Casandra Watkins, CMHC Intern

Phone: (720) 504-9970

Email: casandra@familyfirst.llc

Hello! My name is Casandra Watkins. I moved to Colorado from North Carolina in 2017 and am currently a practicum student at Liberty University, where I am pursuing my master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling.

My clinical interests include grief, trauma, and loss, and I am deeply passionate about helping individuals uncover and process traumatic experiences so they can move toward healing and meaningful change.

I am committed to working with individuals from diverse and marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, while providing affirming, culturally responsive care to clients from all backgrounds. My preferred therapeutic approach is Narrative Therapy, grounded in the belief that many of us take ownership of our problems and begin to see them as part of who we are. I work from the perspective that problems live outside of the person and therefore have the potential to be understood, challenged, and changed. This approach allows clients to reclaim their stories, recognize their strengths, and create new meanings that align with their values and goals.

I am a Certified Domestic Violence Advocate and am committed to supporting individuals and families impacted by violence, addiction, and life-altering loss. I have a passion for working with at-risk youth navigating complex emotional and environmental challenges, as well as individuals learning how to move forward after trauma or the loss of a loved one. I also hope to pursue licensure as an addiction counselor to further support individuals struggling with substance use.

I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey. I also serve as co-leader of the Denver Chapter of Parents Of Murdered Children (POMC), Inc., an experience that has deeply shaped my understanding of grief, resilience, and community healing.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren and painting. I believe healing is possible, and I am honored to walk alongside individuals as they navigate their unique paths toward hope and restoration.