Lauren Pallay,

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

She/Her/Hers. I recognize that I hold the privileges of being a white, cis, heterosexual, neurotypical, average bodied, and non-disabled person, which impacts my experiences in this world. I practice on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish people and would like to express gratitude for the land and the people who have steward it throughout generations.

My Approach:

  • My style is often described as down-to-earth, open-minded, empathetic, and relational. I believe the relationship between therapist and client is the cornerstone of successful therapy. For therapy to be effective, it requires transparency from you, the client, and I believe you deserve the same openness from me.

  • I take a client-centered approach, trusting that you hold the inner wisdom and strength to create the changes you seek. My role is to help you tap into that wisdom and empower you to harness your own potential.

  • As a systems therapist, I view your challenges through a holistic lens, considering how various factors—such as biology, psychology, social systems, history, and spirituality—interact and influence your life. This expansive perspective allows us to uncover deeper insights and foster meaningful growth.

  • While there are times when simply listening, affirming, and holding space are essential, I also see myself as a seeker and reflective listener. I ask thoughtful questions and offer curiosity to help you explore your feelings and experiences, guiding you toward the progress you desire.

  • My goal is to advocate for healing, wholeness, and emotional freedom. I genuinely want you to feel good about yourself and to enjoy your life.

  • I also integrate creativity, somatic interventions, and humor into the therapeutic process, knowing these elements can enhance healing and growth.

  • Ethics are at the heart of my practice, and I am deeply committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in every session.

  • I believe that therapy doesn't end when the session does. Resources such as books, podcasts, and handouts can support your journey outside of therapy. I often provide these tools to help you "take therapy home" and continue your progress between sessions.

Theoretical Approaches:

  • As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in General Systems Theory, an integrative approach that examines how various aspects of your life—and the relationships between them—contribute to the challenges you're facing.

  • I draw primarily from techniques rooted in Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Grief Therapy to guide your healing journey.

  • With a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, I focus on recognizing and utilizing your unique skills and abilities to foster personal growth and healing.

  • Because therapy is an investment in your well-being and a collaborative process, I welcome feedback on the approaches and methods that resonate most with you. My goal is to continuously understand how I can best support you in making meaningful progress and achieving greater fulfillment in your life.

Credentials and Trainings:

  • Bachelor of Science in Human Development Emphasis in Counseling, Hope International University (2008)

  • Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, Seattle Pacific University (2016)

  • Licenses and Certifications

    • Washington State Department of Health, Marriage and Family Therapist License (LMFT) LF 60918330

    • Washington State Department of Health, Mental Health Professional (MHP)

    • Washington State Approved Supervisor

    • Grief Therapy

    • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

    • EMDR Level 1

    • Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator

    • Gottman Method Level 1 Trained

  • Additional Training Areas

    • Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

    • Yoga and Mindfulness

    • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    • Body Image

    • Suicide Prevention

Professional Memberships

  • American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Fellow

  • Washington Mental Health Counselors Association

Additional Experience:

  • I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families from a wide range of socioeconomic, cultural, and religious backgrounds.

  • I am well-versed in symptom management across a variety of issues and have specialized expertise in crisis intervention.

  • My professional background includes private practice, working with low-income inner-city youth, and providing therapy within a Native American community.

  • Before becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I volunteered in seven different countries and with the foster care system, which deepened my understanding of diverse experiences and perspectives.

A little about me:

I am deeply grateful to have been born and raised in the Pacific Northwest! I became a therapist because therapy has been a transformative, life-changing tool in my own journey, and I wanted to help others experience that same growth. I’m an INFJ, an HSP, and a feminist through and through.

In my free time, you’ll often find me outdoors with my family, reading, creating, or lifting weights. I always have a podcast on and, yes, I’ll admit—I'm a fan of garbage television.