Who Are We?

Hello, I'm Maggie "Gigi" Ishaq, the owner and a therapist at Balanced Living Therapy, LLC.

I hold a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a bachelor's degree in psychology with a focus on substance use counseling, both from Seattle Pacific University. 

I am trained in EMDR therapy and have experience treating eating disorders, depression, and PTSD. My specialty is working with first responders and their families, providing culturally competent care tailored to their unique needs.

My approach to therapy is person-centered, collaborative, and interactive. As your therapist, I will work with you to create positive changes in your life by identifying and challenging negative beliefs that may be hindering your goals.

Our sessions will incorporate various treatment modalities, interventions, and strategies tailored to your specific needs. These may include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for individuals and couples, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma and PTSD.

I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where your individuality, beliefs, and core values are respected. Together, we'll work towards finding your balance in life!

EMDR

PTSD

Grief & Loss

Self Esteem

Eating Disorders

Attachment Disorders

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Substance Use Counseling

Marriage/Couples and Individual Therapy

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling -Seattle Pacific University. 

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies/Psychology -Seattle Pacific University. 

Associate of Technical Arts Degree in Alcohol and Chemical Dependency Counseling; EDCC 

Behavioral Research Therapy Clinic (BRTC), University of Washington and Children's Hospital, research therapist

Chemical Dependency Counseling. Supportive Therapy Model for Teens

Licensed Mental Health Counselor - Credential # LH60200522 

Substance Use Disorder Professional Certification # CP00005296  

(State of WA)

Marriage and Family Therapist   

Certified Clinical Supervisor DOH-State of WA

My name is Jesse Dunn. I am the agency director and one of the clinical supervisors at Balanced Living Therapy, LLC. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have worked in mental health since 2017, most recently as a crisis worker serving high-risk and vulnerable populations. 

My experience includes counseling individuals, families, and couples. As an advocate of equity and social justice, I believe that inclusion is crucial; as is examining my own privilege, power, and presence on a regular basis. I view therapy as one vehicle to address systemic issues and pressures of which we all experience. 

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I have a one-eyed dog, and am doing my best to live my life in the present. 

Stripped of its bells and whistles, therapy is a person (or people) entering a space with a willingness to be vulnerable and move toward growth. I do my best to foster safety and comfort so that this can be easily achieved. I’m down to earth, I like to make jokes, I don’t easily judge. Our quality of relationship will be the biggest determinant of therapeutic success, so that is what I prioritize.

My therapeutic perspective is most similar to “Humanistic Psychology.” It has taught me a few key things:

1) You are the expert on your own life. 

2) Humans are destined to grow (if they can get out of their own way). 

3) Problems are far less relevant than people.

Keeping these things in mind, much can be accomplished in a supportive environment.

Grief and Loss 

Mindfulness (& meditation) 

Unpacking Oppression 

Family Dynamics 

Self-worth 

CBT and DBT for depression and anxiety 

Crisis Existentialism 

End of life 

Terminally ill 

People with disabilities 

Master of Marriage and Family Therapy, Seattle Pacific University 

Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Philosophy, University of Portland  

MODALITIES: 

Narrative Therapy

Mindfulness & Meditation

Dialectical Behavior Therapy; DBT

Cognitive Behavior Therapy; CBT 

Licensed Mental Health Counselor, License # LH61165341

State of Washington 

Certified Clinical Supervisor, DOH, WA

Agency Director

Hello, my name is Annalise Boon and I am a licensed mental health counselor associate at Balanced Living Therapy, LLC. and am currently accepting client.  I enjoy walking with individuals through life's ups and downs.  I have worked with young children, teenagers, and seniors.  It has been valuable to me to see how the opposite ends of the lifespan reflect and balance each other.  I hope to live a life that reflects authenticity, patience, intentionality, and understanding.

Things that bring me joy are new books and stories, trying to perfect gluten free recipes, and creating music.    

Therapy can be a difficult, beautiful, vulnerable, and growth promoting process.  My goal is to create a space where all of this can be possible.  It's important to look at the individual as more than the sum of their many life roles: they are their own context, and they are whole.  I walk with people on their journey of finding balance and flexibility for the challenges that life brings.  Sometimes past coping skills no longer serve their purpose and hold us back from the life we want.  It is not my place to take that away.  Instead, I would like to look at the value the skills may have had and explore new ways of coping that lead to the individual's well being.   

