A woman with glasses smiling, wearing a patterned sweater, black top, and a beaded necklace.

Hello! My name is Clare Maven and I am a therapist in Bellingham, WA.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University and spent a decade on the front lines of social services managing a local food bank, working with CPS, and navigating acute crisis work. Alongside this, I spent significant time backpacking solo across several continents. These experiences, both at home and abroad, left me with a deep curiosity about the human story and a firsthand look at how broken our larger systems can be.

Witnessing the toll of acute crisis led me to a turning point: I wanted to move toward a more foundational, individual level of healing. This led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Antioch University Seattle and I opened my private practice in 2023. My time in the field has given me a front row seat to human resilience and our universal need for connection. I have learned that no matter our background, we are all searching for that sense of being truly seen, accepted, and loved.

A black curly-haired dog with a rainbow bandana lying on a patterned rug, resting its paw on a plush toy. There is a gray blanket and a couch in the background.

Having called the Pacific Northwest home for most of my life, I have learned to embrace the rhythm of our seasons… balancing a love for the outdoors with a deep appreciation for indoor coziness. When the rain moves in, I love getting lost in a good book, experimenting with a new recipe in the kitchen, or spending quality time with my husband. To stay active, I head outside with my dog, Maisie. She’s a sweet Bernedoodle and a great therapy buddy; let me know if you would like her to join us for a session! I am honored to be part of your journey toward healing and connection.