Our Vancouver Team

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide compassionate, personalized and evidence based mental health counseling and therapy services to empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges, foster resilience, and achieve emotional well-being. 

Megan Conedy, MSW, LICSW
FOUNDER & THERAPIST

Megan Conedy, MSW, LICSW & LCSW

I hold Master’s in Social Work from the University of North Dakota, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Professional in the States of Washington, Oregon and Idaho. With over a decade of experience in the mental health and human services field, I bring both depth and compassion to my work.

In addition to providing therapy, I am a Washington State and Oregon-approved clinical supervisor for graduate students and post-graduate clinicians. I support associate-level therapists in developing their clinical skills, navigating ethical standards, and addressing professional challenges as they arise in early clinical practice.

My therapeutic approach is personalized and client-centered. I integrate a variety of evidence-based modalities to meet your unique needs, with a strong emphasis on solution-focused strategies to help you start feeling better in the present moment. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) as a key part of treatment.

Wherever you are on your journey, I will meet you there—with compassion, curiosity, and respect. I believe everyone has a meaningful story, and I’m here to listen, support, and walk alongside you as you move forward.

When I am not with my clients, I love spending time with my family, which includes my husband and our 3 children. I love going to the waterfront and spending time outdoors. My favorite place is on a warm sunny beach!

Areas of Focus:
  • Ages 12-70
  • Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders
  • Licensed in Washington, Oregon and Idaho
Lauren Welner, PMHNP-BC
MEDICATION MANAGEMENT PROVIDER

Lauren Welner, PMHNP-BC

I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 15 years in the healthcare field. I have worked in both the inpatient and outpatient settings and have a diverse medical background in both neurology and general medicine. I specialize in providing both medication management and psychotherapy to individuals and families during their times of greatest vulnerability, to assist with facilitating mental wellness across the lifespan.


My therapeutic process is guided by encouraging self-empowerment and autonomy, alongside with providing patient education to assist in informed decision making. I strive to provide a holistic approach with my clients, taking into consideration the diverse elements in their life that are barriers and strengths to improving their mental health.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking and nature photography.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 13-80
  • Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders and Schizophrenia, Substance Use Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
  • Licensed in Washington and Oregon
MEDICATION MANAGEMENT PROVIDER

Angelina Polito, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Angelina Polito, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, evidence-based care in a warm and collaborative environment. She believes that meaningful treatment starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported, and she strives to create a space where patients can openly discuss their experiences without fear of judgment.

Dr. Polito provides psychiatric care for individuals of all ages and works with patients experiencing ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and the unique mental health needs of neurodivergent individuals. She recognizes that every person’s story is different and partners with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their goals, values, and strengths.

Her approach combines clinical expertise with empathy, open communication, and a genuine desire to help patients better understand themselves and build lasting well-being. She believes in working alongside her patients, empowering them to make informed decisions and supporting them through each step of their mental health journey.

Areas of Focus:
  • Ages 13-75
  • Ages 6-12 struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, and Depression
  • In-person and virtual sessions available
  • Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress.
Heidi Howe standing in nature
THERAPIST

Heidi Howe, MSW, LICSW

I have a passion for partnering with clients where they are and offering encouragement and hope. I have worked in child welfare for many years as a professional and as a foster parent. With this experience, I am aware of the effects of trauma and the importance of attachment and relationship. I do not believe every part of the past has to be uncovered, and I prefer to focus on coping skills and solutions for the here and now.

I have experience working with all stages of life. My goal is to partner alongside the client for support in a difficult time. I believe in fostering independence, building up distress tolerance, and increasing self-compassion. I believe it is equally important to encourage community supports, because we are not meant to walk this life alone.

I completed my Master of Social Work degree from Eastern Washington University and have been working with individuals and families since. I believe that it is important to understand how our physical, mental, social and spiritual needs are connected and intertwined. I spend my free time on my farm with my horses, cows, children and spouse.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 13-70
  • Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Obsessive Disorders, Behavioral Issues, Major Life Changes, Codependency, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, and Post Traumatic Stress
ART THERAPIST

Sarah Rush, LMHC

I am a Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington with 13 years of experience working in acute mental health.

I believe that creativity is accessible to everyone and is an important component of being human. Expressing ourselves creatively can provide release, insight, and greater self-understanding. My role as an art therapist is to support my client to connect with their own unique creative process and expression. My approach is strength based and individualized. I utilize a range of media and work with my clients to select the appropriate media based upon their interests and goals. No prior art experience is necessary.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, making art, cooking/baking, running and exploring new places.

Areas of Focus:
  • Ages 9-70
  • Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia and other Psychotic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Emotion Regulation, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, and Post Traumatic Stress
THERAPIST

Angelee Berrian, LMFT

With a thoughtful, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach, I help people explore their inner world and venture into new possibilities in life and in their relationships. Because this kind of engagement with self and others can feel overwhelming and intense at times, I aim to anchor your therapy experience with openness, curiosity, and compassion. How you and I work together is just the start of exploring what it might mean to build trust in yourself, in your decisions, and in the important relationships you hold.

I help couples and families gain clarity through Emotion-Focused Therapy – an approach that validates each person’s efforts to resolve issues and moves them toward teamwork to dismantle the painful patterns that prevent a felt-sense of connection. And I work with individuals who are trying to hold it all together: anxiety, disappointment, tension in relationships, unhelpful patterns and routines, and grief are just some of the issues my clients bring to therapy. I take an eclectic approach tailored to each person’s unique needs and experience, integrating Cognitive-Behavioral and Acceptance & Commitment therapies, with somatic interventions as well. I also have experience and specialized training in supporting parents of young children.

Outside of the office, I like to crochet, write poetry, and try new musical instruments. Some of my favorite ways to move include yoga, jogging, and volleyball. Originally from the Midwest, I love a long drive to the coast with my partner and daughter.

Areas of Focus:
  • Ages 13-70 (younger and older with the intention of family therapy)
  • In-person and virtual sessions available
  • Anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, couples and family counseling, parenting, grief and loss, emotion regulation, behavioral issues, cultural identity, rediscovering creativity, and religious/spiritual issues.
THERAPIST

Rainy Broms, LMHCA

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, I bring a holistic, integrative approach to therapy. I am a graduate of Capella University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Depending on the client, I use elements of Relational Cultural Therapy, Reality and Choice Therapy, Assertiveness Skills, and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. Under supervision in Washington State, I aim to empower clients through self-awareness, mutual growth, and mindful choices.

I moved from San Diego to Vancouver to semi-retire from 25 years in business management by opening a bed and breakfast. The pandemic reminded me that change is constant, so I chose to pursue learning, growth, and a new career.

When I am not working, I am an avid reader of Urban Fantasy, a culinary inventor, and queen of Utopia Island in Animal Crossing. When weather permits, I enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest hiking trails with my non-nesting butch, and my American Bully. I live with my adult son, and our dogs, as he builds his career in Nail Architecture and Design. All of us are neurodivergent (ADHD, OCD, Autistic Level 2) and part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Area of Focus:

  • Ages 18-80
  • Licensed in Washington and Oregon
  • Virtual and in Person; Sunday hours available
  • Anxiety, Depression, Codependency, ADHD, OCD, Autism, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Life Changes, chronic pain, and intimacy issues.
  • LGBTQIA+ and Non-traditional Relationships including Polyamory, and ethical BDSM.
THERAPIST

Carlie Carpenter, MSW, LSWAIC & CSWA

Healing often begins with presence. With the quiet courage to sit beside someone in their pain, uncertainty, or transformation. As a therapist, I am guided by the belief that each person carries the capacity for wholeness, even in the aftermath of profound hardship. I do not see people as problems to be solved, but as whole beings moving through life’s layered seasons in search of authenticity.

My background in the medical field has given me experience supporting individuals and families navigating early childhood intervention, illness, trauma, and systemic barriers to care. These moments have shown me that therapy is sacred work; practice of tending to the human spirit with care and reverence.

Grounded in the biopsychosocial model, I draw on evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, and EFT, while integrating mindfulness, somatic awareness, and narrative approaches. My goal is to create a space that honors both structure and softness, personalized treatment plans, and with the patience to let the work unfold at its own pace.

Healing is not linear; it is relational. It unfolds in safe spaces, in small, brave steps, and in the experience of being truly seen and heard.

