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 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
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!
Specialties and Areas of Interest
EMDR
PTSD
Grief & Loss
Self Esteem
Eating Disorders
Attachment Disorders
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Substance Use Counseling
Marriage/Couples and Individual Therapy
Education and Training
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
Licensure and Registration:
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
Jesse Dunn, LMHC, Clinical Supervisor, Agency Director
My Background
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.
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 Director
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
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
Abigail Nelson, MACP Intern, Seattle School Theology & Psych
My Background
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.
My Approach to Therapy
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.
Areas of Interest
Depression/Anxiety
Perinatal Mental Health
Military Life
PTSD
Embodiment
Grief/Loss
Third Culture Experience
Internal Family Systems Parts Work
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Education & Training
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
Jessica McNeely, MACP Intern, Seattle School Theology & Psyc
My Background
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.
My Approach to Therapy
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.
Areas of Interest
Religious Deconstruction
Depression
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorders
Individual Therapy
CPTSD
DBT Therapy
Education & Training
Master's Counseling Psychology- Candidate: The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, 2020 - present.
Bachelor of Arts in English: Arizona State University, 2006.
Laura Tkacsik, MACP Intern, Seattle School Theolology & Psyc
My Background
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.
My Approach to Therapy
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.
Areas of Interest
Anxiety/Depression
LGBTQ+ experiences
Neurodivergent experiences
Attachment/Family of Origin
Parts Work/Internal Family Systems
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy
Education & Training
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)
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