Olive Branch Psychotherapy

Dr. Stephen Parrish is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy with over 30 years of experience helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life's challenges. His dedication to providing a safe and supportive environment has allowed him to witness countless transformations as people uncover their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and ultimately achieve lasting positive change.

Dr. Parrish's journey began with a strong foundation in understanding human behavior through his undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of Great Falls. He furthered his expertise in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapies with a Master's degree from the University of Phoenix and culminated his education by earning a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University, Denver. This comprehensive academic background, combined with his decades of hands-on experience, equips him to approach each client's unique situation with sensitivity and informed insight.

His professional path has led him to work in diverse settings, from residential and state group homes to churches, private homes, and public schools. A significant chapter in his career spanned from 1988 to 2007 at Intermountain Children's Home in Helena, Montana, where he served as a counselor and supervisor. During this time, he honed his skills in providing intensive care to children with complex needs and their families, gaining invaluable experience in navigating the intricacies of childhood development, emotional well-being, and family dynamics.

From a personal standpoint, Dr. Parrish's life mirrors his commitment to service and compassion. His lifelong commitment to his wife, Sue, and their children, including one adopted child, has been marked by a deep devotion to family and a profound understanding of the unique joys and challenges families encounter.

Therapeutic Services Offered

Dr. Parrish's passion lies in empowering individuals, couples, and families to unlock their potential for growth and healing through a variety of therapeutic approaches. His areas of expertise include:

• Individual Counseling: Dr. Parrish provides a compassionate and supportive space for individuals to explore personal struggles, process emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and ultimately cultivate greater self-awareness and resilience.

• Couples Counseling: Recognizing the importance of strong and healthy relationships, Dr. Parrish guides couples through a journey of understanding, communication, and connection. Whether couples are experiencing conflict, seeking to improve intimacy, or navigating significant life transitions, his guidance helps them rediscover their foundation of love and respect.

• Family Counseling: Dr. Parrish understands the complexities of family dynamics and offers a safe haven for families to address challenges, rebuild healthy communication patterns, and foster stronger bonds.

• Teen Issues & Adolescence: Dr. Parrish possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by teenagers during their formative years. He provides a non-judgmental space for teens to navigate identity exploration, social pressures, academic stress, and emotional turmoil, equipping them with the tools to thrive.

• Parenting Support: Recognizing the pivotal role parents play in their children's lives, Dr. Parrish offers guidance and support to parents seeking to enhance their parenting skills, improve family communication, and create a nurturing and supportive home environment.

• Depression & Anxiety: Dr. Parrish is skilled in helping individuals struggling with depression and anxiety. He provides evidence-based treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, to manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and ultimately reclaim a sense of hope and well-being.

• Other Issues: Dr. Parrish is also experienced in addressing a wide range of other concerns, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, and more.

Therapeutic Approach

Dr. Parrish utilizes a therapeutic approach that integrates various techniques, including narrative therapy, structural therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. He believes in tailoring his interventions to meet the individual needs of each client, taking a holistic approach that acknowledges the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences. His gentle yet direct style creates a space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes.