Our Mission
At Knippenberg, Patterson, Langley & Associates, our mission is to empower children, teens, and young adults with neurobehavioral differences to reach their full potential through comprehensive assessment, evidence-based treatment, and compassionate support.
Since 1986, we have been dedicated to providing experienced, client-centered care for individuals with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression. We believe in treating the whole person—recognizing both challenges and strengths—while supporting families and educators who play crucial roles in their development.
Through our integrated approach of testing, therapy, social skills development, and professional training, we strive to create pathways to success for exceptional individuals in every environment: home, school, social settings, and beyond. We are committed to making a meaningful difference in our clients' lives by providing the highest quality care with integrity, expertise, and genuine understanding.
Founder's Statement
I've dedicated my life's work to understanding the beautiful complexity of neurodiverse children and empowering their families. Over four decades, I've witnessed firsthand the extraordinary potential within every child when given the right support and understanding. As both a clinician and a parent of children with neurodiversity, I know the challenges families face, but I also know the immense joy of watching exceptional children thrive.
At KPLA, we believe in translating complex neuroscience into practical strategies that work in real homes and classrooms. Our approach honors the unique wiring of each child's brain while providing parents with shame-free, effective tools to nurture their child's development. Through our CONNECT model, evidence-based therapies, and comprehensive assessments, we're committed to helping families discover the path forward with clarity, hope, and renewed connection.
— Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div
Founder & President
Meet Our Team
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Craig Knippenberg, LCSW M.Div
Founder and President
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Lisa Patterson, MA, LPC
Clinical Director
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Jim Langley, PsyD
Director of Testing
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Nathan Davidson, MA, LSW
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Michelle DeNooy, MA, LCSW
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Ana Dodson, MA, PsyD
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Aleeza Lampert, MA, LCSW
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Ryan Long, MA, LPC, LMFT
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Jennifer Manning, MA, LPC
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Angie Rothkamp, MA, LPC
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Elysia Sotiriou, PhD
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Mike Villarreal, MA, LPC
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Sarah Vigesaa, MA, MSW
Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div
Pioneer in Neurodiversity Support
Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div, has dedicated four decades to helping neurodiverse children and their families thrive through innovative, brain-based approaches. As the creator of the renowned CONNECT group program and a leading expert in social brain development, Craig brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and personal understanding as a parent of four children, including two adults with neurodiversity.
Translating Neuroscience into Real Solutions
What sets Craig apart is his exceptional ability to translate complex neuroscience into practical, accessible strategies for families. His approach combines cutting-edge brain research with compassionate, shame-free parenting techniques that work in everyday settings. Parents consistently praise his gift for making complicated concepts understandable and applicable to their family's specific challenges.
Nationally Recognized Author & Speaker
A best-selling author of "Wired and Connected" and "Shame-Free Parenting," Craig is sought after as a keynote speaker and consultant to schools nationwide. He has presented internationally on social-emotional development, executive functioning, and building resilience in exceptional students, including at the prestigious UC-Davis MIND Institute.
Advocate for Exceptional Children
Throughout his career, Craig has championed the needs of neurodiverse children through leadership roles including former president of the Attention Deficit Disorder Advocacy Group and board memberships with the Colorado Tourette Syndrome Association and Rocky Mountain Chapter of CHADD.
Through his clinical practice, writing, speaking engagements, and "Legit Parenting" podcast, Craig continues his mission of helping parents nurture their child's unique strengths while building deeper family connections—always with his signature approach that balances expertise with warmth, understanding, and practical wisdom.
Lisa Patterson, MA, LPC
Lisa brings a rare blend of experiences to her work with children and families. As both a licensed therapist and former elementary school teacher with 26 years in Jefferson County schools, she offers a unique perspective that bridges the clinical and educational worlds.
For over two decades, Lisa has been foundational in our elementary social skills groups, skillfully guiding children through social challenges using our CONNECT model.
Having spent countless hours in both therapeutic environments and classrooms, Lisa brings an authenticity to her work with families that can only come from this dual experience. She speaks the language of schools, helping parents navigate educational systems while supporting children through the social and emotional challenges they face.
Beyond her work in social skills groups, Lisa specializes in individual, couples and family therapy, helping to navigate and strengthen relationships while creating more harmonious family dynamics. Her compassionate, solution-focused approach has helped countless families move from frustration to connection.
Lisa holds a master's degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in couples and family therapy from the University of Colorado.
Dr. Jim Langley, PsyD
As Director of Psychological Testing at KPLA, Dr. Jim Langley has transformed how families experience the assessment process. Known for his 2-week turnaround guarantee in an industry where months-long waits are standard, Dr. Jim combines clinical precision with genuine warmth that puts even the most anxious children at ease.
Parents consistently share how Dr. Jim connects with children who typically struggle in testing situations. "My son actually looked forward to his sessions with Dr. Langley," one parent noted.
With specialized training in ADHD and Autism Spectrum assessments from the University of Denver, Dr. Jim doesn't just identify challenges—he uncovers hidden strengths and provides clear, practical strategies that families and schools can implement immediately. His comprehensive reports are renowned for translating complex psychological findings into understandable language that facilitates real-world solutions not just labels.
