About Us
Dr. Torrie Gilden, LMHC, SUDP, MHP
Qualifications
In 2011, I graduated from Central Washington University with my bachelor of arts in psychology. I received my master of science degree from Eastern Washington University in applied psychology: emphasis in mental health counseling in 2013. I received my doctorate in counselor education and supervision with an emphasis in consultation in 2019 from Walden University.
I currently hold a license in mental health counseling (Credential #LH60551019) and a certification as a substance use disorder professional (Credential #CP60461357). I am also a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors.
I have worked in the field of counseling for 11 years. I have experience with a wide variety of ages from ages four to later adulthood, although I specialize with teens and adults. I also have experience working with both mental health and addiction. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am currently a full-time faculty member in the masters in clinical mental health counseling program and addiction counseling emphasis at Colorado Christian University. I am currently an approved supervisor in the mental health and addiction fields in Washington in accordance with WAC 246-809-234.
Therapeutic Orientation
I operate from an integrated theoretical orientation with a foundation in person-centered therapy. As a therapist, I am always person-centered in my demonstration of empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard. I believe that no one approach works for everyone. Thus, I integrate various theories into my person centered approach based on the presenting issues of each client. Theories I often integrate, include: cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), existential theory, Adlerian theory, reality therapy, feminist theory, and gestalt techniques. I am also competent in play therapy, sand tray therapy, moral reconation therapy (MRT), and Love and Logic parenting strategies.
*NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS
Hannah Mielke, MA, LMHCA
Qualifications
My name is Hannah Mielke. I hold a Master of Arts degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwest University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Washington State University. I currently have a mental health counselor associate license (Credential # MC61282831).
Helping others heal and resolve trauma is one of my highest callings. I believe that counseling is sacred work, and while relationships can be a source of pain, they are also a powerful force for resiliency. Through the therapeutic relationship, I enjoy coming alongside clients in their journey by providing a safe and compassionate space for exploration. My experience includes work with various assistance-based organizations. I have been honored to work in both educational and youth ministry settings. During my graduate studies, I served as a therapist in a university campus where I gained experience working with a variety of mental health issues.
Therapeutic Orientation
In my practice, I hold an intentionally eclectic approach to counseling. This means that I draw upon a variety of theoretical orientations and techniques to best meet the individual needs of my clients. At the foundation of my work is a person-centered approach, with emphasis on unconditional positive regard and empathetic listening. My work is often informed by internal family systems therapy (IFS), inner child work, narrative therapy, gestalt techniques, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Additionally, I have been trained as a Level 1 Lifespan Integration therapist and SYMBIS facilitator for pre-marital counseling. As part of my holistic approach to counseling, I also offer faith-based services.
Abigail Shepherd, PhD, Licensed Psychologist
** Telehealth Appointments Only
Qualifications
My name is Abigail Shepherd. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Washington. As a professional, I am bound to follow the American Psychological Association (APA’s) ethical standards and the codes of conduct while providing you with the best care. My work as a Psychologist is collaborative and I work closely with my patients to support them in identifying goals for treatment. I intentionally work to provide whole person care, with attention to physical, emotional, spiritual health and well-being. (License #PY61001510)
Therapeutic Approach
Sessions generally focus on health, wellness, and quality of life issues. These issues can include emotional distress, relationship problems, problematic behaviors and behavioral changes, chronic illness management, life changes and transitions, grief and loss issues, peri- and postpartum depression and complications, difficulties in functioning, stress management, as well as traditional mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Therapeutic services vary and include the following therapeutic orientations: client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, EMDR, and, trauma- and attachment-focused interventions. If it is found to be in your best interest, I may recommend a referral for more intensive mental health services or specialized care.
Samantha Nau, MSW, LSWAIC
Qualifications
My name is Samantha Nau. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio in May of 2021. I currently hold an associate license in social work (Credential #SC 61183160) and working towards full licensure. I have experience in the field of counseling for the last 4 years. I have worked with a wide range of ages from ages five to later adulthood. While in school I had experience as an intern at a local non-profit behavioral health agency providing outpatient therapy to children and families. Most of my career has been with children and their families addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, and parenting skills.The last two years I worked as a school based mental health therapist in a rural town in northern Washington.
Therapeutic Approach
I draw from a variety of theoretical orientations with a foundation in person-centered approach, demonstrating empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard. I believe that each client is an individual with different needs and various theories are utilized to address these needs. I often utilize theories such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems theory, motivational interviewing, ACT(Acceptance Commitment Therapy), and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). I also work with components of play therapy, sand tray therapy, PCIT(Parent Child Interactive Therapy), and Love and Logic parenting skills when working with children and their families. I am certified in CBT+ to address trauma, depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems as well as a certified Grief Professional.
Heart Spring Counseling Services partners with Blessed in the Storm to offer Life Coaching sessions (both individual and group) to a range of individuals who may not be ready to commit to counseling or who may not need the intense level of support and work that counseling requires. Wondering if life coaching may be a good fit for you? Here are some examples of individuals who may benefit from life coaching:
Individuals wanting to reach that next level in life (i.e. feeling stuck and wanting to explore life purpose and goals).
Individuals wanting to explore spiritual connection or growth.
Individuals seeking understanding and awareness of emotional vulnerability in a safe environment.
Individuals seeking support, guidance, and encouragement through a life transition or in overcoming a personal battle.
Do any of these sound like you? If so, see Tony’s Bio below and click on his website like to schedule an appointment to get started!
Not ready for counseling quite yet? Unsure if you need this level of support?
LIFE COACHING
Hello. My name is Testimony Tony. I started Blessed in the Storm initially because I was personally going through a season of “storming” and God was showing me how to see the blessing in it. Blessed in the Storm became my daily reminder. As I was walking through that time, I began to see others going through similar things. I think it's pretty evident how dark, grim, and divided the world is these days. So I want to do what's in my power to BE THE CHANGE! I want to use the little privilege I do have to bring things like hope, joy, comfort, inspiration-things the world hasn't been able to feel much of lately. I especially hope to help and support those who often get left behind or lost. People such as our youth, recovering addicts, or those grieving loss. Creativity and art is part of who I am. Spoken and written word is a life vocation for me!
Tony offers individual and group life coaching sessions that promote spiritual and personal growth. He is certified in Life Purpose, Goal Setting, and Happiness Life Coaching. Tony is passionate about helping his clients move from functioning to thriving by assisting them in discovering hope, happiness, and purpose in their life.
If you are interested in Life Coaching, click on the link below to get scheduled with Tony: