Photo of Ryan Strunk, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Ryan Strunk
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Whether your goal is to overcome a traumatic past, to make a career change, to start a new relationship or heal an old one, it all begins with self-knowledge and integrating all aspects of who we are into a healthy whole.
In all of my time working in the field of mental health and wellness, I have become completely awed by the strength, resiliency, and beauty of the human spirit. My work as a counselor is focused on reflecting and co-creating opportunities to bring forth our best self. By taking ownership of the stories we tell ourselves, we can overcome any adversity, reach any level of self awareness, and begin to live the lives we feel meant for. My orientation stems from a Gnostic (Self-Knowledge) exploration of the self, seeing who we are, where we begin and where we truly meet others.
Whether your goal is to overcome a traumatic past, to make a career change, to start a new relationship or heal an old one, it all begins with self-knowledge and integrating all aspects of who we are into a healthy whole.
In all of my time working in the field of mental health and wellness, I have become completely awed by the strength, resiliency, and beauty of the human spirit. My work as a counselor is focused on reflecting and co-creating opportunities to bring forth our best self. By taking ownership of the stories we tell ourselves, we can overcome any adversity, reach any level of self awareness, and begin to live the lives we feel meant for. My orientation stems from a Gnostic (Self-Knowledge) exploration of the self, seeing who we are, where we begin and where we truly meet others.
(360) 800-1197 View (360) 800-1197
Photo of Elizabeth Chace Counseling, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Elizabeth Chace Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
I work with individuals and couples (whether romantic, familial, or otherwise). I am passionate about healing relationships and trauma, fostering identity development, and supporting the myriad struggles arising in young adulthood, parenthood, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert on your own experience and hold within you the innate ability to heal and grow. I strive to create deep and lasting change in my clients, not simply symptom management or reduction. I welcome all clients regardless of sexual orientation, religion, etc. and am committed to facilitating your growth with compassion and without judgement.
I work with individuals and couples (whether romantic, familial, or otherwise). I am passionate about healing relationships and trauma, fostering identity development, and supporting the myriad struggles arising in young adulthood, parenthood, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert on your own experience and hold within you the innate ability to heal and grow. I strive to create deep and lasting change in my clients, not simply symptom management or reduction. I welcome all clients regardless of sexual orientation, religion, etc. and am committed to facilitating your growth with compassion and without judgement.
(360) 205-3183 View (360) 205-3183
Photo of Brittany S Bacon, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Brittany S Bacon
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
As a therapist, I believe first and foremost in the healing and growth that can happen in relationship. My therapeutic approach is about meeting people where they are, and engaging each individual in a healing dialogue that is appropriate and specific to his or her life. I am a process oriented therapist. This means that I am primarily interested in understanding the process through which my clients respond to the world and how they make meaning out of their experiences. My goal is to facilitate increased awareness in my clients and improve agency, choice, and connection in their lives.
As a therapist, I believe first and foremost in the healing and growth that can happen in relationship. My therapeutic approach is about meeting people where they are, and engaging each individual in a healing dialogue that is appropriate and specific to his or her life. I am a process oriented therapist. This means that I am primarily interested in understanding the process through which my clients respond to the world and how they make meaning out of their experiences. My goal is to facilitate increased awareness in my clients and improve agency, choice, and connection in their lives.
(360) 215-5968 View (360) 215-5968
Photo of Josh Vander Wiele, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Josh Vander Wiele
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Thru education about relationship development and maintenance, anxiety, and depression we work together to develop a greater understanding of how to navigate challenging, and at times, overwhelming emotions.
Are you having difficulty in relationships with significant others, friends, or family? Or finding that you are lacking motivation or confidence? Do you feel like your mind is always on the go? Thinking that something needs to change, to get back on track, and feeling like the person you’d like to be? Depression, anxiety, and trauma can play a role in these thoughts and feelings. They can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, confused, run down, and at times even hopeless. If you're experiencing any of these thoughts or feelings, therapy can help you to become the person you want to be!
