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 Bachelors 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.

Alexandra Grissom, MS, LMFTA

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. Most recently I started an herb garden and love incorporating the fresh herbs into meals. 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.

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.

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 Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwest University in 2022, and my Bachelors 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 Bachelors 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, 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.

Madison Dell, MA, LMFTA, E-RYT

A Little About Me

I grew up on the East Coast and spent most of my adult life in Vermont, where I worked with children of all ages in a school-based setting. The children I have worked with have inspired me in many different ways, and some of my greatest lessons have come from them. One of my favorites is to embrace adventure. Taking this lesson to heart, I have always wanted to explore the West Coast, and decided to pursue my career as a Marriage and Family Therapist here in Washington!

My Hobbies

I love playing outside! Whether it’s mountain biking, skiing, or just running around with my dogs, you will usually find me doing something out in nature. If the rain is plentiful enough to keep me indoors, you will probably find me reading a book (preferably Harry Potter) or practicing yoga. I am an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) and enjoy integrating elements of mindfulness and somatic awareness into my clinical work.

Education/Experience

In 2022, I received my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Certificate in Play Therapy from Antioch University. I am currently working towards fulfilling the requirements in becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). Prior to joining the Larch Counseling team, I interned at Sound Health, working primarily with children and adolescents and their families. I also worked with adults, focusing on supporting survivors of domestic violence.

My clinical approach is person-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, and attachment-focused. I have extensive training in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Filial Therapy, and use these modalities when working with young children and their families. I have Level I Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and in Emotionally Focused Family Therapy. I also use aspects of Internal Family Systems Therapy in my work with individuals, couples/relationships, and families. My greatest passion is in supporting individuals and relationships healing from emotional pain, trauma, and loss.

Victoria Morgan, MA, LMHC

A Little About Me

I was born and raised in Washington. My husband and I have two mini-goldendoodles whom we love taking on walks or playing fetch with. I love to spend time outside whether that is on a walk, going for a hike, kayaking, or in the garden. When I am not doing something active, I enjoy reading.

My Hobbies

I love being outdoors in the beauty that Washington has to offer. I enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, rowing, playing with our dogs, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

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 with Larch Counseling as a counselor. Before I began working at Larch, I worked as a clinical intern at Northwest University, from May 2020 to June 2021. Before being a clinical intern, I gained extensive experience working with children with Autism.

I am certified in Gottman Levels 1 and 2, as well as Gottman Treating Affairs and Trauma, and Gottman Couples and Addiction. I am a Certified SYMBIS Facilitator, and I am certified in Lifespan Integration Levels 1 and 2. Lastly, I am trained in Trauma Dissociation and Psychosis: Strengths-Based Approaches to Understanding and Recovery, and Advanced PTSD Conceptualization.

Alexandria Packard, Clinical Intern, MS, MFT Cand.

A Little About Me

I grew up here in Duvall, and am well acquainted with our small (yet growing!) town. I am deeply aware of the joys and hardships that come with living in a rural area, and believe it is such a gift to be able to support the community in which I was raised.

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 for graduate school. I absolutely love the Pacific Northwest, and I can typically be found adventuring around with my border collie by my side.

My Hobbies

In my free-time I enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, biking, skiing, surfing, paddle boarding, and running - though I can’t say the last one is as enjoyable yet. One of my favorite things about Washington is our proximity to the mountains, forest and sea. I am so grateful that I get to experience so much of the beauty nature has to offer right here in our backyard.

When I can’t be outside, I enjoy reading (although most of my reading material as of late has been textbooks, studies, and journal articles). When I do have time to read for pleasure, I like to read classic novels, cheesy romance books, and psychology genre’s about why we think and do what we do. While I am not the best cook, I am lucky that my boyfriend has an exceptional ability to make delicious food. We love connecting with family or friends over shared meals and card 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 2024. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Boise State University in 2016. In conjunction with interning at Larch Counseling, I work full-time at a foster care agency. I began working in Bellingham at Skookum Kids as a case manager in 2019, where I supported families who had been involved in the child-welfare system. I then transitioned to the same role in Seattle at Amara in January of 2022. I have always been passionate about advocating for and supporting families. While completing my undergraduate degree, I was a director for a student-run non-profit organization that supported children who were being treated at our local children’s hospital. I worked closely with both the St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital, and the children and families they cared for. Over the last ten years I have been inspired by these people’s stories, and it has been a major part of my decision to begin this therapeutic 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.