Annemarie C. Prairie, MA, LPC, LAC, CRNC, Certified IFS Clinician
We are all unique and have myriad life experiences. Every person has their own way of healing and accomplishing their goals. Examining thoughts, sensations in the body, and spiritual/philosophical beliefs allows each individual to have an experience that is tailored to their individuality. It creates lasting healing as it integrates change within their whole being.
My philosophy
I believe at our core, we are all whole and healthy individuals. From an early age, and for various reasons, we create a variety of internal defense mechanisms. As we become adults, we often do not need these anymore but to release those and reconnect with our wisest self, some healing often needs to occur. This healing allows our highest self, our essence, to emerge more freely and our fear-based voices to decrease and become less activating.
How I work
I have studied a number of modalities and have found Internal Family Systems (IFS) to be the one which I have seen the most incremental, lasting change. I use a strength-based approach that incorporates thoughts, sensations in the body, and spiritual/philosophical beliefs. Additionally, it is important to look at how a person's quality of life is influenced by exercise, diet, sleep and substances. These affect our biochemical make up and moods. By taking a holistic approach, each person experiences healing tailored to their individuality. This creates lasting healing as it integrates change within each person’s whole being.
A Safe, Emotionally-Supportive Space
I meet each person where they are and establish meaningful goals. Together we work at your pace and within your what is comfortable for you. I believe each of us has a wisdom inside that is greater than all the critical thoughts we have ever had. I work with you to help your wisdom become the dominant voice so you can lead a more fulfilling and happier life.
My philosophy
I believe at our core, we are all whole and healthy individuals. From an early age, and for various reasons, we create a variety of internal defense mechanisms. As we become adults, we often do not need these anymore but to release those and reconnect with our wisest self, some healing often needs to occur. This healing allows our highest self, our essence, to emerge more freely and our fear-based voices to decrease and become less activating.
How I work
I have studied a number of modalities and have found Internal Family Systems (IFS) to be the one which I have seen the most incremental, lasting change. I use a strength-based approach that incorporates thoughts, sensations in the body, and spiritual/philosophical beliefs. Additionally, it is important to look at how a person's quality of life is influenced by exercise, diet, sleep and substances. These affect our biochemical make up and moods. By taking a holistic approach, each person experiences healing tailored to their individuality. This creates lasting healing as it integrates change within each person’s whole being.
A Safe, Emotionally-Supportive Space
I meet each person where they are and establish meaningful goals. Together we work at your pace and within your what is comfortable for you. I believe each of us has a wisdom inside that is greater than all the critical thoughts we have ever had. I work with you to help your wisdom become the dominant voice so you can lead a more fulfilling and happier life.
After working with me, clients have said they felt:
- Happier and more at ease
- Better able to prioritize their needs and take better care of themself
- Greater self-esteem and increased self-confidence
- More fulfillment and ease at work
- More enjoyable parenting
- More grounded and present-centered
- Less judgmental toward themselves and others
- Less dependent on substances, food, and other distractions
- Better able to handle difficult people and life circumstances.
I am skilled at working with people to help shift them to more positive patterns. I have worked with individuals, children, families, and couples in a variety of settings. Presently I work primarily with adults. My specialties include:
Addiction/ Compulsive Behaviors Anxiety
Parenting Support Spiritual Growth
Codependency Depression
Eating Disorders Relationship Issues
Grief & Loss Caretaker Support
Transgender/Non-binary peeps
Why I do this work
I studied English in college, and I have always loved hearing people’s stories. Service activities have also long been the focus of my life. After a few years in corporate settings, I spent two years doing full-time volunteer work (through AmeriCorps and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps). I continued service work at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, which was the first time in my life I felt I could just be me. It was the biggest gift I could have received at the time. That experience opened something in my spirit that has informed my work ever since. I began undergoing my own therapy during that time and, after realizing how possible it was to feel better and less self-critical, I decided to pursue Counseling Psychology.
