Click here to contact our client care coordinator about working with Philena!
Specialties Include:
-LGBTQIA2+
-Trans and Non-Binary Affirming
-Neurodivergency (Autism, ADHD, etc)
-Body Positive (HAES Affirming)
-Parenting Concerns
-Trauma & Complex Trauma
-Internalized Oppression
-Disrupting Internalized Oppression
-Severe Mental Health Struggles
-Suicidal Ideation and Crisis
-Religious Trauma/Deconstruction/Purity Culture
-Anxiety & Depression (including Bipolar)
-Fawning/People Pleasing/Boundaries
-Sexual Assault Recovery
​ -Grief & Loss
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In Person in Auburn & Telehealth
Philena is in-network with Premera, Cigna, Regence, First Choice, Kaiser, LifeWise, Anthem and some other Blue Cross plans. Please be aware that Protea Wellness cannot accept insurance for couple's therapy..
Philena's fees:
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50-minute session for individuals: $175
Philena Herfindahl
LMHCA
Pronouns: she/her
Sometimes we can find ourselves just surviving- moving through our daily tasks and engaging with others while on autopilot. Much like zoning out while driving, coming to and wondering where the last ten miles or thirty minutes went, we can “come to" and find ourselves behaving toward ourselves and others in automatic, disconnected, and even reactive ways. Our internal distress and wounds and our external conflicts point us to deeper needs of support and connectedness. My desire is to join with you as you navigate your connection with yourself and others, in ways that honor your authenticity.
My approach...
We all want and need to feel seen and heard. Life events and traumas from pre-birth on imprint in our minds and bodies and effect us throughout our life as we relate to ourselves and others. Early, formative childhood experiences can set up patterns of relating that we carry forward into our adult lives. Some of these patterns can be a hindrance and some even harm us. I hope to provide a space to be seen and heard without judgement.
I anticipate a few questions: “what are we doing here?”, “how long will this take?”, "is this even worth it?", and "when will I stop hurting?" I feel a tenderness for these questions, and I have asked them myself.
What we are all asking is “Am I ok... am I worthy and loved and acceptable?" Therapy may be one of the first places some folx experience a receptive and safe environment. We will, together, practice listening to what is coming up in your body through feelings and sensations. There may be spaces I am invited to enter with you that are confusing, dark, lonely, bizarre, messy, and vulnerable.
I strive to create a nurturing environment of support and compassion while helping you develop internal hospitality; offering yourself the love and acceptance we all long for. Together, we can witness and validate what has been unseen and unheard, connecting you with your inner felt experience and centering your truth. This new awareness can help you discover your voice and feel the firmness of your deep inner knowing.
Through working together, you will learn and practice helpful coping skills and ways of being that support your goals and vision for your life. Ultimately, I am humbled and honored to be invited to join you on this sacred journey.
Professional training & memberships...
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (MC#61579816) in Washington State. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology, and a BA in Psychology from Seattle Pacific University. I am a member of the Washington Mental Health Counselors Association (WMHCA).