Therapy with Carol | Bellingham WA Psychotherapists

Our struggles can be seen as problems and obstacles, but they can also be seen as information and opportunity. Given a supportive environment, most of us can access a deep awareness of our inner truth, which often gets covered up by life experiences and socialization. Much of my work focuses on giving the client a place to be seen, heard and understood, on fostering a relationship that allows for awareness of what is, and then movement from that place of awareness towards a more conscious and authentic way of being.

I specialize in working with individuals and couples of all ages, cultures, and orientations who are in the transformation process. My experience includes working with families, with the HIV community, and with the Spanish-speaking community. I meet with individuals (adolescents and adults) and couples, using a variety of approaches.

My work with clients is determined by the problem brought to therapy, beginning with where you find yourself—cognitively, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I generally work with a client’s life story, to look for origins of beliefs and problems, and to find ways to reframe the story so that it is not so limiting.

I believe we do not exist in a vacuum, and that our past and present environment must be taken into consideration when looking to affect change. I draw heavily on psychodynamic theory, based on the ideas of Carl Jung and others, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and family of origin work.

Depending on what is helpful to you, I may use dreams, art, somatic awareness, mindfulness, sand tray, writing, logic, interactional practice, emotional discharge, stress reduction techniques, communication skills, and parenting strategies. For problems with children, I work directly with parents on their struggles and new ideas to try.