can find tailored resources.
Therapy is a safe, respectful, and confidential environment where you can openly discuss your thoughts and current struggles without fear of judgment. We are here to listen carefully and help you better work through the challenges you may be facing. Expect constructive and positive feedback, guidance on various coping strategies, and access to tools or resources that can improve your emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
Sometimes it is hard for children to share when they may need additional support in their daily lives. Changes in mood, behaviors, or academic performance are common signs that a child may benefit from receiving therapeutic services. Therapy can help children and teens to better express their emotions, deal with challenging life circumstances (i.e., divorce, death of a loved one, bullying, etc.), and improve their relationships with both friends and family members. If you are unsure about whether therapy is the right choice for your child, feel free to contact us for a free consultation call to discuss current challenges and explore what might be the right option for your family.
There are multiple reasons to consider starting therapy. Wanting to improve your mood, improve your relationships with others, and develop new skills and habits to help with everyday tasks, are all commons reason for an individual to try out therapy. Therapy can also be helpful in navigating sudden life changes or day-to-day stressors. If you have questions about whether therapy is the right choice for you, feel free to call the clinic to discuss your concerns with our clinicians.