Photo of Lydia Blackwell, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Lydia Blackwell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. It's not always comfortable, but it's never weakness."--Brene Brown. Hi, I'm Lydia and I utilize a solution focused, mindfulness based approach to aid clients in exploring their authentic selves and behavioral patterns. Like a Phoenix, I believe individuals have the ability to rise from the ashes as renewed, stronger versions of themselves. Whether those ashes are from broken relationships, perpetual marital problems, crippling anxiety, career dissatisfaction or the aftermath of trauma, they have the power to transform you.
"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. It's not always comfortable, but it's never weakness."--Brene Brown. Hi, I'm Lydia and I utilize a solution focused, mindfulness based approach to aid clients in exploring their authentic selves and behavioral patterns. Like a Phoenix, I believe individuals have the ability to rise from the ashes as renewed, stronger versions of themselves. Whether those ashes are from broken relationships, perpetual marital problems, crippling anxiety, career dissatisfaction or the aftermath of trauma, they have the power to transform you.
(360) 215-5672 View (360) 215-5672
Photo of Rule and Associates, Child/Family Specialists, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Rule and Associates, Child/Family Specialists
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
We offer a full spectrum of parenting and family support for all types of families. We believe that healthy families create strong communities and with the right support, families, children and their communities can thrive. Parenting and marriage doesn’t come with an instruction book, but our experienced and professional, outcomes-based support professionals can be by your side to meet you right where you are at on your journey. We have a diverse, but small group of licensed mental health professionals and family support specialists to help you every step of the way.
We offer a full spectrum of parenting and family support for all types of families. We believe that healthy families create strong communities and with the right support, families, children and their communities can thrive. Parenting and marriage doesn’t come with an instruction book, but our experienced and professional, outcomes-based support professionals can be by your side to meet you right where you are at on your journey. We have a diverse, but small group of licensed mental health professionals and family support specialists to help you every step of the way.
(360) 734-0615 View (360) 734-0615
Photo of Victor H. Plucy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Victor H. Plucy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
Victor H. Plucy has been in practice for 35 years. During that time he has seen a wide range of clients and is skilled with anxiety, depression, transitions, marriage/ relationships; and his orientation addresses spiritual needs. He is passionate about helping clients live meaningful lives. Sub-specialties include sleep disorders, weight management and sports psychology. Victor relies heavily on building trust-filled counseling relationships in order to pursue the kinds of challenges that clients experience and combines that with client centered/solution-based psychotherapy.
Victor H. Plucy has been in practice for 35 years. During that time he has seen a wide range of clients and is skilled with anxiety, depression, transitions, marriage/ relationships; and his orientation addresses spiritual needs. He is passionate about helping clients live meaningful lives. Sub-specialties include sleep disorders, weight management and sports psychology. Victor relies heavily on building trust-filled counseling relationships in order to pursue the kinds of challenges that clients experience and combines that with client centered/solution-based psychotherapy.
(360) 223-2514 View (360) 223-2514
Photo of Nicholas J Evans, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Nicholas J Evans
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, AAC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
I have been trained by the Gottman Institute for couples counseling and use those methods to help couples develop healthy, fulfilling connections in both marital and pre-marital relationships.
Did you know that a majority of Americans experience a mental health crisis at some point in their life? We all face challenges in life that set us back and sometimes those challenges can push us towards negative thought cycles that prolong our suffering. I specialize in a strengths-based, person-centered approach using cognitive behavioral therapy that helps my clients learn to challenge their own automatic thought patterns in a way that frees them to create the future they desire rather than be a slave to automatic thinking. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy where we work together as a team.
I have been trained by the Gottman Institute for couples counseling and use those methods to help couples develop healthy, fulfilling connections in both marital and pre-marital relationships.
Did you know that a majority of Americans experience a mental health crisis at some point in their life? We all face challenges in life that set us back and sometimes those challenges can push us towards negative thought cycles that prolong our suffering. I specialize in a strengths-based, person-centered approach using cognitive behavioral therapy that helps my clients learn to challenge their own automatic thought patterns in a way that frees them to create the future they desire rather than be a slave to automatic thinking. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy where we work together as a team.
(360) 276-9673 View (360) 276-9673
Photo of Jackie Mitchell, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Jackie Mitchell
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
I have a Master’s degree in Psychology from Antioch University where I completed coursework for marriage and family counseling.
