Marilyn Owen, Marriage Counselor in Pasadena, 91106

Marilyn J. Owen, LMFT

Profession(s):
Marriage & Family Therapy, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
LMFT - 41344

My Approach to Helping

Most of us, when going through rough times, need to feel seen and heard--to receive the full, caring attention of another human being. In addition to that, we need current information about our particular problem, and reassurance that things can get better. My clients frequently feel good when they leave because their worst fears have been voiced, their biggest problems appear to be workable, and we have shared a laugh or two. I have plenty of training and education to bring to the table, but mostly, people just need to be reminded that they are not alone.

In my work with couples, I focus on attachment patterns and the communication process, less than on the specifics of the problem. If emotional safety and connection can be restored, most couples can achieve clarity and resolve even the most difficult issues.

More Info About My Practice

Marilyn received her MA in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. She also has degrees in English Literature, Creative Writing, and Theatre Arts, and is a vocalist. Her studies in psychology and spirituality have taken her from Myth and Fairy tales, through Jung and Astrolgy, to body oriented and Integral approaches that blend traditional psychotherapy with post-modern spirituality and consciousness. Marilyn has taught seminars and led workshops for students, clients, and other mental health professionals since 1988.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

I have many years of experience working with young adults, and have a natural affinity for those who are intuitive and creative, who often struggle with depression and lack of motivation. I have a strong "nurturing mother" energy about me, but having raised a son to the age of 21, I also know how to allow space for them to find their own voice, their own strengths and passions, their own way. I have also had a lot of success working with couples. My own passionate curiosity about Love and Relationship has led me to explore, study, reflect on, and practice Relationship as a spiritual and healing path. I incorporate ancient Buddhist teachings about Lovingkindess and non-attachment, as well as (ironically) modern Attachment theory and the power of emotion to heal the wounds of the heart. It's not an easy path, but we are here to heal each other by working through our arguments, expectations, betrayals, abandonments, and withdrawls...WITH each other.

How Psychotherapy Can Help

The essence of psychotherapy is helping the heart learn to trust more deeply and fully. We all have experienced difficulties that hindered our ability to trust--ourselves, others, or Life itself. This leaves us with "stuck" places, which prevent us from continuing to grow into mature, whole, joyful adults. In fact, researchers can now provide evidence of this in terms of neurological development of the brain. The good news is, this is not permanent! Being in a long-term, stable, caring relationship can fix our neurological shortcomings! Psychotherapy is one way to experience the kind of safe, authentic relationship in which you can begin to grow beyond those stuck places.

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

Psychotherapy, at its core, is the Art of Loving. Professionally, we call it Unconditional Positive Regard, but it's really Love, and it always heals in both directions.

Had a Negative Therapy Experience?

Unfortunately, not everyone has a good experience with therapy the first time. There are several important ways to improve the odds you will be satisfied with yours: 1) Do your homework: ask friends for referrals, look at websites, make phone calls and interview several therapists. Go with the person who makes you feel comfortable, whose voice you like, who says things you connect with. Choosing a therapist is like picking a best friend--its very personal. 2) Ask a potential therapist about their own personal work. A good counselor is always attending to their own inner life as well as furthering their education and training. This is a lifelong calling, and as such, requires ongoing attention to ensure we are able to provide the highest quality of care. We cannot take you any deeper into your own psyche, than we have been in our own.

How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist

Absolutely. I would never see a therapist who had lived a charmed life. Unfortunately, we only grow when we are in too much pain to remain the same. Fortunately, the very things that cause us pain, hold the key to our transformation.

Theoretical Influences that Guide My Work

My theoretical orientation is Depth Psychology, as developed by Carl Jung, and advanced by Marion Woodman, James Hillman, and others in the field of Archetypal Psychology. I received my MA from Pacifica Graduate Institute, where the Joseph Campbell archives are housed, and so myth, fairy tale, and story figure prominently in my philosophy. My work rests on the fundamental belief that there is a evolutionary principle in the world that inevitably pulls us toward growth and greater consciousness. Learning to hear and trust that impulse, is part of the therapeutic process.

Services I Provide

Individual Therapy & Counseling
Marriage, Couples, or Relationship Counseling
Family Therapy
Group Therapy
Consultation
Clinical Supervision

Ages I Work With

Children
Teens
Adults

Languages I Speak

English

Groups I Work With

I have worked with many creative artists, LGBTQ clients, families, survivors of childhood trauma and abuse, adults moving through challenges and transitions, individuals searching for direction and meaning, clinical supervision and training for new therapists. I also offer Dream Process Groups.