Jenna Starr, LMHC/LMFTA

Jenna Starr

Jenna Starr’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

I have always held a deep interest in learning about people through their stories. I believe our relationships create much of our experience in the world. Sometimes we find ourselves out of balance, struggling with a relationship, self-doubt, communication troubles, trauma, or adjustments brought on by new life phases. I seek to help clients access their own strengths and capabilities while increasing coping skills that promote and sustain wellness. My approach includes focusing on emotions, communication, thought and behavior patterns, self-compassion, and coping strategies. I enjoy working with couples who feel stuck in recurring themes and patterns, who are looking for a shift so that their relationship may return to a calmer state or include more openness, connection, and trust.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking, backpacking, running, yoga, and spending time with my husband and family. I love traveling and exploring the Pacific Northwest.

Specialties and areas of focus

Q&A with Jenna

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

I believe both are important parts of the therapy process. Through active listening and collaboration, I try to gain an understanding of how clients would like to explore both the past and present in a way that reflects their unique style. I think a mix of looking into both past and present concerns is what informs the direction therapy can take and helps set goals for the future.

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

I enjoy following the lead of the client, learning about important ideas, perspectives, and themes along the way. I also hope to support clients in developing a sense of ownership around their experience in counseling. When working with couples, sometimes more direction is helpful in order to address challenges and uncover patterns in relationships.

3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?

I am a warm, compassionate, and steady presence. I strive to create an environment of safety in each session and am a detail oriented, active listener.

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

I would choose to have superhuman speed! Or to fly. Either way, I think it’d be so fun to travel long distances without driving.

5.) What makes you laugh?

My family, especially my nieces and nephews, ages 2, 4, and 5!

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

I would love to have all my great-grandparents and my husband’s great-grandparents together for one meal so we could learn all about each of our family histories. Aside from ancestors, I’d like to have dinner with John Muir, J.K. Rowling, or Andre Agassi.