Therapist for Expectant, New, and Young Fathers in Colorado
Serving & Supporting Fathers throughout Colorado
Becoming and Being a Father Will Feel Overwhelming
Expectant, new, and young fathers in Colorado face a unique set of challenges as they transition into fatherhood. Balancing the anticipation, responsibilities, and emotional shifts that come with welcoming and raising a child can lead to stress, anxiety, and feelings of uncertainty. While fathers often strive to appear strong for their families, it's crucial to have a safe space where they can explore their emotions and build confidence in their role.
Support You Can Count On
At Mountain Town Mental Health, I specialize in guiding fathers through every stage of this transformative journey. Whether you're preparing for the arrival of your first child or adapting to life with a young one, or integrating another kiddo into your growing fam, I provide empathetic support tailored to your experience. Together, we work to navigate stress, develop effective coping strategies, and foster a sense of stability and purpose, ensuring that you feel supported, seen, and equipped to thrive as a father.
Book a Free Consultation
Curious if we might work well together? Book a free consultation to see if I might be a good fit for your needs.
Meet Erik
Hi, I’m Erik Wardell. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC). I have a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and training in mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), and grief and loss counseling. I’m also a husband and father of two young(ish) kiddos.
I love being a therapist for fathers. Maybe because I could have really used that support when I first became a dad?! While I’m passionate about helping all my clients, there’s something uniquely fulfilling about guiding fathers through the disorienting and transformative journey of parenthood. It's a stage filled with both challenges and opportunities for growth. Click the button below to learn more about me as a person and as a counselor.
Why Mountain Town Mental Health?
As a therapist specializing in supporting fathers in the Colorado Rockies, I am dedicated to providing counseling that truly meets the needs of expectant, new, and young fathers. I understand that this stage of life can be overwhelming and filled with a mix of excitement, doubt, and pressure. My goal is to create a welcoming and non-judgmental space where fathers can express their genuine thoughts and feelings—not just the ones they think they’re supposed to have.
I connect with fathers on a meaningful level, acknowledging their unique challenges and perspectives. With a practical and empathetic approach, I strive to make each session valuable, relatable, and productive. Therapy should feel like a collaboration, where fathers are empowered to navigate their roles confidently and build the lives they envision for themselves and their families.
Therapist for Expectant, New, & Young Fathers FAQ
How do I know if therapy is right for me as an expectant or new father?
If you find yourself facing anxiety, relationship strain, feeling overwhelmed with the new responsibilities, struggling with past traumas, or simply seeking personal growth and adjustment to fatherhood, therapy might be a valuable resource.
What’s your therapy philosophy?
I believe that every individual is innately capable and resilient, but life changes—like becoming a father—can challenge our sense of self and stability. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and adapt to your new role in a healthy way that allows you to show up for yourself, your partner, and your kiddo. I use a humanistic and relational approach, focusing on your unique needs and goals as a father.
Is therapy worth it?
Therapy is an investment in your emotional and mental health. My rate is $160/hour for individual counseling. While the cost may seem significant, the benefits can include improved relationships, reduced stress, and a greater sense of fulfillment and competence in your role as a father.
How can I know you’ll work well with me?
The best way to find out is by scheduling a free 20-minute consultation. This will give us a chance to discuss your specific concerns and see if we’re a good fit. If it turns out I'm not the right match, I’m happy to recommend other professionals who might better meet your needs.
Do you work with fathers from different backgrounds?
Yes, I work with fathers from all backgrounds and have experience addressing diverse concerns. Whether you’re a first-time dad, a father of multiple children, or navigating complex family dynamics, I aim to provide support that respects your individual situation.
What happens in a therapy session?
Therapy sessions are collaborative and centered around your experiences as a father. We’ll create a space where you can express concerns, reflect on your emotions, and develop practical strategies for coping and growth. The aim is to empower you to face challenges with confidence and live fully into your role as a father.
How I Provide Therapy for Fathers
Technology is a double edged sword. While I prefer work with fathers in-person, I’ve learned that telehealth is also a great option. That’s why I offer both in-person and teletherapy services to fathers in the Roaring Fork Valley and throughout Colorado.
For in-person, I have an office in Carbondale. If you aren’t located in or near Carbondale, I do teletherapy for all my other clients throughout Colorado. I use a program called SimplePractice that makes therapy a seamless experience. Intake forms, therapy sessions, billing and everything else happens in one place.