Houston McMahan, MA, LMHCA

My Work

My therapeutic work is grounded in a trauma based relational approach, meaning that I believe harm, growth, and change stem from being in relationship with one another. Though I primarily operate from a relational psychodynamic approach, my therapeutic approach remains fluid and incorporates pieces from many therapeutic models. In treatment we will look at the individuals you have had close relationships with, and together unpack the many ways in which those relationships have impacted how you view yourself, others, and the world around you. We will explore the constant interplay of conscious and unconscious processes as they dance between us in each session. My work is long term focused, helping you find healing tools for every day life while also digging deeper to uncover the root of your pain. My hope is that you will become increasingly curious about and gentle with your past and the way it influences the present, and that this curiosity will extend to all aspects of the self, as well. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing.

My Belief

It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship should be rooted in collaboration, honesty, and curiosity. This relationship requires an investment from both client and therapist as together we work toward a common goal of healing. I believe it is important to not only listen to what is being said in each session, but to also pay attention to what is left unsaid. As humans, we enter each space bringing our mind, body, and spirit, and I believe it is necessary to welcome and tend to each of these categories with deep care. I desire to join you in a process that can at times be messy and difficult with hope that through relationship (to self, other, nature, spirituality, etc.) you may find healing and rest.

My Background

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington State (MC61164550), and hold a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Seattle University. I have 8+ years of experience working in social services and providing therapeutic resources for those in need. My clinical internship was completed at Greenlake Wellness Group, where I offered one-on-one therapy for primarily adult women on topics such as addiction, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, queer issues, women’s issues, and spirituality. Prior to starting my private practice, I spent 5 years providing therapeutic services for homeless young adults experiencing mental health crises. These services included crisis de-escalation, short term therapeutic interventions, housing stabilization, and providing resources for long term therapeutic care. I continually seek further education and trainings to strengthen my therapeutic understanding and skills, so that I may provide the highest levels of care for my clients.

My Self

In my time outside of the office, I am often playing with clay at the pottery studio, drinking iced coffee, snuggling my dog, planning a trip and/or caring for my 50+ houseplants. Through taking care of animals and plants, I am reminded of the nurturing and care I also deserve, and continue to learn how to be kind, attentive, playful, and gentle with myself

Contact

Please use the contact form below to learn about Houston’s availability.