Care when you most need it
My philosophy
For a lot of people, therapy can be a confusing, mysterious thing of questionable value. Many have tried it when they were younger, and felt that at best it was only of minimal help, while for others it actually made things worse. In many cultures, therapy looks very different from how it’s practiced in the “western world,” and the concept of mental health itself is often treated with suspicion or dismissal. I’ve known many people who, even while not being skeptical, were still confused about what the purpose of therapy actually is, or what situations warrant seeking a therapist out.
In my practice as a therapist, I often reorient myself to the basic core of therapy, which to me is about helping people get unstuck. Sometimes the thing you’re stuck on is a recurring and disruptive emotional state, other times it’s some harmful interpersonal dynamic, and other times it’s a pattern of behavior. Whatever the specifics, there is some aspect of the client’s life that is not going the way they would prefer, and the therapist’s role is to help them find a way to change that.
What therapy provides also varies; good therapy can create space for honest expressions of emotion, provide new perspectives or insight, and offer new “tools” for the client to use in their lives, specific behaviors or mental motions that help move past the stuckness.
Those skeptical of therapy often wonder: can’t people just talk to their friends or family if they need emotional support? Aren’t there self-help books they can try? And of course they can, and should try those things! For many people, the majority of their difficulties do not require a therapist.
Which means therapy is for what’s left. Those things that seem truly intractable, the things that you feel stuck on, which other resources have failed to help resolve.
Because while much of the change in therapy comes from the therapeutic relationship itself (which is why first finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is half the battle), for a large portion of clients I’ve seen, even just changing the frame of the problems they experience, or changing the way they view themselves in relation to their problems, actually makes the problem less sticky. A new frame can reveal more levers to pull and knobs to turn, or new vistas of the mind to explore and inhabit, that can help make the problem more manageable.
What to expect
Working with me, from the start, you can expect a direct yet compassionate approach, with my initial goal being building trust and understanding. I truly believe that without a deep trust and sense of safety, it’s nearly impossible to create change. I typically see client’s once a week in order to build that relationship and get to know you and your life story. Change in frequency such as reducing to bi weekly sessions is absolutely client driven, however, I may nudge clients whom I feel are ready to decrease if that time comes.
Clients typically will have the same time/day of week session unless they require something different. I try to be very flexible with scheduling as I understand life isn’t often predictable. If we can’t meet during our “normal” session time, I will generally be able to find an alternative for that week so that consistency remains. I value being fair and respectful of your time as well as mine. I often will suggest “homework” or things to do throughout the week until we meet again, as I’m a firm believer in the idea that change is created through practice and action. However, nothing is ever required from you—other than willingness and honesty.
I am always deeply honored to be a witness to another human beings journey, encompassing depth, pain, sorrow, joy, love, and laughter. Therapy doesn’t have to be a drag—my clients and I laugh often and I try to insert humor whenever appropriate.
“People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be. When I look at a sunset, I don’t find myself saying, “soften the orange a bit on the right hand corner”. I don’t try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds.”
-CARL ROGERS
About Mandi
I am a Washington native, born and raised in the Seattle area. I am a mom of two teenagers, a partner to my husband of nearly 20 years, a sister, a daughter, and a friend to many deeply cherished, life-long friends. My desire to become a therapist (or “human helper”) was ignited in me by the age of 10. It came naturally to me, and teachers, coaches, etc. saw that in me and would place me in leadership roles to help others who might be struggling in ways. I never resented it—I embraced it.
I dislike small talk and typically yearn for deep, meaningful connection in my relationships. When I’m not working with clients or students, I’m usually chasing sunshine and travel, spending time with family and friends, cold plunging, swimming, listening to podcasts or music, going to live shows, or watching documentaries! I love learning, growing, and indulging my natural curiosity. I also love good food, company that makes me belly laugh, and exploring new places—either near or far!
Are we a good fit?
Find out first: Call or email for a free 15-minute consultation.