Thru education about relationship development and maintenance, anxiety, and depression we work together to develop a greater understanding of how to navigate challenging, and at times, overwhelming emotions.
Are you having difficulty in relationships with significant others, friends, or family? Or finding that you are lacking motivation or confidence? Do you feel like your mind is always on the go? Thinking that something needs to change, to get back on track, and feeling like the person you’d like to be? Depression, anxiety, and trauma can play a role in these thoughts and feelings. They can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, confused, run down, and at times even hopeless. If you're experiencing any of these thoughts or feelings, therapy can help you to become the person you want to be!
(360) 858-6557 View (360) 858-6557
Mirabai Wahbe
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I have 35 plus years working with individuals, couples and families. I AM PRESENTING ASL2 Workshop in Bellingham and Seattle. This is available to couples who have attended the Art and Science of Love workshop with Drs. John and Julie Gottman, with other Certified Gottman workshop leaders, or have studied the Gottman DVD. Please check out the Gottman Institute website for further information and our website: asl2workshop.com PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
I have 35 plus years working with individuals, couples and families. I AM PRESENTING ASL2 Workshop in Bellingham and Seattle. This is available to couples who have attended the Art and Science of Love workshop with Drs. John and Julie Gottman, with other Certified Gottman workshop leaders, or have studied the Gottman DVD. Please check out the Gottman Institute website for further information and our website: asl2workshop.com PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
(360) 979-1095 View (360) 979-1095
Photo of Peter Kane, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Peter Kane
Counselor, CC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Peter Kane has been in private practice and has been teaching relationship workshops internationally for over 30 years. He utilizes a variety of experiential approaches and has an eclectic approach to general counseling. Peter has a unique gift in helping people to not only understand what is really going on in their life and relationships, but also to create the space (and the tools) to transform the issues his clients face. Peter is the author of "The Monogamy Challenge: Creating and Keeping Intimacy" a deep look at how to resolve conflict, and keep relationships alive and thriving.
Peter Kane has been in private practice and has been teaching relationship workshops internationally for over 30 years. He utilizes a variety of experiential approaches and has an eclectic approach to general counseling. Peter has a unique gift in helping people to not only understand what is really going on in their life and relationships, but also to create the space (and the tools) to transform the issues his clients face. Peter is the author of "The Monogamy Challenge: Creating and Keeping Intimacy" a deep look at how to resolve conflict, and keep relationships alive and thriving.
(425) 440-3174 View (425) 440-3174
Photo of Heather Varnau, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Heather Varnau
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
With your partner: Do you feel alone in your relationship? Are you recovering from infidelity or broken trust? Do you want to communicate in a way that pulls for your partner's understanding and connection? For yourself: Do you want to resolve your internal conflicts? Do you want to learn self-compassion and feel at peace with yourself? Do you want to break negative patterns in your relationships? I'm here to help. Over the past 15 years, I've helped hundreds of couples and individuals create emotional security, happiness, and connection through evidence-based and empirically validated therapy methods.
With your partner: Do you feel alone in your relationship? Are you recovering from infidelity or broken trust? Do you want to communicate in a way that pulls for your partner's understanding and connection? For yourself: Do you want to resolve your internal conflicts? Do you want to learn self-compassion and feel at peace with yourself? Do you want to break negative patterns in your relationships? I'm here to help. Over the past 15 years, I've helped hundreds of couples and individuals create emotional security, happiness, and connection through evidence-based and empirically validated therapy methods.
(360) 205-2569 View (360) 205-2569
Photo of Daniel Diamond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Daniel Diamond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I specialize in treating couples.
Therapy is about you. It's about your needs and goals. It's about healing from your past to flourish in the future. As your therapist, my job is to provide a safe, radically-accepting environment, whether you want to make a life change, cope with loss, navigate through a crisis, or simply open up to a supportive listener. I will work with you to identify and clarify your intentions, and facilitate the discovery of the inner strength necessary to live the life you want.
I specialize in treating couples.
