We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nicole Hepler. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Nicole, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
College football. I graduated from The Ohio State University and am a proud Buckeye, so I look forward to college football season every year. There’s a strong alumni community here in Denver, so it’s a great way to connect with other Ohio State grads as well.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Awakening Serenity Counseling in Aurora, Colorado. I specialize in helping medical professionals, women and couples navigate the effects of trauma, burnout, chronic stress, chronic illness, and life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and grounded in mind-body awareness, integrating EMDR, IFS, and attachment-focused therapy.
What makes my practice unique is my belief that healing doesn’t have to feel clinical or overwhelming. It can be a gentle process of coming home to yourself. I strive to create a space where clients feel deeply seen, supported, and empowered to rebuild trust in their own inner wisdom. My work is rooted in the idea that with the right support, we can all move toward balance, resilience, and renewal.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My clients have taught me more about the nature of work than anyone else, not just the kind that earns a paycheck, but the deep, inner work of healing. Their courage to show up, face hard truths, and keep moving forward reminds me that meaningful work isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence, authenticity, and compassion.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You are more capable than you realize. Every challenge you face is shaping you into a stronger, more confident version of yourself. You don’t have to have it all figured out, just trust that you already have what you need within you and you will find your path.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I think they’d say I care deeply about others and creating space for people to feel safe just as they are. Whether in my personal life or in my practice, I value genuine connection, integrity, and helping others find a sense of balance and wholeness.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope they’ll say I made people feel seen, and that I helped others heal, reconnect with themselves, and believe in their own resilience. That I led with kindness, curiosity, and heart, and that my work left the world just a little softer and more hopeful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.asc-denver.com
- Instagram: @awakeningserenitycounseling
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568205556626
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/awakening-serenity-counseling-aurora
- Other: Blog: https://www.asc-denver.com/blog
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/nicole-hepler-aurora-co/397905
Therapy Den: https://www.therapyden.com/therapist/nicole-hepler-aurora-co
