“I would like my life to be a statement of love and compassion–and where it isn’t, that’s where my work lies.”
-Ram Dass
Provides
- Individual Therapy
- Couples Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Creative Workshops
Specializations
- Trauma Recovery
- Attachment & Sexual Trauma
- Creative Industry Professionals (Artists, Dancers, Writers, etc.)
- Creative Blocks & Barriers to Inspiration
- Adolescent Mental Health
- Identity Development
- Life Transitions
- Self-Worth & Empowerment
- Inner Child Work
- LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counseling
- Relationship & Peer Issues
Certifications
- Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – University of Utah
- Bachelor of Social Psychology and Addiction Studies – Park University
- Member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trained
My Approach
I strive to create brave, affirming spaces free of shame for clients to design authentic lives and learn tools that deepen connections in relationships. I work from several evidence-based and trauma-informed therapy models and take a non-pathological approach, meaning we will look beyond the diagnosis to identify the root cause of your distress. My therapeutic style, while direct, is warm, collaborative, and creative. Together, we will look for experiences that have created patterns & explore how you have learned to connect with others. We will utilize somatic work, such as EMDR & Expressive Art, to learn how your body responds to life experiences & create more awareness of your subconscious. And we will fold in mindfulness & coping skills to practice self-compassion, acceptance, & empowerment.
By dedicating time to the exploration of self, you grant yourself the power to navigate any unhelpful patterns or relationship dynamics from a place of curiosity instead of criticism. This impactful work can transform your experience of reality. Together, we will work towards unpacking and comprehending your narrative from a growth mindset rooted in sustainable strategies and focus on your unique strengths.
I warmly embrace clients who wholeheartedly acknowledge and explore their unique identities and the cultural contexts that shape their worldview. If you’re looking for a therapist who values creativity, compassion, and connection, I’d love to work with you.
About Haley Choice-Tapia
My professional education and career began in Texas, focusing on sociology & addiction studies. I worked at a nonprofit outpatient care center for adolescents with substance use. Seeking a change, I followed my passion for rock climbing and moved to Utah to continue working with at-risk adolescents in an intensive 24/7 wilderness therapy program. There I lived outdoors with my clients and witnessed their profound moments of change. Through these experiences, I developed a deep appreciation for the power of therapy and a desire to return to school and earn my master’s degree and Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Having faced my own struggles at a young age, I understand the importance of working through complex emotions. Therapy is a vulnerable process, and I am committed to navigating it with you because I know the value of suffering and the importance of being seen, heard, and understood by others.
Beyond the therapy room, I indulge in my creative nature with clay, creating whimsical sculptures and functional ceramics. The great outdoors serves as my muse, and I delight in exploring nature’s wonders alongside my playful canine companion, Kiva. Fun facts: I’ve loyally attended the same music festival every year since I was 14 and accomplished an epic feat in 2014 when I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail.
Currently, I’m in my “beach era,” and you can bet your flip-flops that I’ll be savoring fish tacos by the seaside at least once every year. Traveling is a deep passion of mine, as it allows me to embrace life’s diversity. I find true fulfillment when I’m stimulated, fully awake, and invigorated by the multitude of experiences that unfold around me. Life is a vibrant journey, and I welcome every twist and turn, cherishing the moments of joy and finding profound meaning in the trials and challenges. As a therapist, artist, and spirited explorer, I wholeheartedly appreciate the beauty in the blissful and painful chapters of life’s remarkable journey.