Mary Miyakawa , LICSW

Mary Miyakawa is a licensed clinical social worker in Washington with 36 years of professional experience, bringing long-term expertise to people navigating grief, self-esteem concerns, motivation, and major life changes. As an LICSW - a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker - she combines practical skills with a strengths-based perspective, helping clients identify and build on the resources they already possess.

She works with individuals coping with loss and transition, offering guidance to reconnect with purpose and boost confidence during difficult periods. Mary emphasizes that each person knows their own story best and that therapy is a collaborative process aimed at amplifying existing strengths and fostering meaningful change. Seeking greater fulfillment often requires courage, and she positions herself as a steady, empowering presence throughout that process.

Mary’s approach centers on supporting clients as they take initial steps toward a happier and more satisfying life, offering encouragement, skill development, and empathetic support tailored to each person’s goals and circumstances.

Evidence-Based Support for Grief and Life Transitions Online

Mary uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to grief and life changes, including grief-focused counseling that helps individuals process loss, honor what matters to them, and find ways to adapt over time. This approach supports people who are navigating bereavement and major life transitions by creating space to explore emotions and meaning.

She also employs strengths-based and skills-focused strategies that help clients build confidence and practical coping tools. These techniques concentrate on identifying personal strengths, reshaping unhelpful thinking patterns, and developing everyday skills to manage stress and boost self-esteem.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey, and Mary works collaboratively with each person to determine which techniques best match their needs, goals, and preferences. She guides clients in experimenting with methods and selecting those that feel most effective for their situation.

Online therapy with Mary can take place via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These remote options make it easier to access regular support during busy or transitional periods and to continue work on goals from wherever the client is located within Washington.