Muirenn
BA
Hello! My name is Muirenn (pronounced Mur-in), I use she/her pronouns, and I’m currently obtaining my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from City University of Seattle. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Washington University. I believe that therapy works best when there is a strong foundation between client and counselor in place. I strive to build this foundation by cultivating a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for you to be your most authentic self. It can feel scary to decide to come to therapy, so I will honor your bravery in doing so. With my unconditional support, you will be set up for success in our work together.
I am a predominantly trauma-informed, person-centered, existential therapist. This means I will always take into account what has happened to you and how that is showing up in your current functioning. A person-centered and existential approach additionally means that I believe all of my clients are highly capable and that they are their own experts on what works best for them. I tend to help guide my clients down curious paths, with the hopes of helping them to understand deeper meanings that are lying under the surface of their challenges. I strive to help clients start shifting their perspectives and thinking patterns, gain deeper insight to what is happening around them, understand who they are more thoroughly, and explore what elements of their past are holding them back in the present.
I also use various other approaches in therapy, and this often depends on my client's unique wants, needs, and goals. I view things through a psychodynamic lens in terms of looking at how our pasts shape us; I incorporate mindfulness to help clients feel calm and relaxed and be more present; I include CBT and DBT in order for clients to better understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. I am most interested in working with trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, life changes/adjustments, and stress. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults.
Education
M.A. Counseling Psychology, City University of Seattle
Professional Membership
Washington Mental Health Counselors Association (WMHCA)
American Counseling Association (ACA)