OUR TEAM
At The Center Origin, our team is the heart of everything we do. We know that feeling safe, supported, and truly understood matters. That’s why each member of our team walks alongside you with compassion, presence, and deep professional care.
Our facilitators are highly trained professionals with specialized education, diverse clinical backgrounds, and extensive hands-on experience. Each brings a distinct area of focus and an evidence-informed approach to support a wide range of needs and goals.
We encourage you to review their qualifications, areas of expertise, and therapeutic approaches to find the right fit. Whether you are seeking support for a specific concern or exploring personal growth, the right provider is here for you.
Quality care begins with the right match. We invite you to take the next step.
Founder & CEO, Ret. LCSW
Elizabeth Cooke
Elizabeth moved to New York City from Denver Colorado in 1984 where she pursued an education and career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She maintained a Private Practice as a Psychotherapist in the City while furthering her interest in Community-Based Program Design and Development. Ms. Cooke designed and directed a mental health clinic, a year-round after-school program, and ultimately a school. Elizabeth returned to Denver in 2010 to invest in Real Estate. In 2012 she founded ELCO Investments, Inc., a Real Estate Investment Company. Elizabeth entered the cannabis space in 2011 when she founded Natural Selection, a vertically integrated medical marijuana business. In 2015 she co-founded Coda Signature, an adult use cannabis edible manufacturing company in Colorado. Elizabeth left her operational role at Coda Signature in 2019 and began to research functional and psilocybin mushrooms. Her background as an LCSW and her post-masters training as a psychotherapist, informed her decision to open a licensed natural medicine healing center, The Center Origin. Elizabeth lived abroad in France and Spain each for one year while studying the languages and living in the local community. She continues to enjoy languages and maintains conversational fluency.
Licensed Natural Medicine Clinical Facilitator in Training
Sue Covington M.S., PA-C, NMCFIT
Sue is a Colorado native where she obtained her Masters Degree in Medical Science at the University of Colorado Health Science Center. She completed the Physician Assistant Program in 1988 and has worked in all settings of medicine including ambulatory care, hospital and emergency settings and most recently, a non-profit community health Center where she was Clinical Director overseeing clinic operations for 14 years. Sue has experience in community mental health where she has managed treatment plans of medication management and therapy for many socially and emotionally complex patients. She entered the Integrative Psychiatry Institute last year and completed the training and practicum for psychedelic assisted therapy obtaining the DORA license of Clinical Facilitator. Sue has extensive knowledge of medication management in the treatment of mental health conditions and has been an advocate of an integrative approach to wellness. Sue believes in the healing intelligence of natural medicine and will be key in healing an ailing world. She is also an artist and feels a strong pull to work with creativity in approaching challenging emotions and expressing joy.
Licensed Natural Medicine Clinical Facilitator
Daniel S. Schoenwald, PhD, NMCF
Daniel is a licensed psychologist who has been practicing since 2002 in both private practice and hospital settings. His preferred therapeutic orientations stem from the humanistic, existential, and interpersonal models. Originally from South Florida, he earned his undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and his PhD in clinical psychology from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale. Additional training included his clinical internship at the Miami VA Hospital and postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Miami. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Schoenwald has an affinity for teaching and has served as a university professor and clinical supervisor to hospital residents. His curiosity in altered states of consciousness and spiritual practices was advanced in college with education in Eastern Asian religions, now melding into his work as a licensed natural medicine clinical facilitator, having studied psychedelic didactics at the California Institute of Integral Studies and completed his psilocybin practicum at Innertrek. He is interested in utilizing psilocybin assisted therapy for those who have not been helped by traditional methods. Daniel’s lengthy experience in diagnosis is also helpful in determining if psychedelic treatment is appropriate for you. When not practicing psychology or working with natural medicine, Daniel enjoys photography as a creative outlet during international travel or in Colorado where he has lived since 2012. He values curiosity, openness, and aims to help you discover your authentic self.