Above all, I remain a student of the human experience and a witness to resilience, to the stories we carry, and to the clarity that can arise when we are met with compassion and radical acceptance

Area of Focus:

  • Ages 12+
  • Virtual and in Person; Evening and Saturday hours available
  • Anxiety, Depression, Codependency, ADHD, OCD, Autism, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Life Changes, Greif and more.
  • Licensed in Washington and Oregon
THERAPIST

Nicole Kudelka, LMHCA

I graduated from University of Phoenix in 2025 with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been working in the field since 2021. I have a background in music, art, and a degree in photography and love to incorporate expressive arts into sessions when possible. I believe that exploring creativity can aid self expression and help move through transitions in life.

My focus is helping teens and adults navigate difficult emotions and transitions in life. I believe the client knows themselves best, and I am here to walk alongside and provide a calm, collaborative, and judgment-free space for them to thrive. My approach is personalized and I integrate a variety of modalities to match your unique needs, fostering empowerment and autonomy.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, cooking, spending time with friends, and exploring outside as much as possible with my husband and two young sons.

Area of Focus:

  • Ages 17+
  • Virtual and in Person; Evening hours available
  • Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, Mood Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders
THERAPIST

Michelle Klinsing, LMHCA

I am a graduate of Grand Canyon University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and couples on their mental health journey with empathy, understanding, and a client-centered approach.

My focus is on helping children/teens/adults/couples, navigate life transitions, manage the everyday stresses of parenting, careers and relationships along with building self-compassion and confidence while learning the strengths and value they bring. I hope to meet client’s where they are and work on what is most important to them.

I especially enjoy helping others to improve communication and find deeper connections with the world around them. I have a belief that feeling good both mentally and physically plays a huge role in overall happiness and take a holistic approach to counseling that integrates the mind and body, helping people to find balance, healing, and personal growth.

In addition counseling, I am certified in yoga and integrative health and nutrition, which allows me to incorporate a variety of lifestyle practices into my work as tools for overall well-being and emotional regulation. I value the role of creativity and art as powerful avenues for self-expression and healing, and love to integrate creative techniques into sessions.

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Consumer Science from the University of Idaho, and this has given me a strong foundation in understanding relationships, emotional development, and the importance of overall wellness. Outside of counseling, I have a love for movement, and you can usually find me enjoying activities like snowboarding and paddleboarding, along with finding inspiration through creative outlets like cooking or curling up with a good book.

I look forward to continuing my journey as a counselor and supporting clients in discovering their inner strengths and creating meaningful change for their lives.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 6+
  • Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, OCD (with ERP treatment), Eating Disorders, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Couples Counseling, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, and Post Traumatic Stress.
THERAPIST

Toni Simpson, LMHCA

Throughout my life, I have been deeply interested in understanding people and the connections that shape our lives. That interest ultimately led me to pursue a career in counseling.

I believe healing begins in an environment where people feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and trauma-informed care, with the belief that healing happens through authentic connection. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore life’s challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change. I strive to walk alongside each client as they reclaim their sense of resilience, self-compassion, and hope.

I work with teens and adults navigating trauma, attachment challenges, self-esteem struggles, and emotional regulation difficulties. I believe every person carries resilience within them, and my role as a counselor is to help clients uncover that inner strength and integrate it into their daily lives. I often use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Polyvagal Therapy, Play Therapy, and Gottman training, to support growth, self-discovery, and lasting change.

Outside of counseling, I have a deep love for animals and enjoy rescuing lost pets. Sharing my home (and heart) with my own pets continually reminds me of the power of connection, comfort, and unconditional love. I also enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and continuing to expand my knowledge of psychology.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 10-75
  • Anxiety, Depression, Low Self Esteem, PTSD, Complex Trauma, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Attachment Struggles, and ADHD.
THERAPIST

Stevie Lantz – Resident Intern

I am a graduate student at the University of the Cumberlands, working towards my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am passionate about supporting individuals on their healing journey, building the skills needed to walk alongside clients with compassion, curiosity, and respect.

My interest in mental health is rooted in a deep desire to help people feel understood, empowered, and capable of creating meaningful change in their lives. I am especially drawn to working with children, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, self-esteem concerns, grief, and life transitions. I believe that every person carries inner resilience, and my role as a counselor is to help clients connect with their strengths and move toward growth at a pace that feels safe. I also work with couples and families having been Level 1 Gottman trained.

