Dorothy Hanson Verified

Education and Experience
Washington State Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Certified in Nutrition and Mental Health

Master of Arts in Psychology Chapman University: Emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling
Bachelors Degree in Psychology Saint Martin’s University
26 Years of Experience provided mental health services.
Certificate in Internal Family Systems Therapy
Certificates in Perinatal Mental Health
Certified Nutritional Health Coach from Institute of Integrative Nutrition
Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from Cornell University

I have the education, extensive training, 26 years as a therapist, and many years of life experiences that I bring into my practice. However, the real teachers are my clients I am fascinated by the resilience, strength, and hope that people have despite not having an easy path in life. We all need a safe space to share our emotions, history and challenges – sometimes for the first time – without feeling judgment.

I believe a connection between the therapist and client is where the healing takes place. Therapy is serious business, and it also requires us to be human beings! Our sessions will include laughter, tears, inspired hope, and committed action towards where you want to go.

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My approach is strength-based and sometimes it takes someone outside of yourself to recognize your strengths. The issues you’re dealing with make sense. They started somewhere at some point in your life. You’ve taken on self-beliefs that don’t belong to you. We can work together to unload those self-beliefs and bring you closer to being your true self.

People are often hesitant to see a therapist, afraid of the stigma that there is something wrong with them. Guess what? None of us have our stuff together! Yes, we all have our own struggles and some people just hide it better than others. Perhaps your life looks ideal on the outside, but you’re still left feeling unsatisfied or feel like a fraud. Or maybe everything seems to be falling apart.

Seeing a therapist does not mean you are weak or flawed. Everyone needs support from a nonjudgmental, straightforward and kind professional at some point in their lives. Even therapists need a therapist!