Madison Fergerstrom, MA, LMHCA

Qualifications & Experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Seattle Pacific University and a Masters of Arts in Counseling from Corban University. I am also certified in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training. I have experience working with a variety of mental health issues, different cultures, and a wide range of ages.

My Call to Christian Counseling

During my early adolescent years, I experienced some adversities that became too much for me to handle on my own, so I sought counseling. God used that difficult time to reveal a deeper calling for my life. After experiencing firsthand the benefits and effects of the therapeutic relationship, seeing the impact that counseling had on my ability to heal, and awakening in me a new passion for the study of psychology, I knew my pain would one day have a greater meaning. I felt as if I had been called to help others in the way I had been helped. Receiving connection and support in the pits of life saved me, and I now have the privilege of offering that same support to hurting souls as well.

More About Me/On a Personal Note

I am married to an amazing man and we have a beautiful son. My personal experience in marriage and motherhood has strengthened my understanding and empathy in these areas of life. Being a former college athlete, fitness, athletics, and nutrition are still some of my top interests. I also love cooking, exploring new places, musical arts, DIY crafting and spending time with friends and family.

As previously mentioned, I played college basketball for four years, and also served as an assistant coach for Corban University’s women’s basketball team. I feel called to meet all individuals in their walks in life, but especially athletes. My experience in athletics has given me a collective lens and understanding of the different pressures and unique challenges that student athletes face, which allows me to connect in a special way. It is easy to lose your sense of self in dark seasons in the game of life. My hope is to address the issues that hinder your ability to enjoy your life/sport and bring the joy and fulfillment that true healing offers.

Oftentimes, athletes are only seen for their performance and what value they bring to the sport. When you step into my office I will hold space for the human behind the stats you produce or the jersey you wear. I know athletics are important or I wouldn’t have dedicated a majority of my life to them, but you are more than your sport. I am here to remind you of that and restore your true identity in the Lord. Having walked this path, I also understand the challenges that athletes face when transitioning out of the world of athletics either when your career comes to an end or a career ending injury occurs. There are so many valuable lessons and skills acquired through the experience of athletics, but “athlete brain” doesn’t translate well in other areas of life and can present difficulties. Whether you are currently an athlete or navigating the world of retirement, I am here to walk with you in your season.

Through my personal experiences of trauma and adversity, God has equipped me to relate and empathize with a number of difficulties, including chronic pain from injuries, sudden loss, depression, assault, and broken relationships. I have an ability to listen and sit with people in their distress because I know how important that support is for healing. I recognize that my ability to connect with those who walk into my office has been strengthened and enriched by the challenges that I have faced. I am confident in the healing capabilities of counseling because of what I have seen it do for so many people, including myself.

Areas of Expertise/Specialties

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Counseling for Teens
• Individual counseling
• Personal development
• Abandonment and neglect
• Anger management
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• PTSD
• Relationship issues
• Sexual abuse
• Trauma
• Women’s issues

Anxiety

Anxiety can take over our lives if we let it. It can feel all-consuming and hinder our ability to move forward or function properly. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” With counseling support and the combined effort of the Holy Spirit, you can overcome your anxious spirit and take back the reins in your life.

Abandonment and Neglect

We have a basic human need to be loved and to belong. Sometimes people are unable to meet this need and leave us feeling alone and insignificant. If you have experienced the hurt of abandonment or neglect, let’s explore how that has affected the way you see yourself and the world. It is a painful perception when abandonment and neglect shape our reality. I would be honored to help you create a new lens and way of seeing your life through the healing capabilities of the therapeutic relationship.

Depression

Are you feeling stuck and unable to change the way you’re feeling and thinking? Maybe experiencing a lack of motivation, a constant sadness, or feelings of hopelessness? Do you feel as if a dark cloud is following you throughout your day, no matter what you do to rid yourself of this heaviness? If any of these symptoms resonate with what you are experiencing, let’s talk about depression. Unfortunately, this condition is all too common, but there is hope. I will help you identify your triggers and walk alongside you during this time. I will do my best to help bring light to this area of your life by offering you new insights, providing a safe environment to explore your feelings, and assisting you in developing coping skills to help you overcome this period of your life.

Trauma

Have you experienced something that was too difficult to process in the moment that it happened? Was it so overwhelming that you almost can’t talk about it without re-experiencing it? If so, you are not alone. Trauma is a real and scary process to go through. I will support you through your pain and be the safety net that allows you to work through these painful experiences in a safe environment that can bring true healing.

Availability (by office location):

• Bellevue – Tuesday
• Kent – Monday and Saturday
• Online (WA Only) – Monday and Saturday

Fees: I offer a Risk-Free Initial Session for adults adolescents and individuals looking to pursue counseling with me. Please note that there is a fee for the Risk-Free Initial Session as it is a clinical hour and reimbursable to some insurance companies, but if you choose not to reschedule and continue therapy after the initial session the entire fee for the session will be waived. For ongoing treatment the full fee per session is required at the time of service.

Insurance: As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) some insurance companies will reimburse for a portion of my services (as an Out of Network Provider). Please consult with your insurance provider as to whether they specifically cover adolescents, individuals and couples.

Receipts/Statements: In the event you require a printed or digital receipt, I will provide receipts for personal use, insurance reimbursement, Flex Spending Accounts (FSA), and Health Savings Accounts (HSA).

Payment options: Cash, Check, or Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, & American Express). A fee of up to 3.7% plus $0.15 per transaction will be added for credit card payments.