I value a holistic and integrative approach, drawing from mindfulness, strength-based support, exposure therapy (ERP), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, for the kiddos, and collaborative, person-centered care. I believe in the importance of the mind-body connection and, when helpful, enjoy incorporating grounding and nature-based practices to support emotional healing and balance.

Outside of counseling, I find peace and inspiration in nature, mindfulness practices, and creative outlets. These practices remind me of the importance of slowing down, reconnecting with ourselves, and creating space for healing. You can usually find me somewhere in nature, enjoying time with my 4 children, at the gym, or reading.

I look forward to walking alongside each client as they build resilience, self-compassion, and hope.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 6+
  • Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, OCD, Couples and Family Counseling, Self-Esteem concerns, Life Transitions, Coping Skills, Eating Disorders and Stress Management.
THERAPIST

Morgan Sorensen – Resident Intern

I am a graduate student at Walden University working toward my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Elementary Education from Washington State University, where I found my passion for working with all age groups and working to help them become better versions of themselves.

I am particularly drawn towards working children/teens/adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions and coping skills. I believe that it is my job to meet you where you are at in your journey. I aspire to create a space that is supportive and nonjudgmental where the client feels valued, empowered, and heard. I also work with couples and families having been Level 2 Gottman trained.

I believe that you know yourself and your needs best and that I am here to help you in your walk-through life the best way I can. Therapy with me will look like a collaborative process where we work together to identify issues, explore feelings, and create goals to create a change. I often use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and coping skills training to support my clients in their journey of growth and healing.

Outside of counseling, I practice yoga and spend time with my husband and son. You can also find me snuggled up on the couch reading a good book, as I am an avid reader.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 6+
  • Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Couples and Families, OCD with Exposure Response Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions and Coping Skills.
THERAPIST

Izzy Cervantes-Walker – Resident Intern

Hi, I’m Izzy! I’m currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University and have over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and families through early childhood education and leadership roles. Building strong relationships and helping people feel supported has always been a huge part of who I am, and I’m passionate about creating spaces where clients feel comfortable showing up exactly as they are.

My counseling style is warm, authentic, trauma-informed, and collaborative. I believe therapy should feel like a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I value genuine connection, honesty, and even a little humor when it fits because healing doesn’t always have to feel so heavy all the time.

My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, mood disorders, self-esteem, emotional regulation, life transitions, and working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I especially enjoy helping clients build confidence, strengthen coping skills, and recognize their own resilience and growth.

I also deeply value culturally responsive and inclusive care and believe every person deserves to feel seen, respected, and supported throughout their counseling journey.

Outside of counseling, you can usually find me reading, spending time with my husband and pets, listening to music, and enjoying sunny days near the water whenever I can.

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 3+
  • Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma, PTSD Self-Esteem, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, CBT, DBT, OCD with ERP, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Coping Skills.
THERAPIST

Mason Nickerson – Resident Intern

Hello, I’m Mason! I’m a graduate student working toward my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of the Cumberlands. After a decade of working in the engineering field, and a few years volunteering in crisis counseling roles, a steady pull toward people, connection, and service led me to adjust career course.

I’m especially drawn toward working with adults/teens navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, burnout, chronic pain, grief, and more. Whatever shape you’re arriving in, we’ll meet it together. My hope is to offer you a space that leaves you feeling seen, accepted, rooted for, and safe enough to be yourself, since that’s where growth often begins.

My counseling style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I trust that you are your own best guide, while also staying ready to offer direction and gentle challenge when it counts. I can’t promise to erase all of life’s painful thoughts and feelings. However, together we can explore kinder and more flexible ways of relating to them, so that they take up less room, and create a wider opening for choice. I count it a privilege to walk alongside folks as they use that opening to build a life around what matters most to them. Through it all, I try to bring a touch of lightheartedness to balance the sometimes-heavy work of healing.

Outside of work and study, you’ll likely find me romping around the woods camping, hiking, climbing, or exploring new places. I also love to recharge by connecting with friends/community over local music and movement

Areas of Focus:

  • Ages 13+
  • Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma, PTSD Self-Esteem, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Coping Skills.