Strengths-based Approaches
Existentialism
Art and Music Therapies
Internal Family Systems Parts Work 

Master of Arts Counseling-Psychology -Bastyr University-2024

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Trinity Western University, Langley, B.C

Hello, my name is Winonna Saari, and I am a clinical intern here at Balanced Living Therapy.

I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with certification in Trauma at Antioch University Seattle.

I am a published Author who aspires to unrelenting advocacy in cultivating safety, shifting, and enriching individuals to define and pursue their healing and supporting them and their families with the resources they need to reach their full potential and thrive.

My approach to counseling is grounded in integrative therapies where I draw from various techniques, methods, and frameworks to tailor the therapy to each client's specific needs. I implement different therapeutic modalities including Attachment Therapy – Somatic Therapy – Trauma Informed Care personalizing treatment plans rather than adhering strictly to one therapeutic approach. I prioritize creating a safe space where the client feels secure. This involves building a trusting therapeutic relationship. I encourage collaboration between the client and myself, involving the client in the decision-making process regarding their treatment goals and strategies, allowing them to have agency in their healing journey. Recognizing and respecting the cultural, social, and individual differences of clients. Educate the client about trauma and its effects on the mind and body and the common trauma responses such as hypervigilance, dissociation, or triggers. I work with the client to manage their responses and raise their awareness of how these factors might impact their experiences of trauma and their healing process. Focus on the client's strengths and resilience rather than just their trauma. Help them identify and utilize their coping skills, strengths, and resources to foster resilience and facilitate healing.
 

Depression

Anxiety

Loss/Grief

Trauma/PTSD

Addiction

Attachment

Somatic

Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CMHC-CACREP-Candidate- Antioch University Seattle, 2021 to present.

Bachelor of Arts; Communication, Seattle Pacific University, 2014

Professional Experience

AMERICAN COUNSELING ASSOCIATION Member to present.

Chi Sigma Iota OMG Chapter Member to present.

Hi! My name is Ashlie Thacker (she/her). I am currently a Master of Social Work student at Boise State University and an intern at Balanced Living Therapy, LLC. I've worked for the past 5 years in behavioral health in settings ranging from clinic ABA to school interventions, most of which were with clients under the age of 24. I also have experience identifying and writing behavior support plans for adults with disabilities. 

When I'm not at the office or in a session, I am most likely coaching youth recreational softball in our community, reading a book, at a Mariners game, or spending time with my family. 

Having a good rapport with your therapist is so important; it's why I am committing to showing up as myself to my sessions with you. I value honesty and transparency, especially in the tough areas of life. I am passionate about keeping an open mind to try to understand you and what troubles you. 

As we build our relationship together, we will look at a multitude of perspectives in your life to find the best approach or intervention for you. I am open to all modalities and believe in the innate strength within all of us to advocate for ourselves. I hope to be able to support you in this realm as we navigate various coping skills together. 
 

Depression/Anxiety

Spiritual and Religious Issues

Somatic Symptoms

People with Disabilities

Perinatal Mental Health

Military Family Life

MSW Candidate- Boise State University (graduating December 2024)

B.S. in Psychology, emphasis in Clinical Practice- Brigham Young University, 2021

Hi there. I’m Matthew Meyers (he/him), though you can call me Matt. I’m a graduate student at Antioch University Seattle working toward a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. After over a decade working in the tech industry and many years dedicated to my own healing journey, I decided to become a counselor so I could help people like you live joyful and fulfilling lives. I have experience providing crisis counseling to LGBTQ+ youth, running support groups for first-time parents, and offering one-on-one counseling at Antioch’s community clinic. I have also received specialized training in Internal Family Systems therapy. 

I view therapy as a collaborative process. You are the expert on your life, and I bring knowledge and skills that can help us explore your past, present, and future to uncover a path toward the change you seek. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I’ll be there alongside you as we explore what’s needed to meet your goals for therapy.

My approach to therapy is experiential. I aim to create a curious, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where we can safely hold space for all facets of your internal and external world. Within this environment, I’ll guide you to explore your thoughts, feelings, body sensations, and behaviors. These aspects of your experience will then guide us toward your innate wisdom and capacity for well-being. I lean heavily on Internal Family Systems, attachment, and somatic theories, but I’ll do my best to tailor the tools and techniques I use to suit your unique needs and preferences.
 

Depression

Anxiety

Self-esteem and self-worth

Childhood neglect, abandonment, and other family of origin issues

Finding meaning, purpose, and direction

Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Candidate, Antioch University Seattle    (graduating September 2025)

Bachelors of Arts in Liberal Studies: Psychology, Antioch University Seattle

Internal Family Systems level 1 training

Hello, my name is Kristina “Kristi Lyn” Reddy, and I am a clinical intern at Balanced Living Therapy. I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counseling in Psychology at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology.

