Couples therapists in Kent, WA

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I hold a Bachelors of Science in Psychology from James Madison University. I also hold a Master's degree and Educational Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from James Madison University. I have provided outpatient counseling services in multiple community settings including higher education, military counseling centers and veteran's counseling centers.

My practice of clinical psychology is rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and a steadfast commitment to fostering holistic well-being. I am excited about the continued journey of learning, growth, and impact that lies ahead, as I navigate the dynamic landscape of clinical psychology with dedication, curiosity, and an unwavering passion for making a difference in the lives of others.

My name is Jeffrey W. Danese, MS, MA, LMHC, LPCC, and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Washington State and California, currently based in Sacramento. I bring over 15 years of clinical experience across private practice, inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, and college counseling, along with a an academic background teaching psychology, religious studies, and the history of science in higher education from UCSB, FSU, and 10 years at SJSU to various community colleges in the Puget Sound region and in North Florida and cross-cultural experiences such as living in Taiwan, Zambia, Germany and traveling around the world; I studied Spanish, German, and Chinese language, world history and religions, psychology, evolutionary psychology and the cognitive science of religion; was raised Catholic but ordained as a Buddhist monk in Thailand; and continue to meditate, explore and read broadly. One of my favorite quotes is by the Roman writer, Terence: "I am human and there is nothing human foreign to me." (or, Homo sum, humani nihil a me alienum puto. -- Publius Terentius Afer, 165 BCE)

Starting therapy can feel like a big step—whether you’re new to counseling or returning after past experiences. Maybe you already know your goals, or perhaps you just know something needs to change. You might be facing relationship challenges, stress, or uncertainty about what comes next. Therapy is a safe space to slow down, sort through what feels overwhelming, and gain clarity. Together, we’ll explore your needs and create a plan that helps you move toward greater confidence, healthier connections, and a more fulfilling life.

I currently accept individual adult clients only through Headway. I do not provide couples or family therapy through this platform at this time.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+ clients seeking deeper self-understanding, emotional healing, and more connected relationships. My approach is warm, relational, trauma-informed, and grounded in the belief that healing happens through safety, honesty, and meaningful connection.

I specialize in relationship therapy, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, attachment wounds, complex trauma, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. I also support clients navigating life transitions, grief, shame, self-worth, communication challenges, and patterns that keep them feeling stuck or disconnected from themselves and others.

My work draws from Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems, somatic awareness, humanistic and existential therapy, and trauma-informed care. I help clients slow down, listen inward, understand their patterns, and develop more compassionate and empowered ways of relating.

As a queer-affirming therapist, I am especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients and relationships. I strive to create a space where clients can bring their full selves—without judgment—and explore healing in a way that honors their identities, histories, relationships, spirituality, and lived experience.