Christopher Skaggs

In 2017, I became a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I began my career at Seattle Counseling Service (SCS) and moved to Wellspring Family Services in 2022.

My expertise and focus continue to be on assisting LGBTQ+ communities, minorities, sexual minorities, and other oppressed people in their recovery. My primary area of focus is relationship therapy, which includes those in open or non-traditional relationship systems. In addition, I am kink-friendly and sex-positive. I also work with individuals who are dealing with issues such as identity or depression and anxiety caused or exacerbated by the experience of being human.

My therapeutic approach is largely non-directive, relying on self-examination and self-empathy to promote healing. While I am serious and intentional, I use and encourage humor and the irony of living to provide levity and tactful comic relief, to balance negativity, and, most importantly, to heal. At times I share insights and wisdom, which frequently result in directives and homework.

I gain a better understanding of who you are as an individual during assessment and throughout your recovery experience. I reflect, question, and use interventions to help you recognize and emphasize your own strength and wisdom, as well as to help you move through your day-to-day life with less distress and more joy. We will create a safe space for your emotions and experiences while emphasizing your ability to create and adapt to change. All the while helping you understand yourself and empowering you to create and nurture your recovery intrapersonally, through relationships, and in your community.

My therapeutic approach is founded on Humanism and Systems. Motivational Interviewing, Experiential Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, the Gottman Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) are some of the modalities I use.

– “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new”. – Socrates