Licensed Natural Medicine Facilitator
Jewel Lauer, NMF
Jewel is a Licensed Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy Facilitator. Almost 40 years ago while attending a graduate program in Transpersonal Psychology I was introduced to the work of Carl Jung, which profoundly expanded my understanding of consciousness. My exploration of states of consciousness has continued ever since, through intensive training in shamanism with Sandra Ingerman, Stanislav Grof’s Holotropic Breathwork, meditation practices, and the intentional use of psilocybin and other plant medicines. Spiritual exploration has been a essential part of my lived experience since I was young. I attended an Interfaith Seminary, with additional training in Buddhist mindfulness practices and meditation. I then trained with Hospice, serving as a bereavement group leader and end-of-life volunteer for eight years. As a Certified Life and Spiritual Coach and a licensed Psilocybin Assisted Therapy Facilitator in two states, holding space for the mystery and complexity of my clients’ inner healing and spiritual exploration feels like the truest expression of my calling. My work is rooted in presence, deep listening, compassion, and a trust in the innate intelligence of the human spirit, mind, and body. I regard this work as sacred, and I am continually humbled by the courage it takes to meet the unknown in psilocybin-assisted therapy. Whatever brought you here, I offer a steady, grounded presence and a dedicated heart to support you in your journey.
Licensed Natural Medicine Facilitator
Jeremy Nickel, NMF
Jeremy is a natural-medicine facilitator drawn to the places where life feels most alive, most uncertain, and most meaningful. Introduced to meditation at a young age by his father, he has spent much of his life in quiet conversation with the inner world—through meditation, spiritual study, and carefully held psychedelic experiences—always alongside a deep respect for the story science tells about the mind, the brain, and human change. He works with people across the full spectrum of belief, including those who are religious, spiritual, atheist, or agnostic. Jeremy does not believe healing depends on shared metaphysics. What matters more to him are curiosity, honesty, and the willingness to meet experience as it is—whether it is understood through meaning, mystery, neuroscience, or not at all. Jeremy feels especially called to accompany people at thresholds: in grief, in questions around death and dying, in couples navigating love and rupture, in men’s work, and in spaces of spiritual exploration and creative expansion. He has a particular care for working with veterans and others whose lives have been shaped by intensity, service, and profound transition. Grounded in Unitarian Universalist values of dignity, pluralism, and compassion, Jeremy’s facilitation is relational, steady, and deeply human. Alongside his work in healing spaces, he brings a background in immersive wellness technology, which gently informs how he supports preparation, integration, and ongoing practice—always in service of presence, not performance. At heart, Jeremy’s work is about helping people listen more closely to their own lives, especially in moments when something old is ending and something new is trying to be born.
Licensed Natural Medicine Clinical Facilitator in Training
Dr. Dara Cunningham, PhD, NMCFIT
Cognitive Scientist | Psychedelic Facilitator | Brain Health Coach | Therapeutic Designer Dr. Dara Cunningham is a Cognitive Scientist and dual PhD in Cognitive Science and Architecture from the University of Colorado. As a certified psychedelic facilitator through the NMHA program with Medicinal Mindfulness and a graduate student in Mindfulness and Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University, she brings a deeply integrative and evidence-based approach to mental wellness and transformation. Her work bridges neuroscience, mindfulness, somatic practices, and psychodynamic theory, creating a multidimensional space for healing. As a brain health coach and experienced guide in both micro and macrodosing journeys, Dr. Cunningham supports clients in navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, midlife transitions, and cognitive aging with warmth and scientific precision. In addition to her facilitation practice, Dr. Cunningham is a therapeutic designer, crafting physical and sensory environments that enhance mental health, emotional regulation, and the psychedelic journey itself. Her design work is informed by both her architectural training and cognitive science expertise, intentionally shaping settings that foster safety, insight, and integration. Motivated by personal experience, including her own recovery from depression and her family's journey with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, Dr. Cunningham is passionate about brain health, neuroplasticity, and the role of psychedelics in preventing neurodegenerative diseases. She works with individuals and groups in retreat settings and therapeutic centers, creating spaces where science and soul meet in the service of growth.
