Heather Martin Helman, LMHC

Heather Martin Helman’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

I know that choosing to make a change is not a decision that comes easily, especially when it involves asking for help. As humans we are built for connection and it is through our connections, our relationships, that we find meaning and growth. Reaching out and beginning therapy is not easy for everyone and if it is something you are struggling with, know that you are not alone. Taking the first step can be difficult and I hope to help make that easier.

What brings you to therapy could be many struggles, or maybe just being in one difficult place. No matter what the reason, there is hope and it can get better. Building on your strengths, reconnecting with yourself, and finding supports outside of yourself can make reaching your goals more attainable. This all begins by first building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. I hope to help you explore the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that have shaped you – to help you realize your own greatness and to overcome whatever barriers may seem to hold you back. Whether your struggles are from past trauma, current life stressors, relationship difficulties, or ongoing anxiety or depression, I am here and I want to hear your story and support you as you find growth.

My therapeutic approach is influenced by relational-cultural theory as well as by trainings in rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana State University and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our daughter, usually finding fun local activities or just relaxing around the house with our two cats and two dogs. I also love visiting with my parents, doing crafts with my mom, and just catching up and talking with family.

Specialties and areas of focus

Depression
Anxiety
Substance Use
Self-Esteem
Life Transitions
Adoption/Adoptee Trauma
Parenting Concerns
Relationship Issues
Women
Couples

Q&A with Heather

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

I believe a big part of connecting and feeling comfort in therapy happens while being in the moment. In saying this, I also recognize that in order to resolve unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and repeating patterns we also need to dig into what brought us to this moment. I think it requires a little of both and I am comfortable beginning with the immediate needs or jumping into the deeper cause.

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

I like to allow the client to lead the session, especially initially. I want them to feel comfortable to bring up whatever is on their mind. I like to reflect and introduce ideas, skills, and resources as they fit. I understand that some individuals prefer to be more directed and if able to communicate this desire, I feel that is their way of leading their growth.

3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?

Engaging with a client and building a strong therapeutic relationship is key to ongoing comfort and success in therapy. I am compassionate and open-minded. I want to help people find their strengths and overcome their barriers.

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

Picking just one superpower is tough, but I think I would want the power to heal. When my loved ones are sad or unwell, how awesome would it be to just fix that for them!

5.) What makes you laugh?

I laugh so much, it’s the best medicine, right? I laugh at my daughter, who has the best ideas and comebacks I have ever experienced from someone so young. I also laugh at jokes about parenting and the loving, common struggles we all face. I love to watch the same TV series I’ve seen 100 times and laugh at the predictable jokes.

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

I would love to bring my mom with me to have dinner with her sister, my aunt, who passed away 8 years ago. She was an amazing support for me and the best sister to my mom.