About
Hi, I'm Trina Balanoff! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Idaho (LPC-9567). I hold a Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwest Nazarene University. I also hold a Master's degree in Special Education with an emphasis on Disability Studies and Sexuality from the University of Idaho. I have over 15 years experience in the disability and mental health field. I have over eight years clinical experience working with adolescents in a residential mental health setting. I have an eclectic approach in my counseling practice. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I also find that the Adlerian, Solution-focused, and Humanistic approaches resonate with my approach. We will figure out together how you think about your problems, why, and solutions.
Counseling is a relationship and I think it is important you know some things about me, just as you will tell me things about yourself. I grew up in Louisiana and am a Saint's fan! I have also lived in Montana and California as well as Idaho. In my free time I enjoy time with my family cooking together, riding motorcycles, camping, road-trips, and other activities. I am an avid reader and love all kinds of books and genres.
As a counselor, I feel that my role is to walk side by side with you as you look within for answers that already exist to life's problems. I am told I am direct and straightforward. It is true. I do not sugar-coat truths or avoid conflict. My role is not to help you tip-toe around difficult emotions and issues that bar you from living your best life, but rather, I serve as a change agent to helping you help yourself. I feel privileged that you are considering me to accompany you on your journey to a thriving life.