Marlaina is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) ,Art Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.

We are faced with challenges in life that block our happiness, and we cannot always change all of our circumstances. Even the hardest working, ambitious, organized, disciplined person can feel powerless and unhappy at times. If you would like to address a past issue, such as a traumatic event, or if you would like to explore a recent challenge, such as a job or identity crisis or relationship issue, I can help you.

I use a non-judgmental approach to therapy and create an accepting environment. I work from a strength based approach and believe every person is doing the best they can given all of the unique circumstances and challenges each person faces.

We all have a story that has impacted and changed us. Trauma robs us of our peace in our relationships and day-to-day living. It can ruin relationships with the people we love and care about. It can also create drama and chaos in our lives, taking away from our ability to live a fulfilling and enjoyable life. Trauma comes in many forms; even in ways you wouldn’t consider traumatic, such as harsh discipline from childhood or constant micro-aggressions. It can also look like single events that have a beginning and end, such as a car accident or death. Other traumas can be chronic and ongoing, such as bullying, childhood neglect, or any form of abuse. Sometimes we don’t even recognize these traumas until we are adults. If you can relate or have experienced any form of trauma in life, I am able to provide trauma counseling as a certified trauma therapist to help you gain a sense of peace. You don’t have to continue to “live with” your trauma; I want to help you heal from it.

I also use attachment-based family therapy to address relationship ruptures or falling-outs that have left individuals feeling alone and isolated within their relationships. These ruptures happen over time distancing us from our parents and/or children. I use Systems theory to not just look at the person but the web of connections between you and the people around you. This includes looking at your family dynamics, generational patterns and understanding how this is impacting your current relationships and emotional climate. I also use Cognitive therapy to shift thinking and thought processes. Our perspective affects how we feel about people and situations; as a result this impacts how we interact with others or go about problem solving. Again, we can’t change all of our circumstances in life, but I want to help you change the things you have power and control over that are in alignment with your present goals.

You will find working with me that I am down to earth and empathetic, combined with being direct and passionate. If you would like to begin your journey to understand yourself and others around you, or if you would like to address mental health challenges or trauma, give me a call today so we can begin a conversation about how I can help.