Meet Your Counselor
The therapeutic relationship is important, and because of that, we believe it is important for you to know a little about who you are working with. Although we cannot paint a full and accurate description of who we are through these short texts, we hope the following will give you an idea of what it would be like to work with each of us!
Dan Claussen, MS, LMFT
A Little About Me
The majority of my early life has been spent in the Snoqualmie Valley. My family lived in Colorado for 4 years when I was younger, but other than that we lived between Carnation and Monroe. I entered the Riverview School District as a 7th grader, so am intimately aware of the challenges and benefits of the rural school district. I have also spent time living in Chicago, and appreciate all the benefits the city provides.
My Hobbies
If I had a weekend off, and the weather was somewhat good, I would probably spend it in the outdoors. Hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, skiing or climbing a mountain; if it is outside, I would be doing it. If the weather was not good, or I just wanted a more relaxing time, I would spend my time reading, connecting with friends, working around the yard, or be relaxing in front of a Seahawks game. As you will see from my education, I also enjoy learning and developing new skills.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in 2016, and my Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry from Moody Bible Institute of Chicago in 2012. I began working as a Marriage and Family Therapist for Larch Counseling in 2016. Before I began working as a private practitioner, I worked as a clinical intern at Compass Health in the family clinic, consulting with young kids, adolescents, and their families from Sep 2014-Jun 2016. I also worked as a high school Youth Director at Redemption Church for the 2014-2015 academic year, and interned as the junior high pastor at the Duvall Church for a year in 2010.
Abbygail Parker, MS, LMFT
A Little About Me
I grew up in Indiana, just outside Indianapolis. My husband, Luke, and I spent four years in Seattle, Washington, before returning to Indianapolis. It is a unique opportunity to serve the community where my roots began and I rooted my own. Seattle became a home away from home, and my work with Larch became a family away from family.
Seattle and Washington State continue to offer me opportunities to learn and grow in my clinical journey. Supporting humanity and its complexities brings me joy, so no matter where your story begins and presently lives, I believe we can find a way to your healing.
I am constantly on my journey of growth and healing, and it is an honor to do this alongside my clients. I have a particular passion for striving to understand individual narratives and decision-making. I find the study of religion and culture to be a primary factor in supporting my clients. No matter where our work begins, bringing together shared ideas in growth and communication is always a tangible goal. I love to learn about family traditions, cultural backgrounds, and spiritual beliefs. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community. I work with all races, colors, religions, genders, gender expressions, national origins, abilities, and sexual orientations.
My Hobbies
I am an avid reader. I read for pleasure, reflection, and professional growth. My friends would note that I am an animal lover of all kinds, but the closest to my heart are my two cats, Moon and Obie. If you ask me about orcas, I can tell you various facts and share my experiences with them. I love whales, specifically those of the resident family in Puget Sound.
I love to dance and am always seeking new ways to move my body joyfully. I grew up in ballet and continue today in a way that supports the art of dance without the traditionally strict adherences. I have been cooking since childhood. I love to create and enjoy exciting, creative dishes. Creativity is an integral part of my personal and therapeutic life. I focus my creative outlets on dancing, amateur watercolor painting, writing, and finding exciting ways to plan the week ahead of me.
Education/Experience
I attended Indiana University, graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor of the Arts in Religious Studies.
After four years of work in childcare and nonprofits, I returned to Seattle to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. I took this path after considering how much I appreciate and empathize with human complexity. I am innately curious about the world.
I graduated from Seattle Pacific University (SPU) in June 2022. The MFT program at SPU genuinely focuses on openness, responsibility, curiosity, and accountability, resulting in ethical, compassionate therapists.
Alexandra Grissom, MS, LMFT
Licensed in Florida and Washington through Telehealth only.
A Little About Me
I was born and raised right outside of Portland, Oregon. I lived in Oregon up until I left for college to attend Seattle Pacific University. I fell in love with Seattle and decided to settle down here. I discovered, during my freshman year of college that I would be able to live out my dream of helping others by choosing a career path as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
My Hobbies
I consider myself a major foodie. I love trying new restaurants, cooking, and watching any sort of food related show. My food obsession has taken a new form as I have learned to develop an appreciation for growing my own food, gardening and caring for plants. In my free time, I also love spending time with family and friends, whether it be over a delicious meal or simply sitting outside and enjoying the weather. The relationships that I have with family and friends are extremely important to me, and I love being able to connect and spend time together in any capacity.
