Get to know Tonya
and meet Sweet Pea!
Sweet Pea is my tiny and invaluable assistant. When I meet with clients, she’s more than likely on my lap listening to every word we say. Rest assured, all secrets are safe with Sweet Pea.
Here's the short version of my credentials:
2021
Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado (CSW.09927438)
2021
Certified Meditation Teacher
2011
Registered Yoga Teacher, 200-hour level
2005
Master of Science in Healthcare Administration
Trinity University in San Antonio
1996
Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas (#23370)
1993
Master of Social Work, LSU Baton Rouge
1989
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Southwestern Louisiana (Now UL Lafayette)
And the longer version:
My style of practice draws as much on life experiences as education, and my career has been a bit of a winding path. I’ve been in private practice since January 2009, but started out as a Social Worker in 1991.
I spent 16 years working in hospitals, where I worked with many types of patients. For several years my career ventured away from Social Work and into other roles including hospital quality management, compliance, and information technology.
In 2008, I left the hospital system and spent a year traveling and doing international medical consulting. I traveled extensively in Central America, mostly Costa Rica and El Salvador. It was indeed an adventurous year.
By 2009 I was ready to get back to Social Work and founded Mariposa Therapies, PLLC. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to share office space with Dr. Brian Earthman and Dr. Denae’ Rickenbacker, psychiatrists in Cedar Park. Subsequently I moved the office to Northwest Counseling and Wellness Center, where I also guided yoga classes in a substance abuse program for seven years.
I’ve practiced yoga since 2005 and have incorporated yoga in therapy for depression and anxiety. I completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training program in 2011 and added Registered Yoga Teacher to my credentials. Although not currently offering classes, I maintain a personal practice and I love talking about yoga with my clients.
What about fun, you ask?
I have many interests outside of the office, and travel is at the top of the list! Costa Rica is a favorite destination. I spend time there every year, in the mountains and at the beach. I cook and bake and design spaces with an eye for style. I love film and make it a point to attend the SXSW Film Festival as often as possible.
On a personal note, I have one son who is now a grown man. I’ve enjoyed married life and also experienced the pain of divorce. I cared for both of my parents toward the end of their lives and have grieved many losses. I’ve also been blessed with great friends who’ve been with me through the ups and downs of life.
