Clinicians

Caitlynn Maldonado, MA, LMHCA

ABOUT

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and their families. My master’s program was centered on child and adolescent mental health, and my clinical training included an internship in child and family therapy, where I worked closely with young people and caregivers navigating emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. These experiences shaped my commitment to creating a space where clients feel safe, understood, and supported as they build the skills and confidence needed to thrive.

My primary therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I integrate a range of complementary modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. This includes Motivational Interviewing to strengthen intrinsic motivation, Solution‑Focused Brief Therapy to highlight strengths and identify practical next steps, DBT‑informed skills to support emotional regulation and distress tolerance, and Mindfulness‑Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) to help clients cultivate awareness, grounding, and self‑compassion. With younger clients, I adapt these approaches using developmentally appropriate, engaging strategies. With adolescents, I emphasize collaboration, autonomy, and real‑world skill‑building that can be applied both in and outside the therapy room.

My background includes working on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, where I provided short‑term crisis intervention, de‑escalation, and safety planning for individuals and families in acute distress. I also have experience in a residential treatment setting serving youth in Behavioral Rehabilitation Services (BRS)—a level of care designed for children and teens with significant emotional, behavioral, and trauma‑related needs who require structured, therapeutic support. In this environment, I worked closely with young people navigating complex histories and high‑intensity challenges, which strengthened my ability to remain grounded, compassionate, and responsive in demanding situations.

Across all settings, I take a collaborative, client‑centered approach rooted in respect, curiosity, and genuine connection. I believe that with the right support, young people and their families can develop resilience, deepen self‑understanding, and move toward meaningful growth. My goal is to meet each client where they are and help them build the tools they need to feel more capable, confident, and supported in their daily lives.

Experience & Education

• Bachelor of Science – Eastern Washington University – 2019
• Master of Arts – University of Washington – 2025
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor – MC.61675288

Insurance

I am a Preferred Provider with Aetna, Cigna, First Choice, Kaiser Permanente, Premera, and Regence. Please call for inquiries regarding additional insurance plans.

Self-Pay

A Good Faith Estimate of expected charges will be provided when scheduling an appointment or upon request for self-pay clients.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation is required 24-hours in advance of the appointment to avoid $100 fee.