Ariel Stokes

Hi! I’m Ariel. I’m a licensed professional counselor with over 8 years of experience. Many of the challenges that bring people to therapy show up most clearly in their relationships. Whether you’re dating, building new friendships, navigating a long-term partnership, healing after a breakup, or adjusting to life as a new mom, relational stress can deeply impact your mental health. You might find yourself overthinking texts, fearing rejection, pulling away when things get close, choosing emotionally unavailable partners, or struggling to maintain meaningful friendships. These patterns can feel frustrating, confusing, and lonely. Attachment-focused therapy helps you understand why these patterns exist. The ways we learned to connect early in life often shape how we approach closeness, conflict, vulnerability, and life transitions. When attachment feels insecure, dating can feel anxiety-provoking, friendships can feel one-sided, and partnerships can feel unstable or overwhelming. Over time, this can contribute to anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and emotional burnout. In our work together, we’ll explore your relational patterns with curiosity and compassion — not judgment. We’ll strengthen your ability to communicate needs, tolerate vulnerability, set boundaries, and choose relationships that feel reciprocal and secure. Many clients notice that when they work towards building healthier relationships they notice a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. If you’re wanting healthier, more fulfilling relationships — and a stronger sense of security within yourself — I’m here to help you build that foundation. Please reach out for a free 15 minute consultation to see if I’m the right fit for you!