Koala Smiles Counseling

About Shawnda Brese, MA, LMFT

 

Hello! I'm Shawnda Brese, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the owner of Koala Smiles Counseling. With a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Saint Martin’s University, I specialize in helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, drawing from Structural Family Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy models. I'm also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I have completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work.

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I have a passion for working with teens and believe that all children and families should have the opportunity to be happy and thriving. My goal is to make your life easier and more peaceful by giving you and your teen tools to get through the more difficult circumstances that inevitably happen in life.

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New Beginnings in Anchorage

 

In 2025, I relocated from Puyallup, Washington, to Anchorage, Alaska, to embrace new opportunities and adventures.While I continue to maintain a presence in Puyallup and will be available to meet with clients in person during my visits, I am primarily offering virtual counseling services to individuals and families in both Alaska and Washington.

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Looking ahead, I am actively seeking office space in Anchorage with plans to establish a physical location by Spring 2026. Until then, I remain committed to providing compassionate and effective virtual therapy to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

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Whether you're in Alaska or Washington, I'm here to help you find your smile again. Contact me today to schedule a session and take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow.