Nils Ringo, MA, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
As a therapist, I see people face decisions and complex issues in life and try with all their energy to move forward, often to encounter the same feelings and problems as before. What I see in my clients I also know in my own self: that we all abide by patterns and ways of being we learn and internalize through implicit and explicit messages about ourselves and relationships we encounter everywhere we go. Without awareness of these learned and internalized patterns, they repeat themselves, often leading us to feel stuck in the same feelings and behaviors.
Approaching decisions and issues from default patterns can bring distress, hurt, and harm. Without addressing the underlying emotions and patterns, the cycle persists. People get used to managing the stress. Something like, "This must be normal. Life is hard. Relationships are hard. I can make it through." There are more options though and
different ways through life and relationships. It is never too late to try a new way, to move forward with openness instead of reactivity, fear, pain, resentment, or despair.
Therapy can clear the air and open new possibilities. Finding and creating a new way through those experiences - a way that is kind, compassionate, and true. I have found that gaining awareness of underlying patterns and emotions can be freeing and healing. It is possible to understand what keeps stuck patterns going and to reconnect with and foster desires, vitality, and connection with others and oneself.
In my practice, I help individuals and partners to soften their defenses and to learn to accept and care for themselves in new ways. This includes making decisions to separate, stay, open, and explore options that work for each person. I help individuals and relationships get unstuck and experience new ways to feel, choose, and move forward with choices. Therapy with me includes talking and sometimes writing, drawing, role playing, and creative ways to move toward your desires, needs, and vitality.
I welcome the opportunity to meet with you to determine if my approach meets your needs.
Areas of Focus:
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Relationship Issues
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Including communication, conflict, intimacy, sexuality, discernment, separation (with individuals, partnerships, & families)
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Men’s Issues
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Including emotion, expression, sexuality, self-worth, and relationships
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Infidelity and Sexual Behavior Problems
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Sex Therapy & Sexual Health
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Life Transitions & Loss
Education & Credentials
Master of Arts in Couples and Family Therapy (MA)
Washington State Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
If you would like to set up an appointment with Nils please reach out today!