Karan received her bachelor's degree in human services from Metropolitan State University where her passion for working in the area of community mental health and addictions research developed. After numerous years of assisting adolescents and adults in various settings, she recognized that individual needs include the needs of family, community, and overall systems. Inspired to move forward in developing a more comprehensive understanding of mental health care, Karan went on to receive her master’s in social work from the University of Denver. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addictions Counselor in the State of Colorado. Something she believes is that positive growth in life flows when vulnerability can be seen as an opportunity and that discomfort precedes strength and resiliency. Her role is to help individuals take notice of these qualities and assist in moving forward. School Counselor Julia Baldassari
Julia received her bachelor's in English with a minor in Education, Inquiry, and Justice from Georgetown University. She then taught ninth and 11th grade English at St. Andrew's Episcopal School in Maryland while working in the school's Center for Transformative Teaching and Learning. Through this position, she became fascinated with the science of learning and discovered her passion for supporting teachers. She also realized that she wanted to help students overcome mental health challenges during their academic journey. After moving to Denver, she received her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Denver, earning certificates in School Social Work and Animal-Assisted Social Work. She is a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Colorado. She comes to Denver Academy after serving as a therapist at Mount Saint Vincent, an agency serving children who have experienced trauma.
School Counselor Kristy Vance
Kristy Vance received her bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in elementary and special education from William Smith College. Kristy taught third grade before pursuing her passion for special education and working at The Joshua School and Firefly Autism with students with developmental disabilities. Working closely with talented professionals, families, and unique learners allowed Kristy to discover that a career in social work would allow her to fulfill her professional goals of helping students and their networks of support to close the gaps between school, home, and the community. Kristy received her master's in social work from the University of Denver. Kristy's work spans from early childhood social skills and trauma work through teenage and young adult behavioral and academic support. She has worked in a variety of settings including public and private schools, community mental health centers, nonprofit academic enrichment programs, and private practice.
4400 E. Iliff Ave. Denver, CO 80222 Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870 Admissions: 303.777.5161 General: info@denveracademy.org
About
Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DAinspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education.