Maggie Gigi Ishaq, LMHC, SUDP, Clinical Supervisor
My Background
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 concentration in substance use counseling, both from Seattle Pacific University.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and have extensive experience treating PTSD, depression, eating disorders, and grief. I specialize in working with first responders and their families, offering culturally competent, trauma-informed care that addresses the unique stressors of high-stakes professions and the impact on relationships and family systems.
My Approach to Therapy
My approach to therapy is person-centered, collaborative, and responsive to your individual needs. Together, we will work to create meaningful change by identifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs, increasing emotional regulation, and building resilience.
I integrate a variety of evidence-based modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for individuals and couples, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR for trauma and PTSD.
For first responders and their loved ones, I provide targeted support for cumulative stress, burnout, moral injury, and critical incident trauma. I’m committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where your story is honored and your goals are prioritized.
Specialties and Areas of Interest
- First Responder & Family Therapy
- Trauma & PTSD (including EMDR)
- Grief & Loss
- Self-Esteem & Identity Work
- Eating Disorders
- Attachment & Relational Challenges
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Substance Use Counseling
- Marriage/Couples and Individual Therapy
Education
- Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy – Seattle Pacific University
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Professional Studies) – Seattle Pacific University
- Associate of Technical Arts in Alcohol and Chemical Dependency Counseling – Edmonds College
- Research Therapist – Behavioral Research & Therapy Clinics (BRTC), University of Washington and Seattle Children’s Hospital
Licensure and Training:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) – WA Credential # LH60200522
- Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) – WA Credential # CP00005296
- Certified Clinical Supervisor – WA DOH
- Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC) – Cultural Competency First Responder Program
- EMDR Trained Clinician
Jesse Dunn, LMHC, Clinical Director, Agency Supervisor
My Background
My name is Jesse Dunn. I am the clinical director and one of the agency 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.
My Approach to Therapy
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.
Specialties
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
Education & Training
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
Licensure & Registration:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, License # LH61165341
State of Washington
Certified Clinical Supervisor, DOH, WA
Agency Clinical Director
Stacy Gardea, SUDP, AAC-pending
My Background
Hi, I’m Stacy Gardea (she/her), and I’m a Registered Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) here at Balanced Living Therapy. I’ve spent over 12 years walking alongside individuals navigating substance use and co-occurring challenges. I bring a steady, compassionate presence and a deep respect for the resilience each person carries with them.
Over the years, I’ve supported clients in a range of treatment settings. At Balanced Living Therapy, I provide both substance use and mental health counseling under the supervision of a licensed mental health counselor, in accordance with agency policy.
I’m a Pacific Northwest local who enjoys time outdoors and staying grounded through hands-on, creative activities. Outside of the therapy room, you’ll often find me fly fishing, tending to my garden, sewing, or cooking for family and friends.
My Approach to Therapy
I believe therapy is a warm and safe space where you can reconnect with your inner guidance, explore what’s holding you back, and move toward healing and meaningful change. I see the process of growth as a winding path—sometimes difficult, often beautiful, and always unique to you.
My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based. I integrate practices like breathwork, mindfulness, and solution-focused tools to support emotional regulation, insight, and resilience. I strive to create a therapeutic space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to explore your experiences with curiosity and self-compassion.
While my primary focus is in substance use treatment, I also support individuals navigating a variety of mental health concerns. I draw on years of clinical experience and ongoing training to offer thoughtful, compassionate care tailored to each person’s needs. I’m committed to providing high-quality, ethical therapy that honors your unique story and goals.
Areas of Interest
Substance Use and Addictions
Gambling Addiction
Trauma and PTSD
Grief and Loss
ADHD
Depression and Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Meditation and Breathwork
Education & Training
Associate of Arts in Alcohol and Chemical Dependency Counseling – Edmonds College (2014)
Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) – WA DOH Registration # CP60831867
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – Northern Arizona University
Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) – Pending
Kristi Lyn Reddy, MACP Intern, Seattle School Theology & Psy
My Background
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
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.
Areas of Interest
Individual Therapy
Self-Awareness, Inner Voice, Personal Accountability
Depression/Anxiety
Religious/Spiritual Issues
Depth Work
Trauma – Childhood abuse, Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence
Education & Training
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
Matthew Meyers, CMHC Candidate, Antioch University
My Background
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.
My Approach to 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.
Areas of Interest
Depression
Anxiety
Self-esteem and self-worth
Childhood neglect, abandonment, and other family of origin issues
Finding meaning, purpose, and direction
Education & Training
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
Jia Day, CMHC Intern Antioch University
My Background
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.
My Approach to Therapy
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.
Areas of Interest
Depression/Anxiety
Self-esteem/Self-worth
LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Relationships
Childhood Neglect and Abandonment
Jungian Analysis/Dreamwork
Internal Family Systems Parts Work
Education & Training
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
Angela Adkins, MACP Intern, Seattle School Theolology & Psyc
My Background
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.
My Approach to Therapy
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.
