My journey into the world of therapy was not a straightforward one but rather a winding path guided by a lifelong quest to understand suffering and find ways to alleviate it.  My journey began when I was just nine years old, and I was curious about mindfulness and the Buddhist concept of suffering. This set me on a path of exploration and self-discovery, including serving in the United States Coast Guard, earning degrees in Criminal Justice, Criminology, and Psychology, running my own successful aviation consulting firm, and most significantly, studying Contemplative Psychotherapy at Naropa University.  Yet, the common thread that has always run through my diverse experiences is an unwavering desire to be helpful and make a positive difference.

My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in my life experiences and the lessons I've learned along the way. I believe in the transformative power of gaining new perspectives. I draw upon the wisdom accrued through my journey, education, and more than twenty years of experience as a therapist.  

A key aspect of my approach is helping clients connect with their loved ones and their sense of home. By grounding ourselves in the relationships and places that matter most to us, we can find the stability and support we need to thrive.

One of the most pivotal moments in my contemplative training occurred during my graduate studies at Naropa University, where I was a direct student of Dr. Edward Podvoll, the founder of Contemplative Psychotherapy. Studying with Dr. Podvoll was a transformative experience. He recognized me as a person of capacity, and we had tremendous conversations in our short time together. Our conversations, spanning over the last year of his life, profoundly impacted my understanding of what it means to be a compassionate presence in the lives of others.  These conversations are at the root of what I talk about with my clients and continue to shape my approach to Contemplative Psychotherapy.

In my practice, I often turn to the metaphor of the sun and clouds to describe the essence of contemplative therapy. The sun represents our inherent basic goodness—intrinsic well-being always present, even when obscured by life's challenges, represented by the clouds. Just as the clouds in the sky are ever-shifting, so are the difficulties we face. Contemplative Psychotherapy helps individuals reconnect with their basic goodness and cultivate the skills to navigate life's unpredictable landscape with greater ease and resilience.

I am deeply passionate about working with clients looking to expand their capacity for compassion and presence.  This also extends to fellow caregivers and therapists, exploring how our work as healers intertwines with our personal lives and intimate relationships. By examining how we interface with the people and places we hold dear, we can find a richness in life that will go far beyond our own individual work.

When I'm not engaged in my therapeutic work, you can find me savoring the simple joys of life—skiing down powdery slopes (a personal favorite), mountain biking, fly fishing, or crafting heartfelt creations with my hands as a maker. These diverse pursuits not only bring me joy but also serve to enrich my perspective and inform my work as a therapist.

Bearing witness to others as they forge deeper connections to their lives and loved ones brings me immense fulfillment. It is a privilege to collaborate with clients to gain liberating insights and ground their newfound wisdom into their personal households. 

Whether navigating a challenging transition, seeking more fulfilling relationships, or yearning to live with greater presence and purpose—I would be honored to support you on your journey. Together, we can explore how the marriage of Contemplative Wisdom and your inner resources can illuminate the path forward.

I look forward to the opportunity to walk alongside you on this transformative journey as you discover the magic that unfolds when you begin to see your life anew.

Raven Miller
Boulder, CO