First Choice Health | FCH Therapists in Seatac, WA
I work with you to uncover underlying self destructive belief/ behavior patterns, then move into more life-enhancing patterns. My approach is culturally aware, founded in understanding the relationships systems within which you live and work, and guided by my intuitive knowledge of change and growth acquired during over 30 years of experience. My advanced training in EMDR eases your movement through grief, loss or trauma. Accountability and "keeping an eye on the goal" is an important part of our work together. I also specialize in LGBTQ concerns as well as the specific pain of the adult adoptee.
I work with you to uncover underlying self destructive belief/ behavior patterns, then move into more life-enhancing patterns. My approach is culturally aware, founded in understanding the relationships systems within which you live and work, and guided by my intuitive knowledge of change and growth acquired during over 30 years of experience. My advanced training in EMDR eases your movement through grief, loss or trauma. Accountability and "keeping an eye on the goal" is an important part of our work together. I also specialize in LGBTQ concerns as well as the specific pain of the adult adoptee.
Relationships are hard work. Navigating what you want from life while considering what your partner/partners may wish to do can be daunting. Having questions about your relationship? How about your sex life? Has the excitement of your relationship and sex life turned into a mundane list of chores to cross off? Wait ... what about passion!? Or Intimacy!? Or heaven forbid you might ask, "What if I want to try that new thing ...?" You are far from being alone with these thoughts. Most people ask these questions when they are in a relationship with others. That's why I am here: to help answer these questions in a supportive space.
Relationships are hard work. Navigating what you want from life while considering what your partner/partners may wish to do can be daunting. Having questions about your relationship? How about your sex life? Has the excitement of your relationship and sex life turned into a mundane list of chores to cross off? Wait ... what about passion!? Or Intimacy!? Or heaven forbid you might ask, "What if I want to try that new thing ...?" You are far from being alone with these thoughts. Most people ask these questions when they are in a relationship with others. That's why I am here: to help answer these questions in a supportive space.
Life is full of transitions, expected and unexpected, and this can be hard on individuals and families as a whole. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I seek to help you cope, decrease emotional distress, and bring balance and meaning to your current situation. Being a therapist of color has equipped me to be sensitive, open and authentic to issues such as privilege, classism, oppression, racism, as they may relate to emotional pain and suffering. I believe that each person develops unique coping skills to deal with life’s stresses.
Life is full of transitions, expected and unexpected, and this can be hard on individuals and families as a whole. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I seek to help you cope, decrease emotional distress, and bring balance and meaning to your current situation. Being a therapist of color has equipped me to be sensitive, open and authentic to issues such as privilege, classism, oppression, racism, as they may relate to emotional pain and suffering. I believe that each person develops unique coping skills to deal with life’s stresses.
Since 2009, it has been a privileged of mine to collaborate in a variety of settings ranging from crisis intervention, individual support and social work. The bulk of my career has been working with youth, adults, and families with an array of issues; each with their own unique story to tell. I utilize EMDR am certified in TF-CBT and hold additional certification in addiction. I am committed to my Anti-Racist work and and aspire for social justice at the intersection of every inequity. I desire to get to know you and journey with you on on your unique path.
Since 2009, it has been a privileged of mine to collaborate in a variety of settings ranging from crisis intervention, individual support and social work. The bulk of my career has been working with youth, adults, and families with an array of issues; each with their own unique story to tell. I utilize EMDR am certified in TF-CBT and hold additional certification in addiction. I am committed to my Anti-Racist work and and aspire for social justice at the intersection of every inequity. I desire to get to know you and journey with you on on your unique path.
We all deserve respect, care, and acceptance. I have a passion for helping people navigate the difficult transitions that can occur in life due to a change in health or other circumstances. I believe that we all do our best given the resources and situation provided, and that a change in perspective or new tool can make all the difference. Besides primarily using a cognitive behavioral therapy framework to address unconscious processes, I have broad experience incorporating existential, spiritual, and meaning based approaches in pursuing growth.
We all deserve respect, care, and acceptance. I have a passion for helping people navigate the difficult transitions that can occur in life due to a change in health or other circumstances. I believe that we all do our best given the resources and situation provided, and that a change in perspective or new tool can make all the difference. Besides primarily using a cognitive behavioral therapy framework to address unconscious processes, I have broad experience incorporating existential, spiritual, and meaning based approaches in pursuing growth.
It is difficult to deal with strong feelings of anger, guilt sadness, grief, fear, or worry on your own. At the same time, it can be extremely difficult to let others around you know when you need help. You may have even been told that you just need to "tough it out", and "deal with it" all on your own. I'm here to say that you don't have to. Managing difficult emotions is easier said than done when going through stressful situations such as losing a loved one, ending a relationship, or dealing with financial stress. I am here if you are ready to make positive changes in your life, and are tired of doing it alone.