Therapy is about you. It's about your needs and goals. It's about healing from your past to flourish in the future. As your therapist, my job is to provide a safe, radically-accepting environment, whether you want to make a life change, cope with loss, navigate through a crisis, or simply open up to a supportive listener. I will work with you to identify and clarify your intentions, and facilitate the discovery of the inner strength necessary to live the life you want.
(516) 260-4145 View (516) 260-4145
Photo of Melody Goddard (Rhode), Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
Melody Goddard (Rhode)
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Dr. Melody Rhode is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Consultant, and Life Coach. She works with individuals, couples, family systems, and leaders in business and public life. She employs interpersonal outcome-oriented strategic therapy to facilitate relational change and personal growth. Her practice is private, and oriented to a clientele typically reluctant to seek psychological help. Concentrating on relatively capable individuals, couples, and family members, Dr. Rhode works with transitions, midlife choices, entitlement vocational re-direction, unexpected trauma, and unprocessed grief. She has unique expertise in treating personality disorders (narcissism), and integrating psychology and spiritual wisdom towards changes that heal.
Dr. Melody Rhode is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Consultant, and Life Coach. She works with individuals, couples, family systems, and leaders in business and public life. She employs interpersonal outcome-oriented strategic therapy to facilitate relational change and personal growth. Her practice is private, and oriented to a clientele typically reluctant to seek psychological help. Concentrating on relatively capable individuals, couples, and family members, Dr. Rhode works with transitions, midlife choices, entitlement vocational re-direction, unexpected trauma, and unprocessed grief. She has unique expertise in treating personality disorders (narcissism), and integrating psychology and spiritual wisdom towards changes that heal.
(360) 524-6013 View (360) 524-6013
Photo of Mark Dotson, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Mark Dotson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
I have been in private practice since 2004 and work with individuals, couples and groups dealing with a wide variety of issues. I recognize that each client is unique and strive to create an individual plan of therapy tailored to each person's specific needs. This often includes dealing with what isn't working in their life, whether it's depression, traumatic past experiences or relational difficulties, also recognizing the aspects of their life that may be working well and finding ways to build on those strengths.
I have been in private practice since 2004 and work with individuals, couples and groups dealing with a wide variety of issues. I recognize that each client is unique and strive to create an individual plan of therapy tailored to each person's specific needs. This often includes dealing with what isn't working in their life, whether it's depression, traumatic past experiences or relational difficulties, also recognizing the aspects of their life that may be working well and finding ways to build on those strengths.
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Photo of Michael D Powers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Michael D Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
It is my privilege to have been working with couples, families, and individuals for over 25 years. My work emphasizes helping my clients find more authentic meaning and purpose in their lives, fully developing their potential, and assisting them in establishing lasting solutions. I have extensive experience treating common couple's and family issues such as communication, parenting, conflict-resolution, and stagnancy, as well as infidelity, addictions, and domestic violence. My clinical expertise in individual psychotherapy extends to depression, anxiety, anger management, addictions, self-discovery, and overall life direction.
It is my privilege to have been working with couples, families, and individuals for over 25 years. My work emphasizes helping my clients find more authentic meaning and purpose in their lives, fully developing their potential, and assisting them in establishing lasting solutions. I have extensive experience treating common couple's and family issues such as communication, parenting, conflict-resolution, and stagnancy, as well as infidelity, addictions, and domestic violence. My clinical expertise in individual psychotherapy extends to depression, anxiety, anger management, addictions, self-discovery, and overall life direction.
(360) 813-6578 View (360) 813-6578
Photo of T Christopher Portman, Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
T Christopher Portman
Psychologist, PhD, SAP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I work with each client to find and apply the most effective strategies for liberation from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and/or addictions. 35 years experience working in and directing treatment programs and in private practice. Author: The New Template for Recovery. Visit chrisportmanphd.com
I work with each client to find and apply the most effective strategies for liberation from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and/or addictions. 35 years experience working in and directing treatment programs and in private practice. Author: The New Template for Recovery. Visit chrisportmanphd.com
(360) 523-7222 View (360) 523-7222
Photo of Dr. Sneha McClincey, Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
Dr. Sneha McClincey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychologist with over ten years of experience working collaboratively with individuals, couples and families as they've navigated challenging life passages. I've worked in numerous settings: an inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient counseling center, hospice, integrated primary care, mobile therapy (patient homes & schools) as well as in transitional housing for those leaving domestic violence. These experiences have fostered a passion for the therapeutic process and that no person journey alone.