I received my Master's degree in the Transpersonal program from Naropa University in 2008. I am Licensed in Counseling and am also Licensed in Addictions Counseling by the state of Colorado. In addition, I am Certified in Internal Family Systems (Level 2), Gerontology (through the University of Colorado), and am End-of-Life & Grief Counseling Certified. Additionally I have assisted in Level 1 trainings for Internal Family Systems. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field using a holistic approach. I believe we all have a light and strength within ourselves to create a more fulfilling and enriching life.
There have been times where I’ve experienced debilitating anxiety. It can be terrifying, overwhelming, and isolating. I understand it’s not something you can just wish away - that there needs to be in-depth understanding and support in order to create lasting change.
I have also had issues with substances and family members who are struggling with addiction. There is a world of mis-information (however well intentioned) on this topic, which only increases a negative stigmatism and shame. I work to help lift the shame and find the “gold” in the experience that makes us stronger and more resilient. Lasting change is more than possible with effort. Many people in my life have helped me overcome obstacles and personal struggles. I am grateful to be able to assist people on their journey to their best life as well.
When I’m not in my office
One thing I work on with my clients is having balance. I am continually working on finding this in my life. Let’s face it: we’re on a big blue ball floating in space, of course we’re going to have to be continually re-adjusting to feel safe and centered. I love being in nature as a way to reconnect with my breath and the moment. Having my dogs with me, helps me remember what true joy looks like: smelling the flowers and enjoying what’s in front of you. Roo and Bella are rescue dogs, who may believe they are more human than dog.
Some of my other interests include volunteering at my kids’ schools, playing games and sharing meals with my family, camping and other modes of travel, finding the best pizza in Boulder, and riding my bike.
I studied English in college, and I have always loved hearing people’s stories. Service activities have also long been the focus of my life. After a few years in corporate settings, I spent two years doing full-time volunteer work (through AmeriCorps and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps). I continued service work at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, which was the first time in my life I felt I could just be me. It was the biggest gift I could have received at the time. That experience opened something in my spirit that has informed my work ever since. I began undergoing my own therapy during that time and, after realizing how possible it was to feel better and less self-critical, I decided to pursue Counseling Psychology.
I received my Master's degree in the Transpersonal program from Naropa University in 2008. I am Licensed in Counseling and am also Licensed in Addictions Counseling by the state of Colorado. In addition, I am Certified in Internal Family Systems (Level 2), Gerontology (through the University of Colorado), and am End-of-Life & Grief Counseling Certified. Additionally I have assisted in Level 1 trainings for Internal Family Systems. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field using a holistic approach. I believe we all have a light and strength within ourselves to create a more fulfilling and enriching life.
There have been times where I’ve experienced debilitating anxiety. It can be terrifying, overwhelming, and isolating. I understand it’s not something you can just wish away - that there needs to be in-depth understanding and support in order to create lasting change.
I have also had issues with substances and family members who are struggling with addiction. There is a world of mis-information (however well intentioned) on this topic, which only increases a negative stigmatism and shame. I work to help lift the shame and find the “gold” in the experience that makes us stronger and more resilient. Lasting change is more than possible with effort. Many people in my life have helped me overcome obstacles and personal struggles. I am grateful to be able to assist people on their journey to their best life as well.
When I’m not in my office
One thing I work on with my clients is having balance. I am continually working on finding this in my life. Let’s face it: we’re on a big blue ball floating in space, of course we’re going to have to be continually re-adjusting to feel safe and centered. I love being in nature as a way to reconnect with my breath and the moment. Having my dogs with me, helps me remember what true joy looks like: smelling the flowers and enjoying what’s in front of you. Roo and Bella are rescue dogs, who may believe they are more human than dog.
Some of my other interests include volunteering at my kids’ schools, playing games and sharing meals with my family, camping and other modes of travel, finding the best pizza in Boulder, and riding my bike.
Pricing and Insurance Coverage
A 55-minute session is $175. I also offer some sliding scale when needed.
I can provide a statement for your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement.
I can provide a statement for your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement.