Dr. Troy Fenlason

I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Washington. Of the many activities performed by a psychologist, for me the great privilege is the work of a therapist which has been my primary activity for more than 18 years. That’s not to say that I don’t enjoy doing other things such as teaching, consulting, and offering psychological evaluations, but the best part of my job is the in-depth work of being invited into the lives and struggles of people who are genuinely seeking to find more fulfilling ways of living with the challenges they face.

From my perspective, therapy is primarily relational, which means it is far more than an educational, intellectual, or emotional experience. I am motivated toward helping people step into their life struggles with the hope of finding a more meaningful and rewarding way of life. I am also committed to providing competent, compassionate, and change-oriented assessment and therapy services.

My journey into psychotherapy started formally with counselor training in 1997 (Colorado Christian University), which eventually inspired me to change careers. In 2004 I left my corporate job and began offering psychotherapy through several mental health agencies.  In 2004-5, I also helped train mental health counselors (at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology). In 2009 I completed my doctorate in clinical psychology and acquired the license to practice as a psychologist in Washington state. Soon after I open a private practice to offer psychotherapy and to this day, I continually feel rewarded to know the people that have shared their lives and struggles with me.

Since therapists are not only informed by their training but also by their life experiences, the following are a few of my life experiences that have been important points of connection for some of my clients:

• I am internationally-minded, with sensitivity towards cultural issues. I grew up in Asia and later married a European. I have lived 16+ years outside of the US and my children are dual citizens.
• With five children, my wife and I have extensive parenting experience, including parenting children with special needs. I am sensitive to the special gifts and challenges associated with having and caring for individuals with special needs.
• Besides being a place for emotional healing and personal change, therapy can be a safe place to explore and discover what you believe. I have wondered through many religious and non-religious belief systems.  I have compassion and appreciation for those who are struggling to make sense of their world and those who struggle to find meaning and connection to purposes greater than themselves. I am known as a safe place for anyone on a journey of belief, no matter what faith (or non-faith) tradition, to grow their belief through exploring its impact on their life, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. Some clients come to me wanting to connect with someone from a similar faith orientation, others couldn’t care less and find it a safe place to believe whatever they believe. Many have been surprised at how freeing it can be to explore and come to terms with what they believe.

I strive to make therapy a safe place. Working with me is both a professional and a personal experience that just might have a significant impact on you emotional, physical, relational and/or spiritual wellbeing.