Find a licensed online therapist in Sumas, WA

With 50 years as teacher/educator, probation officer and mental health therapist, I am a member of The National Board of Certified Counselors and have been licensed in Montana, Oregon, Alaska. I am presently licensed in Washington State. I provide psychotherapy for individuals to include children, adolescents, and adults, as well as, couples and family therapy. My initial orientation began with Rogers and client-centered therapy, and moved to integrative, and recovery, utilizing client strengths moving to resilient mental health. My speciality is of a multi and cross cultural orientation given my Native American and African Heritage. I have amassed considerable experience working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and same sex clients, and the unique psychological issues present in the Native/African American Heritage, I spent six years on The Salish/Kootenai Reservation in Montana and four years working with Alaskan Natives in Fairbanks, Alaska. My experience with adolescents has been in a residential“positive peer orientation” to include individual, group and family therapies, cross-culturally. Formal Education and Training: I hold the Bachelor of Arts Degree, with Majors in Psychology-Sociology, with (research in suicidality), Education, Theatre and Fine Arts from Western State College of Colorado; Master's Degree in Education, Psychology, Guidance and Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado; Masters of Fine Arts from The University of Montana, with major course work in theatre and group psychotherapy to include two independent studies with Robert Ammons Senior, Psychological Test Specialists, publisher of the KTSA. I also became a certified clinical hypnotherapist as I had gained experience as a hypnotherapist with Jack and Helen Watkins, utilizing "Ego-State Therapy. Finally, I completed major course work in clinical psychology toward the PsyD, at George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon. My most recent employment was as a group therapist providing “mindfulness “ training for emotional regulation, given a varied population to include those suffering depression and anxiety as a result of PTSD associated with violence and severe abuse. This has been inclusive of anger management associated with domestic violence and bipolar disorder. My specialization with cognitive therapy with schizophrenics was experiential over a five year period wherein I collaborated with the unit psychiatrist.

We live in a complex web of relationships, and having a better understanding of yourself in relation to others can be the key to living your most authentic life. Therapy is a tool to better understand the barriers that keep us from experiencing joy, finding peace, and building meaningful relationships. Issues at work, grief, relationship challenges, and feelings of sadness and despair can be overwhelming. Finding the hidden emotional truth is the first step to identifying and addressing the real reasons we struggle. A therapist is a supportive partner who helps you navigate and understand the turbulent waters of human existence. Depth-oriented therapy gives people the ability to identify and understand the problem at hand. There are often patterns that are repeated unconsciously, and my approach to therapy is to be honest about the misunderstood but authentic emotions and motivations that shape our behavior. A better understanding of your true self lays the foundation for a life with meaning. My clients often ask me "How did you know?". My education, post-graduate training, and experience (both personal and professional) have taught me how to recognize the patterns and hidden truths that are core to our personalities and emotional well-being. I am passionate about helping others learn how to grieve; our society doesn't allow us the space to grieve all the things we lose, whether it be loved ones, relationships, opportunities or dreams. The only way to move beyond loss and sadness is to truly and deeply grieve, find the meaning in our lives, and move forward with hope.

