About Kirsten Devlin, M.A., LMFT
Ms. Devlin has a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Applied Behavioral Science from Bastyr University in Seattle. Much of her undergraduate psychology work was completed at the University of Oregon. She earned the qualification as a Child Mental Health Specialist after counseling children and families at a mental health clinic. She also completed a postgraduate externship to gain experience working with adults and couples in a private practice setting. Continuing to educate herself in the most researched and up to date methods of therapy is an important part of her practice.

In addition to being a Washington State licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (#LF00001900) Kirsten is also a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and the Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Kirsten is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy.

Ms. Devlin practices in Tacoma, Washington at Portage Counseling, Inc. She provides therapy to individuals, couples and families.

On a personal note….
Thank you for your interest in my counseling website. I am a thirty something mother of two who has been married for 10 years. I have firsthand experience in successfully coping with the challenges of marriage and parenthood. While family and relationships are at the core of who I am, I also place high value on creating balance and mindfulness in my own life. I am from the Northwest, but I have spent much time living and working abroad. I relish the little things in life like chocolate, a good book, and hearing my kids laugh.

My Philosophy / Therapeutic Approach
Each person has a unique set of circumstances, issues and coping strategies to help them manage their problems. My mission as a therapist is to be respectful of each person's differences, understand the big picture as well as intricacies of a dilemma, and bring to light strengths and resources that are blocked or hidden.

Another important part of my job is to notice patterns. Some of the habitual or automatic ways we cope with anxiety, depression or relationship problems simply don't work. I believe you can break those patterns and find a new and more effective way of dealing with issues that get in your way.

I strive to create a place where you can learn about the destructive behavioral patterns that have kept you stuck, a place to heal, and a place to practice new ways of thinking and behaving. Some of the models I draw from include Systems Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therpay and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. I use these in combination with empathic listening and homework to help you move towards your desired life goals. Each course of treatment is unique to those who participate in it, and thus your therapy will be a blend of what you and I do together.