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    Contact Me.

    Phone Number

    Phone Number

    Phone Number

    (253) 985-9459

    Email

    Phone Number

    Phone Number

    christel@empoweringwellnesscounseling.com

    Location

    Phone Number

    Location

    Online

    My Approach to Therapy

    Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

    Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based approach rooted in attachment science that helps people understand and reshape their emotional responses, leading to stronger and healthier relationships. EFT prioritizes emotion as the key organizer of inner experiences. It is based on the premise that emotions are connected to our needs and can guide us in managing our relationships and interactions. 


    For couples, EFT helps to break the cycle of negative interactions and rebuild the bond between partners. It focuses on creating and strengthening connection by fostering an environment of emotional safety. I work with couples to help them understand their emotional responses and how these responses impact their relationship. By doing so, couples can learn to communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts in a healthier way, and build a stronger, more secure bond.


    For individuals, EFT can help to identify, experience, and manage emotions in a way that promotes personal growth and improves relationships. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and other emotional disturbances. By focusing on emotional awareness and expression, individuals can learn to better understand their feelings, respond to emotional situations in a healthier way, and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. 


    Whether you are seeking therapy as an individual or a couple, I am here to support you on your journey of growth, emotional health, and relationship satisfaction. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment. I look forward to working with you. 

    Neurodiversity Affirming

    I operate from a neurodiverse (ND) affirming position with all clients. I view ND as a type of brain and nervous system that has many benefits. There may also exist challenges resulting from navigating a neurotypical-centric world. I work with ND clients in a way that avoids ableism, and pathologizing neurodivergence.  


    My goal when working with ND people is to embrace how they view and experience the world, not change who they are or apply limiting labels. Our world has always had ND people. They exist in all of our families and will continue to exist. Many of the technology we depend on was invented and developed by ND minds. I aim to empower ND people through acceptance and support to thrive. 

    Hello! My name is Christel Wilder.

      

    Hello, my name is Christel Wilder, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I grew up in Texas but have lived in Germany and Hawaii. I did my undergraduate work at Texas Tech University, (2004). I then served as an Army Officer from 2004-2008. I spent one year in Taji, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. My best job was being a stay-at-home mom to my two children. I completed my master's degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Capella University, (2019). 


    My journey to become a therapist was inspired by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of understanding and managing our emotions. I am passionate about helping my clients get familiar with the vague, intangible parts of their inner world. 


    I prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions and learn new ways to manage and express them. I am continuously updating my knowledge and skills through professional development training, and supervision. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures that I can provide my clients with the most effective and up-to-date therapeutic interventions.


    Outside of my professional life, I enjoy camping, hiking, gardening, concerts, sleeping, and spending time with my family.  I believe that maintaining a balanced life is essential for mental health and well-being, and I strive to bring this perspective into my therapeutic practice.

    TREATMENT FOCUS

    Depression

    Anxiety

    Trauma / PTSD

    Relationship Conflict

    Cultural Identity

    Military / Veteran community

    Religious Trauma / Deconstructing Religion

    Therapy Services

    Individual Therapy

    $230 / 55 minute session


    Couples' Therapy / Family Therapy

    $250 / 55 minute session

    $375/ 95 minute session

    Education and Training

    BA Political Science- 2004, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX

    MS Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy-2019 Capella University, Minneapolis, MN.

    EFT Externship-2020, Dallas. Trained by Drs. Rebecca Jorgunson, Ryan Rana, & James Hawkins.

    EFT Core Skills-2022, San Diego. Trained by Dr. Scott Wooley

    AutPlay Therapy Training-2023

    Washington MFT License: LF61229646

    Professional Member AAMFT

    Member of ICEEFT

    In-Progress-EFT Certification

    What you Need to know

    Fully virtual sessions

    My practice is fully virtual through Telehealth. Telehealth is a secure platform. If using a mobile device, you will need to download an app before our first session.  




    Payment

    Empowering Wellness Counseling will not bill your insurance.  I do offer reduced fees on a limited  basis. 


    I do provide superbills. Some insurers will reimburse a portion of your treatment using a superbill.  Reach out to your insurer first to determine whether they will reimburse any of your treatment. You may also use your HSA for therapy. 

    Confidentiality

    Confidentiality

    Under Washington state law and guiding professional ethics, therapists are required to maintain confidentiality. That means your treatment is private and will never be shared with anyone without written authorization from you. Your privacy is of utmost importance.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    Please reach out to Christel@empoweringwellnesscounseling.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

    Empowering Wellness Counseling does not accept insurance. I can offer a super bill that you may submit to your insurer for reimbursement. You may also use your HSA. Contact your insurer to verify reimbursement. 


    I do not prescribe medication as a marriage and family therapist.  Psychotropic medications are prescribed by psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. I am knowledgeable on medications, but I cannot tell another provider what to prescribe. I frequently communicate with med providers on request, to provide more comprehensive care for the client.  


    Therapy is a setting to learn coping skills, improve communication, learn how to regulate your emotions, learn how to manage conflict in your relationships, overcome trauma, and develop your own personal resilience.  


    It is normal to be apprehensive to start therapy.  Talking about our private problems with a stranger doesn't come easy to most of us.  It is not unusual for couples to start out this way.  However, what you put into therapy is what you get out of it.  


    The average therapy session is approximately 55 minutes. Each session will wrap up with a short review and scheduling for the next session. On occasion a client or couple may be seen for a longer session, around 95 minutes. Longer sessions will be negotiated between the client and the therapist ahead of time.  


    Clients with more severe or complex symptoms will be advised to attend therapy with higher frequency. Frequency will be determined after the first visit. 


    Prior to your first visit you will receive a link to a Tele-Health session. If you are using a mobile device, you will need to download the Tele-Health app. For each appointment you will receive the link to your session the evening before your scheduled session.  


    My number one goal is that clients receive the help they need. If you and I are not compatible I will be happy to find another therapist to help you on your journey. The most important factor in determining client outcomes is the therapist/client relationship.  If you don't like your therapist, then therapy will not be very effective.  Please make sure you feel comfortable, safe, and respected when choosing your therapist.  


    Recommended Reading

    The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

    A New Earth: Awakening Your Life’s Purpose by Eckhart Tolle

    Fairplay by Eve Rodsky

    CPTSD From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker

    Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay Gibson 

    Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson

    Love Sense by Dr. Sue Johnson

    My Grandmother's Hands by Resma Menakem

    Unmasking Autism by Devon Price

    Book An Appointment Online.

    Please contact me here if you are interested in scheduling or setting up a free 15 minute consultation.

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    Empowering Wellness Counseling, LLC

    christel@empoweringwellnesscounseling.com

    253-985-9459

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