Licensed Natural Medicine Facilitator
Derek Scullin, LPCC, NMIT
Derek moved to Colorado after obtaining his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University. He is currently a licensed professional counselor candidate (LPCC), and also holds a natural medicine facilitator license (NMIT), after practicing and learning at the Integrative Psychiatry Institute (IPI). Derek is passionate about somatic and parts-focused modalities of healing, and also feels strongly about one's own inner healing intelligence, which psilocybin helps individuals connect to. Derek is a compassionate facilitator of natural medicine, and considers it an honor to play a part in peoples' psychedelic experiences. Derek is a clinician that believes that individuals work best at their own level of comfort, with space and time to feel aligned with interventions and change. He is excited that you are taking the time to explore the fascinating world of psychedelic psychotherapy, and is committed to ensuring that your needs and preferences for the process are heard and respected.
Licensed Natural Medicine Facilitator & Licensed Medicine Handler
Anna Desmarais, BSN, RN, HWNC-BC, NMF, LMH
Anna blends modern science and ancient wisdom to support clients in deep healing and transformation. Her relationship with psychedelic medicines spans more than three decades, and this experience with non-ordinary states of consciousness has deeply informed her path as a licensed facilitator. She has also trained and facilitated in Mexico, where her work with traditional healing ceremonies continues to shape her reverent approach. As a Registered Nurse and board-certified Integrative Nurse Coach, Anna brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, ethically-informed care, and compassionate presence to every session. The daughter of an immigrant and of mixed heritage, she has lived on three continents and speaks multiple languages, cultivating empathy, cultural sensitivity, and an appreciation for good food everywhere. Anna creates a welcoming, heart-centered space where clients can reconnect to their authentic selves, allowing the intelligence of natural medicine to tap into their innate wisdom and healing capacity. Known for her warmth, attentiveness, and lighthearted humor, Anna believes healing can hold both laughter and tears. Her clients describe her as “deeply attuned,” with an approachable, calming presence. Whether holding space for an individual or facilitating within a group, Anna emphasizes trust, safety, and connection as the foundation for transformation.
Natural Medicine Facilitator in Training
John Sander, NMFIT
John has over 30 years of personal experience with psychedelics and nearly two decades of professional expertise in the wellness field. He holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, concentrating on spirituality, as well as a master’s degree in psychology. Alongside his academic background, John is certified as a personal trainer and yoga instructor, and built a coaching business focused on life direction and wellbeing through contemplative practices like the Socratic method, writing, meditation, yoga, and nutrition. John’s experience in the wellness field led him to recognize the importance of a holistic approach to wellbeing, prompting him to pursue graduate studies in psychology with a focus on somatic psychotherapy. As somatic psychotherapist John believes that healing and personal growth involve both the mind and body. His work with psychedelic-assisted therapy began with Ketamine 9 years ago and, as of November 22nd, 2022, he has provided “Bonafide Harm Reduction Services” involving plant medicine under Colorado’s prop122. Additionally, he has received training as an MDMA therapist in preparation for its potential legalization. Integrating psychedelics into his clinical therapy practice has contributed to his client’s ability to achieve greater clarity and direction during pivotal and necessary periods of change. John has observed that psychedelics—particularly psilocybin—can facilitate the disruption of patterns associated with anxiety, PTSD, chronic depression, and substance use. Frequently, individuals seek his guidance after prolonged difficulties, being stuck, or limited progress with traditional therapeutic modalities. Additionally, John has been working regularly with individuals without specific mental or physical struggles but who are exploring these treatments for personal or spiritual reasons. John is committed to the belief that being human presents inherent challenges; however, it is possible to discover peace within this reality. With his comprehensive training and life experience, John is uniquely qualified to support and guide clients toward greater peace and fulfillment. His practice is characterized by a combination of deep curiosity, compassion, and direct communication.
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Natural Medicine Facilitator in Training
Shauna Perry, LPC, ATR-BC, NMFIT
Shauna is a Licensed Professional Counselor and an Art therapist who has been practicing these modalities in Denver since 2010. More recently she has obtained training as a Psychedelic Assisted Therapist through Integrated Psychiatry Institute, and she is Licensed as a Natural Medicine Facilitator. Shauna’s therapeutic approach is Person-Centered, Humanistic, and Experiential. She invites clients into a space where self-expression, intuition, and curiosity are welcomed. Creative processes allow client’s inner truths to surface gently and at their own pace. Shauna views the therapeutic relationship as a sacred collaboration. One that honors and holds space for the innate wisdom and wholeness that each person carries. She trusts the process and walks alongside individuals as a witness and as a support, as they navigate their own unique healing path. At the heart of her practice is a culturally sensitive approach and an appreciation and reverence for the healing modalities of natural medicine as well as each person’s unique journey. She holds deep respect for the complexity and resilience of the human spirit. Her work is rooted in the belief that healing is not something to be fixed or forced, but something that naturally unfolds when we are met with presence, safety, and compassion. Shauna seeks to create an intentional, grounded, trauma-informed, and attuned space where clients can access their own inner guidance and connect with the wisdom within them.
Licensed Natural Medicine
Clinical Facilitator in Training
Becca Meyer, Psy. D., NMCFIT
Becca is a licensed Psychologist in Illinois and Colorado with nearly two decades of clinical experience. She earned her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and completed her doctoral training at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. She is certified in psychedelic-assisted therapy through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and continues to deepen her understanding in the field. Becca maintains her private practice on Chicago’s north shore and travels to Colorado to facilitate natural-medicine sessions. In both settings, she supports clients’ pursuit of vitality, meaning, and joy. She especially enjoys helping clients who feel stuck and are ready for significant change. Her psychedelic practice focuses on thoughtful preparation, creating and maintaining a space for the journey, and purposeful reintegration. She is passionate about consciousness exploration and open to mysteries of the unknown.
Licensed Natural Medicine
Clinical Facilitator & Facilitator Consultation Provider
Jaime Davila, LPC, NMCF
Jaime is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Facilitator in Colorado with a Master of Arts in Counseling from Regis University. I offer services in both English and Spanish. He is passionate about supporting people through profound experiences of healing and transformation. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in a military family, he has lived across multiple countries and cultures—experiences that taught me about transition, belonging, and the courage it takes to move through the unfamiliar. Before becoming a counselor, Jaime served in the Air Force and spent many years working in the aerospace industry. His own healing journey with psychedelics reshaped everything he understood about growth, resilience, and connection. That lived experience, combined with over a decade of working with altered states, now informs the way he show up for others. Jaime has trained extensively in psilocybin and ketamine-assisted therapy, guiding clients and students through countless hours of preparation, dosing sessions, and integration work. He has also served as a faculty member and clinical instructor, mentoring the next generation of facilitators. People often describe him as warm and calm—someone whose presence offers steadiness when the ground feels uncertain.
Licensed Medicine Handler
Lora Benson, LMH
Lora is a Colorado state–licensed Natural Medicine Handler and a current trainee at The Synthesis Institute, where she is pursuing her Natural Medicine Facilitator license. She is also completing her Master of Social Work at the University of Denver, currently in her foundation year. New to the clinical side of psychedelic therapy, Lora approaches this work through a spiritual and sacred lens, currently studying trauma-informed care and IFS therapy. With deep appreciation for the introspective and reflective nature of natural medicines, she integrates her knowledge of healing practices with a compassionate, mindful approach to supporting others on their journeys of growth and transformation. Lora is grateful and appreciative to be a part of this work and honored and privileged to share in your journey.
Licensed Medicine Handler
ELLIE TITARENKO RN, FNP, MSN, LMH
Ellie Titarenko, FNP-C is a clinically experienced Family Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of multidisciplinary practice in primary care, addiction medicine, pain management, oncology, and geriatrics. She is deeply committed to whole-person care and integrates functional medicine principles that honor the connection between biology, lifestyle, emotional health, and lived experience. Ellie brings a grounded, steady presence to complex clinical situations and is a thoughtful advocate for ethical, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies as tools for healing, emotional regulation, addiction recovery, and end-of-life support. Outside of clinical practice, Ellie is an avid reader who loves hiking and skiing in the mountains. She volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol and is actively involved in the local Ukrainian community, reflecting her strong commitment to service, resilience, and connection.
