About Inside Passage Counseling
The #1 Choice for Individual and Couples Therapy in Bellingham, WA
Founder and Executive Director
Certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist and Supervisor
Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapist
IFS Institute Approved IFS Clinical Consultant
Level 3 Trained Gottman Method Couples Therapist
Welcome to Inside Passage Counseling
I'm Heather Varnau, MA, LMHC, Founder and Executive Director of Inside Passage Counseling
I am honored you are here.
At Inside Passage Counseling, we believe that human connection is essential for healing and growth. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our skilled therapists provide a safe, welcoming space where you can deepen your connection with yourself and others, break free from painful patterns, and build a more fulfilling life.
- Our mission is to provide exceptional, compassionate therapy that empowers motivated clients to heal, grow, and thrive.
- Our vision is a world where individuals and couples experience deep, meaningful connections—because when relationships flourish, so do communities.
When you choose therapy at Inside Passage Counseling, you are choosing quality, integrity, clinical excellence, care, and the potential for transformation.
Our team of counselors and client care coordinators are here to serve you
“I have seen a significant improvement in my mental health since my IFS Intensive. Thank you!”
How We Work
The Inside Passage Counseling Approach
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- EMDR Therapy for Trauma and PTSD
- Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Whether you’re navigating relationship challenges, past trauma, or personal struggles, we provide a safe, inclusive space where you can feel truly seen and supported.
“Working with Inside Passage Counseling has been a transformative experience for me. I started individual therapy feeling unsure about how to navigate my relationships and express my needs. My therapist provided such a safe, supportive space to explore what was holding me back. I’ve learned so much about myself—how to communicate more effectively, set boundaries, and approach my relationships with greater confidence. The care and expertise here have truly helped me grow in ways I didn’t think were possible.”
Meet the Inside Passage Team!
Our team is comprised of hand-selected professional therapists, client care coordinators, administrators and trainers. All of which exhibit dedication to mindfulness-based, attachment-oriented, trauma-informed approaches to working with individuals and couples.
- Create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to share your feelings
- Inspire and challenge you to explore new perspectives
- Help you focus your attention on what is going to help you heal
- Guide you to practice new tools for relating that can lead to positive outcomes
- Encourage you to show up, be honest, and stay open-minded
- Motivate you to persevere when you inevitably have a difficult session
Our Committment
So Much More than Just Therapy
Inside Passage is not just a counseling practice—it’s a center for professional growth and excellence. We offer advanced training, supervision, and consultation for therapists dedicated to deepening their expertise in relational therapy.
Are you a Licensed Therapist or Therapy Associate? Take a look at our career opportunities.
Professional Endorsements
Book a FREE phone Consultation
Book a free consultation with one of our client care coordinators, and get the help you need fast.
Book a FREE phone Consultation
Book a free consultation with one of our client care coordinators, and get the help you need fast.
Book a FREE phone Consultation
Book a free consultation with one of our client care coordinators, and get the help you need fast.