Rule and Associates
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    • Home
    • Meet our Providers
    • Meet Our Client Support
    • Client Portal
    • Client Rights
    • Services
    • Career Opportunities
Rule and Associates
  • Home
  • Meet our Providers
  • Meet Our Client Support
  • Client Portal
  • Client Rights
  • Services
  • Career Opportunities

Welcome to Rule & Associates

Each member of the Rule and Associates team, including therapists and coaches. have been carefully chosen to ensure each service is delivered to your family with the highest possible level of professionalism, safety, expertise and care.  Alicia is not accepting new clients at this time.


What our clients are saying, “Rule and Associates has truly helped transform my life. Belsa is an incredible therapist, she has such a warm, friendly energy that makes any session feel calm. The receptionists are stellar, very informative, and very kind. 10/10 for Rule and Associates, I can't recommend it enough.

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Our Team

Alicia Rule, MSW, LICSW, Executive Director, Practice Owner

Alicia Rule, MSW, LICSW, Executive Director, Practice Owner

Alicia Rule, MSW, LICSW, Executive Director, Practice Owner

Alicia Rule, LICSW, Clinical Director

Our professional staff is selectively chosen and trained by Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and practice owner, Alicia Rule.  Alicia  began her first social work role in 1995. Since then, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and in American Ethnic Studies, Master’s in Social Work and an additional credential in School Social Work. She also earned a certificate  in youth mental health.  She previously worked as a Child Protective Worker, Supervisor, Policy Administrator and Trainer in child welfare. Alicia has managed many social work programs over the years and has partnered with several universities and the Public Child Welfare Training Academy in Southern California to teach and train social work students and professionals.  She has been honored with the privilege of being a social worker from birth to death and every stage in between. Her passion for adoption has led to experience with all facets of the adoption experience. She has also supported families through the fertility journey, severe medical needs, special needs, postpartum and hospice. 

Shannon Webb, MSW, LICSW, MHP, CMHS, Clinical Director

Alicia Rule, MSW, LICSW, Executive Director, Practice Owner

Alicia Rule, MSW, LICSW, Executive Director, Practice Owner

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Child Mental Health Specialist with a Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University and over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes work in community mental health, healthcare systems, and private practice. I provide trauma-informed care using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Problem-Solving Treatment. My work is grounded in Family Systems theory and guided by a strengths-based, collaborative approach.

I support children, adults, families, and professionals navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, compassion fatigue, and relational challenges. I believe therapy is a space to feel seen, deepen self-awareness, and reconnect with inner resilience.

Outside of my clinical work, I’m a parent, mentor, and advocate who finds joy in life’s simple pleasures, spending time in nature, connecting with friends and family, reading, baking, playing board games, and enjoying the company of my dog. I’m also passionate about giving back through volunteer work and community involvement. My goal is to offer a warm, inclusive, and affirming space where clients can explore what matters most and move toward lasting, meaningful change

Madison Salvati, LMHCA

Alicia Rule, MSW, LICSW, Executive Director, Practice Owner

Eileen Brown, MA, LMHCA

Madi is an associate professional clinical counselor with roots in wilderness, somatic, and adventure therapy. She has experience in the residential treatment environment with teens and families struggling with substance use disorders. Recently, she has been working in the private practice and within the middle/high school settings to continue to grow her understanding of family systems and the adolescent experience in therapy. Madi’s experience stems from evidence-based modalities such as internal family systems therapy, attachment theory, dialectical behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, Madi is EMDR trained and has experience working with clients dealing with complex trauma, intergenerational issues, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, and grief.




Schedule appointment with Madi

Eileen Brown, MA, LMHCA

Casey Bosse, MA, LMHC, RPT, CCPT, Lead Pediatric Clinician

Eileen Brown, MA, LMHCA

Hello! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology. I work with individuals and couples of all ages, through all stages and transitions of life. I have training in Lifespan Integration and am currently working toward certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. 

I believe each person carries a deep knowing that can guide healing and growth in a therapeutic relationship.   Since words can sometimes fall short in expressing deep emotions or trauma, I incorporate somatic awareness, mindfulness, relational psychotherapy and play into the therapeutic process as we explore how your past and present experiences shape your relationships and your sense of self.

I have also had my own personal life triumphs and challenges in the realm of marriage, parenting, relocation, miscarriage, homeschooling, domestic violence, spiritual abuse, death and divorce.  Prior to becoming a therapist, I have had careers as an animal scientist, and as a Waldorf preschool teacher. These life experiences deeply inform how I show up in the therapy room—with empathy, authenticity, and a deep respect for the complexity of each person’s story.  I look forward to the possibility of working with you.  

Schedule appointment with Eileen

Jake Blondheim, MA, LMHC, Supervisor

Casey Bosse, MA, LMHC, RPT, CCPT, Lead Pediatric Clinician

Casey Bosse, MA, LMHC, RPT, CCPT, Lead Pediatric Clinician

Jake is an experienced clinician that uses a variety of evidence based therapy modalities and has a friendly and engaging approach to therapy. While his background is quite varied and extensive, he specializes in mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. He is experienced and trained to work with clients with OCD. He also has a strong background in working with folks who have been diagnosed with ADD and autism.  He earned a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. He has been a therapist for youth, adults and families. Jake has openings on his schedule for new clients and Is contracted with most insurances.

Schedule appointment with Jake

Casey Bosse, MA, LMHC, RPT, CCPT, Lead Pediatric Clinician

Casey Bosse, MA, LMHC, RPT, CCPT, Lead Pediatric Clinician

Casey Bosse, MA, LMHC, RPT, CCPT, Lead Pediatric Clinician

Casey specializes in pediatric mental health with training in TheraPlay, Compassion Focused Therapy and Functional Family Therapy. He is a fully trained Registered Play Therapist by the Association of Play Therapusts- an extensive training and radistinction in WA. You will often find him using tools like the therapeutic sandbox, puppets or games because he understands that play is the language of children. But, his expertise reaches into the family structure as well as using Gottman’s lens to practice couples therapy because he appreciates outcomes based research. Casey is contracted with most insurance plans including Premera, Regence, Kaiser, many Blue Cross plans. Please call our office or your insurance company for verification. 

Schedule appointment with Casey

Crystal Garcia, LMHCA, Intern Coordinator

Crystal Garcia, LMHCA, Intern Coordinator

Crystal Garcia, LMHCA, Intern Coordinator

Crystal earned her master’s degree from Walden University, and she  is EMDR trained and holds a level 1 certification from the Internal  Family Systems (IFS) Institute. 

She has years of experience working with children, teens and adults in settings ranging from classrooms, mentorship, career development, non-profit programming and  community-based diversity groups. 

She is well versed in family care and is passionate about empowering people of all ages and identities to create peaceful and fulfilling relationships, families and lives through compassionate and trauma informed and care. Crystal is contracted with Molina, as well as a wide variety of insurance providers.


Crystal is currently full for new clients at this time. 

Gianna Carotenuto, PhD, LMHCA

Crystal Garcia, LMHCA, Intern Coordinator

Crystal Garcia, LMHCA, Intern Coordinator

Gianna has a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Antioch University, Seattle. While she has worked with all ages, she enjoys working with young adults and has worked extensively with parents of young children. She provides her clients with therapeutic tools for transformation based on self-empowerment and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in somatic body awareness and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for PTSD, offers a strengths-based approach to support client wellness, and uses internal family systems (IFS) to highlight the power of family history in creating our identities. She is trained in culturally competent counseling and social justice and enjoys working with diverse ethnic identities and communities. Gianna also has a doctorate in Art History from the University of California, Los Angeles, and has taught courses in art, visual culture, and social justice at the University level. Gianna creates photography, spends time in her seasonal garden, loves birds and mason bees. Gianna is contracted with Molina, Community Healthcare of WA, Cigna and Aetna.

Schedule appointment with Gianna

Christi Carey, MSW, LMHCA

Crystal Garcia, LMHCA, Intern Coordinator

Christi Carey, MSW, LMHCA

Christi has a Master’s in Counseling from Northern Arizona University, an EdS in Education from Liberty University, and a Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice. She has many years of experience working with folks with all types of mental health challenges, including children living in foster care with behavioral, cognitive, and physical barriers/disorders, people struggling with addiction and those in recovery. She has decades of experience in the behavioral health field.
Christi is contracted with most major insurances plans. 

Schedule appointment with Christi

Grace Bills, MA, LMHCA

Rhonda Martinez, Nurse Practitioner

Christi Carey, MSW, LMHCA

Grace earned her Master’s degreee in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Saybrook University. She has experience working with teenagers, adults, and couples navigating challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, life-transitions, and family/relationship dynamics, including divorce. She provides trauma-informed and affirming care for neurodivergent individuals. She uses an integrative therapeutic style, drawing from various theoretical orientations and techniques to meet the unique needs of each client. Grace's framework is grounded in a humanistic and person-centered approach that fosters a supportive, non-judgmental space for healing and growth. Grace is contracted with most insurance plans, including Premera, Regence, Kaiser, Aetna and more. Please contact our office or your insurance company to check your plan. 

Schedule appointment with Grace

John Malone, LMHCA

Rhonda Martinez, Nurse Practitioner

Rhonda Martinez, Nurse Practitioner

John is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) with a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. His treatment approach is founded on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence based modality which emphasizes grounding in the present moment, acceptance of difficult inner experiences, and connecting with values in order to enhance agency and engage in life-affirming actions. He has extensive experience working with neurodiverse individuals, as well as those facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and traumatic experiences. He also has nearly two decades of experience in mindfulness techniques, particularly Qi Gong, a form of moving meditation similar to Tai Chi and Yoga. He sees adults and teens individually, as well as couples sessions and family therapy with kids age 10+.

Schedule appointment with John

Rhonda Martinez, Nurse Practitioner

Rhonda Martinez, Nurse Practitioner

Rhonda Martinez, Nurse Practitioner

With 32 years as a nurse practitioner under her belt, Rhonda comes to Rule and Associates with a passion for whole person care. Her extensive work with local tribes includes managing health clinics and behavioral health and SUD specialties. She also has many years experience working with our military. Even with all of her years of expertise, what you will probably notice most is how easy she is to talk to, with her warm and easy going demeanor. Her medication management approach is to fully integrate with the behavioral health team and patient and their family to bring health and wellness to each person she sees.

Schedule a med appointment with Rhonda

Rebecca Ross, MSW, LSWAIC

Victoria Garvin, MSW, LSWAIC

Rebecca is known for her friendly and warm approach.  She joins us with a master’s degree in social work from Boise State University and brings a trauma informed perspective. She is trained in EMDR and incorporates elements from multiple evidence-based interventions such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Family Therapy, DBT, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), as well as other modalities that incorporate the power of mindfulness. Rebecca has worked with clients in various life stages and especially enjoys working with middle school, high school, and college-aged clients. Rebecca is passionate about helping those who have untreated anxiety or depression and are struggling from the effects of mental health decline. Rebecca’s experience includes helping clients in crisis with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, and PTSD. She believes in the value of therapeutic interventions that support youth and their families. Clients feel safe, accepted, and supported while utilizing their own strengths. Rebecca is contracted with most major insurance plans.

Schedule appointment with Rebecca

Victoria Garvin, MSW, LSWAIC

Victoria Garvin, MSW, LSWAIC

Victoria earned her Master’s in Social Work from University of Southern California and her Bachelor’s from University of New Haven in Connecticut. Her experience as a Family Victim Advocate with the U.S. Navy brings a high skill level in trauma informed care and her background in community mental health and domestic violence work gives her a well rounded portfolio of professional experience. Victoria works with individuals 10 years and older. She uses evidence-based therapy tools and skills such as Problem-Solving Therapy, Mindfulness skills, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Victoria is a bit of a thrill seeker, as she loves ziplining and horseback riding. Victoria is contracted with most major insurance plans.

Schedule appointment with Victoria

Amy Armstrong, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Following an early career in veterinary medicine, Amy became involved with the local grassroots mental health organization NAMI Whatcom, where her passion for the mental health profession was reaffirmed. She has been actively involved with the organization for nearly 10 years and is committed to advocating for improved access to mental health support and education in the community. Following this passion, Amy is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Prescott College.

Amy adopts a holistic, collaborative, person-centered approach that emphasizes meeting clients exactly where they are at, and empowering them to recognize and build upon their own unique strengths and wisdom. She emphasizes a therapeutic relationship rooted in curiosity, acceptance, trust, empathy, and unconditional positive regard toward clients, and provides compassionate, trauma-informed care.

Incorporating somatic practices, nature, and adventure into her work, Amy creates a safe, supportive environment where meaningful, lasting healing and growth can take place. She enjoys counseling a wide variety of client populations, with a special interest in working with children, teens, and young adults.

Outside of her professional life, Amy enjoys hiking, kayaking, and a variety of other outdoor activities that allow her to connect with nature and embrace her playful, adventurous side, spending time with her 4-legged (and one 3-legged) companions, connecting with loved ones over shared interests and the friendly competition of card and board games, and nurturing her introverted side through her writing or getting lost in a captivating book.

Schedule appointment with Amy

Ayla Mullen, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Belsa Martinez, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Ayla brings a passion for personal exploration, self expression, and the relationship between emotions and behaviors from her previous career as a professional ceramic artist and pottery teacher. Ayla approaches counseling as a collaborative, person-centered process, and blends a variety of therapeutic approaches to the unique needs of each individual, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Relational-Cultural Therapy (RCT).  She is committed to building safe, authentic therapeutic relationships and empowering clients to find and follow their inner knowing, build self-trust and resilience, and deepen their capacity to find meaning, purpose, and connection in life. She is currently in her final year of her Master’s Degree in Counseling at Adams University. 

Schedule appointment with Ayla

Belsa Martinez, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Belsa Martinez, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Belsa Martinez, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Belsa has a long history of working with children, teens, and young adults in educational, treatment, and community-based settings. She enjoys working with clients of all ages, with a special interest in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. She brings a calm, empathetic, and collaborative approach to the counseling process. She is in her final year of her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.  She is contracted with Molina, Community Health Plan of WA, United Behavioral Health and Aetna.

Schedule appointment with Belsa

Kristal Raymond, MA, LMHCA

Belsa Martinez, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Belsa Martinez, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kristal is a highly skilled and empathetic professional with a Master’s in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. She has additional certification in Positive Parenting Program (PPP). She has supervised and worked in nearly all facets of family and individual work including substance use disorder. She’s also earned two years toward her Ph.D at Antioch University and has worked for over 16 years in mental health, including in Family Preservation Services. Disorder Treatment and Intensive Outpatient care teams for several decades. She enjoys working with a variety of aged from young children to adults and everywhere in between. She is contracted with most insurances.

Schedule appointment with Kristal

Mel Challender, BA, RAAC

James "Duffy" Brook, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Dan McDonald, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Mel has a very steady demeanor and warm approach that instantly makes you feel comfortable. Her experience with parents and other adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and big life transitions Is helpful to many. She is highly effective at helping people overcome what they believe are insurmountable odds.

Schedule appointment with Mel

Dan McDonald, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

James "Duffy" Brook, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Dan McDonald, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Dan is currently pursuing a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology. He has a background supporting neurodiverse individuals and brings a deep curiosity about what makes each person unique. His clinical work is grounded in person-centered, relational care, with an emphasis on safety, creativity, and connection in the therapeutic process. Dan draws from a range of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based, Attachment-Focused, and Existential therapy. He believes that healing happens through authentic relationships and works to honor the whole experience of each individual. Dan creates a space of warmth, respect, and hope as clients explore what helps them grow.

Schedule appointment with Dan

James "Duffy" Brook, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

James "Duffy" Brook, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

James "Duffy" Brook, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Duffy is currently pursuing his master’s in clinical mental health counseling after spending a year studying Internal Family Systems (IFS). His clinical lens is rooted in a deep appreciation for existential-humanism. By taking a person-centered view of relating to people, meeting his clients where they are in the moment, and in their relationships, you can expect warmth, non-judgment, acceptance, and curiosity. He skillfully creates a safe space to explore your problems, fears, and challenges. Duffy is contracted with Molina, Provider One, and Community Health Plan of Washington.

Schedule appointment with Duffy

Martha Flores, MA, RDN, CD

April Tinker, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

James "Duffy" Brook, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Martha Flores, MS, RDN, CD is a registered dietitian nutritionist specializing in pediatric and family nutrition. She brings expertise in supporting children and teens with picky eating, food allergies, weight concerns, and disordered eating. Martha is passionate about helping families build lifelong healthy habits through practical, age-appropriate nutrition education. With a warm and approachable style, she provides Medical Nutrition Therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs

Schedule appointment with Martha

Fern Sisana, M.A., LAAC

April Tinker, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

April Tinker, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Fern is a former teacher, having transitioned into the mental health field as a counselor after several years of working in a variety of different educational settings. They have taught multiple subjects to students from an array of different backgrounds, in addition to having professional experience working with immigrant and first generation students, neurodiverse children and their families, students with varying kinds of disabilities, and families who are navigating the legal system with their children. They have experience working with youth of all ages, from as young as early childhood all the way up through teen age and late adolescence. Their experience integrating and implementing trauma-informed care practices while working with homeless youth has led them to address mental health from a holistic perspective, using a variety of modalities and frameworks, all of which comes together for their collaborative, client-centered approach. Fern is contracted with Aetna, Cigna, Molina, and Community Healthplan of WA.

Schedule appointment with Fern

April Tinker, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

April Tinker, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

April Tinker, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

April is pursuing a Master of Social Work degree with a clinical specialty from the University of Kentucky. She has worked closely with older adults by providing individualized support, advocacy, and resource coordination to promote dignity and autonomy in aging and also worked closely with adolescents who experienced various mental health challenges by assisting with the development of emotional regulation skills through mindfulness, grounding techniques, and sensory integration tools. She has a passion to support individuals of all ages and explore their stories with curiosity, compassion, and holistic care. With a foundation rooted in trauma-informed, strength-based, and person-centered care, there is a desire to provide an environment that allows clients of all ages to uncover their inner strengths and find healthy change at their own pace.

Schedule appointment with April

Jessica Gregory, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Jessica Gregory, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Jessica Gregory, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Jessica brings with her seven years of experience in child welfare experience, passionately supporting children and families. With specialized training in Structural Family Therapy and Behavior Therapy, Jessica fosters deep, communicative relationships. You'll often find her using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and play therapy, understanding that play is a crucial way for children to express themselves. With previous experience working directly with children in school and home settings alongside their families, she has honed skills in crisis management and individualized treatment planning. Jessica is currently pursuing a Master's in Social Work from Boston University, furthering her dedication to promoting emotional and mental well-being through compassionate, family-centered care.

Schedule appointment with Jessica

Jennifer Quimby, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Jessica Gregory, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Jessica Gregory, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

You’ve taken a brave first step in considering counseling! Whether to improve your relationship with your partner, your child, or within yourself, I’ll use a compassion and strength-based approach. I also use the Gottman Method, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Feminist Multicultural Narrative Therapy among others. After a decade of working with children and families, I am completing my master’s in clinical mental health counseling at the University of the Cumberlands. I am a proud wife, mom, and outdoor enthusiast. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be honored to walk this path with you. Please reach out for my availability or more information.

Schedule appointment with Jennifer

‬Jessica Deem, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Jessica Gregory, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

‬Jessica Deem, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

With‬‭ a‬‭ strong‬‭ background‬‭ as‬‭ a‬‭ licensed‬‭ therapeutic‬‭ foster‬‭ parent‬‭ and‬‭ extensive‬‭ experience‬‭ working‬‭ with‬‭ at-risk, homeless,‬‭ and‬‭ incarcerated‬‭ youth,‬‭ Jessica‬‭ brings‬‭ deep‬‭ insight‬‭ and‭ compassionate‬‭ care‬‭ into‬‭ providing trauma-informed,‬‭ client-centered‬‭ care‬‭ that‬‭ fosters‬‭ resilience,‬‭ personal‬‭ growth,‬‭ and‬‭ emotional‬‭ healing.‬‭ As‬‭ a‬‭ mother‬‭ of‬‭ five,‬‭ step-parent,‬‭ and‬‭ previous‬‭ foster‬ parent,‬‭ she‬‭ enjoys‬‭ working‬‭ with‬‭ youth‬‭ and‬‭ is‬‭ passionate‬‭ about‬‭ encouraging‬‭ and‬‭ supporting‬ women‬‭ through‬‭ motherhood‬‭ and‬‭ other‬‭ family‬‭ and‬‭ life‬‭ challenges.‬‭ Jessica‬‭ is‬‭ currently‬‭ pursuing‬‭ a‬ ‭ Master's‬‭ in‬‭ Clinical‬‭ Mental‬‭ Health‬‭ Counseling‬‭ from‬‭ the‬‭ University‬‭ of‬‭ the‬‭ Cumberlands.‬‭ Her‬‭ primary‬‭ therapeutic‬‭ modalities‬‭ include‬‭ Humanistic‬‭ Therapy,‬‭ Cognitive‬‭ Behavioral‬‭ Therapy,‬‭ and‬ Solution-Focused‬‭ Brief‬‭ Therapy.

Schedule appointment with Jessica

‬Paula Stratman, MSW, LSWAIC -Supervisor

‬Paula Stratman, MSW, LSWAIC -Supervisor

‬Jessica Deem, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

I am a Clinical Social Worker Associate with over 15 years of experience supporting children as a school counselor. My passion is working with children, teens, and adults in a therapeutic setting, providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore challenges and build on strengths. I'm deeply devoted to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. I view each person as whole and believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of meaningful change. My approach integrates evidence-based practices along with expressive arts techniques that are tailored to each individuals goals, personality, and context to help clients navigate anxiety, depression, social emotional skill development, grief and loss, and life transitions.

 I received my BA in Human Services from Western Washington University in 2006 and my Masters in Social Work at Eastern Washington University 2010.  Most recently, I completed a certificate in expressive arts therapy through the Northwest Creative and Expressive Arts Institute. I value the depth of creativity and understanding that art, play and mindfulness provides in my practice. However, I am most proud of the journey as a parent, navigating the ups and downs of raising two children.

When I am not working, you will find me outdoors in my garden or hiking the Chuckanut mountains with my dogs. I enjoy a novel and more importantly spending time with my family.

Schedule appointment with Paula

Jill Freeze, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

‬Paula Stratman, MSW, LSWAIC -Supervisor

Jill Freeze, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

I’m a Master of Social Work student at The Ohio State University with a concentration in Mental Health and Substance Misuse. While I’m new to the social work field, helping people has always been a passion of mine. From academic advising to mentoring blind and visually impaired youth and helping the homeless find jobs, I’ve treasured being a small part of peoples’ journeys. 

