What's My Approach to Therapy?
Life has a way of challenging us in ways we never expect. For some, those challenges are rooted in trauma, transitions, or loss. For others, they may come in the form of anxiety, disconnection, or feeling stuck in cycles that no longer serve them. Josh Montoya believes that healing begins in a space of radical acceptance, compassionate understanding, and authentic connection. With a warm, affirming presence, and a collaborative approach, Josh walks alongside clients as they reclaim their voice, find meaning in their pain, and move forward with intention and hope.
At Foundations Counseling, Josh Montoya works with a wide variety of clients who may be seeking services that include:
· Trauma and posttraumatic growth – complex posttraumatic stress (PTSD), childhood trauma, combat-related trauma, dissociation, shame and guilt, emotional abuse recovery, trauma-informed care, sexual trauma, narrative reconstruction, reclaiming identity
· Mental health and wellness – anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and loss, emotional regulation, identity development, mindfulness-based practices, self-esteem, motivation and empowerment, spiritual exploration
· Life transitions – military and veteran transitions, career changes, adjusting to parenthood or independence, early adulthood, relationship endings, divorce recovery, personal reinvention, geographical relocation, midlife crisis, loss, and bereavement
· Men’s issues and identity work – masculinity and vulnerability, emotional expression, fatherhood, intimacy and connection, veteran reintegration, boundary setting, assertiveness training, purpose and direction, emotional intelligence
· Relationship and interpersonal counseling – trust-building, communication skills, attachment styles, codependency, breakups and infidelity, conflict resolution, emotional safety, boundary repair, relationship patterns, post-divorce adjustment
Josh Montoya earned his Master of Arts degree in clinical mental health counseling, as well as his Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology at the University of Northern Colorado. He utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, tailoring counseling techniques to each client's needs and goals. His practice primarily incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), existential psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, and strengths-based approaches. He is committed to ongoing professional growth to ensure he provides the most effective, evidence-based care to his clients.
Josh completed his clinical training at an acute treatment unit, providing compassionate care to individuals experiencing psychiatric crises and severe trauma. His prior professional experience includes 15 years of distinguished service in the United States Air Force, where he specialized in cybersecurity operations and led diverse teams through high-stakes missions. Josh also has 3 years of experience as a Department of Defense certified victim’s advocate, supporting survivors of interpersonal violence with crisis intervention, advocacy, and emotional support. These roles have provided him with a unique blend of clinical insight, trauma-informed practice, and leadership experience, enhancing his ability to connect deeply with clients from all backgrounds.
Outside of his work with clients at Foundations Counseling, Josh enjoys spending time outdoors, pursuing personal fitness goals, high-end PC building, all things nerdy (e.g., sci-fi, 3D printing, AI, philosophy, physics, and more), and engaging deeply with friends, family, and community. His passion for personal growth and authentic relationships extends into every area of his life.