Mahy Hestad, Lisa Kirke

Welcome to Alpen Counseling!

Alpen Counseling offers compassionate and individualized therapy services for children, teens, and their families in Bellingham, Washington. We believe in fostering meaningful connections and empowering individuals to conquer challenges and flourish.

Who We Are

Kirk Mahay, the founder and founder of Alpen Counseling, brings over 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families. Her diverse background includes working in various settings such as public schools, private schools, wilderness therapy, homeless shelters, and family crisis centers. She embraces a collaborative and playful approach to therapy, focusing on building strong client relationships and fostering self-discovery.

Our Approach

Our therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. We value open communication and work alongside each other to identify and achieve individual goals. We utilize evidence-based interventions including mindfulness practices, neurobiology-informed interventions, and play therapy to support your journey.

Who We Serve

We proudly serve:

• Children (ages 10+): Facing challenges with anxiety, attention, behavior, depression, grief, social interaction, and learning disorders.
• Adolescents: Addressing issues with self-esteem, identity, relationships, substance use, and identity exploration.
• Parents/Guardians: Seeking guidance and strategies for parenting challenges, communication issues, and fostering healthy family dynamics.

What We Offer

• Individual Therapy: Tailored sessions to address specific needs and goals.
• Family Therapy: Collaborative sessions to strengthen family relationships and resolve conflicts.
• Parent Coaching: Support and guidance on parenting strategies, communication skills, and managing difficult emotions.
• Expressive Therapies: Utilizing art and play to explore emotions and process trauma.

Our Commitment

Alpen Counseling promotes inclusivity and welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and identities. We believe every client is unique and deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their concerns and achieve lasting growth.