Starla Stone, LICSW
Licensed Independant Clinical Social Worker
Starla’s heart holds a special love for helping people. She began her career in 1979 working in the medical field as a licensed pharmacy technician. It was through working in hospital and other health care settings that she discovered God had blessed her with the spiritual gift of serving others.
Following 27 years of working in the field of healthcare, she was led to return back to school and became fascinated with psychology courses, realizing that God was guiding her to a future career aimed at helping others. During her undergraduate studies Starla demonstrated a genuine compassion for helping others, through her work with at-risk youth, and with adolescents and adults in recovery from substance abuse. In 2005 she graduated from University of Phoenix in Sacramento, CA with a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services.
Starla was accepted into the Masters of Social Work program at Eastern Washington University where specialized studies further advanced her knowledge and education in the Human Services field. Her graduate internship launched the beginning of a church-based ministry offering Christian counseling, case management, group therapy, and supportive resources to individuals and families within the church and local community.
Since obtaining her MSW degree in 2007, Starla has explored several avenues of social work including working with persons with developmental disabilities, working within the mental health field, and working in home health care and hospice settings. Additionally, she furthered her education by completing the supervision and exam required to obtain her state license and currently holds the title of Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Washington.
In 2012, together with her husband Anthony, Paraclete Counseling Services, LLC, was opened offering Christian-Based counseling to individuals, couples, and families.
In her clinical practice, Starla uses a variety of theory base techniques, including solution-focused and narrative therapy to strengthen client and family systems. Through her use of a spiritual and strengths-based perspective, clients are viewed as experts in their own lives, are encouraged to recognize and develop the power to identify successful coping mechanisms and problem-solving strategies. In her practice, the Cycle of Change model is used to help client’s identify their readiness for making desired behavioral changes and clients learn to form action plans and set both short and long term goals. Additionally, guided imagery and role play are used to help clients cope with various physical and emotional concerns including grief and loss, fear, anxiety, and depression.
Starla’s competency in clinical practice is a result of a lifetime of existential experiences, professional education and training, and a steadfast desire to help clients recognize their resilience. She is ready to assist clients in moving toward towards a positive future.