As a husband and father of five boys, Dr. Jim brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to his work with families.
When Dr. Jim speaks to parent groups and educational communities, participants consistently express how deeply his message resonates with their experiences. His natural ability to connect with audiences and explain complex concepts in relatable terms leaves parents feeling both understood and empowered.
Nathan Davidson, LSW
Nathan has a remarkable gift for connecting with children and teens who experience the world differently. Parents consistently note how quickly their child—often hesitant about therapy—develops a genuine bond with Nathan, opening doors to growth that previously seemed impossible.
Specializing in supporting young people with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and social challenges, Nathan creates a safe space where children who feel out of sync with their peers can explore their exceptional minds while developing practical social tools. His approach particularly resonates with bright children who have fascinating interests but struggle with peer connections, experience overwhelming emotions, or find social situations confusing despite their intelligence.
With his education from Boston University and the University of Denver, Nathan combines evidence-based approaches like CBT and solution-focused therapy with a natural ability to see each child's unique strengths and challenges. Parents appreciate his holistic perspective that considers family dynamics, sensory needs, and individual learning styles.
When not helping children unlock their potential, Nathan can be found exploring Colorado's trails with his partner and dog or improving his serve on the tennis court.
Michelle De Nooy, LCSW
Michelle brings a deep understanding of the complex challenges today's families face, particularly in our technology-driven world. Parents consistently praise her unique ability to bridge generational gaps, helping them understand their child's digital world while guiding young people toward healthier relationships with technology.
With specialized training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Michelle creates practical interventions for children and teens struggling with technology addictions, ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, and self-image challenges.
Her extensive experience in school settings gives Michelle valuable insight into educational systems, making her particularly effective at helping families navigate IEPs and school-based support services. Parents appreciate her concrete strategies that work both at home and in the classroom.
Michelle's affirming, strengths-based approach focuses on restoring family harmony in our media-focused world. She helps parents and children find common ground while developing the emotional regulation and communication skills needed for healthier relationships with technology and each other.
With her Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver focusing on high-risk youth, Michelle combines academic knowledge with real-world experience supporting children in day treatment centers and adolescents in crisis settings.
Ana Dodson, MA, PsyD
Hello, I am Dr. Ana Dodson. I am a licensed psychologist candidate, and I received two masters degrees and my doctorate in psychology at the University of Colorado in Denver. I am EMDR certified for both children and adults and have a certificate in the Neurosequential Model of Education developed by Dr. Bruce Perry, a neurobiological approach to understanding the development of children in educational settings.
I specialize in working with children, and my goal is to provide you and your family with compassionate, personalized therapy services. I believe in empowering both children and parents, as lasting progress happens when parents are involved in the process. That’s why I offer parent coaching and support alongside therapy.
Together, we’ll listen closely to the unique needs of your child and family, and we’ll work together to create goals that feel right for you. With my background as a former teacher and reading specialist, I have a deep understanding of how academic struggles and reading difficulties can impact a child and their family. I approach every situation with empathy and a focus on solutions.
In addition to therapy, I offer psycho-educational testing to help identify any learning, attention, emotional, or behavioral challenges. My goal is to provide you with a detailed report that highlights your child’s strengths and areas for growth and clear, actionable recommendations on how to best support their development.
Aleeza Zocchi, MA, LPC, NCC
As our dedicated Parent Liaison, Aleeza is often the first person families speak with when reaching out to KPLA. Parents consistently describe her as a compassionate guide who truly listens to their concerns and helps navigate what can feel like an overwhelming journey.
With her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (earned Summa Cum Laude from the University of Northern Colorado) and specialized training in child and adolescent therapy, Aleeza brings both professional expertise and genuine empathy to her conversations with families. Her background as a researcher studying the impact of trauma on executive functioning gives her valuable insight into the complex challenges many KPLA clients face.
Since joining KPLA in 2018, Aleeza has served in multiple roles including clinical care coordinator, social skills group leader, summer camp director, and therapist. This comprehensive experience throughout our practice makes her uniquely qualified to help families determine which services will best meet their needs.
Aleeza provides a supportive, judgment-free space for all families, including extensive experience supporting the LGBTQ+ community as a Queer Ally. Though currently based in New York, she maintains deep Colorado roots and connects with clients nationwide through telehealth services.
Integrating approaches from Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Aleeza helps clients recognize their inherent strengths while developing practical strategies for growth and change.
Ryan Long, MA, NCC, LPC, LMFT
Ryan brings a wealth of experience to his work with families, couples, and individuals facing life's most challenging transitions. With over 25 years of experience as both a therapist and minister, he offers a unique perspective that acknowledges the whole person—mind, heart, relationships, and spiritual dimensions.
Parents particularly value Ryan's compassionate approach to family challenges. Since joining KPLA in 2014, Ryan has supported clients through a remarkable range of life situations—from couples seeking premarital counseling through his Prepare/Enrich certification, to families navigating ADHD, autism, adoption, and co-parenting challenges. His strength-based, solution-focused approach helps clients discover their own resilience while developing concrete strategies for growth.
