Lindsay Rainford, LMHC

Lindsay Rainford

Lindsay Rainford’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

Therapy can be defined as “the treatment of disease or disorders, as by some remedial, rehabilitating, or curative process; any act, hobby, task, program, etc., that relieves tension.” I am here to help you do just that.

Making the decision to attend therapy can be an intimidating and anxious process for some, while others can jump into services without hesitation. No matter the method, you are making an active decision to better your quality of life. It takes courage to ask for help, especially in today’s society, and I applaud you for your efforts. Psychotherapy, or talk-therapy, can be difficult, exhausting, and painful at times, but you no longer have to endure that path alone.

My therapy approach can be identified as a blending of Psychodynamic theory, Attachment theory, and Emotion Focused Therapy. I believe that childhood family dynamics, traumatic experiences, dramatic life changes, and the methods you learned to manage emotions play a key role in personal development and life choices. When working with clients I utilize specific skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing to combat self-destructive behaviors. My goal is to help you uncover these patterns and learn healthier ways to express your emotions, adapt more effectively with change, and encourage your true self to emerge.

I received my Master of Arts in Psychological Science from Pacific University. I am currently registered with Washington State as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I am particularly interested in eating disorders, addiction studies, and the physiological effects of trauma.

In my free time I enjoy playing soccer, creating artwork, gardening, snowboarding, and spending quality time with loved ones. I grew up in the lush and natural Northwest, although I prefer hot and humid climates. Hiking, backpacking, and walks in nature are my favorite activities to help me relax and stay grounded.

Specialties and areas of focus

  • Adult individuals
  • Eating disorders
  • Grief/loss
  • Trauma
  • Exposure therapy
  • Life transitions
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive behaviors/Compulsions
  • Addictions
  • Relationship issues
  • Communication patterns
  • Attachment Obstacles

Q&A with Lindsay

1.) Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?

I find myself trying to uncover deeper issues and patterns when I work with my clients. I see the immediate problems as a gateway.

2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?

I let the client lead a lot of the time. I will intervene and present skills when I feel it’s appropriate, at some point within  their session.

3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?

I have a gentle demeanor, and a non-threatening approach. I focus my efforts on the therapeutic relationship first, and I’ve learned that this leads to more open and honest discussions from the client as we progress through therapy sessions.

4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?

I would have the ability to speak every language on the planet. Then, speech would not be a barrier to communicate and understand others.

5.) What makes you laugh?

Comedians (Mike Myers, Chris Farley, Melissa McCarthy), bloopers (movies, television shows), ridiculous movies (Napoleon Dynamite, Finding Nemo, Bridesmaids, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Elf, Austin Powers), conversations with friends, and the simplicity of life. The list could go on…

6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?

Princess Diana, for personal reasons. She was a public icon of health, intelligence, and poise; yet she suffered internally with her own demons and perceived expectations.