
Meet
Mackenzie Sullivan LMFT
Co-founder, Co-owner: Trailhead Therapy
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My therapeutic approach is a reflection of my genuine personality, grounded in warmth, compassion, and understanding. I believe that the most effective therapy emerges from collaboration, allowing us to explore new meanings, identify needs, and create lasting change together.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. My systemic perspective focuses on understanding relationship patterns and dynamics that influence challenges, helping not just the individual but the entire family or system. I view collaboration as essential for fostering meaningful, enduring change.
With children, I emphasize emotional regulation and expression, using play and experiential therapy techniques to facilitate growth. For adolescents, I empower families and parents to integrate these skills both in and outside of therapy. In my work with adults and couples, I aim to disrupt unhealthy relationship dynamics, address life stressors, and cultivate tools for healthy communication and deeper intimacy.
My therapy work incorporates my sense of humor, patience, and curiosity to foster insight and transformation. I believe that therapy is a journey toward self-awareness and personal growth, set within a supportive environment conducive to change.
Self-care is a cornerstone of my philosophy, and I prioritize my own rituals to ensure I can be fully present for my clients. I find balance through nature—hiking with my dog, biking, engaging in creative pursuits, and cherishing time with loved ones.
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Individuals, Couples, Families, and Children
Relational Distress
Anxiety and Depression
Mood Disorders
Trauma/C-PTSD
Life Transitions/Stress
Gender Identity
Sexuality
Self-Worth & Acceptance
Emotion Recognition/Regulation
Parenting
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Gottman Method Couple's Therapy Level 1 and 2 Certified
SafeZone LGBTQ+ Ally Trained
Certificate in Conflict and Dispute Resolution
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2024 Illinois Association of Marriage and Family Therapists Conference
Breakout Session: "The Use Conflict Mapping with Families" -
Certified in Gottman Method Levels 1 and 2
Purdue University Northwest, 2019: Masters of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy
Missouri State University, 2015: Bachelor of Science, Psychology & Minor in Child and Family Development & Minor in Communications from Missouri State University.