I truly value experiences that are new and unique and have always had a love for traveling and being able to see the world. I have loved being able to travel and learn about different cultures (and eat delicious food). Along with a passion for traveling, I adore animals.
Education/Experience
I earned both my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2020 and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology in 2017 from Seattle Pacific University. I began working as a Marriage and Family Therapist for Larch Counseling in August of 2020. Prior to joining Larch Counseling, I worked as a clinical intern at Renton Area Youth and Family Services (RAYS) in the downtown Renton office, consulting with young kids, adolescents, and their families from January 2019 to June 2020. I am a certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator for premarital counseling and I am a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Alexandria Packard, MS, LMFTA
A Little About Me
I grew up in the Snoqualmie Valley and am well acquainted with our small yet growing area! I spent my undergraduate studies in Boise, Idaho and upon completion decided that I missed the rain and wanted to move back to Washington. I landed in Bellingham, where I lived for five years before moving to Seattle, then back to the Snoqualmie Valley with my partner, Ben, and our two border collies. I absolutely love the Pacific Northwest and believe it is such a gift to be able to support the community in which I was raised.
My Hobbies
It's a running joke within my circle that there are competing sides of me. The outgoing adventurer that enjoys camping, skiing, hiking, biking, and spending quality time connecting with friends and family, and the quieter introvert that prefers to make a latte at home and curl up with a good book - whose goal it is to take some pottery classes in an attempt to lean into more creative outlets. I also am a new owner of a drastically overgrown garden that I don’t know what to do with, so I imagine that will become a hobby here soon. One of my favorite things to think about is how we all embody multitudes, and where and how those versions of ourselves impact our lives.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in the summer of 2024. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Boise State University in 2016. I have spent the majority of my career working in the social work field helping to support children, parents, and families experiencing hardship. These settings include a children's hospital and foster care nonprofits. Throughout graduate school I continued that work while also interning here at Larch Counseling.
Aubrey Lane, LMFT
A Little About Me
I grew up in the Snoqualmie Valley in a small home nestled against Mt. Si. From the time I was young I have had an affinity for being outside, hiking the mountains in our backyard, and cheering on the UW Huskies. More recently I have found a passion for seeing new cultures, listening to true crime podcasts, exploring the intricacies of interior design, and continuing to find ways to serve others. My husband and I met in high school and will celebrate 14 years together in October. We welcomed our son, Lawson, into the world in 2022 and his sweet toothless smile blesses us daily.
My Hobbies
In my free time (and when weather allows) you can find me anywhere outside near water. I have recently ignited an excitement for wake surfing and paddle boarding and feel blessed when Washington weather gives me the chance to get out and be on the water. When the weather does not allow for me to be outside, I use the opportunity to slow down and pour into my relationships. Spending time with loved ones and connecting with friends over good food is one of my favorite “recharging” activities. If I could retire now, I would move down to Ensenada and build homes in Mexico. For the past 10 years, my husband and I have traveled over Thanksgiving to build houses, and it’s the best version of myself I know.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in 2018, and my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Education from The University of Washington in 2015. I started working as a Marriage and Family Therapist for Larch Counseling in 2018. Before I began working as a private practitioner, I worked as a clinical intern at Youth Eastside Services in Bellevue, consulting with young kids, adolescents, and their families from January 2017 to June 2018. Prior to Y.E.S. I worked as a Behavioral Therapist at Mosaic Children’s Therapy from May 2015-October 2017 and in conjunction with working as a mental health practitioner, I also currently work as a local advocate for teenagers who have dropped out of high school.
