EASTSIDE COUNSELING
MERIHA MANTLE
welcome
If you’ve found your way to this website, you’re obviously searching for help, support, or answers to issues/concerns you are facing in your life. Maybe you already know what you need but just want to enhance the emotional tools you currently have.
Like many of you, I have faced hardships and endured emotionally traumatic experiences…that at the time left me feeling powerless, afraid, and alone. I can empathize with those moments of feeling lost and disconnected, desiring to be heard and understood by someone who accepted me as I was. I’m here to offer guidance and support through such experiences.
One of my passions as a therapist is assisting adult individuals or couples with identifying and breaking down the issues which keep them from experiencing a life full of joy, self-awareness, acceptance, and peace. When the desire to make healthier choices is stronger than living with the current pain, then we are ready to embark on what I call a “soul awakening” journey.
Although this journey can be a fearful and difficult one, be assured that the rewards are often astounding! It will likely redefine how you view and approach everything.
Does this resonate with you?
If you're ready to get started, I encourage you to take that first step and give me a call. You won’t be alone.
You will be accepted just as you are.
about
I am an interactive, emotion-focused therapist and a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) with nearly 30 years of experience providing counseling and social services.
Certified as an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFIT & EFCT) Supervisor and therapist, I specialize in individual and couples therapy at my private practice in Walla Walla, Washington.
My approach is grounded in compassion and practicality, integrating complementary techniques to create a personalized experience for each client. I am committed to helping clients build on their strengths, navigate challenges, and achieve meaningful personal growth.
Education
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Masters in Social Work (MSW), Walla Walla University
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Bachelors in Social Work (BSW), Walla Walla University
License, Certifications, Training & Awards
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Washington State Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker # LW60031221
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EFT Supervisor, Emotionally Focused Therapist for Individuals & Couples
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Advanced Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
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Employee of the Year (2002), Overlake Hospital Medical Center
Memberships
I will be your ally
in conquering fears which were previously paralyzing
when you were facing them alone.
services
Individual Therapy
"Unprocessed fear moves under the surface and tweaks behavior. Unprocessed pain moves under the surface and tweaks behavior."
- Dr. Kathryn Rheem, ICEEFT Certified EFT Trainer, Supervisor, Therapist
individual therapy (EFIT)
Life is complicated. We’ve all heard that so many times! Juggling our day-to-day complexities is what we do…it makes life interesting! There are times, though, when our juggling act isn’t enough; where we just become distressed & overwhelmed. Sometimes it’s a life event that breaks our cadence – relationship challenges, loss of a loved one, career pressures, or even reflection on our past. It’s easiest to just ‘soldier through’ and push aside our feelings. It’s a survival tactic, but those feelings are still there! At some point, it can be too much to manage on our own.
We want to be heard but we also want to be less reactionary, explosive, or destructive in our relationships and lives, and these desires can feel irreconcilable. It may seem counterintuitive to delve into these uncomfortable feelings. However, in doing so we get clearer on what we’re really needing and become empowered in fulfilling that.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), a powerful, research-backed approach designed to help individuals process emotions, heal from past wounds, and build secure relationships --- with themselves and others.
Our sessions are focused on helping you process where you are, where you’ve come from, and how to help you manage your path forward. As part of the therapy process, building those skills involves us processing together:
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Relationship Challenges
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Grief and Loss
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Low Self-esteem/Self-worth
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Anxiety and Depression
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Overwhelmed or Diminished Coping Skills
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Healthy Boundaries and Dealing with Others’ Impact on You
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Finding Meaning and Purpose
What to Expect
EFIT helps individuals identify and transform restrictive emotional patterns, fostering inner coherence and resilience. By working through emotions in a structured and supportive space, clients gain a stronger sense of self-worth, clarity, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges.
Available to Support You
I will be your ally in conquering fears which were previously paralyzing when you were facing them alone.
If you’d like my help in making this change, email today.
Couples Therapy
EFCT provides the shift you've been missing to disrupt that experience of insanity. Because it gets to the heart of the matter.
couples therapy (EFCT)
We all know relationships are hard. Sometimes we wonder how the chasm between ourselves and our partners became so deep and wide, and whether there is any hope for bridging the distance. I’ve met so many dedicated partners who are shocked to find that within the same intimate relationships that were once fulfilling, sustaining, and soulful, they are instead feeling:
● Lost or Confused
● Alone
● Stuck or Trapped
● Deeply Disheartened or Resigned Nothing Will Change
● Hopeless or Helpless About the Future of the Relationship
I work with couples who have experienced any number of ruptures in their relationship, including:
● Broken Trust
● Infidelity
● Fighting
● Financial Struggles
● Addictions
● Disconnect in Sexual Intimacy and Desire
Disconnected partners often feel angst at the prospect of facing these troubling issues, not just as a couple but also as individuals. The humorous definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but NOT experiencing the desired result. It makes you feel crazy because you’ve repeatedly tried to fix it to no avail. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) is here to help.
What to Expect
EFCT is a short-term, structured therapy which uses a humanistic, experiential approach to restructure emotional experiences and a systemic, structural approach to reshape interactions. This evidence-based model has been shown to create meaningful, lasting change for couples worldwide.
Available to Support You
Don’t throw in the towel just yet! You and your partner can break free of the negative cycle keeping you stuck from relating in the manner you desire. I am certified in evidence-based Emotionally Focused Therapy proven to be highly effective at resolving the underlying feelings and needs that are really driving the challenging interactions. Working together, we can help you move from pulling away from one another in distress, to leaning into a loving and fulfilling intimacy you didn’t know was possible.
