About Us

Founder & Clinical Director

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Dr. Alison Harris is a dedicated therapist, mental health advocate, and founder of Root & Bloom Mental Health Services, committed to ensuring that all young people—especially those in rural communities—have access to the support they need to thrive.

As a former therapist at a rural, alternative high school in Colorado, Dr. Ali played a critical role in providing mental health care to students, helping them navigate stress, anxiety, and other challenges. With her help, the school implemented a comprehensive mental health system inspired by strategies from Root & Bloom, including screening, prevention, early intervention, and tiered support services.

Before her school role, Dr. Ali worked with the Division of Youth Services, conducting intake assessments for youth in secure placement settings. Her experience working with young people in challenging circumstances has shaped her compassionate, strengths-based approach.

Dr. Ali holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Colorado - Denver, a Master’s degree in Community Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University, and a PhD in Psychology from Capella University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and a Certified Clinical Supervisor.

Known for her warmth, empathy, and expertise, Dr. Ali is committed to helping young people develop resilience, confidence, and coping strategies for lifelong success. Whether working with students, families, or communities, she remains passionate about breaking down barriers to mental health care and ensuring that no child is left without support.

Contracted Provider

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Jon is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of life with compassion and understanding. He specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as teens and young adults as they move through key life transitions.

Jon incorporates a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed practices, and collaborative approaches to ensure that each session is tailored to the unique needs of his clients. He believes that every person has the potential to overcome challenges, and he sees his role as a guide in helping individuals find their own path to well-being.

Whether someone is facing the uncertainty of adulthood or simply needs a safe space to talk, Jon is committed to listening and providing meaningful support.

Outside of the counseling room, Jon enjoys traveling, playing games, and spending time with his animals—activities that help him stay grounded and connected. He brings this holistic, balanced perspective into his therapeutic work, with the goal of helping clients not just survive, but truly thrive.

If you're ready to take the first step, Jon is here to help. Reach out today to schedule a session and begin your journey toward healing and growth.

Contracted Provider

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Tessel has been providing therapy since 2004 and holds a deep belief in the power of therapy to guide individuals through complex emotions, make sense of their experiences, and empower them to make healthy, informed choices. She specializes in supporting children and families navigating challenges related to adoption, attachment, trauma, and disruptive behaviors—areas that can often feel overwhelming but are possible to overcome with compassionate therapeutic support.

Tessel is especially dedicated to helping children heal from the effects of childhood abuse, recognizing that the healing process can be both difficult and deeply personal. She strives to create a safe, validating environment where children can process their experiences and begin to recover. Her professional background includes work in residential care, schools, day treatment programs, and outpatient settings, giving her a broad and adaptable approach to care.

Working collaboratively with families, Tessel focuses on strengthening relationships, promoting healing from trauma and disruption, and implementing strength-based parenting strategies. For her, there is nothing more rewarding than witnessing families grow in resilience, support one another, and find their path toward lasting healing.

Contracted Provider

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Caroline (she/her) graduated in May 2024 with an MA in clinical mental health counseling from Adams State University. She holds bachelor’s degrees in fine arts and nursing and worked as a nurse for 17 years before entering the field of counseling.

Caroline's approach to counseling is integrative and embraces a holistic perspective that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. She incorporates trauma-informed, person-centered, and narrative approaches and utilizes art and other creative modalities to foster self-discovery and healing. She is trained in EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, integrative health and wellness coaching, is a trained yoga instructor, and is currently enrolled in Vital psychedelic-informed practitioner training. Caroline finds joy and fulfillment in helping individuals navigate their emotional landscapes and supporting their journey towards healing and self-discovery.

In her spare time, you may find Caroline hiking, snowboarding, visiting hot springs, and otherwise soaking up the Colorado sunshine. She also enjoys creative self-expression through art and dance, diving into a good book, and enjoying quality time with her children.

Caroline provides in-person counseling in Paonia and telehealth services. She works primarily with adolescents and adults.

Contracted Provider

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Meet Samantha Armagost, a caring licensed professional counselor who specializes in helping teens and adults overcome challenges like feeling sad or worried. Samantha has a Master of Education degree in Counseling and is trained in using Brainspotting therapy, which can be really helpful for people who have been through tough times.

Samantha has lots of experience working with young people, including teens, and she knows how hard it can be to navigate the ups and downs of life. But with her support, your teen can learn to manage their feelings and build the skills they need to cope with difficult situations.

Samantha is passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment where teens can talk about their thoughts and feelings. By working together, she can help your teen develop a plan that is just right for them and their needs.

Contracted Provider

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Olivia is a relational therapist who works collaboratively with teens and adults to create a warm, authentic, and nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. She supports clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress, and self-esteem concerns, tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs using CBT, ACT, DBT-informed, and person-centered approaches.

With experience in outpatient, school-based, inpatient, and crisis mental health settings, Olivia values meeting clients where they are and helping them build practical skills while fostering deeper self-understanding. She believes that while our past experiences shape us, they do not have to define us. Olivia enjoys helping clients reauthor their stories by recognizing their strengths, making meaning of their experiences, and creating new narratives that reflect resilience, hope, and the life they want to build.

Olivia believes therapy can hold both depth and lightness. She brings warmth, authenticity, and a genuine sense of humor to the therapeutic relationship, creating a collaborative environment where clients feel supported, empowered, and comfortable being themselves.