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I love to be outside as much as possible, walking, hiking, grounding myself amidst the evergreens, or by the ocean. I am an avid soccer fan supporting my son as well as the Seattle Sounders FC.

My approach to therapy is person centered. I believe we all have an inner voice that desires to guide, protect, and help us discover who we are and how to navigate relationships and the world. Therapy can be a vulnerable and at times scary space, my approach is to meet each client where they are, accepting everyone with respect and unconditional positive regard. Together we can explore what brings you to therapy, whether that be current circumstances, difficult decisions, the uncertainty of why you feel the way you do, or the need to look further into your past, slowly, carefully, and respectfully.

I believe you are the expert on your life. I commit to providing a safe space, free of judgment, honoring your individualism, beliefs and your personal, familial, religious and cultural values.
 

Individual Therapy 

Self-Awareness, Inner Voice, Personal Accountability 

Depression/Anxiety 

Religious/Spiritual Issues 

Depth Work 

Trauma – Childhood abuse, Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence 

Master's Counseling Psychology- Candidate: The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology – Fall 2022 to present. 

Bachelor's in Life Experience-The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology – Summer 2022 

My name is Abigail Nelson and I am completing my Master of Arts in Counseling in Psychology at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology and am a clinical intern here at Balanced Living Therapy. I was born in Washington state in rural Ferndale, and at age nine my father joined the military and we moved extensively and internationally for the next twelve years. My former work in education extends from volunteer teaching work in Zambia to being an outdoor educator year-round at a non-profit Forest School near Seattle. I love walking in the woods, making pottery in my home studio, writing poetry, and dancing.

I am passionate about facilitating healing through relational-centered therapies to support the client’s growth and increase their capacity for deeper self-acceptance and meaningful connections. My understanding of health pulls from the streams of attachment work and depth-orientation psychology, with a commitment to be deeply rooted in the ethos of liberation and non-oppressive frameworks. I enjoy using a variety of therapeutic approaches, however, my passion is to emphasize de-pathologizing the person and lessening pain and suffering. I can tailor my approaches to the client’s goals and strengths in the hope that therapy serves them in recognition of their irreducible singularity and non-negotiable right to belong.
 

Depression/Anxiety 

Perinatal Mental Health 

Military Life 

PTSD 

Embodiment 

Grief/Loss 

Third Culture Experience 

Internal Family Systems Parts Work 

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Master's Counseling Psychology- Candidate: The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, Fall 2021 to present. 

Additional Classes Taken: Gender and Sexuality, Eroticism, Embodiment, Substance Abuse, Shame, Trauma-Informed Narrative Work. 

Be REAL Certification Spring 2024 

NW Children's Foundation 2024 Forum: Child Well-being and the New Science of Trauma 

UW Educator’s Diversity & Inclusion Intensive, 2019

Hello!  My name is Jessica McNeely, and I am an intern here at Balanced Living Therapy. I am finishing my Masters of Arts in Psychology & Counseling and Psychology at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology. 

I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona and made the move up to the Pacific Northwest about twelve years ago; the Southwest and Northwest both hold a special place in my heart. 

Aside from home life, I spend my time outdoors and writing music and poetry and will never pass up a chance to swim in the Sound. 

Therapy is such a deeply vulnerable experience, and I firmly believe that each person's life holds both beauty and pain that are brought into the therapeutic session. My approach to therapy involves making room for all of these lived experiences in order to understand your deepest workings together. I hold my clients with respect and understanding, acknowledging their stories and context and the shaping that has taken place within these stories. 

I hope to provide you with a soft place to land as we untangle life together. Wherever and however you find yourself, my goal is to provide a space where you are safely able to discover your own answers.

Religious Deconstruction

Depression

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorders

Individual Therapy

CPTSD

DBT Therapy

Master's Counseling Psychology- Candidate: The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, 2020 - present. 

Bachelor of Arts in English: Arizona State University, 2006.

Hi there, my name is Laura (she/her), and I’m a clinical intern here at Balanced Living Therapy. I’m completing my Master’s in Counseling Psychology at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, with additional coursework in trauma-focused care. My previous experience includes mental health peer support and volunteering in connecting LGBTQ+ youth with resources, community, and advocacy.  

