A smiling woman with glasses sitting on the sidewalk, holding a brown dog and a black puppy, with a large tree and city buildings in the background on a bright, sunny day.

Ariana DeFreitas-Fortier, LMHCA

(she/her)

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA, License #MC.70002685) in Washington state. I work with adult and adolescent individuals from a relational, psychodynamic, feminist lens. I see clients in person in Ballard, or via telehealth across Washington state.

I am also a certified full-spectrum doula and childbirth educator trained through Doula Trainings International (DTI). I have completed additional training in Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy from Postpartum Support International (PSI).

I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School and a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders from the University of Texas.

Outside of my therapy practice, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our dogs, reading, cooking and baking, being cozy, and making coffee.

Bird Dog Counseling

Happy tan dog with a dark snout and wearing a teal harness, standing on a sidewalk next to green plants with purple flowers, smiling with her eyes slightly squinted.

Birdie!

The name of my practice comes from my soul dog, Birdie. Dogs have always filled the place in my heart that desires unconditional love, positive regard and loyalty. Honorable mentions to the other dogs who currently touch my heart, or have in the past: Kuma, Max, Oliver, Luna & Monty.

“Because of the dog's joyfulness, our own is increased. It is no small gift. It is not the least reason why we should honor as well as love the dog of our own life, and the dog down the street, and all the dogs not yet born. What would the world be like without music or rivers or the green and tender grass? What would this world be like without dogs?”

― Mary Oliver, Dog Songs: Poems

Get in touch.

If you’re interested in scheduling an initial session or a free 15 minute consultation, you are welcome to send me a confidential email using this form. I do my best to respond to new inquires within 24 hours, Monday-Thursday.

If you are currently experiencing an immediate crisis or emergency, dial 911, contact the 24-hour King Country Crisis Line at (866) 427-4747, or proceed to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately if your personal safety or mental health is at risk.