There is no “blame” in EFCT.
Personally, I knew something was missing in my work with couples. I felt their distress of not being able to heal the wounded areas of their relationship. I, too, felt the discomfort of their emotional tension and didn’t know how to provide relief until I discovered EFCT. It provided me with a lens which helped to make sense of their emotions so they could safely connect again. I felt empowered, as did the couples!
If this connects with you, contact me today, & let’s get started.
EFIT Supervision
No matter where you are on your EFT journey—just starting out, an experienced therapist, or a certified supervisor—everyone encounters challenges in applying this powerful model.
EFIT supervision & consultation
EFIT Supervision for Therapists
As an experienced EFT practitioner, I provide supervision and consultation for therapists training in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT). Whether you are working toward EFIT certification or seeking to deepen your skills in applying this powerful model, I offer structured, supportive guidance to help you grow as an EFT clinician.
Who This Supervision is For
✔ Therapists pursuing EFIT certification
✔ Clinicians looking to enhance their EFT skills for individual therapy
✔ Those seeking case consultation for complex individual cases
✔ Therapists who want structured support in mastering EFIT
What to Expect
Supervision is designed to help you:
✔ Strengthen your understanding and application of EFIT principles
✔ Develop confidence in working with emotion and attachment dynamics
✔ Improve case conceptualization and intervention strategies
✔ Navigate challenging cases with expert guidance
✔ Prepare for EFIT certification requirements
Individual Supervision Available
I offer individual supervision with sessions available both in-person and virtually.
Support for Your EFIT Journey
EFIT is a transformative, research-backed model for individual therapy, and quality supervision is essential for mastering its techniques. If you're seeking expert mentorship, structured learning, and a clear path to certification, I’d love to support you.
EFCT Supervision
Let me provide some support --- meeting you right where you are.
EFCT supervision & consultation
EFCT Supervision for Therapists
As an experienced EFT practitioner, I provide supervision and consultation for therapists seeking to deepen their skills in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT). Whether you’re in training, working toward certification, or looking for expert guidance in applying EFCT effectively, I’m here to support your growth.
Who This Supervision is For
✔ Therapists pursuing EFCT certification
✔ Clinicians looking to enhance their EFT skills
✔ Those seeking case consultation for couples therapy
✔ Therapists who want structured support in mastering EFCT
What to Expect
Supervision is tailored to help you:
✔ Strengthen your understanding and application of EFCT principles
✔ Develop confidence in working with emotion and attachment dynamics
✔ Improve case conceptualization and intervention skills
✔ Navigate challenging cases with expert guidance
✔ Prepare for EFCT certification requirements
Individual Supervision Available
I offer individual supervision with sessions available both in-person and virtually.
Support for Your EFCT Journey
EFCT is a powerful, research-backed approach to couples therapy, and quality supervision is essential for mastering its techniques. If you're seeking support, guidance, and a structured path to certification, I’d love to help.
Rates & Insurance
The value of insights, support & personal growth
through therapy is priceless.
rates & insurance
Rates
$155 per 50-minute session for individuals & couples
$240 per 80-minute session for individuals and couples
*I do not offer sliding scale fees.
Insurance
I do accept insurance for Individual Therapy. However, I do not accept insurance for Couple's Therapy.
I am contracted with the following for Individual Therapy only:
✔ Premera Blue Cross
✔ Regence
✔ Optum
What to Expect
Depending on your current health insurance provider or employee benefit plan, it is possible for services to be covered in full or in part. Please contact your provider to verify how your plan comprensates you for psychotherapy services.
I'd recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider to help determine your benefits.
✔ Does my health insurance plan include mental health benefits?
✔ Do I have a deductible? If so, what is it and have I met it yet?
✔ Does my plan limit how many sessions per calendar year I can have? If so, what is the limit?
✔ Do I need written approval from my primary care physician in order for services to be covered?
Cancellation Policy
If you are unable to attend a session, please make sure you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand. Otherwise, you will be charged for half of the session rate.
Any Other Questions
Please contact me with any other questions you may have using the form below. I look forward to hearing from you!
FAQ
The value of insights, support & personal growth
through therapy is priceless.
frequently asked questions
I understand that starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions. Below, are answers to some of the most common ones to help you feel informed and comfortable before your first session.
What should I expect in my first therapy session?
Your first session is all about getting to know you. We’ll discuss your concerns, goals, and what brings you to therapy. It’s also a chance for you to ask any questions and get a feel for how we’ll work together.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other life challenges, therapy can be a great tool for gaining clarity and support. A free consultation can help determine if therapy is a good fit for you.
How long does therapy usually take?
The length of therapy varies based on your needs and goals. Some people find short-term therapy (a few months) helpful, while others benefit from longer-term support.
How often should I come to therapy?
My clients start with weekly sessions, but the frequency can be adjusted based on your progress and preferences.
What’s the difference between therapy and coaching?
Therapy helps address mental health concerns and emotional challenges, while coaching is more focused on goal-setting, personal growth, and performance improvement.
Do you provide virtual/online therapy sessions?
Yes! I offer secure teletherapy sessions for clients who prefer the convenience of online appointments.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, everything you share in therapy is kept confidential, except in cases where there is a legal or ethical obligation to report (e.g., risk of harm to yourself or others).
Are there any situations where confidentiality might be broken?
Confidentiality is only broken in cases of child abuse, elder abuse, or if there is an immediate risk of harm to yourself or others.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Taking the first step
is the hardest part, but I'm here to help.
Contact me today to begin your journey.