Areas of Interest
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
Education & Training
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
Nicholas Freelove, MFT Intern Antioch University
My Background
Hello! I am Nicholas, a student intern of marriage and family therapy at Antioch University Seattle, currently in the final year of my master’s degree. I chose to become a relationship therapist because I believe our relationships are always impacting our lives, and if we can attend well to ourselves and our relationships, we can access a more fulfilling life. As a sensitive and neurodivergent I feel I attend well to subtleties in connection and center healing, joy, and authenticity in my practice. I am a poet, a partner, a stepfather, an open-minded spiritualist, and appreciator of life in all its terrible beauties.
My Approach to Therapy
“Healing is a lifelong journey towards wholeness” – Jean Archterberg
Therapy can be tough! Simply getting through the door requires courage to peer deeper inside and connect with our pain and suffering. My view of healing work is gentle – that we are always peeling back another layer of ourselves, further defining who we are, what we need, and what we most long to step into or address, and each of these indicates an important value for us. Healing also looks different to everyone. All my approaches appreciate both the practical and the emotional. Relationally I believe it is important to address pockets of confusion, ambivalence, power and control, trauma, and encourage an interdependence that all parties can accept with a full heart. I aim to provide educational materials, relational tools, define safety within the relationship, and stabilize and normalize the tension that springs from growth.
Areas of Interest
Spiritual/Religious Exploration
Authenticity and Depression
Emotion-Focused Therapy
Neurodivergence
Identity Exploration
Relationship Tension
Internal Family Systems
Structural Family Therapy
Education & Training
MA-Couples and Family Therapy -Candidate: Antioch University (Graduating December 2025)
Currently Held Degrees:
Bachelor of Arts: Psychology and Counseling, Antioch University
Certificate of Medical Coding and Insurance Billing, Edmonds Community College
Associate of Arts, Edmonds Community College
Claire Popke, MA-CMHC intern Northwestern University
My Background
Hi! My name is Claire Popke, and I am a graduate student at Northwestern University, working towards a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. Through changes in careers, I always found a common thread of meaning in helping others and connecting with people on a deeply human level. I was born in Seattle and have lived all around the Pacific Northwest. I love traveling, good food, gardening, and being out on the water. I especially love animals and hope to someday integrate them into my therapeutic practice.
My Approach to Therapy
As a therapist, I believe that the most important factor in creating lasting change is a strong, trusting relationship between us. I work to build a compassionate, collaborative partnership where we can focus on your unique goals and work through challenges together. I also value exploring your past, especially childhood experiences, to better understand how they’ve shaped your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions today. This kind of reflection can help identify patterns that may be affecting your well-being, leading to growth and healing.
While our primary focus will be on your emotional and mental health, I also recognize the importance of a balanced, holistic approach. We’ll look at how things like your daily routines and self-care habits can support your overall well-being, helping you create lasting change that nurtures both your mind and spirit.
Ultimately, my goal is to help you create a life that aligns with your values and brings you more emotional resilience, self-awareness, and peace.
Areas of Interest
Depression/Anxiety
Mindfulness
Holistic, mind-body connection
Self-esteem/ self-worth
Attachment/family of origin issues
Dreamwork
Person-centered therapy
Education & Training
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Candidate: Northwestern University (2024-present)
Bachelor of Science in Biology: Washington State University (2018)
Courtney Chaney, MA-CMHC Intern, Antioch University
My Background
Hi! I’m Courtney (she/they). I’m a graduate student currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health and Art Therapy degree at Antioch University in Seattle. Previously, I have worked in early childhood education and childcare, volunteered at a LGBTQ+ youth center, and offered one-on-one counseling with adults at Antioch’s clinic. I also have specific training in somatic therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. As a neurodivergent person, I strive to center authenticity, feeling seen and deeply understood in my practice. Born and raised in the PNW, I enjoy spending time in nature, dancing, and relaxing at home with my two cats.
My Approach to Therapy
My approach is humanistic and relational because I believe you are the expert of your own life, and meaningful connection is foundational to therapeutic change. I aim to build a collaborative and compassionate relationship that fosters safety, supports your goals, meets you where you are, and moves at your pace—because building trust is a process that takes time.
In therapy, I draw from a variety of tools, including art therapy, somatic practices, and mindfulness techniques. I strive to integrate interventions that align with your unique needs and goals. I often expand beyond traditional talk therapy by incorporating creative and body-oriented approaches, which can be especially helpful if talk therapy feels limiting. Art therapy, for example, offers a non-verbal, creative outlet for expressing thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to put into words. If it interests you, I may invite you to engage in artmaking—but it is always optional.
My work is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and grounded in feminist theory. I believe that our present experiences, thoughts, and behaviors are shaped by our past and the context of our lives. With care and curiosity, I may invite you to explore your family of origin and reflect on your identities. I value a holistic approach to therapy and believe our well-being is deeply connected to all aspects of life. As such, we may also explore overall wellness and self-care across different areas of your daily experience.
Areas of Interest
Identity Exploration
Self-Esteem & Self-Worth
Emotional Regulation
Anxiety & Depression
Neurodivergence
Highly Sensitive People
LGBTQIA+ Individuals
Art Therapy & Creativity
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
Education & Training
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy Candidate: Antioch University Seattle (Graduating Spring 2026)
Bachelor of Fine Arts: University of Victoria, Victoria B.C.
Certification in Somatic Psychotherapy and Practices: Antioch University, Santa Barbara
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Training: Mindfulness Northwest, Seattle, WA