Meet Ann Purves, LPCC — Fort Collins Therapist

That belief is at the heart of my work.

I specialize in helping high-achieving adults who are exhausted by perfectionism, people-pleasing, anxiety, and relentless self-judgement. They often look like they're holding it all together on the outside while privately feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves.

One of the first things I want my clients to know is this: The patterns that once protected you don't have to define you forever. Many of the ways we cope--overthinking, striving, avoiding conflict, staying busy, or putting everyone else first--made perfect sense at one point in our lives. They helped us adapt. But what once protected us can eventually become what keeps us stuck. That's why I often begin with attachment and the nervous system. When we understand why our patterns developed, shame begins to soften. Instead of asking, "What's wrong with me?" we begin asking, "Of course this makes sense. Now what?" And that's where the real work begins.
One of the core beliefs that shapes my approach is that identity follows experience. We don't think our way into becoming a different person—we practice our way there. Every time you choose self-compassion over self-criticism, a boundary over people-pleasing, presence over perfection, or courage over fear, you're doing more than making a different choice. You're teaching your brain and nervous system that another way is possible. Over time, those small moments become new patterns, new beliefs, and eventually a new relationship with yourself.

My work blends attachment theory, trauma-informed care, nervous system regulation, somatic practices, parts work, self-compassion, and practical skills. My goal isn't for you to leave therapy speaking the language of psychology. My goal is for you to understand yourself with greater compassion, experience yourself differently, and leave with tools that make a meaningful difference in your everyday life.
Ultimately, I don't believe healing is just about feeling less anxious or quieting the inner critic, although those things matter. I believe it's about expanding your capacity for life itself. One of my favorite lines is from Mary Oliver: "Joy was not made to be a crumb." That beautifully captures what surprised me most about my own healing journey. The destination wasn't simply less pain. It was discovering more joy, more playfulness, more awe, more connection, and more freedom to be myself. That's what I hope for every client who sits across from me. Not just surviving life, but feeling fully alive within it.

Curious whether your specific situation is something I can help with? Take a look at Areas of Support for a closer look at what I treat and how.
If this sounds like the kind of support you’ve been looking for, schedule a free consultation and let’s talk.