Lifetime Achievement: Therese Michels

Former President, Colorado Association of Psychotherapists

A psychotherapist, Therese Michels is still counseling clients in Durango at the age of 91. Two of her specialties are couples counseling and dream work. Known for her generosity and compassion, she does not accept payment for her current work. As one client put it, Therese used to accept alternative forms of compensation: “My sister paid Therese by painting a mural in her house. I paid her, in part, by doing gardening, but I will never be able to fully repay her. I am a much more confident, healthy, and happy woman because of her counseling – and one of many people she has helped in La Plata County.”