We had the good fortune of connecting with CJ Malament and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi CJ, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
One piece of conventional advice I deeply disagree with is the glorification of constant productivity – the idea that needs and limitations are obstacles to overcome, rather than signals to honor. I believe in a meticulous practice of rest, not as a reward, but as a gateway to pleasure, care, abundance, and liberation. When we untangle our self-worth from output, we make room for expansion instead of resentment. Grind culture teaches us to fear being seen as lazy, and that fear drives not only burnout, but cruelty. It tells us that people who are poor, disabled, or unhoused are simply not trying hard enough, and it keeps us running ourselves into the ground to avoid becoming them. But radical gentleness isn’t laziness, it’s prevention. Rest isn’t failure. It’s how we remember we’re human.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career has been anything but linear. It’s been more like a slow-burning process of coming to alignment with myself and my deepest values. I came to therapy after working in other helping professions that left me completely hollowed out and exhausted. I knew I wanted to help people, but I also knew I needed to find a way to do it that honored my nervous system, my values, and my limits.

What might set me apart is my refusal to pathologize people for coping with impossible systems (I do believe this framework is the future of therapy, and more and more people are coming to see healing in a new way). I believe deeply in discomfort – in mess, in meaning, in liberation, in careful pacing, in questioning systems, and in ruthless reflection on my own methodologies and biases. Becoming a trauma therapist with a focus on neurodivergence, identity, and deep self-understanding has been a way of coming home to myself while helping others do the same.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a Denver native, and what makes this place special to me is the beauty in our own backyard. If my best friend came to visit, we’d definitely carve out time for a classic Colorado day: hiking alpine trails, going horseback riding, or maybe even whitewater rafting if they’re feeling extra adventurous. Denver is also full of cozy, quirky, and creative spots. We’d grab lunch at City O’ City or Tocabe. I’d probably take them to a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse or Sie Filmcenter, wander through the immersive chaos of Meow Wolf, or catch a local show at the Vintage. And we’d probably end up at Tattered Cover – any good Denver trip includes that.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shout out my partner, Mars, who has been my unwavering support through every stage of this journey. When I was burnt out and broke in my former career, she gently encouraged me to pursue the path that would become my passion and vocation. She saw me through every moment of grad school, cheering me on, lifting me up when I stumbled, and even supporting me financially so I could fully invest in my future. Through all the changes – successes, setbacks, and growing pains – Mars has been my rock. I wouldn’t be anywhere close to where I am now without her belief in me.

Website: https://www.cairncounselingdenver.com/

Image Credits
Ricardo Casillas

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