Welcome! I'm Carrie Farrell, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the founder of The Playground Counseling. I believe that mental health is a culture, not just a clinic. My goal is to help people build lasting resilience, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful change that extends far beyond our therapy sessions. I work with children, adolescents, college students, adults, athletes, and high performers who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, perfectionism, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, chronic illness or injury, and the pressures of performance. I also have a particular passion for supporting family members and loved ones of individuals living with bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and other serious mental health conditions. Caring for someone with significant mental health challenges can be overwhelming, and many family members feel isolated, exhausted, or unsure how to help. Therapy can provide education, practical coping strategies, healthy boundary setting, improved communication skills, and support to reduce caregiver burnout while strengthening relationships and helping families rediscover hope. My approach is collaborative, practical, and evidence-based, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Adlerian principles. Rather than simply managing symptoms, I help clients understand the underlying patterns that keep them stuck so they can build meaningful, lasting change. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you feel understood, challenged, and empowered to grow. As a national speaker, educator, and counselor specializing in mental health and performance, I bring experience working with athletes, students, professionals, families, and caregivers from diverse backgrounds. While many people know me for my work in sports mental health, my passion is helping anyone who wants to overcome obstacles, strengthen their mental well-being, improve their relationships, and build a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your family, or your performance, I believe healing begins with understanding, acceptance, and practical action. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step, and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you discover your strengths, build resilience, and create lasting change. I am licensed in Oregon, Washington, and Kansas