Joanna A Lester, MA, LPC

Hi, I’m Joanna Lester—founder of First Circle Therapy, a Colorado-based virtual practice.

I specialize in working with college and grad students who are thoughtful, creative, and sensitive—but overwhelmed by the pressure to keep it all together. If you're juggling deadlines, relationships, family expectations, and big questions about who you're becoming, you might feel anxious, unmotivated, burned out, or just not yourself. You’re not alone—and therapy can be a space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what really matters to you.

Our work can help you move through cycles of self-doubt, people-pleasing, or perfectionism and into a more grounded, self-led life. Whether you're processing trauma, navigating identity shifts, or learning to set healthier boundaries, I offer space to explore your inner world with clarity and care.

In our sessions, we’ll use nervous system tools (to help your body shift out of fight-or-flight and feel more at ease) and parts work (to help the different sides of you—like the achiever, avoider, or inner critic—work together instead of against each other).

You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. I offer free consultations to see if we’re a fit, and I accept several major insurance plans to make therapy more accessible. Feel free to reach out—no pressure.