Melinda Kirstein MAMasters of Arts in Emergency Management LPCCLicensed Professional Counselor Candidate 
Retired Firefighter
Former Paramedic
Veteran
Therapist
Specializing in
- Crisis intervention
- Suicide prevention
- Trauma-focused therapy
Ms. Kirstein provides individual therapy to first responders and their families. As a first-generation immigrant and former first responder, she is especially passionate about facilitating culturally-informed and trauma-focused services.
Degrees
- A.A.S. in Paramedicine, Oregon Institute of Technology & Oregon Health and Science University
- B.S. in Applied Psychology, Oregon Institute of Technology
- M.A. in International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health, University of Denver
Ms. Kirstein is a recent graduate of the University of Denver, where she earned her master’s degree in International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate with a background in substance use and correctional mental health settings.
Prior to pursuing a career in mental health, Ms. Kirstein worked as a Firefighter in the U.S. Army Reserve and Paramedic on the civilian side. Through working in these professions, she gained an intimate understanding of the marginalized communities first responders serve, as well as the first responder community itself. She has a passion for suicide prevention and crisis intervention, as well as providing trauma-focused therapy that targets the unique challenges first responders face.
Ms. Kirstein is a first-generation immigrant from Switzerland and is trilingual (Swiss, German, and English). Since moving to the U.S. at the age of 18, she has lived in several states and recently planted roots in Colorado. Having had the unique opportunity to earn a master’s degree in International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental health, she is committed to providing therapeutic services that incorporate cultural and societal factors that feel relevant to her clients.
As a U.S. Army Veteran and former Paramedic, Ms. Kirstein felt called to serve those she used to serve alongside of. Her professional focus lies on trauma and everything this may encompass, including but not limited to job and family stressors, depression, anxiety, etc. She is no stranger to dark humor and welcomes her clients to show up as their authentic selves in the therapeutic setting.
During her free time, Ms. Kirstein enjoys spending time with her son and exploring Colorado with him. She also loves trying new food places and is rarely seen without a cup of coffee in her hand.