Do you feel like you "don't fit in?" Perhaps it feels awkward because you always feel at a loss for what to say, or maybe everyone else seems enamored by topics to discuss that you don't find interesting. Maybe you do great with most people but still have that one relative that triggers you into dysregulation every time you talk to them? Even the guru Ram Dass said, "If you think you're enlightened, go spend a week with your family." Families can be tough!! Maybe you aren't sure what you would say in therapy because you don't really have words for your experiences, or feel some shame about your circumstances. If this sounds like you, try not to be discouraged! Look at any map and note that there are often multiple roads leading to the same place. Just because you are not on "their" road does not necessarily mean you are on the "wrong" road. Albert Einstein said, "I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that do not work. We could explore new ways that hopefully DO work better for you! I have thirty-five years experience using a very eclectic approach that draws from multiple modalities. I have a background in traditional psychotherapy, but prefer to come from a "whole person" strength-based approach rather than the traditional illness-based approach. I was an LPN years ago and have taken additional graduate level courses in natural and alternative healing as well as a health coaching course because I am passionate about the food/mood/lifestyle connection between physical and mental health and in natural health and healing. I work with adult clients and incorporate techniques such as use of visual imagery, music, art, guided meditations, movement, rituals, aromatherapy, spirituality, "energy," food, sleep, etc., alongside evidence-based practices like DBT, CBT, polyvagal theory, epigenetics, attachment theory, compassionate inquiry, motivational interviewing, a hybrid of a combination of IFS/Brainspotting/EMDR/FLASH incorporated into a strength-based perspective to provide a more holistic approach to healing mind/body/spirit. I frequently give good educational resource links to provide additional opportunities to follow up on issues brought into the sessions. This combination of techniques can help you access your creative expression and intuition to assist you in your ability to identify limiting beliefs and behaviors in your life and move toward your own natural ability to heal in a safe environment with a therapist that will honor your unique contribution to this life's journey. I am LGBTQIA2S+, neurodivergent, polyamory, KINK, and other expansive identity friendly, and can seek to connect people who have lost faith in church religion to consider and find their own unique sense of spirituality, however they might define that. I myself am a spiritual animist, a reiki master, lover of animals, plants, books, music, and gardening. I enjoy making my own personal care products using herbs and essential oils, and in tweaking delicious recipes into a "healthier" version of delicious. My soul is most at home in the mountains and around clear water. I am an INFJ/Guardian, genderfluid, pansexual, and choose not to embrace any particular pronouns. I continue to learn new things almost every day. Ram Dass also said, "We are all just walking each other home. " Kindness, compassion, and respect for one another can go such a long way. I have no desire to compete with you because I want you to win, too. I believe a win/win beats a win/lose every time! Thank you for looking at my information. If you think we might work well together, please get in touch. If you don't feel a connection to me, there are many other very qualified persons on this site. Don't give up! Keep looking till you find someone that you think you would work well with! Someone is out there in the other profiles that would be a good match for you! I wish you the best, and applaud your courage in being willing to take a look at other options for your life if you are feeling troubled.

I am licensed in Louisiana with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

As a licensed therapist in Washington, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, overcome isolation, and rediscover their sense of purpose. I have extensive experience supporting individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders, with a particular focus on women's mental health and midlife transitions. My therapeutic work is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore challenging emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're managing panic attacks, working through self-esteem challenges, or seeking to understand yourself more deeply, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise. I believe in a holistic approach that honors your individual strengths and supports your personal growth. Together, we'll work collaboratively to help you build resilience, cultivate self-love, and move toward the life you envision.

I am licensed in Florida with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

As a licensed therapist in Washington with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and personal growth. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating challenges related to identity, relationships, trauma, and self-discovery. I bring deep expertise in working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, survivors of trauma, and those experiencing life transformations. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication, healing from past experiences, and building resilience. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of concerns, including workplace dynamics, family systems, sexuality, aging, and personal empowerment. I'm committed to helping clients explore their unique stories, overcome barriers, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being and personal growth. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, offering supportive guidance that honors their individual journey and inherent strengths. Together, we can work collaboratively to create positive, sustainable change.

Welcome to my therapeutic practice. Engaging in therapy is a deeply personal journey, and finding a therapist with whom you can connect and grow is essential. I believe that therapy is a unique experience for each individual, shaped by their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs. However, it's crucial to understand that real change can only happen if the client is willing to work towards it. A therapist is not a magician who can make everything happen without the client's active participation and commitment to the process. In my 8 years as a licensed therapist in Washington, Rhode Island and Connecticut I've come to understand the profound impact that therapy can have on one's life. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I offer bilingual services to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all clients. Therapy has evolved from traditional models to a more person-centered approach, where the focus is on building a collaborative and trusting relationship between therapist and client. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely. Creative expression is a powerful tool in therapy, allowing for the exploration of unspoken feelings often associated with shame. Through active listening and compassionate support, I aim to help you navigate difficult topics with courage and resilience. Setting boundaries and taking responsibility for oneself are essential aspects of good mental health. My role as a therapist is to empower you to take ownership of your journey and make positive changes that align with your values and goals. It's also important to recognize that therapists come with various styles and approaches. Some may focus on cognitive-behavioral techniques, while others might use humanistic, psychodynamic, or integrative methods. Finding a therapist whose approach resonates with you is key to a successful therapeutic relationship. Ultimately, the goal of therapy is to equip you with the skills and insight needed to navigate life's challenges independently. I believe that social media often leads us to seek external guidance when the answers lie within ourselves. It's important to prioritize self-care and recognize the value of investing in your mental health. Opting into a therapeutic relationship can be life-changing, not only for yourself but also for those around you. I am committed to accompanying you on your transformative journey towards positive change and personal empowerment. I look forward to the opportunity to support you as you discover your inner strength and resilience, and I'm here to provide guidance, compassion, and encouragement every step of the way.

