Helping Teens and Young Adults Heal, Grow, and Thrive — Even When Therapy Hasn’t Worked Before

At Grimalkin, we specialize in supporting therapy-resistant teens, personality disorders, and mood disorders with care that’s compassionate, nonjudgmental, and deeply human.
If your teen has struggled to connect with past therapists, feels misunderstood, or shuts down when things get emotional — you’re in the right place.

We get it. Some young people need more than “talk therapy.” They need a space that feels safe, real, and grounded, with therapists who see past the behavior and understand what’s really going on underneath.

🧠 Our Approach: Connection Before Correction

Many families come to us after trying therapy that just didn’t stick. Teens and young adults who are “therapy-resistant” often aren’t truly resistant — they’re protective, guarded, or burned out from feeling judged or misunderstood.

At Grimalkin, we take a different approach.
We focus on building trust first, creating authentic relationships that help clients feel safe enough to open up.

Our sessions are:

  • Collaborative, not clinical — real conversations, not lectures.

  • Trauma-informed and person-centered — we meet clients where they are.

  • Evidence-based and creative — using modalities that fit each personality and learning style.

We believe therapy should feel like a relationship, not a requirement.

A Seattle therapist for Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, BiPolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery and everything in between.

Learn More

Now accepting Premera, Blue Cross, Blue Sheild and LifeWise through Greenlake Wellness Group!

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Who We Are

Welcome to Grimalkin!

I'm delighted you've taken the first step toward positive change and personal growth. With over 25 years of experience in various coaching capacities, I am passionate about helping individuals, especially teens, struggling with mood and personality disorders find hope, resilience, and lasting transformation.

A Different Style of Therapy

As a therapist, I am often told that sessions with me often don’t feel like traditional therapy. I don’t have a notepad in front of my face, asking a prewritten list of questions. Instead, I use seemingly casual conversation to guide you through an exploration of your history and current needs.

I combine Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) with a psychodynamic approach. That is a lot of of therapy speak that basically means, I am a relaxed therapist that allows you the space to talk and to set your own therapeutic goals and move through previous trauma to a happy future.

My Journey in Coaching: 25 Years and Counting

Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working in diverse coaching roles that have honed my skills and deepened my understanding of human behavior. From one-on-one coaching sessions to group workshops and everything in between, my journey has been a profound exploration of the human psyche and the intricacies of personal development.

Specializing in Co-dependency and Mood and Personality Disorders: A Personal Mission

My circuitous career path eventually led me to specialize in therapy resistant teens and mood and personality disorders. These conditions can pose unique challenges, and I've witnessed firsthand the impact they can have on individuals and their loved ones. My dedication to this field is driven by a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who often feel overwhelmed and misunderstood.

A Focus on Treatment-Resistant Teens: Nurturing Resilience

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been assisting treatment-resistant teens in finding their path to healing and resilience. I understand the complexities and frustrations that can arise in these situations, and I am here to offer guidance and support to both teenagers and their families. Together, we can uncover strategies to break down barriers and create lasting change.

My approach to coaching is rooted in empathy, respect, and a belief in the inherent potential for growth within every individual. I tailor my coaching techniques to meet the unique needs of each client, fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for self-discovery and personal empowerment.

Let's Begin Your Journey

If you're seeking guidance, support, and a trusted partner on your journey toward improved mental health and well-being, I'm here for you. Together, we can navigate the challenges you face, unlock your potential, and work toward a brighter future.

Please feel free to reach out and schedule a consultation. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you or your teen, and to be a part of your transformational journey.

Warmly,

Carla Hilderbrand MSW, SUDPT, LICSWA, MHP

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