Office Administrator & Licensed Medicine Handler
Henry Weigel, LMH
Born in New York, Henry moved to Colorado to attend the University of Denver, where the mountains, open skies, and deep sense of connection to nature quickly won him over. He was equally drawn to Colorado’s supportive culture around psychedelic medicine, finding it aligned with both his personal passion and professional goals. Currently, Henry serves as Lab Manager at the University of Denver’s Psyche Lab, where he studies the effects and potential of psychedelics while pursuing his degree in Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive Neuroscience. At The Center Origin, Henry helps guide clients through their experience with warmth, clarity, and attention to detail. He answers questions, coordinates office logistics, and ensures each step of the process feels seamless and supportive. His approach is grounded in a deep respect for the transformative potential of this work. Henry’s path blends scientific rigor with a heartfelt belief in the human capacity for growth and healing. His work in research allows him to stay up to date on emerging science, while his day-to-day role offers him the privilege of connecting directly with individuals on their journeys. Whether in the lab or at the Center, Henry holds space for exploration, discovery, and meaningful connection.
Intake Coordinator
Harrison Tillou
Harrison Tillou is the Intake Coordinator at The Center Origin. In this role, I serve as your initial point of contact. My priority is to ensure you feel welcomed, supported, and informed. I’m here to answer any questions you may have, provide clarity on what the process entails, and help you feel centered as you take your first steps into your journey. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Denver, where I also work as a Research Assistant at the PSYCHE Lab. We explore how psychedelics influence consciousness and shape life narratives. I am currently completing my facilitator training through the Changa Institute, further deepening my understanding of psychedelic-assisted healing. I am inspired by the evolution of psilocybin work and feel honored to be part of a pioneering team helping shape an intentional and respectful culture around these medicines. Supporting individuals at the beginning of their journey is a privilege. I am committed to revering the transformative potential of these entheogens.
Client Advocate
Audrey Covington
Audrey Covington is a compassionate Client Advocate dedicated to supporting individuals as they explore healing through psilocybin assisted therapy. With over a decade of experience in client relations, communications, and wellness services. Her background includes managing complex client communications, coordinating care, and guiding individuals through sensitive and transformative processes with clarity and respect. Audrey is known for her ability to translate complex information into accessible guidance, helping clients feel informed, supported, and confident in their care decisions. Serving as a consistent point of contact between clients and program staff, she emphasizes trust building throughout the process. She is deeply committed to expanding access to responsible, regulated psychedelic care in Colorado and supporting individuals with meaningful personal transformation through intentional therapeutic experiences
Graphic Designer
Jeffery Schaich
Jeff graduated from the VCU Brand Center in Richmond, VA and worked in various Advertising and Design agencies through the 90s until being recruited by a growing Design firm in Boulder, CO. It was not a hard decision to make since he had a real love for the Rocky Mountains, snowboarding and mountain biking. After four good years with the Zeitgeist Agency in Boulder, Jeff started his own Design Studio and has been creating Branding, Advertising and Graphic Design for burgeoning companies around the country for the past 25 years. One well known Brand that Mr. Schaich developed is crocs shoes. Rebranding the company in 2006 and creating the international look for the customer facing marketing collateral and in-store experiences for the fast growing lifestyle company. Some of his work through the years caught the attention of some major design magazines being featured in Communication Arts, PRINT and HOW magazines.
Marketing, VP Account Services
Theresa Cuttitta
Theresa Cuttitta, MBA, is a results-driven marketing leader with a strong background in advertising, social media, and digital strategy. Known for executing high-impact campaigns that fuel business growth, she combines creative content development with strategic planning to deliver measurable results. She brings proven expertise in lead generation, project management, and cross-functional collaboration through her work with The Field Marketing. Theresa is especially skilled in leveraging social media and integrated digital marketing to boost brand visibility and engagement. With a sharp eye for detail and a passion for innovation, she thrives in fast-paced environments and consistently aligns marketing efforts with business objectives. Check out The Field Marketing at: https://thefieldinc.com/