I aim to bring a warm, accepting, nonjudgmental presence to explore the complexities of your inner world and lived context with compassion and curiosity. 

We’ll work to connect to the innate wisdom and strength that’s already within you, gently uncovering the strategies picked up along the way that may no longer serve you. Together, we’ll work to get to know the coping strategies that may have left you feeling stuck or lost in chaos, and grow the capacity for regulation, agency, and meaningful connections with self and others. 

My approach is trauma-informed and justice-oriented, and I welcome and honor your unique context, values, and beliefs. Our work together may integrate a variety of elements and approaches – including nervous system regulation, embodiment/mindfulness, and learning to work with emotions, thoughts, and sensations, rather than fighting against them. We’ll tailor the approach to best meet your needs and goals, whatever it is that you bring to therapy. 

Anxiety/Depression 

LGBTQ+ experiences

Neurodivergent experiences

Attachment/Family of Origin 

Parts Work/Internal Family Systems

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

MA Counseling Psychology - The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology (Graduating April 2025)

BSc Psychology - University of Victoria, Victoria BC (2020)

Adolescent Mental Health First Aid Certificate - Valley Cities Behavioral Health (2023)

Adult Mental Health First Aid Certificate - Valley Cities Behavioral Health (2023)

Trauma Focused Narrative Care Training - The Allender Center (2022) 

Hello, I’m Jia Day (he/him). I am a graduate student at Antioch University Seattle working to attain a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. Originally from California, you will usually find me outside trying to soak up every bit of sunshine I can find during my free time. I enjoy reading and engaging in creative projects. Throughout my educational journey, I have facilitated K-12 students in learning about social and emotional learning (SEL) concepts, led support groups for new parents, and engaged in one-on-one therapy with adult clients. 

Therapy can be many things: the healing of old wounds, a new beginning, or simply a place to be witnessed. Often, problems can arise for us when tools that we have grown to rely on are no longer able to meet life’s challenges. I see therapy as an opportunity to imagine new possibilities, for the way you relate to yourself and others. Inside of us are stories that silently guide us through life, as well as strengths that may have gone unseen. In our time together, my hope is that we will be able to look at these and appreciate them with compassionate eyes.

As a counselor, I take my cues from you so that we may work together on achieving your therapeutic goals. I prioritize building an open line of communication as a way to sustain trust and efficacy. In practice, I utilize a myriad of perspectives and interventions based on what is aligned with your goals and personality. I strongly believe in the healing power of creativity and laughter, so these will always be welcome in our sessions.

Depression/Anxiety

Self-esteem/Self-worth

LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Relationships

Childhood Neglect and Abandonment

Jungian Analysis/Dreamwork

Internal Family Systems Parts Work

Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Candidate, Antioch University Seattle (graduating September 2025)

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, California State University of Sacramento

Hello! My name is Angela Adkins, and I am a clinical intern at Balanced Living Therapy. I am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, with specialized training in trauma-informed therapy. My background includes volunteering in substance use and trauma recovery support, as well as working in youth education, where I helped elementary and middle-school students improve their literacy in math, writing, and reading.

A lifelong Washington resident, I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether on nature walks, among the trees, flowers, and birds, or near the ocean. I also have a deep love for animals, caring for my own pets and those of others. In my free time, I enjoy journaling and writing poetry.

Choosing to come to therapy is a brave step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and well-being. My approach is relational and person-centered, focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship and helping you tap into your inner resources for growth. I believe you are the expert on your life, and my role is to guide and support you.

As a trauma-informed narrative therapist, I recognize that past experiences may have shaped your coping strategies, which may no longer serve you. Together, we can work on processing these patterns and finding new ways forward. I also incorporate mindfulness and embodiment practices to help you stay present and attuned to how your body responds to emotions. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you feel free to share without judgment.

Depression/Anxiety

Grief/Loss

Religious/Spiritual Issues

PTSD/CPTSD

Trauma – Childhood abuse, family of origin issues and dynamics

Self Esteem/Self worth

Embodiment, Mindfulness, Somatic Symptoms

Person-centered therapy

Narrative therapy

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology - Candidate: The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology – Fall 2021 to present

Narrative Focused Trauma Care Level 1 Certificate, The Allender Center, April 2024 (100 hours of learning to work with survivors of abuse through trauma-focused narrative therapy)

Narrative Focused Trauma Care Level 2 Certificate – Candidate: The Allender Center (expected completion in April 2025)

Bachelor of Arts in History: Western Washington University, 2009