I am a licensed psychologist with over ten years of experience working collaboratively with individuals, couples and families as they've navigated challenging life passages. I've worked in numerous settings: an inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient counseling center, hospice, integrated primary care, mobile therapy (patient homes & schools) as well as in transitional housing for those leaving domestic violence. These experiences have fostered a passion for the therapeutic process and that no person journey alone.
(833) 553-5981 View (833) 553-5981
Photo of Elizabeth Thomson in Bellingham, WA
Elizabeth Thomson
MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
Accepting new clients (4/16/24). Welcome! I believe that healing is possible no matter what your experience has been. I am passionate about supporting my clients in resolving the heart of what brings them to therapy. I am honored to work with couples navigating patterns of conflict, adults, and teens (16+) experiencing depression, anxiety, and symptoms of trauma. I have a broad spiritual perspective and enjoy assisting clients in discovering more purpose, satisfaction, and ease on their path. Whether you're navigating high levels of stress, challenging emotions, or searching for direction in life, all parts of you are welcome here.
Accepting new clients (4/16/24). Welcome! I believe that healing is possible no matter what your experience has been. I am passionate about supporting my clients in resolving the heart of what brings them to therapy. I am honored to work with couples navigating patterns of conflict, adults, and teens (16+) experiencing depression, anxiety, and symptoms of trauma. I have a broad spiritual perspective and enjoy assisting clients in discovering more purpose, satisfaction, and ease on their path. Whether you're navigating high levels of stress, challenging emotions, or searching for direction in life, all parts of you are welcome here.
(360) 523-7711 View (360) 523-7711
Photo of Kaileh Butler, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Kaileh Butler
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, DARTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
Another method I offer for couples work is called Marathon Couples Therapy.
Relationships are foundational in our lives. As a relational therapist, I work with both couples and individuals. I utilize my training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples address their underlying negative interactive cycle and create new ways of connecting to each other with deeper emotional bonds and a more secure attachment. As a trained Developmental and Relational Trauma Therapist (DARTT), I approach every client with compassion and curiosity as to how their unique relational histories have shaped them and work to help them heal core wounds from the past.
Another method I offer for couples work is called Marathon Couples Therapy.
Relationships are foundational in our lives. As a relational therapist, I work with both couples and individuals. I utilize my training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples address their underlying negative interactive cycle and create new ways of connecting to each other with deeper emotional bonds and a more secure attachment. As a trained Developmental and Relational Trauma Therapist (DARTT), I approach every client with compassion and curiosity as to how their unique relational histories have shaped them and work to help them heal core wounds from the past.
(360) 551-4313 View (360) 551-4313
Photo of Mike Black Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Mike Black Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience as a school counselor, drug alcohol counselor and in my private practice helping adolescence navigate and work through issues regarding anxiety, school struggles and family conflict. I also assist and give parents skills in raising teens. My Masters Degree is in marriage counseling. My primary focus with married couples is a family systems and Gottman method approach which is researched based approaches to help couples work toward reconciliation by overcoming resentment and better communication in marriage. Lastly, I have close to 10 years experience working in inpatient drug and alcohol treatment.
I have extensive experience as a school counselor, drug alcohol counselor and in my private practice helping adolescence navigate and work through issues regarding anxiety, school struggles and family conflict. I also assist and give parents skills in raising teens. My Masters Degree is in marriage counseling. My primary focus with married couples is a family systems and Gottman method approach which is researched based approaches to help couples work toward reconciliation by overcoming resentment and better communication in marriage. Lastly, I have close to 10 years experience working in inpatient drug and alcohol treatment.
