Hi, I’m Phaedra Castro. I am currently in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Gonzaga University, a CACREP accredited program. My work experiences have revolved closely around working with individuals dealing with trauma, suicidal ideation, homelessness, stress, depression, and anxiety. Currently, I work part time at Frontier Behavioral Health, a local mental health agency, as part of their crisis team. I also have previous experience working as a Family Support Specialist for a Wraparound Intensive Services (WISe) program.
As a counselor I strive to provide a safe nonjudgmental environment where individuals can feel seen, heard, and supported through their own personal journey. I believe people have the capacity for change. Because I believe there is a connection between our thoughts, emotions, and behavior. I draw from mindfulness techniques to encourage self-awareness. I view my role as someone who will listen to my client’s needs and empower them to create desired change. I am humanistic and a person centered at my core. I will provide support by drawing from studied modalities and theories based on an individual’s needs. I hold gratitude and privilege for the opportunity to work alongside my clients and witness personal growth.
Phaedra is working with clients of various ages, specializing in anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, life transition, depression and couples counseling.
She is training in Emotional Focused Therapy for use with couples and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for use with kids and with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Therapies and with grief, loss and mourning. She is scheduled for upcoming training around Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Welcome to Life’s Learning! An exploration of life’s meaningful lessons from the simple daily and big life experiences as well as the follow your bliss moments.
Suzanne is an Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEP) with the National Board of Certified Counselors
Suzanne Apelskog of Life’s Learning for Counselors has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP, No. 6786. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Suzanne Apelskog of Life’s Learning is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.