With his Master's degree in counseling emphasizing couples and family therapy from the University of Colorado Denver, Ryan combines academic training with real-world wisdom. As both a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, he offers comprehensive support for relationship dynamics at every stage.
As a father of five children and a Littleton resident, Ryan brings personal understanding to his work with local families, creating connections that help clients feel truly seen and supported through their journey.
Jennifer Manning, MA, LPCC
Jen brings a unique blend of creative expression and practical support to her work with children, teens, and women navigating life transitions. Her gift for connecting through play therapy opens doors for young clients who struggle to express complex emotions through words alone.
With her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University and over 11 years of experience in school systems and motor-skill development, Jen understands how emotional well-being connects to physical and social development. Parents appreciate her holistic approach that addresses the whole child—mind, body, and emotional world.
Jen's specialized play therapy techniques help children build confidence while developing critical social-emotional skills that foster independence, problem-solving, and flexibility. Her warm approach creates a safe space where children naturally open up through play, art, and creative expression.
For teens and women facing anxiety, depression, or identity questions, Jen offers compassionate guidance through life's challenging transitions. Her background in coaching and mentoring brings a strength-based perspective that helps clients recognize their own resilience while developing practical coping strategies.
Angie Rothkamp, MA, LPC
Angie earned a master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago and a bachelor’s degree from St. Cloud State, Minnesota before moving to Colorado in 1998. As an LPC for almost 20 years, she has worked in a variety of settings including residential treatment, mental health agencies and in elementary, middle & high schools. Angie specializes in working with children & adolescents, parent coaching, and family treatment. In her work, she likes to address the emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of her clients. She works to uncover and build upon strengths and nurture the process of change.
Dr. Elysia Sotiriou, PhD
Dr. Elysia brings specialized expertise in addressing some of today's most challenging mental health concerns affecting children, teens, and young adults. Parents particularly value her comprehensive approach to complex issues like eating disorders, self-harm, OCD, and attachment challenges.
With her doctoral training in child clinical psychology and integrated behavioral health from the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Elysia combines academic excellence with genuine compassion. She offers both therapeutic support and comprehensive psychological assessments, providing families with clear understanding and direction.
Parents appreciate Dr. Elysia's collaborative approach that actively includes family members, teachers, and healthcare providers in the treatment process. Her integration of relational approaches with evidence-based techniques like ACT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness creates personalized care that addresses each client's unique needs.
Beyond her specialized areas, Dr. Elysia supports clients through a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, ADHD, social skills deficits, trauma, grief, and identity exploration. Her experience with maternal mental health issues provides valuable support for families navigating parenthood's emotional complexities.
When not supporting clients, Dr. Elysia enjoys Colorado's outdoor adventures with her dog Olive, exploring Denver's restaurant scene, and cheering for her beloved Green Bay Packers.
Mike Villarreal, MA, LPC
Mike brings a unique combination of military discipline and therapeutic compassion to his work with clients of all ages. Parents and young adults particularly value his straightforward approach to life transitions and his specialized program for those struggling with the leap to independent adulthood.
With 11 years at KPLA and 10 years of prior experience in school settings, Mike has developed exceptional insight into supporting adolescents and young adults through emotional, cognitive, and developmental challenges. His military background—serving 11 years in the United States Army before earning his degrees—gives him a distinctive perspective on discipline, perseverance, and personal growth.
Mike's post-high school counseling program has become a vital resource for young adults who need additional support transitioning to independence. He combines practical life skills development with therapeutic approaches that address underlying anxiety, depression, or motivation challenges that may be hindering progress.
Parents appreciate Mike's emphasis on family communication, particularly in navigating divorce, blending families, and cultivating positive home environments. His strength-based approach helps clients recognize their capabilities while developing a growth mindset for emotional and life skill development.
With his Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health from Adams State University and Bachelor's from Regis University, Mike brings both academic knowledge and real-world wisdom to his work with children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Sarah Vigesaa, MA, LSW
Sarah brings a wealth of diverse experience to her work with children, adolescents, and families navigating complex challenges. Parents particularly value her practical, strengths-based approach that focuses on building skills while honoring each family's unique dynamics.
"Sarah's in-home experience makes such a difference," one parent noted. "She understands that strategies need to work in real life, not just in a therapy office. She helped us transform our daily routines in ways that reduced everyone's stress."
With her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Denver and background in Psychology from the University of Montana, Sarah combines research-informed approaches with genuine compassion. Her experience as a youth mentor, case manager, and in-home support specialist in rural Montana gave her unique insights into family systems and practical parenting techniques that actually work.
Parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD appreciate Sarah's ability to work effectively across home, school, and community settings. She helps families develop consistent approaches that support their child's needs in all environments while building on existing strengths.
Sarah also brings specialized experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients and their families, using a systems approach to address the unique challenges this community faces. Her thoughtful integration of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and practical skill-building creates personalized care that respects each client's individual journey.