(360) 663-4494 View (360) 663-4494
Photo of Gabriel Wisswaesser, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bellingham, WA
Gabriel Wisswaesser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
Abrupt life changes, relationship stress, and traumas can leave us feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. It’s a brave move to reach out for help and I am here to offer compassion, collaboration, and empowerment. I am LGBTQIA+ and ENM affirming and pull from feminist theory and its framing of oppression as a contributor to personal struggle. My expertise includes adjustment to life transitions, family trauma, complex PTSD, and addiction issues.
Abrupt life changes, relationship stress, and traumas can leave us feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. It’s a brave move to reach out for help and I am here to offer compassion, collaboration, and empowerment. I am LGBTQIA+ and ENM affirming and pull from feminist theory and its framing of oppression as a contributor to personal struggle. My expertise includes adjustment to life transitions, family trauma, complex PTSD, and addiction issues.
(425) 600-5989 View (425) 600-5989
Photo of Kate Payne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Kate Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Much of the healing process in therapy is through the relationship we build together.
Therapy is a tool to reflect, learn, and process one's experiences to create a more fulfilling and authentic life worth living. I work with individuals and with couples seeking support for a variety of concerns. With over a decade of experience in providing therapy, I have honed in my approach as trauma-informed and strengths based. I also have spent many years of education and experience working with the LGBTQ+ communities.
Much of the healing process in therapy is through the relationship we build together.
Therapy is a tool to reflect, learn, and process one's experiences to create a more fulfilling and authentic life worth living. I work with individuals and with couples seeking support for a variety of concerns. With over a decade of experience in providing therapy, I have honed in my approach as trauma-informed and strengths based. I also have spent many years of education and experience working with the LGBTQ+ communities.
(415) 329-4059 View (415) 329-4059
Photo of Abby Lynn Bange, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Abby Lynn Bange
Counselor, MA , RD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I know the client therapist relationship is very important and that you need to feel connected to the person you are working with in order to be able to create that healing space.
I see patients with anxiety and depressive issues, eating disorders of all kinds, and over all mind and body wellness concerns. I enjoy helping people slow down and be their own healer sifting and distilling goals and values in to actionable movements in life. In this process I utilize self compassion, CBT, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, motivational interviewing and mindfulness combined with nutrition and lifestyle counseling.
I know the client therapist relationship is very important and that you need to feel connected to the person you are working with in order to be able to create that healing space.
I see patients with anxiety and depressive issues, eating disorders of all kinds, and over all mind and body wellness concerns. I enjoy helping people slow down and be their own healer sifting and distilling goals and values in to actionable movements in life. In this process I utilize self compassion, CBT, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, motivational interviewing and mindfulness combined with nutrition and lifestyle counseling.
(509) 519-3456 View (509) 519-3456
Photo of Kaufmann Mental Health Services, PLLC, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Kaufmann Mental Health Services, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
With a toolkit that draws upon disciplines in family systems theory, behavioral, social, clinical and organizational psychology, DBT certification, addiction treatment, and trauma-informed clinical psychotherapy, I help individuals, couples, and families accomplish wellness goals, climb ladders of their own choosing, and experience more joy and less pain.
Welcome! Are you seeking help with stress, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, or struggling with difficult relationships at home, at work, or with family members? Are you striving to reach your full achievement potential as a student or career professional? Have you recently assumed caregiving responsibilities? Do you have a family member or friend who struggles with addiction or mental health difficulties and you desire guidance? No matter what your purpose or dilemma, I'm so glad you're here.
With a toolkit that draws upon disciplines in family systems theory, behavioral, social, clinical and organizational psychology, DBT certification, addiction treatment, and trauma-informed clinical psychotherapy, I help individuals, couples, and families accomplish wellness goals, climb ladders of their own choosing, and experience more joy and less pain.
Welcome! Are you seeking help with stress, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, or struggling with difficult relationships at home, at work, or with family members? Are you striving to reach your full achievement potential as a student or career professional? Have you recently assumed caregiving responsibilities? Do you have a family member or friend who struggles with addiction or mental health difficulties and you desire guidance? No matter what your purpose or dilemma, I'm so glad you're here.
(360) 525-2667 View (360) 525-2667
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.