Meet our Crew

OWNER, CERTIFIED EMDR CHILD SPECIALIST
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST
(she/her/hers)

Lauren became a licensed marriage and family therapist over 20 years ago. After living in Conifer with her family for more than a decade, she opened the doors to Conifer Play Therapy in 2017 and has since provided support to hundreds of children and families in our community. Lauren is an EMDRIA-Certified Therapist and a Certified EMDR Child Specialist. She continues to expand her knowledge and training to offer the most effective treatment to children.

CHILD THERAPIST
(she/her/hers)

Conifer Play Therapy welcomes Caitlin Aguayo to our team! Caitlin completed her Master’s of Social Work for Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Denver University. She has worked with individuals across the life-span and discovered a passion for working with children and families in rural areas. Caitlin has experience providing mental health services at School Based Health Centers. She uses a holistic, systems-based approach and is excited to support our mountain community.

CHILD THERAPIST
(she/her/hers)

Jillian specializes in children’s mental health, with extensive experience supporting children with trauma and attachment disruptions across residential, day treatment, school-based, home-based, and outpatient settings. She utilizes evidence-based, client-centered approaches to help children develop effective coping skills, build emotional resilience, and navigate life’s challenges while supporting families throughout the therapeutic process. Conifer Play Therapy is thrilled to have Jillian as part of our team!

REMOTE CHILD THERAPIST
(he/him/his)

Derrick has more than a decade of experience working with children, including the last several years at Conifer Play Therapy. He earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2024 and is now completing full licensure as a Professional Counselor. In his new role as a remote therapist, Derrick provides counseling services to children and families in a virtual setting. We are exited to continue having Derrick on our team and value the experience, dedication, and genuine connection he brings to the children and families he serves.

GRADUATE INTERN ~ CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH
(she/her/hers)

Julie comes to Conifer Play Therapy as a Counselor-in-Training, currently pursuing her Master’s degree at Colorado Christian University. As a student intern, Julie is passionate about supporting the children and families she serves while learning and practicing under the supervision of Lauren Ferguson. Conifer Play Therapy is excited to welcome Julie to the team and look forward to the compassion, enthusiasm, and dedication she brings to our community.

CARE COORDINATOR
(she/her/hers)

Mary Pat has lived and served in our mountain community for many years. She is the former Director of Victim’s Services for the Park County Sheriff’s Office and volunteers with multiple organizations serving children and families in Conifer, Pine, and Bailey. Conifer Play Therapy is fortunate to offer Mary Pat’s expertise in domestic violence advocacy, free local resources, and individualized care navigation. She values strong community connections and is eager to help your family thrive.

CANINE CO-THERAPIST

Piper works with Lauren Ferguson to provide animal-assisted emotional support and a unique therapy experience for kids. Piper is a “Canine Good Citizen” with a gentle nature that immediately puts children at ease. She is particularly soothing for kids who struggle with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, or depression, and for those needing support with personal boundaries, attachment, and learning prosocial behavior. Participation in services with Piper is completely voluntary and offered as a choice based on each child’s comfort level.

*Information and research about the benefits of animal-assisted therapy is available upon request.