My work administering a music therapy program for seniors piqued my interest in creative modalities like narrative therapy, therapeutic journaling, animal-guided therapy, and humor therapy, and my certification as a Dependable Strengths Articulation Process Facilitator sharpened my skills in helping clients uncover their sometimes hidden strengths. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is also a great modality to tie everything together.

With years of lived experience with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, visual impairment, and poor self-esteem, I can meet you where you are right now, listen with profound empathy and compassion, and be your teammate and guide as you build (or rebuild) a life you love and deserve. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you!

Schedule appointment with Jill

John Utter, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

‬Paula Stratman, MSW, LSWAIC -Supervisor

Jill Freeze, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

John helps clients resolve trauma, shift limiting patterns, and reconnect with their values so they can find meaning and fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers. He brings an enthusiastic, curious, creative, and down-to-earth presence to the work, fueled by a deep passion for helping others grow.

Before entering the counseling field, he spent over a decade helping public sector leaders and teams enhance wellness, strengthen collaboration, and clarify career direction.

Over time, he saw how unresolved trauma shaped people’s struggles with purpose, performance, and connection. This led him to start a trauma-focused hypnosis practice and then to pursue counseling.

John’s integrative approach draws primarily from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), narrative therapy, and cognitive-behavioral hypnotherapy. He has trained in-person with leading trauma experts, including Deb Dana (Polyvagal Theory) and Bessel van der Kolk, M.D., author of The Body Keeps the Score.

Schedule appointment with John

Kaya Sherwood-Bally, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kaya Sherwood-Bally, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kaya Sherwood-Bally, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kaya is pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Catawba College. With over five years of unique experience in the field of social services, she brings an effective attitude and perspective to her work with Rule and Associates. In practice, Kaya emphasizes her therapeutic relationships with empathy, insightfulness, and an accommodating nature.

Schedule appointment with Kaya

Kimberly Bernhardt, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kaya Sherwood-Bally, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kaya Sherwood-Bally, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

As a Behavioral Health Intern in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Grand Canyon University, I bring a heart for healing and over a decade of real-world experience to the therapy space. My work is grounded in a trauma-informed, person-centered lens, shaped by years of supporting individuals across the lifespan, from foster youth to older adults. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to offer a flexible, compassionate, and tailored approach to each client’s journey. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where people feel safe to show up as they are, explore what’s holding them back, and begin moving toward the life they want to lead.

Schedule appointment with Kimberly

Meagan Wheeler, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Kaya Sherwood-Bally, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Meagan Wheeler is a counseling intern completing her graduate training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Prescott College. Her work is trauma-informed, somatic, and rooted in ancestral and narrative traditions. She supports clients in exploring how identity forms within systems, histories, and the body. Meagan has worked with adults with developmental disabilities, teens navigating addiction, and currently serves as a jail librarian. She brings sensitivity to chronic illness, neurodivergence, and marginalization. She welcomes clients into a space where complexity is honored and new possibilities for self-understanding and connection can emerge.

Schedule appointment with Meagan

Nancy Picht, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling at Walden University, building on a strong background in education and healthcare. As an educator, I worked closely with neurodiverse students and individuals with disabilities, and also spent several years tutoring English Language Learners from diverse cultural backgrounds. These experiences deepened my commitment to inclusivity and my passion for creating safe spaces where clients feel seen and valued.

As someone who identifies as BIPOC and was raised in a rural area, I bring a strong understanding of identity, belonging, and cultural humility to my work. I have a special interest in supporting individuals navigating grief, loss, and caregiving—areas where I have both personal and professional insight.

My developing therapeutic orientation is integrative, with a foundation in person-centered, solution-focused, and multicultural counseling approaches. I strive to build strong therapeutic alliances, empower clients to identify their strengths, and support them in working toward personal growth and resilience.

