About Me
Shannon Maricielo, LMFTA
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST ASSOCIATE
In-Person Couples Therapy on Bainbridge Island and Telehealth offered across Washington State
About Shannon
I’m a couples therapist on Bainbridge Island, Washington, and I work with couples who want something better for their relationship, even if they’re not sure how to get there yet. Many of the couples I see are capable, thoughtful people who care deeply about one another but feel caught in patterns that leave them disconnected, hurt, or unsure how to move forward.
When couples come to therapy, they’re often exhausted from trying to fix things on their own. Conversations feel loaded. Trust feels fragile. Intimacy feels harder to access. I don’t see these struggles as signs that something is fundamentally wrong with the relationship. I see them as signals that something important needs attention.
How I Work
I work with couples by paying close attention to what happens between you in the room. Rather than staying only at the level of explanations or past events, I help you slow down and notice the moments where familiar reactions take over. These moments hold valuable information about what each of you is protecting, wanting, needing, or afraid of losing.
I bring both care and clarity to this work. I’m supportive, and I’m also honest. I will help you understand your role in the patterns you’re part of, not to assign fault, but to give you more choice in how you respond to one another.
Why This Work Matters to Me
My perspective as a therapist has been shaped by both extensive training and lived experience. I understand how easily destructive patterns can form when people are under pressure, navigating major life changes, or trying to protect themselves in relationships that no longer feel secure.
This understanding has deepened my respect for how adaptive these patterns once were and how difficult they can be to change. It has also reinforced my belief that meaningful relationship change is possible when people feel supported, understood, and guided with clarity.
Inclusivity and Fit
I work with couples of many identities and relationship structures. I’m affirming of LGBTQIA+ couples and comfortable working with couples in nontraditional or open relationships. My role is not to impose a model of what a relationship should be, but to help you create something that feels aligned, honest, and workable for you.
This work is best suited for couples who are willing to engage thoughtfully, reflect on their own patterns, and take responsibility for growth, both individually and together.
Training and Credentials
I’m trained in evidence-based couples therapy approaches, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method and Narrative Therapy. I integrate these models in a flexible, responsive way; using them to support insight, emotional regulation, and meaningful change.
Start Couples Therapy
If you’re ready to understand what’s been happening in your relationship and work toward change that feels real and sustainable, I invite you to reach out.
NOW OFFERING
Couples Therapy Intensives
For couples who want focused, meaningful progress without the limitations of weekly sessions.
Couples therapy intensives provide dedicated time to address the patterns affecting your relationship, stabilize conflict, and begin moving toward repair and deeper connection. This structured process includes preparation sessions, a full-day intensive, and follow-up support to help integrate lasting change.