About my Practice
Accepting new clients now in Washington State, Oregon, Idaho and New York.
Background and Education
I grew up along the rivers of California and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. After graduating, I spent several years working in the mental health field, including as a skills trainer for children on the autism spectrum and as part of an NIH-funded study focused on the aging LGBT population.
I later earned my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University. I continue to pursue specialized training each year, with a primary focus on couples therapy and sex therapy. I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
I have been a practicing therapist for 7 years. I work with individuals, teens and couples and I see clients in Washington State, Oregon, Idaho and New York (WA: LF61364838; OR: T2472; ID: MBTMFT-9883; NY: 002524).
Philosophy and Approach
I believe that each person’s experience of the world is unique. Who we are, and how we move through life, is shaped by a wide range of personal, relational, and cultural factors. Due to this, I spend time getting an in depth history from my clients; building a strong understanding of who you are and where you come from is central to the process.
I take a balanced, collaborative approach to therapy. At times, I follow your lead; at others, I offer guidance, structure, and feedback to support your goals. I am a therapist who asks questions! So be ready for that.
In our free 15 minute consultation, you’ll hear me emphasize the importance of fit. Finding a therapist you feel safe with and genuinely connect with is one of the most important parts of therapy.
A little about me:
I’m a straightforward person who values intuition and meaningful relationships. Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with my animals, being outdoors, trying new restaurants, traveling, and connecting with good company. Some of my favorite hobbies include skiing, sewing, dancing, gardening, biking and cooking.
I’ve known I wanted to be a therapist since I was 16, and I genuinely love the work I do. I find it deeply rewarding to learn about people’s lives and gaining a true understanding of who they are and where they are from. I also value the process of growth—especially the kind that unfolds gradually over time.
Clients often find that I bring a balance of honesty, curiosity, warmth and humor into the therapy space. I aim to create sessions where you can be yourself, feel understood, and move toward meaningful change at your own pace.
What issues or who does Allison work with?
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship issues
Motivational challenges
Identity exploration
Sexual concerns
Self respect
Ethical non-monogamy
Polyamory
Therapy for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples
Therapy for people transitioning
Therapy for medical professionals
Why “River Willow Therapy”?
I chose the name River Willow Therapy because the river willow is a hardy tree which endures constant change. It grows, blooms, and withstands the rushing waters of life. It flows with the ever changing current, grows in the heat of the sun, and embraces the changes that the seasons bring. People are not unlike the river willow. The analogy lends itself to many comparisons of how people can endure great hardship and can become stronger and more flexible because of it. Like the river willow, we can be uprooted, transported, submerged completely, and then still bloom when the waters subside.