I am licensed in Washington with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I have experience with the loss of a parent through suicide and recovering from it, ad well as trauma and PTSD. I will tailor our sessions to your unique needs and goals. You will always have a voice in your own therapy!

As a licensed therapist in Washington, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and workplace stress with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I specialize in addressing women's issues, communication difficulties, and personal growth challenges. My approach honors each client's unique journey, whether they're seeking spiritual guidance, processing life transitions, or working through attachment and self-esteem concerns. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. My work is deeply rooted in understanding each person's individual context and empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and potential. I am committed to providing affirming, personalized support that respects diverse backgrounds, experiences, and healing paths.

As a licensed therapist in Washington with two decades of compassionate counseling experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. My practice centers on helping clients navigate grief, parenting complexities, career shifts, and personal growth challenges. I bring a deep understanding of how life changes can impact emotional well-being, and I'm particularly committed to working with older adults and those seeking faith-aligned therapeutic support. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help clients rebuild confidence and discover meaningful strategies for healing. Drawing from years of professional experience, I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate positive self-understanding. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, career uncertainties, or significant life transitions, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with warmth and professional guidance.

WELCOME I hope this is the start of a journey to more self discovery, healing, and increased happiness. If you are reading this, it means you are seeking information about talking to a professional and I think that is a wonderful first start. Life is challenging, often overwhelming, but know that you are not alone as you search for comfort from suffering, anxiety, or indecision. My goal is to create a space where we can work together to find answers and support. My professional aim is to help you thrive in an area that addresses your needs with compassionate guidance and practical solutions. Of course, friends and family may offer invaluable support, but they may not be equipped to help you effectively navigate life’s complexities. Everyone needs a close listening ear and help navigating pathways that can lessen worries and provide clarity on how to move forward. As a team, we will promote self discovery and work through blockages. I want you to know that there is no shame in the need to talk to a therapist. Alongside Life’s beauty and joy, there can also exist sorrow and self-doubt. It is important to have someone who understands the emotional weight of hardship and can offer tools to get through whatever obstacles. It is never too late to make positive changes and start the healing process towards reconstructing the next chapter of your life. Regardless of age or stage in life, there is always room for growth, perspective, and the development of healthy coping skills. While sometimes life seems hopeless and we feel inadequate, our past does not have to predict our future. As a compassionate and seasoned therapist, I guarantee that we can make progress- step by step, if you are willing to do the work. Choosing DeFranco Counseling means entering into a non-judgmental, supportive environment where self-exploration and evolution are encouraged. Together, we can work towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.

Hi, I'm Stephanie, and I'm glad you're here. If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, or simply feel like something is missing, therapy can provide a space to gain clarity, build resilience, and create meaningful change. My background in healthcare and school settings has given me a deep understanding of the challenges people face while balancing life's demands. My approach is grounded in client-centered therapy, recognizing that meaningful change happens when people feel heard, understood, and empowered. You are the expert on your own life, my role is to provide support, guidance, and practical tools to help you move toward your goals. I integrate evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques to help clients develop effective coping strategies, build on their strengths, and navigate challenges with greater confidence. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another, explore what brings you to therapy, and identify what success looks like for you. Together, we will build on your existing strengths and skills, develop practical tools for managing life's challenges, and identify achievable steps toward meaningful growth. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety, depression, stress, or simply feeling stuck, I am committed to helping you create lasting change and a greater sense of fulfillment.

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and family systems with compassion and expertise. I have a deep understanding of women's issues, young adult experiences, and the nuanced emotional landscapes of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. My therapeutic approach is rooted in fostering self-love, improving communication, and addressing attachment patterns. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals through significant life changes, including divorce, separation, and family challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth.