Community Highlights: Meet Krystal Gurule of Lotus Within Counseling LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Gurule.

Hi Krystal, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m a proud Hispanic woman, a mom of three amazing daughters, and a first-generation college graduate. My journey into the mental health field really started during my undergrad program. I was part of a scholarship program that connected me with mentors, and through that, I met my mentor (and now clinical supervisor), Joni. She introduced me to the work of Dr. Gabor Maté, and that completely changed the way I understood trauma, addiction, and the mind-body connection.

That experience sparked something deep in me. I knew I wanted to help others heal in a way that honors both their story and their strength. As a first-generation college graduate and mother, I’ve seen firsthand how resilience, community, and self-awareness can transform lives. Now, as I work toward becoming a licensed addiction counselor and professional counselor, my focus is on trauma-informed care and serving underrepresented communities. I’m passionate about destigmatizing mental health and creating spaces where people feel safe, seen, and empowered to grow.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I started grad school, I was a non-traditional student — a mom of three daughters, newly navigating life after divorce, and determined to show my girls what perseverance looks like. I had just completed my bachelor’s degree two weeks earlier after returning to school in 2020, following six years as a stay-at-home mom. Balancing motherhood, coursework, and personal challenges wasn’t easy; there were many nights I missed bedtime stories so I could chase a dream that would ultimately change our lives.

Before returning to school, I’d worn many hats — from dental assistant to paralegal — but it wasn’t until I stepped into the world of counseling that I discovered my true purpose. Becoming a therapist has been more than a career choice; it’s been a journey of growth, resilience, and deep fulfillment.

As you know, we’re big fans of Lotus Within Counseling LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I’m the founder of a trauma-informed counseling practice that supports individuals navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, complex trauma and other co-occurring disorders. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and the belief that every person has the ability to grow and reconnect with themselves. I use evidence-based methods like EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), while also honoring the mind-body connection and the unique story each person carries.

What really sets my practice apart is accessibility and authenticity. I proudly accept Medicaid to make quality mental health care available to more people who deserve support but may have struggled to find it. As a first-generation Hispanic woman and mom of three, I know how meaningful it is to feel truly seen, heard, and understood—especially during life’s hardest seasons.

I’m most proud that my brand reflects heart over perfection. My goal isn’t just to help people manage symptoms—it’s to help them feel more connected to who they are, learn to trust themselves again, and find peace in their own story.

I want readers to know that therapy isn’t about fixing what’s “wrong” with you. It’s about remembering your strength and rediscovering your wholeness. I offer individual counseling and trauma-focused sessions designed to help people live with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about our city is how close we are to the mountains. I was born and raised here, and being in nature has always been my go-to way to find calm and peace. The one thing I wish were better is our public transportation—it’s far behind other major cities, which really limits access for those who can’t afford a vehicle.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lotus-within-counseling.com