Shaina Rippetoe

Clinician

Licensed Social Worker

I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Addiction Counselor Candidate (ADDC) working toward both my LCSW and LAC licensure, while also pursuing certification as an International Certified Gambling Counselor-I. I earned my BS in Psychology with a minor in Creative Wellness from Colorado State University Pueblo in 2023, and my Master of Social Work from Colorado State University Pueblo in 2025, and I have two years of experience providing therapeutic services to youth, families, and adults.

My clinical approach is grounded in humanistic theory, and I strive to create a safe, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences at their own pace. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), culturally responsive interventions, and art as a therapeutic intervention, and I am continuing to expand my training in Child-Centered Play Therapy.

Outside of work, I'm a proud nerd and love all things nerdy, especially Star Wars, tabletop gaming, the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), and miniature war games like Warhammer, Gaslands, Pathfinder, D&D, and Warmachine/Hordes. I also enjoy attending concerts and music festivals, making Perler and pony bead projects, drawing, painting, calligraphy, writing poetry, and reading. When I'm not being creative, you can usually find me gaming on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC, spending time outdoors, hiking around Beulah, or relaxing at the hot springs. Whether you're facing a final boss, a difficult side quest, or just feeling stuck in your backstory, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

Insurances I Accept:

Aetna, BCBS, CHP+, Cigna, Kaiser, Medicaid, Private Pay, and United

How I Work:

I believe that every person is the expert on their own life and deserves a therapeutic space where they feel safe, respected, and genuinely heard. My role is not to tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as you explore your experiences, identify your strengths, and move toward the goals that are meaningful to you. Clients can expect a collaborative, nonjudgmental, and often creative approach that balances acceptance with growth. I strive to create an environment where curiosity is encouraged, emotions are welcomed, and authenticity is valued. Whether we are building coping skills, processing difficult experiences, strengthening relationships, or simply trying to better understand what is getting in the way, I aim to meet you where you are and support you at a pace that feels right for you.

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Issues I Treat:

Addictive Behaviors, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Life Stressors, Neurodivergence, Grief and Loss, Adjustment/Change, LGBTQIA+

Populations I Serve:

All Ages, All Genders, LGBTQIA+

Professional Background:

Education

Training

Previous Employment

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At A New Leaf Therapy, our team includes some of the most compassionate, highly trained, and trusted therapists in Pueblo. Voted among the Best Mental Healthcare Providers and Best Places to Work in all of Pueblo for the last five years, we’re proud to offer exceptional care that helps our clients thrive. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, relationships, or life transitions, we’re here to support you every step of the way.