This is your journey into the world of developing insight and awareness, or for accessing the parts of you that will help you feel more successful (as defined by you) in your everyday life. My goal is to understand you; how you think, feel, and learn so I can facilitate self-awareness, and enhance your understanding of yourself. We will take the journey together, no matter what the starting point. We will move forward at your pace and with your consent.
I have a Master’s degree in Psychology from Antioch University where I completed coursework for marriage and family counseling.
This is your journey into the world of developing insight and awareness, or for accessing the parts of you that will help you feel more successful (as defined by you) in your everyday life. My goal is to understand you; how you think, feel, and learn so I can facilitate self-awareness, and enhance your understanding of yourself. We will take the journey together, no matter what the starting point. We will move forward at your pace and with your consent.
(360) 300-5446 View (360) 300-5446
Photo of Maribel Aheran, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Maribel Aheran
Counselor, EdD, LCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(360) 968-6435 View (360) 968-6435
Photo of Catherine M Webb, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Catherine M Webb
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
My strength is in making you feel supported and accepted, by using a person-centered, collaborative approach to help you find a way forward out of habitual but ineffective ways of coping with life events. Coping with inevitable life change can be painful and difficult, resulting in anxiety, depression and other forms of distress. My specialty is facilitating and guiding the process of developing an understanding of the varied life influences that have brought you to this point and to help you change habitual but unsatisfactory patterns of behavior.
My strength is in making you feel supported and accepted, by using a person-centered, collaborative approach to help you find a way forward out of habitual but ineffective ways of coping with life events. Coping with inevitable life change can be painful and difficult, resulting in anxiety, depression and other forms of distress. My specialty is facilitating and guiding the process of developing an understanding of the varied life influences that have brought you to this point and to help you change habitual but unsatisfactory patterns of behavior.
(405) 276-5040 View (405) 276-5040
Photo of Ellie Fairbanks- Hypnotherapist Emdr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Ellie Fairbanks- Hypnotherapist Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, RHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
Waitlist for new clients
My best self feels just out of reach...what happened to me? Why am I so stuck? Anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with boundaries or a general feeling of ungrounded self are common experiences. We can watch patterns repeat and often feel powerless in the process. We find ourselves in systems or roles that no long serve our highest selves. Present or past experiences might keep us from living life in a way that feels physically healthy, connected to others, and with purpose. You are ready to live in stronger connection with yourself and the people around you. You are courageous and honoring your natural growth.
My best self feels just out of reach...what happened to me? Why am I so stuck? Anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with boundaries or a general feeling of ungrounded self are common experiences. We can watch patterns repeat and often feel powerless in the process. We find ourselves in systems or roles that no long serve our highest selves. Present or past experiences might keep us from living life in a way that feels physically healthy, connected to others, and with purpose. You are ready to live in stronger connection with yourself and the people around you. You are courageous and honoring your natural growth.
(206) 558-9054 View (206) 558-9054
Photo of Golden Circle Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Golden Circle Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98227
At Golden Circle Counseling, we believe unconditional positive regard in a therapeutic relationship can be a meaningful pathway for healing. Our goal as clinicians is to provide compassionate, empathetic care through holistic mental health practices which seek to honor and affirm the client's value of culture and beliefs. Our belief is that a successful outcome begins with authentic, respectful and empathetic relationships between client and counselor as the key for effective, healing treatment.
At Golden Circle Counseling, we believe unconditional positive regard in a therapeutic relationship can be a meaningful pathway for healing. Our goal as clinicians is to provide compassionate, empathetic care through holistic mental health practices which seek to honor and affirm the client's value of culture and beliefs. Our belief is that a successful outcome begins with authentic, respectful and empathetic relationships between client and counselor as the key for effective, healing treatment.
(360) 963-4187 View (360) 963-4187
Photo of Jeff King, Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
Jeff King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
I am glad you are seeking help. That means you are responding to the healing voice inside and have started the journey already. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma of any kind, relationship issues, working through cultural identity, racial-environmental oppression, past spiritual abuse, I am willing to work with you to get to the source of the difficulty and find healing.
I am glad you are seeking help. That means you are responding to the healing voice inside and have started the journey already. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma of any kind, relationship issues, working through cultural identity, racial-environmental oppression, past spiritual abuse, I am willing to work with you to get to the source of the difficulty and find healing.
