Individual & Group Therapy · Denver
Psychotherapy for adults facing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, and repeated patterns, approached through depth psychology, spiritual openness, and the therapeutic relationship.
Dr. John A. Otte, PsyD Over 35 years as a clinical psychologist in Denver, integrating psychoanalytic depth, family systems, and Jungian insight.
A word of welcome
"If you're reading this, I want to encourage you in your search for a therapist. Making that first call is one of the most difficult and hopeful things you can do about your situation."
My first goal in therapy is the establishment of the therapeutic alliance. The relationship is the foundation for the work that follows. Spirituality is an important facet of what I do because it leads to hope, hope leads to action, and action brings change. Depth psychology addresses the underlying wounds that result in repetitive, unproductive, sometimes even self-destructive behavior.
It is also very challenging. If you are looking for a specific technique, I may not be the right therapist for you. On the other hand, if you're willing to face your issues in a deeper, meaningful way, I promise that I will bring honesty, compassion, and a sense of humor. I believe laughter is as important as insight. You can email, text, or call me to set up a 15-20 minute Zoom consultation. I do not charge for that. If I'm not the right therapist for you, keep looking; there's a therapist out there for you.
– John A. Otte, PsyD
Read my latest writing: John A. Otte on Substack
What I help with
In both individual and group settings, my work centers on three deeply connected struggles, met with depth, honesty, and spiritual openness.
Spirituality isn't religion. It's the acceptance of mystery: that an undefinable Power is present and active in daily life, and most present in relationships, therapy included.
Read moreMore than a bad habit. It is a whole-person disease of body, mind, and spirit. In my experience it is best met through a combination of spiritual support and honest, sustained work.
Read moreA disease of body, mind, and spirit. With the right support, and sometimes medication, core beliefs change, shame is transformed, and people genuinely get well.
Read more
The work of getting well
The Therapeutic Alliance
This refers to the attachment between therapist and client. The attachment itself is about the mutual goal of forming a relationship focused on the healing of the client. The fact that our society supports such a relationship is a bit of a miracle. The relationship is protected by law, and for that reason and several others is, I believe, sacred.
Making the Unconscious, Conscious
The second mechanism has to do with psychoanalytic theory. The truth that we operate with unconscious motivations due to repressed emotions and memories is more accepted today than it was in Freud's time. However, many still resist, in spite of significant supporting research from academic communities and mental health professionals.
The Desire to Get Well
It is my belief and experience that everyone has an innate desire to get well. This desire is sometimes matched by a shadow desire to remain sick and destructive. However, provided adequate support, the desire to get well is much more powerful and clients inevitably begin to blossom, provided they are willing to do the work of therapy, which can be very difficult and painful.
Get to know me
