Psychotherapy
Diana María Houghton, Ph.D., LPC
I am a psychotherapist focusing on how the mindbody respond and integrate traumatic events in our lives.
I am currently available for tele-health (virtual) sessions.
email: dmhoughton@serenitysomaticpractice.org | Tel: 970.818.8537
Diana M. Houghton, Ph.D. LPC.0019337
Verify this credential at: www.colorado.gov/dora/dpo
Timeline of Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor Serenity Somatic Practice (formerly Houghton Somatic Therapy) 2020- Present
Ph.D. General Psychology with an emphasis on integrating Learning, Technology, and Psychology 2016 – 2024
Head Therapist/Owner Holistic Stress Management 2013 – 2016
M.A., Somatic Counseling with an emphasis on Body Psychotherapy 2010 – 2013
Intern Counselor Veterans Administration Medical Center 2011-2013
Hello! I'm Diana, a licensed professional counselor who is passionate about helping individuals heal and grow. With an M.A. in Somatic Counseling from Naropa University and over a decade of experience, I bring a compassionate and holistic approach to my practice.
My journey began at the VA Medical Center in Cheyenne, WY, where I worked in the Post Combat Trauma area, facilitating group and individual sessions. After my time at the VA, I opened my private practice, focusing on domestic violence, childhood trauma, relationship issues, and life after combat. My approach integrates EMDR, somatic perspectives, and mindfulness to support clients' unique needs.
In 2016, I pursued a Ph.D. in General Psychology at Grand Canyon University, which I completed in 2024. My studies emphasized integrating Learning, Technology, and Psychology, driven by my interest in how education can alleviate psychological unknowns. At Serenity Somatic Practice, I'm committed to providing a warm, supportive environment for clients to explore and heal.
My Journey
My journey toward integration began with a psychodynamic therapist, where I participated in both group and individual therapy. Along the way, I incorporated body movement practices like martial arts and yoga, which became essential to my healing process. In 2009, I was introduced to body psychotherapy and the somatic perspective. My passion for understanding trauma led me to pursue a Somatic Counseling Master's program at Naropa University, which I completed in 2013. I worked with veterans at the VA, facilitating sessions and becoming certified in EMDR. This experience laid the foundation for my private practice, where I focus on domestic violence, childhood trauma, relationship issues, and life after combat.
To quote John Lennon, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” These turns included becoming a first-time parent and supporting my mother in caring for my father during his battle with Parkinson's and Hodgkin's lymphoma, which inspired me to delve deeper into psychology. I took a break to be with my family and later returned to school, earning a Ph.D. in General Psychology in 2024. My studies emphasized integrating learning, technology, and psychology. With firsthand experience in various aspects of psychology, relational integrations, and EMDR, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for my clients to explore and integrate their life experiences.
The not so serious stuff
When I'm not nerding out on psychology, you'll find me snorkeling or striking a yoga pose. Always on my toes with the hubs, our spunky 11-year-old, our bulldog (a slobbery joy), and our fluffy bunny. We're always off on some escapade; we love to travel and find new adventures.
Living by the ocean means we're constantly exploring the salty sea life. I'm a proud snorkle dork, loving every encounter with critters like barracuda, eagle rays, and the occasional nurse shark. I also dabble in playing the cello and viola—though it's more like producing musical squeaks. My eclectic playlist ranges from the Beatles to Apocalyptica, Marcello to swing music, and everything else.
I have a talent for designing homes and revitalizing spaces, constantly on the lookout for architectural gems to transform. Contributing to the community is my passion. That's why I volunteer at Hope Roots, a nonprofit that provides affordable therapy in abundance. It's a wonderful opportunity to merge my enthusiasm with a sense of purpose.
