Brian Arens, M.A.,LPC.,CACII

Brian Arens, M.A.,LPC.,CACII
Assistant Director of Clinical Services

(he/him/his)

Education

  • Master of Arts in Counseling, Adams State College  

Training & Certifications

  • Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • CAMS Suicide Prevention Training

Areas of professional interest

  • Somatic Therapy
  • Self-Compassion
  • Cognitive Behavior Therapy
  • Mindfulness
  • Social Justice
  • Diversity Equity and Inclusion
  • Nonviolent Communication

When I was in my early 30’s, I was not feeling fulfilled by the work that I had been doing, I wanted to do something more meaningful. I always found it natural to connect with people and was drawn to the counseling field by one of the most important principles that I live by, which is, "make the world a better place." As I began working in the field and being part of people’s journeys of growth and healing, I felt like I had found myself in the process.  It was then I knew I had found my calling. So after completing my master’s program in Counseling at Adams State, I became licensed as a professional counselor in 2010.

My philosophy of counseling is compassionate, nonjudgmental, multi-cultural, person-centered and trauma informed. Having been through some challenging experiences in my own life, I have come to have some understanding of how hard life can be at times and how important it is in those times to stay connected on a human level. In that connection, I believe, is where growth and healing can occur.

Since coming to the college in the fall of 2018, I have been working to inform myself about the systemic issues in our society that have negative impacts on marginalized populations so I can better serve the various cultures and identities represented in the student population at FLC. I also believe in the healing power of nature, which is a significant reason I have been happy to call Durango my home since 1998. I enjoy the beauty of the southwest through hiking, biking, camping, skiing and boating.  In addition to outdoor activities, I highly value the friendly, supportive and diverse, small-town community that Durango embodies. I feel blessed to be here and honored to connect with its community members in meaningful ways.