OUR STAFF

 

Meet our therapists

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Hope Erickson, LPC

Hope is passionate about providing trauma-informed counseling to clients of all ages. She utilizes an integrative, holistic approach to individualize treatment. After completing her BA in Psychology, Hope received her MA in Counseling and Human Services with an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health and Addiction. Prior to coming to The Family Center, Hope has 5 years of experience working in early childhood education and development. In her spare time, Hope enjoys hiking with her dog, painting, and spending time with her friends and family. 

Samantha Harrison, LSW

Samantha holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from UCCS and is a Licensed Social Worker. Her focus is helping traumatized survivors rise resilient and cope with problems in their lives. Samantha’s clinical approach is person-centered, culturally sensitive, and she has been trained in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy. She has provided mentoring and skills training to help children, who have had child welfare involvement in a positive way to help them cope and advocate for themselves to be able to develop a healthy future. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, weight lifting, biking, yoga, and spending time with friends and family.

Ieshia Salas, MSW

Ieshia Salas is an empathetic and dedicated professional with a Master's in Social Work from Newman University, earned in 2022, with a range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. By combining these evidence-based modalities, she tailors her therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. Ieshia has a solid education foundation and a genuine passion for helping others, she works to promote healing and create positive change. Through her unwavering dedication and compassionate nature. Ieshia connects deeply with individuals from diverse cultures and creates a therapeutic alliance built on trust and understanding. Creating a safe and nurturing environment where her clients can explore their emotions, process traumatic experiences, and develop valuable life skills.

Holly Grasso, MSW

Holly graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, with bachelor’s degrees in both Psychology and Sociology in 2021 and with a Masters's degree in Social Work in 2023. Holly has experience working with clients in a crisis setting as well as with groups in an inpatient setting. Holly completed her field internship with The Family Center with a focus on trauma-informed care with clients of all ages as well as with families. Holly is especially passionate about the treatment of clients who have experienced complex trauma and those who live alternative lifestyles. She is currently working toward licensure to become an LCSW. Holly was chosen as an International Scholars Laureate to take part in a conference in Australia addressing the mental health of medical professionals. She has worked with the Leadership Academy of Educating Children of Color as a mentor to at-risk youths. She has been a guest lecturer on Human Sexuality at Pikes Peak Community College, Psychology Department, and hopes to continue to incorporate educating people on complex topics as part of her professional career.

Kim McElroy, MSW

Kim received her Master's in Social Work in December of 2020. She is currently pursuing her LCSW. Kim ​approaches therapy with trauma-informed care. Kim has experience working with clients in a crisis setting and in-home services throughout her career. Kim is passionate about treating youth clients who have experienced complex trauma. Kim is motivated to assist clients in coping and advocating for themselves to fulfill healthy lifestyles. In her spare time, Kim enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her family and dogs.

Marrisa Billings, MSW

Marissa has her masters degree in social work from UCCS and is pursuing her LCSW. She has extensive experience working as a social worker with children and adults and is focused on bringing a realistic, culturally accurate and trauma informed approach to her therapeutic practice. Marissa is a Colorado native who enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and exercising with her three dogs. 

Jolene Gearhart, BS Intern

Jolene is a dedicated social work professional currently pursuing her Master's degree in Social Work at the University of Denver. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marriage and Family Studies, providing a strong foundation for her career in human services. With plans to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Jolene is committed to making a positive impact in her community. Her academic background and passion for helping others drive her towards excellence in the field.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Jolene finds joy in simple pleasures. She loves soaking up sunshine, taking walks, and spending quality time with her family and two beloved dogs.

Our Office & Administrative staff

Melanie Christensen, Office Manager

Melanie is The Family Center's glue. She is responsible for providing assistance and effectively coordinating the staff for smooth and accurate operations. Prior to coming to The Family Center, she spent 25 years in operations and management. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, camping, reading, and spending time with friends and family.



Savannah McDaniel, Administrative Assistant

Savannah has a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences. She and her husband have been married since 2016. In her spare time, she enjoys road-tripping, camping, hiking, reading, and trying out new crafts.