(360) 549-8006 View (360) 549-8006
Photo of Leigh Wirth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Leigh Wirth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
I assist individuals, couples and families uncover the tools for the life they want. We will uncover the ruts of behavior that are adding to anxiety, depression. I work as a partnership with you the client, as we expose and exlore strengths and resources that lie buried. I have a compassionate style that honors each client 'right where they're at' using deep listening that helps expose YOUR truth. I provide an environment to explore changes that may be uncomfortable, I suport each person by honoring your uniqueness in a safe environment to explore what is holding you back from your dreams.
I assist individuals, couples and families uncover the tools for the life they want. We will uncover the ruts of behavior that are adding to anxiety, depression. I work as a partnership with you the client, as we expose and exlore strengths and resources that lie buried. I have a compassionate style that honors each client 'right where they're at' using deep listening that helps expose YOUR truth. I provide an environment to explore changes that may be uncomfortable, I suport each person by honoring your uniqueness in a safe environment to explore what is holding you back from your dreams.
(360) 224-8344 View (360) 224-8344
Photo of Cindy Watson, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Cindy Watson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Cindy Watson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 11+ years of experience in the mental health field. Cindy is passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples find the coping skills and tools that they need to find the happiness and peace that they so desperately want and deserve. Her goal is to help them turn the stumbling blocks they have come against into the stepping stones that lead them across the muck. Cindy specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. When it comes to relationships and family situations, Cindy is very knowledgeable both personally and professionally.
Cindy Watson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 11+ years of experience in the mental health field. Cindy is passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples find the coping skills and tools that they need to find the happiness and peace that they so desperately want and deserve. Her goal is to help them turn the stumbling blocks they have come against into the stepping stones that lead them across the muck. Cindy specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. When it comes to relationships and family situations, Cindy is very knowledgeable both personally and professionally.
(360) 523-7315 View (360) 523-7315
Photo of Angela Lai I Loi (Angela Loi), Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Angela Lai I Loi (Angela Loi)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
I provide psychotherapy to all age clients including children (5+), family, and elderly. I speak Cantonese and Taishanese fluently. Image, you have your freedom and trust yourself to be who you want to be and live the life that you want to live. You are trapped, stuck, and carry heavy invisible responsibilities from your background, culture, tradition, and expectations from your society. You feel like you cannot breathe, keep your head above water. That’s enough! It’s time to change, it’s time to live life with the happiness that you deserve.
I provide psychotherapy to all age clients including children (5+), family, and elderly. I speak Cantonese and Taishanese fluently. Image, you have your freedom and trust yourself to be who you want to be and live the life that you want to live. You are trapped, stuck, and carry heavy invisible responsibilities from your background, culture, tradition, and expectations from your society. You feel like you cannot breathe, keep your head above water. That’s enough! It’s time to change, it’s time to live life with the happiness that you deserve.
(801) 214-8507 View (801) 214-8507
Photo of Justin Marr, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellingham, WA
Justin Marr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226
It's become a struggle to express your needs to the people you love. Some days, it feels like you are repeating the same conversation or argument over and over again. You feel stuck and vulnerable. I understand what you are going through. Relationships can be challenging, with twists and turns that create anxiety, confusion, and discouragement. This may not be what you expected and it can be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel excited and satisfied. I want to help you find the way back to a more fulfilling and healthier relationship. There is a way forward.
It's become a struggle to express your needs to the people you love. Some days, it feels like you are repeating the same conversation or argument over and over again. You feel stuck and vulnerable. I understand what you are going through. Relationships can be challenging, with twists and turns that create anxiety, confusion, and discouragement. This may not be what you expected and it can be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel excited and satisfied. I want to help you find the way back to a more fulfilling and healthier relationship. There is a way forward.
(253) 215-6418 View (253) 215-6418
Photo of Kelly R Frost, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Kelly R Frost
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LMHCA, SUDP, DVIC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I specialize in working with clients that try to manage life's pain with substances and other addictions. Many of my clients want to simply change their using habits and I work to support them weekly in understanding their intentions, feelings and motivations as they make healthy changes to their relationship with alcohol or other drugs. As we well know, many clients suffering from substance use disorders have a myriad of other issues that drive these compulsive coping mechanisms; I am experienced in many co-occuring issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma or grief. Supervisor: T. Christopher Portman PhD.
I specialize in working with clients that try to manage life's pain with substances and other addictions. Many of my clients want to simply change their using habits and I work to support them weekly in understanding their intentions, feelings and motivations as they make healthy changes to their relationship with alcohol or other drugs. As we well know, many clients suffering from substance use disorders have a myriad of other issues that drive these compulsive coping mechanisms; I am experienced in many co-occuring issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma or grief. Supervisor: T. Christopher Portman PhD.
(360) 227-4939 View (360) 227-4939
Photo of Amy Fritsch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Amy Fritsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229
I come from a long line of teachers and I love to share knowledge and wisdom. We wouldn’t go out to sea without navigation skills and we can’t have “good” mental health or healthy relationships without understanding how our brains and minds function and how relational systems operate. A huge portion of my approach is teaching! In order to nurture our brains we need to understand how the brain works! In the last ten-fifteen years, Neuroscience has been able to inform the psychology community in an unprecedented way and I love to share this knowledge and teach techniques for how to integrate knowledge in a somatic way.
I come from a long line of teachers and I love to share knowledge and wisdom. We wouldn’t go out to sea without navigation skills and we can’t have “good” mental health or healthy relationships without understanding how our brains and minds function and how relational systems operate. A huge portion of my approach is teaching! In order to nurture our brains we need to understand how the brain works! In the last ten-fifteen years, Neuroscience has been able to inform the psychology community in an unprecedented way and I love to share this knowledge and teach techniques for how to integrate knowledge in a somatic way.
(513) 917-1981 View (513) 917-1981
Photo of Anders Andersen, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Anders Andersen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
So many people struggle to find happiness and balance in their lives and relationships. I can help you identify and remove the blocks to your happiness, whether they be inside of you (your thoughts, expectations and anxieties) or outside (toxic relationships, cultural barriers, etc.). I can also help you address and face the fears which hold you back, identify relationship patterns which keep you from getting what you want in love, and help you think outside the box to create novel solutions to your struggles.
So many people struggle to find happiness and balance in their lives and relationships. I can help you identify and remove the blocks to your happiness, whether they be inside of you (your thoughts, expectations and anxieties) or outside (toxic relationships, cultural barriers, etc.). I can also help you address and face the fears which hold you back, identify relationship patterns which keep you from getting what you want in love, and help you think outside the box to create novel solutions to your struggles.
(425) 598-0942 View (425) 598-0942
Photo of Daniel Masler, Psychologist in Bellingham, WA
Daniel Masler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
I am passionate about helping people make sense of their lives in complicated times. I am an actively involved psychotherapist. I believe in developing a strongly collaborative relationship. With mutual curiosity, we can explore meaningful ways to find relief and make lasting, positive changes. I do psychotherapy with children, teens, families, and adults in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and in Japanese. I also do psychological evaluations for Attention Deficit Disorder.
(206) 460-1404 View (206) 460-1404
Photo of Rasheonia Lemon, Counselor in Bellingham, WA
Rasheonia Lemon
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with individuals who find themselves wrestling with developing the step to facilitate change, clients seeking to confront thoughts which continue to recycle. I am familiar in working with individuals who battle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, general stress, career development and PTSD. I am comfortable working with adolescents, as well as, adults, and our elders.
I have a passion for working with individuals who find themselves wrestling with developing the step to facilitate change, clients seeking to confront thoughts which continue to recycle. I am familiar in working with individuals who battle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, general stress, career development and PTSD. I am comfortable working with adolescents, as well as, adults, and our elders.
(360) 654-7167 View (360) 654-7167
Photo of Real Solutions Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellingham, WA
Real Solutions Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
We have therapists available now. The difficulties of daily life, relationship concerns, experiences with depression, anxiety, anger, ocd or grief have you searching the internet for a therapist you can afford, that takes insurance, that has in person and virtual options. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team have morning and evening appointments available virtually, in our Des Moines and Bellingham office. With a free no commitment 15 minute call, you get to decide if you have found a match for your needs. This is what you have been looking for in your search for your therapist.
We have therapists available now. The difficulties of daily life, relationship concerns, experiences with depression, anxiety, anger, ocd or grief have you searching the internet for a therapist you can afford, that takes insurance, that has in person and virtual options. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team have morning and evening appointments available virtually, in our Des Moines and Bellingham office. With a free no commitment 15 minute call, you get to decide if you have found a match for your needs. This is what you have been looking for in your search for your therapist.
(206) 278-3087 View (206) 278-3087
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.