Brianna Peterson, MS, LMHCA
A Little About Me
I grew up in Western Washington and have a soft spot for the PNW. After graduating from the University of Washington, I moved to Utah for a job opportunity and stayed for my post-graduate studies. Utah was a great place for outdoor recreation and exploring the state’s incredible national parks. 6 years later, I decided to move back to Washington, as I missed the green landscape and milder weather. I’ve settled into the King County area and am excited to put down some roots in this community.My Hobbies
Outside of the office, I enjoy practicing yoga for its mental and physical benefits. I find being outside as a way to ground myself and connect with nature. I love finding new hikes and camping spots in the summer. I’m a big fan of travel and am excited to explore more states and countries in the next few years. At home you can find me trying out new recipes, baking treats, or catching up on the latest Netflix series.Education/Experience
I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Westminster University in 2024 and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Washington in 2016. I completed my clinical internship at Hope and Healing Child and Family Counseling in Utah where I provided trauma-informed, attachment-based therapy to children and families with early developmental trauma. Prior to graduate school, I worked with children and teens in residential, primary school, and intensive outpatient settings. I have experience with children on the autism spectrum as well as those struggling with OCD, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, and adjustment disorder.Danielle Smith, MA, LMHCA
A Little About Me
I have spent all my life in western Washington and absolutely love the PNW. I was born in Tacoma and moved around the greater Seattle area, while in college, at the University of Washington. 3 years ago, my fiancé and I moved to the Snoqualmie valley, and I cannot see myself living anywhere else. I am grateful for the opportunity to positively impact such a welcoming and amazing community.
My Hobbies
When I am not working, I love to be outside exploring all the beautiful parts of Washington. You will typically find me and my toddler going on walks, playing by the water, kayaking, and hiking. When fall comes around you can find me cheering on the Seahawks, and investing way too much time in fantasy football. I also enjoy reading, and since finishing college, I have been enjoying picking my own reading materials in my free time. I enjoy spending time with my family, watching a good TV show, and cooking.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwest University in 2022, and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Washington in 2018. Prior to coming to Larch Counseling, I worked as a clinical intern for Eastside Academy in Bellevue, WA, working with at risk adolescents, teens, young adults, and their families. Prior to being a clinical intern, I have experience working with women who struggle with substance abuse.
Elliott Duea, MS, LMFTA
A Little About Me
I’ve lived in beautiful Western Washington my entire life. I love many other places around the world, but no place has managed to steal me away from the firs and the crisp Pacific Northwest air. I grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington, and I have resided in Seattle since I started college in 2013.
My Hobbies
I love immersing myself in art - be it films, vinyl records, novels, or spending the day at the art museum. I also love laughing with my friends and my family, playing soccer, and writing poetry. And of course, spending time in the sublime nature throughout the PNW.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in 2021, and my Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Seattle Pacific University in 2017. I began working as a Marriage and Family Therapist for Larch Counseling in 2021. Before I began working as a private practitioner, I worked as a clinical intern at the YMCA Social Impact of Seattle where I provided therapy to young kids and their families, adolescents, and adults from Jan. 2020-June 2021.
Garret Patterson, MS, LMFTA
A Little About Me
Originally from Texas, I moved to Seattle to live with my wife (and my cat, Pixel) to attend college at Seattle Pacific University for my undergraduate and graduate degree. Since being here I have fallen in love with the weather, mountains, and people I have come to know. I am overjoyed with the chance to connect and learn from people as they share their stories with me, as I believe each of us has so much to bring to the table.
My Hobbies
In my free time you can often find me in the kitchen trying out a new recipe. I also try and visit any and every museum that I can go to (but science museums are my favorite). I also spend a lot of time reading, watching movies, building model kits, or enjoying some coffee on my porch.
Education/Experience
I received my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific in 2023. I also received my bachelor's degree in psychology from Seattle Pacific University in 2020. Before that, I had known since I was in high school that I wanted to become a therapist, taking every opportunity to read and study all things related to the field. In school, I loved taking classes around how people develop over their lifespans, as well as studying the impact of parent-child connections both when people are young and old. While in school earning my therapy degree I enjoyed working with high-school students and young adults, married couples, and families.
Jessica Milian, M.A., LMFT
A Little About Me
I am an east coast native and a military veteran. When the U.S. Navy stationed me in WA, I fell in love with the Pacific Northwest. So much so I decided to stay and continue to call it home twelve years later. I deeply value relationships and connection. Making memories with my family, friends, and others whose paths have crossed mine is priceless to me. Since I was a child, I have had a heart for helping others which has matured into a passion to live a life of service to my community.
My Hobbies
In my free time you can find me obsessing over all things hedgehog related. I have two prickly hedgehog companions, Coconut and Papaya, that are very special to me. You can also find me in my Kraken jersey watching hockey with my partner, wishing I was a better ice skater so I could be a goalie. I am an avid skater OFF of the ice. There are few things that bring me more joy than listening to music and feeling the breeze brush across my face while rolling on my quad roller skates. My friends can always count on me to host a board game or puzzle night with a great snack selection. When time and resources permit, I also love to travel and experience new people and places.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Lutheran University in 2018, and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Pacific Lutheran University in 2015. I have experience providing individual, couple, and family therapy in community mental health settings, private practice, facilitating therapeutic groups, providing residential and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment, and in home services for families engaged in the child welfare system. I am internationally certified in three levels (Standard, Pathways, and Teen) of the evidence based Positive Parenting Program (Triple). I am a fellow for American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy’s Minority Fellowship Program –Youth (MFP-Y) which provided intensive training and mentorship to specialize as a provider for trauma impacted, marginalized, and resource limited communities.
Jordan Beck, MA, LMFT
A Little About Me
I was born and raised on the eastside of WA. Other than spending some time in Oregon for my undergrad, I have spent my life here and love the idea of being able to continue contributing to the community and the area with my career as a therapist. I tend to find humor in most things and bring that with me as I move through life. I am also a major animal lover and will fawn over your pet pictures and stories just as much as you will!
My Hobbies
I grew up visiting my great grandma at her home on the coast of Washington. I created a deep love of finding rocks, broken shells, and seaglass, as well as picking up trash. This interest didn’t stop at childhood, and I continue to enjoy finding the beauty in nature and at any given time I can be found with cool trinkets in my pockets. I love spending time with friends, going to shows, playing with my dog, and working on puzzles. My collection of puzzles is quite large!
Education/Experience
I graduated from Seattle University in 2021 with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. In 2016, I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Linfield College in Oregon. I completed a yearlong internship with Larch counseling during my Masters program.
While attending graduate school, I also worked as a nanny for a family with two young children. I have spent most of my life working with children in some form. I worked with young kids doing behavior training. During undergrad school, I interned at a Relief Nursery and Montessori school for at-risk children, volunteered as a mentor for 8th grade students at a middle school, as well as helped teach a safe touch workshop at Juliette’s House, a child abuse intervention center in town. I also spent summers in college coaching soccer and managing a sports camp for kids.
Mario R. Gaspar de Alba, MS, LMFTA
A Little About Me
I am a transplant to the Seattle area, originally from West Texas. My extraordinary wife, Kilee, and I have been together for five years, and I hope to convince her to let us get a dog someday. We enjoy finding new places to eat and love going to different parks and beaches in the area on the weekends. I have been interested in pursuing a career in psychology since high school. I love reading and learning about the way the world works and how and why people think and behave the way they do. I am especially interested in philosophy, even though it is way overcomplicated. The last few years I have been reading up on Eastern philosophies and religions to broaden my understanding of the world.
My Hobbies
I have many hobbies, but I enjoy getting into new things and exploring what they have to offer. And if you ask any close friends of mine they will tell you I might have too many hobbies. My most persistent hobby is cooking and general foodie things. I grew up spending my summers as a cowboy working with my grandfather on his cattle ranches, and I hope to get back into that lifestyle, at least on a small scale, in the future. I enjoy art and music, particularly impressionist paintings, rock, sob rock, and old-school country music. My nerdiest hobby has to be lightsaber building, but who doesn't think lightsabers are the most fantastic things ever? Most importantly, I love spending time with loved ones and close friends doing almost anything: exploring nature, grilling, picnics, lawn games, pick up soccer or frisbee, and trying out new board games.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in the Summer of 2023. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Brigham Young University-Idaho in the Spring of 2020. I worked as a clinical intern at Larch Counseling while I was earning my graduate degree. In addition, I have worked part-time as a substitute for Seattle Public Schools for SPED and Distinctive classrooms since September of 2021. Before that, I worked full-time for the school year of 2020 at Madison Middle as a behavior intervention specialist with many wonderful children. I have also created and run couples workshops on the weekends during my final year as an intern with Larch counseling.
Serena Robertson, MS, LMFT
A Little About Me
I decided to become a therapist while riding through life’s ups and downs with my husband and our four children. I realized that the connections we have with others are the most demanding and the most joyful parts of our lives. Everyone is living an amazing adventure and working very hard at it! I feel honored when clients choose to share it with me.
My Hobbies
My very favorite things are my family, hiking, chocolate, and Harry Potter; pretty much in that order. My kids are a constant source of hilarious antics which I get to enjoy with my very patient husband. Hiking brings me a sense of peace and awe while keeping me firmly grounded- regardless of my circumstances. Harry Potter relates to many life’s lessons in the most entertaining and enchanting way. (For reference- I am in Hufflepuff house). And chocolate just is. While I have not yet successfully combined all four hobbies into one experience, I believe this is something that can be achieved in the near future.
Education/Experience
I earned my Bachelor in Psychology from American Military University in 2015 and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in 2019. My education emphasized Solution Focused Therapy as I interned at Nexus Youth and Families in Auburn. Prior to completing my education, I spent several years volunteering in girls’ youth ministry and as a Cub Scout den leader. I also worked as a paraeducator in the Snoqualmie Valley School District supporting students with behavior challenges on the school playground. In these contexts, as well as in my own family, I have often worked with youth on the Autism Spectrum and with ADHD. I have a great love for the experiences and perspectives that are unique to them.
Victoria Morgan, MA, LMHC
A Little About Me
I have lived in Washington all my life and savor the serenity that the mountains and ocean bring to me. Growing up, you could find me and my brother splashing around in the tidepools on the coast. I have two mini-goldendoodles who love water just as much as I do.
My Hobbies
I love being active, especially in the outdoors with my dogs. One of my favorite activities is paddleboarding while exploring the beautiful lakes in the area. I also enjoy true crime documentaries and reading psychology books, and I am a true coffee enthusiast and cookie connoisseur.
Education/Experience
I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwest University in 2021. In 2016, I graduated from Western Washington University with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
In 2021, I started working as a counselor at Larch Counseling. Prior to that, I completed my clinical internship at Northwest University counseling college students. Before being a clinical intern, I gained extensive experience working with children with Autism.
My therapeutic style is direct, compassionate, and engaging. I am most passionate about supporting survivors of trauma and domestic violence, and individuals who are navigating life with chronic illnesses. I have extensive training in working with trauma and am certified in Lifespan Integration Levels 1 and 2. I am a Certified SYMBIS Facilitator, and am also certified in Gottman Levels 1 and 2, Gottman Treating Affairs and Trauma, and Gottman Couples and Addiction.
Shannon Sherman, Clinical Intern, MS of MFT Cand.
A Little About Me
I moved to the Pacific Northwest after growing up in Central Florida and completing my undergraduate studies in Gainesville, FL. Washington had the water, mountains, and summers I enjoyed, and four different seasons of the year. After twelve years in Seattle, I landed in Woodinville in 2021. I am grateful to learn with and from this warm and welcoming community.
My Hobbies
In my free-time I enjoy taking walks with friends, finding little free puzzle libraries, and antique or thrift shops. When I can, I like to draw or paint with acrylics or watercolors some of the landscapes I see. I love connecting with family or friends over shared meals and games.
Education/Experience
I am working on my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University, with an anticipated graduation date of June 2025. I received my Bachelor of Science in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from University of Florida in 2008. Along with interning at Larch Counseling, I work full-time at SPU as an annual giving and stewardship manager. Most of my professional life, I have worked in relationship-based fundraising, raising support for nonprofits and community causes. Through the pandemic and events in my personal journey, I invested in therapy and support groups for women facing separation and divorce. These experiences were key to my growth and inspired me to pursue this career. To learn more about what it means working with me as a clinical intern, click here.
About Our Internship Program
A clinical intern is a person who is currently attending their Master’s Program to attain the education they need for their licensure. During their work at Larch Counseling, they are receiving supervision from one of our Licensed Clinicians, and are also receiving group or individual supervision from the Master’s Program they are attending. They are well supported and have access to all the resources of our team. Because they are in training, and are required to be a part of an internship program to graduate, we are able to offer their services at a lower rate in our office, and offer them to the local school district for to provide services on campus. We take the hiring of our interns seriously, and only accept those we feel are a good fit for families we see, and the culture here at Larch. To learn more about the fee structure of interns, please visit our fee section here.