Meet Suzanne Meli M.A. & Jim Kemp PsyD | Counselor & Psychologist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Suzanne Meli M.A. & Jim Kemp PsyD and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Suzanne Meli M.A., what role has risk played in your life or career?
Suzanne: I am in a love/hate relationship with risk! However, I am actively trying to change my outlook. Looking back over my life, I see that my biggest risks have had the biggest impact for positive change. These things include an exchange year in Germany, marrying my high school sweetheart, having kids, learning how to snowboard, traveling to new places, going back to school for my counseling degree and starting my own business. I still have big dreams that I am working towards, and the perceived risk involved to make those dreams happen gives me a considerable amount of anxiety. I am having to constantly convince myself that, although new risks may be scary and awkward, they are worth it and I just need to keep moving forward despite my fears.

Jim: When I think about risk I think about vulnerability. It is one thing to calculate the risk, but quite another to find the courage to step into it. It never seems to get easier! Knowing that everything we want is on the other side of fear can only take us so far. Having others who believe in me and learning to believe in myself has been my way of finding that courage to be vulnerable. That is what has allowed me to start and sustain a practice in counseling and psychotherapy.

What should our readers know about your business?
Jim: We started Collaborative Counseling of Colorado in 2011 from a desire to help men deepen the sense of connection in their lives. My own personal path of growth as a man has always been so integral to the things I value in life and I wanted a way to continue that path professionally as a psychologist. One of the challenges we have faced is overcoming the stigma of asking for help which I think is particularly fierce for men in this society. We wanted to create a place where men could feel a sense of belonging and security and I think we have really done that. One example of that is our men’s group which has been running continuously for over 10 years now. With the addition of Suzanne to the team we are able to expand our services and recruit her energy and passion to help more relationships heal and more individual stories to thrive. CCC is a warm and welcoming place where our mission is to spread love, one heart at a time, by providing inclusive, innovative and compassionate treatment for individuals and couples who seek to become the best versions of themselves. For us that is the most meaningful work there is.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Denver has so much to offer and we both love to call this city our home!

Suzanne: Some favorite activities of mine that I love to share with out-of-town guests are: 1) floating the Platte River on a sunny day and exiting the river at the Breckenridge Brewery to have a burger and a beer 2) setting up a volleyball net at Wash Park. With regard to food, I think any trip to Denver warrants a brunch at Snooze and Jelly. A recent delectable find that I am excited about is Homegrown Tap and Dough. I love the ambiance and the pizza and salads are fantastic!

Jim: For a memorable dinner I like Cholon – wonderful atmosphere and cuisine! I love live music and Denver has some special venues. Two not to miss would be the Mission Ballroom and of course Red Rocks Amphitheater – any show there is special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Suzanne: I have so many phenomenal people and role models in my life that all deserve shoutouts just for being the amazing people that they are! At the top of my list though, is my husband, Leo, for always being supportive and always setting the example of self-improvement. I can’t stop there! Shoutout to my mama, Jo Anne, for setting the example of workplace success and my first lessons of empathy. Finally, my sister and brother-in-law, Julie and Harley, who are the most admirable business owners!

Jim: I would first shout out my partner-in-all-things, Lisa. She inspires, encourages and challenges me to go boldly forward, but always from a foundation of love. I am grateful to have so many male mentors who took an interest in me and took the time to teach me (and show me) what it means to be a kind and gentle man. My Mount Rushmore of these men are: Scott, Steve, Michael and Jim. And finally I would shout out the writings and teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh whose words and ideas continue to capture my heart and bring me hope.

Website: https://denverccc.com/

Instagram: @CollabCounseling

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/collaborativecounseling

Twitter: @drjimkemp

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CounselingDenver/

Image Credit: Jim Kemp PsyD