Couples Therapy on Bainbridge Island, Washington
Shannon Maricielo, LMFTA
I offer couples therapy on Bainbridge Island for partners who feel disconnected, stuck in painful cycles, or uncertain about how to repair what has been strained. Many couples arrive feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or afraid that the same conversations will keep repeating without real change.
Couples therapy provides a structured, supportive space to understand what has been happening between you and to begin responding to one another differently.
I also offer secure telehealth for couples located anywhere in Washington State.
When Relationships Feel Stuck
Couples often seek therapy when communication no longer feels productive, trust has been strained or broken, or emotional closeness feels distant or fragile. Conversations may escalate quickly, shut down entirely, or circle the same issues without resolution. Even couples who care deeply about one another can find themselves repeating patterns they don’t fully understand.
These patterns don’t form randomly. They develop over time, often in response to stress, loss, or moments when connection didn’t feel safe or reliable. Until they are understood, and intentionally modified, they tend to repeat.
How Couples Therapy Helps
In couples therapy, the focus is not on deciding who is right or wrong. It’s on understanding how patterns form between partners and how those patterns shape communication, intimacy, and trust.
With focused support, couples often begin to:
Communicate with more clarity and less reactivity
Understand why certain conflicts keep repeating
Rebuild trust through consistent, meaningful change
Feel safer expressing vulnerability and emotional needs
Strengthen their bond and sense of partnership
Change does not come from learning scripts or avoiding conflict. It comes from understanding what happens in key moments and responding differently when it matters most.
My Approach to Couples Therapy
I work with couples by paying close attention to what happens between you in the room. Rather than focusing only on past events or explanations, I help you notice the moments where familiar reactions take over. These moments offer valuable insight into what each partner is protecting, wanting, needing, or afraid of losing.
I’m both compassionate and direct. I will support you, and I will also help you take responsibility for how you show up in the relationship. My role is not to assign blame, but to help you understand your patterns clearly enough to change them.
My work is grounded in evidence-based couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method and Narrative Therapy. I integrate these approaches thoughtfully and flexibly, adapting the work to the needs of the couple rather than forcing a rigid structure.
In-Person Couples Therapy on Bainbridge Island and Telehealth offered across Washington State
Who This Work Is For
Couples therapy is a good fit if:
You care about your relationship, even if it feels strained
You are willing to reflect on your own patterns
You want meaningful change, not just better conversations
You see therapy as an investment in your relationship
I work with couples of many identities and relationship structures, including LGBTQIA+ couples and those in nontraditional or open relationships. My approach is affirming, respectful, and grounded in each couple’s values.
In-Person Couples Therapy on Bainbridge Island
In-person sessions are held at my office located at 345 Knechtel Way NE, Bainbridge Island, Washington, in the heart of downtown Winslow.
The office is a short walk from the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal, making it accessible for couples traveling from Seattle. For those coming from Poulsbo, Kingston, Silverdale, or other parts of Kitsap County, the location offers straightforward access.
The office itself is quiet and private. There is a side entrance that leads directly to a private waiting room and therapy space for couples who prefer a discreet arrival and departure. Confidentiality and comfort are prioritized throughout the experience.
Maybe You and Your Partner Are…
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Important Features of Couples Therapy
Extended Sessions
Sessions are 80 minutes long to allow sufficient time for meaningful in-session process rather than surface-level discussion.
The Relationship Is the Client
The identified client is the relationship itself, not either individual partner. You are part of a shared relational system, and our work reflects that.
No Secrets Policy
I do not hold secrets from partners. Information shared individually that impacts the relationship will be brought into the room with guidance and structure.
Initial Structure
The first session includes all partners. After that, I meet individually with each partner once to better understand the relationship system and assess for relevant risk factors.
Focus on Process, Not Position-Taking
We focus less on “who said what” and more on the patterns unfolding between you in real time.
Complement to Individual Therapy
Couples therapy can complement individual therapy, not replace it. Many couples I work with are also engaged in individual work.
Different Levels of Readiness Are Normal
It is common for partners to have different levels of motivation at the start. If both of you are willing to show up, we can begin.
Mixed Agendas Are Welcome
It is acceptable if one partner is unsure about staying or if you have different ideas about what repair looks like. Therapy can help clarify next steps.
Ways to Work Together
Ongoing Couples Therapy
Weekly or biweekly sessions focused on understanding patterns, strengthening connection, and creating sustainable change.
Relationship Intensives
Extended or weekend sessions for couples who want focused, efficient work in a shorter period of time.
In-Person or Telehealth
Sessions are offered on Bainbridge Island and through secure Telehealth across Washington State.
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.