It is difficult to deal with strong feelings of anger, guilt sadness, grief, fear, or worry on your own. At the same time, it can be extremely difficult to let others around you know when you need help. You may have even been told that you just need to "tough it out", and "deal with it" all on your own. I'm here to say that you don't have to. Managing difficult emotions is easier said than done when going through stressful situations such as losing a loved one, ending a relationship, or dealing with financial stress. I am here if you are ready to make positive changes in your life, and are tired of doing it alone.
Hello! So, you know those therapists who are calming, soothing, and usually have one of those freaking awesome rock formations with streaming water behind them? Yeah, well... I'm not one of those therapists! First off, I just used the word "freaking" in my intro, and that's when I'm trying to be my most professional self! Secondly, and more importantly, I'm just not into all the head bobbing and "tell me more." I'm more of a "Talk to me... what's going on?" kind of therapist. I will listen, and never judge you. I will laugh (and sometimes cry) with you, and I will use every therapeutic tool at my disposal to help you!
Hello! So, you know those therapists who are calming, soothing, and usually have one of those freaking awesome rock formations with streaming water behind them? Yeah, well... I'm not one of those therapists! First off, I just used the word "freaking" in my intro, and that's when I'm trying to be my most professional self! Secondly, and more importantly, I'm just not into all the head bobbing and "tell me more." I'm more of a "Talk to me... what's going on?" kind of therapist. I will listen, and never judge you. I will laugh (and sometimes cry) with you, and I will use every therapeutic tool at my disposal to help you!
Many of the adults and couples I work with look like they are holding everything together, but inside they feel anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. I work with adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, family stress, and major life transitions.
Many of the adults and couples I work with look like they are holding everything together, but inside they feel anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. I work with adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, family stress, and major life transitions.
Let's be real, very few people are doing ok right now. Instability in our country and world greatly impacts emotional, mental, and physical well-being. This instability makes work stress & unexpected life events feel unbearable. It's ok to need extra support right now.
I often work with clients navigating multiple identities—BIPOC women & teens, LGBTQ+ folks, college students & professionals facing increased stress & burnout. Many wrestle with duty, autonomy & identity; often caught between people-pleasing, over-functioning & self-doubt.
Let's be real, very few people are doing ok right now. Instability in our country and world greatly impacts emotional, mental, and physical well-being. This instability makes work stress & unexpected life events feel unbearable. It's ok to need extra support right now.
I often work with clients navigating multiple identities—BIPOC women & teens, LGBTQ+ folks, college students & professionals facing increased stress & burnout. Many wrestle with duty, autonomy & identity; often caught between people-pleasing, over-functioning & self-doubt.
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
I enjoy working with young adults and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, life transitions, stress, or relationship challenges. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or seeking personal growth, therapy can be a space to feel heard and supported. Together, we'll build on your strengths, explore what's most important to you, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel empowered to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence.
I enjoy working with young adults and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, life transitions, stress, or relationship challenges. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or seeking personal growth, therapy can be a space to feel heard and supported. Together, we'll build on your strengths, explore what's most important to you, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel empowered to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence.
More Therapists Nearby
Hi! My name is Lana, I primarily specialize in working with those who are experiencing agoraphobia, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem or identity issues, grief and chronic pain, among other concerns. I believe in the importance of feeling connected in relationships, to our environment, and to ourselves. Addressing the “here and now” that arises during therapy allows our sessions to adapt and work with the difficult emotions or thoughts that come up, in an environment that is judgment free and safe. I'm LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoy working with clients along the spectrum of neurodiversity and disability.
Hi! My name is Lana, I primarily specialize in working with those who are experiencing agoraphobia, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem or identity issues, grief and chronic pain, among other concerns. I believe in the importance of feeling connected in relationships, to our environment, and to ourselves. Addressing the “here and now” that arises during therapy allows our sessions to adapt and work with the difficult emotions or thoughts that come up, in an environment that is judgment free and safe. I'm LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoy working with clients along the spectrum of neurodiversity and disability.
I love to work with individuals who are ready to move beyond the cycles that leave them feeling stuck, used, hurt, and disconnected from their true selves. Change is hard—especially when we’re taught to minimize pain and doubt our own strength. That’s why meaningful transformation can feel both impossible and lonely. These patterns often show up as: unhealthy coping mechanisms or habits, anxiety, low-motivation, poor concentration, difficulty forming or maintaining connections, self-sabotage, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem and dissatisfaction in relationships or family life.
I love to work with individuals who are ready to move beyond the cycles that leave them feeling stuck, used, hurt, and disconnected from their true selves. Change is hard—especially when we’re taught to minimize pain and doubt our own strength. That’s why meaningful transformation can feel both impossible and lonely. These patterns often show up as: unhealthy coping mechanisms or habits, anxiety, low-motivation, poor concentration, difficulty forming or maintaining connections, self-sabotage, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem and dissatisfaction in relationships or family life.
Michael Gwanjaye helps adults and seniors throughout Washington navigate emotional challenges with compassion, insight, and evidence-based mental health care. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, he provides individual therapy for patients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. Michael creates a supportive therapeutic environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to work toward meaningful and lasting change.
Michael Gwanjaye helps adults and seniors throughout Washington navigate emotional challenges with compassion, insight, and evidence-based mental health care. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health, he provides individual therapy for patients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. Michael creates a supportive therapeutic environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to work toward meaningful and lasting change.
It is limited but I have openings at this point.
It is limited but I have openings at this point.
Mattie obtained her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Lutheran University in 2016. Mattie’s graduate studies focused on couple and individual therapy with internships at the Chaplain Family Life Center on JBLM and the PLU Couples and Family Therapy Clinic. Her clinical experience began with teens experiencing grief and later focused on clients age 60+ in Older Adult Services at MultiCare Behavioral Health in Puyallup.
Mattie obtained her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Lutheran University in 2016. Mattie’s graduate studies focused on couple and individual therapy with internships at the Chaplain Family Life Center on JBLM and the PLU Couples and Family Therapy Clinic. Her clinical experience began with teens experiencing grief and later focused on clients age 60+ in Older Adult Services at MultiCare Behavioral Health in Puyallup.
Empowering women, children, teens, and tweens is my passion. I hope to become a safe, empathetic, and non judgmental space for those who want to be heard. I believe mental health is like a muscle. It takes practice, strength, and patience to change. You are not broken and I am not here to fix you. Life has a tendency to make us feel weak, hopeless, and hurt. I am here to work with you to help you see your internal strength and capabilities.
Empowering women, children, teens, and tweens is my passion. I hope to become a safe, empathetic, and non judgmental space for those who want to be heard. I believe mental health is like a muscle. It takes practice, strength, and patience to change. You are not broken and I am not here to fix you. Life has a tendency to make us feel weak, hopeless, and hurt. I am here to work with you to help you see your internal strength and capabilities.
Before therapy, most people have identified emotions and behaviors that they have tried to change. When these efforts are not successful, there are often blind spots or important ties to unresolved, and sometime unrecognized, issues from the past. I work collaboratively to define the problem, identify patterns and their sources, and then to uncover new options.
Since my former practice was in Harvard Square in Cambridge, MA, I have worked extensively with students and young adults. Often I use family theory in working with an individuals to increase awareness of options within relationships and with his/her family.
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Before therapy, most people have identified emotions and behaviors that they have tried to change. When these efforts are not successful, there are often blind spots or important ties to unresolved, and sometime unrecognized, issues from the past. I work collaboratively to define the problem, identify patterns and their sources, and then to uncover new options.
Since my former practice was in Harvard Square in Cambridge, MA, I have worked extensively with students and young adults. Often I use family theory in working with an individuals to increase awareness of options within relationships and with his/her family.
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As a therapist, I am dedicated to establishing a trusting relationship where you feel safe, heard, supported and understood throughout our work together. With empathy, compassion and professional expertise, I will help you discover practical, achievable steps toward a healthy thriving life, strengthen your sense of self and develop coping skills for life's challenges.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to establishing a trusting relationship where you feel safe, heard, supported and understood throughout our work together. With empathy, compassion and professional expertise, I will help you discover practical, achievable steps toward a healthy thriving life, strengthen your sense of self and develop coping skills for life's challenges.
I am dedicated to supporting members of the LGBTQ2S+ community and individuals of all neurotypes. Many people come to therapy seeking a way to navigate life that feels resilient, authentic, and safe. When individuals are able to show up proudly as they are, amazing things can happen. I believe growth is a highly individualized process. Together, we work on finding a unique balance between increasing flexibility—letting go of beliefs that no longer serve us—and being persistent about maintaining our boundaries and asserting our needs.
I am dedicated to supporting members of the LGBTQ2S+ community and individuals of all neurotypes. Many people come to therapy seeking a way to navigate life that feels resilient, authentic, and safe. When individuals are able to show up proudly as they are, amazing things can happen. I believe growth is a highly individualized process. Together, we work on finding a unique balance between increasing flexibility—letting go of beliefs that no longer serve us—and being persistent about maintaining our boundaries and asserting our needs.