Schedule appointment with Nancy

Randy Leventhal, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Randy Leventhal, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Greetings and welcome! I passionately support children, families, adults, and couples along their journey in life with a safe, open, inclusive, and collaborative space. My approach brings warmth, curiosity, and compassion along with over 20 years of teaching experience individualizing support for a wide range of school age children and their families in both traditional and alternative settings. I strive to continue integrating unique and developmentally appropriate opportunities of creative expression for adults and children through a systemic, holistic perspective using a variety of modalities to promote emotional and mental well-being within ourselves and with others. I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Couples and Family Therapy with Antioch University of New England. I am passionate about working with all age clients navigating grief, anxiety, trauma, gender, neurodivergence, ADHD, disabilities, divorce, and other life transitions.

Schedule appointment with Randy

Ryan Salazar, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Randy Leventhal, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

I bring a unique blend of experience to my practice, having worked extensively in preschool education and integrating this understanding of developmental stages into my therapeutic approach.

My therapeutic toolkit encompasses a wide range of evidence-based modalities, including Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This diverse approach allows me to tailor my methods to each individual's unique needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized and effective therapeutic journey.

Within my practice, I prioritize fostering a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges, uncover their strengths, and cultivate greater resilience. I believe in building a strong therapeutic alliance, based on trust and mutual respect, to facilitate meaningful and lasting change.

Schedule appointment with Ryan

Sierra Gray, RAAC, LMHC Intern

Sydney Funsinn, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Sydney Funsinn, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Sierra is a Mental Health Counseling graduate student completing her Master’s degree at Antioch University Seattle. She believes that healing is something that happens in connection - with ourselves and with others - and strives to create a space where clients feel genuinely heard and supported. Her approach is warm, collaborative and client-led, drawing from mindfulness practices, Relational-Cultural Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Sierra is passionate about working with individuals and couples, especially with folks with anxiety, neurodivergence,  relationship issues and navigating big life changes. 

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Sydney Funsinn, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Sydney Funsinn, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Sydney Funsinn, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Sydney is earning her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. Her background in massage and childcare has fostered an ability to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space for people of all ages. Grounded in person-centered values, Sydney’s approach incorporates empathic listening, genuine exchange, empowerment, and collaboration. She also enjoys utilizing various tools when appropriate – such as somatic awareness, mindfulness, and others. Through trust in each person’s inherent strength & wisdom, Sydney aims to support clients in finding their unique path to relief, ease, and more enjoyment in their day-to-day life.

Schedule appointment with Sydney

Stacy Reynolds, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Sydney Funsinn, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

Stacy Reynolds, RAAC, Master’s Level Intern

 "Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable.” Mary Oliver

Stacy Reynolds offers a warm, relational approach to therapy grounded in curiosity, creativity, and respect for each person’s lived experience. She works with individuals of all ages navigating grief, depression, anxiety, caregiver burden, identity exploration, and major life transitions. Her style is collaborative, person-centered, and often playful—rooted in the belief that healing happens through connection, self-expression, and compassionate presence.

Stacy draws from humanistic-existential theory, mindfulness practices, and expressive arts therapy, integrating somatic and creative modalities to support clients in reconnecting with their resilience, values, and voice. With a background in the performing arts—including theater, music, and voice—she brings a unique perspective to her work, exploring singing, sound, and somatic vocalization as tools for grounding and self-discovery.

She is currently completing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Prescott College, where her studies have focused on complicated grief, ambiguous loss, somatic vocal interventions, and embodied awareness. Stacy continues to deepen her training in expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, and somatic practices, with a passion for helping clients find meaning, healing, and wholeness—even amid life’s most complex moments.

Schedule appointment with Stacy

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119 N. Commercial St., Suite 1400

Bellingham WA 98225

(360) 734-0615

info@ruleandassociates.org

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