Mariann Bischoff, LCSW
My varied life experiences mean that aspects of your life are not foreign to me and do not surprise me; rather, I naturally connect with your values, lifestyle, and dreams.
I offer people warmth and acceptance. Therapy can be a place to explore and expand what you do well and what you love about yourself. By becoming more aware of moment to moment sensory experiences and habits of relating in the world (mindfulness), people can develop increased stability and well-being, and from there, more easily make desired changes.
While therapy focuses on you, many clients like to know a bit about their therapist’s life. Before becoming a social worker, I worked in engineering and leadership within a global manufacturing company.
I spent time living in the Middle East, researching water and international development, and have also spent time in Asia, Africa, and Europe. Closer to home, I’m active in community organizing focused on health, nature, and building connections across differences.
Nature and mindfulness are central to how I live and work. I’ve practiced mindfulness for over twenty years, am ordained as a Buddhist mindfulness practitioner, and feel deeply connected to Earth and its cycles as ongoing sources of wisdom, healing, and joy. I’ve been practicing and training in mindfulness for over 20 years, including in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and am ordained as a Buddhist mindfulness practitioner in Thich Nhat Hanh’s tradition called the Order of Interbeing. Rather than a typical religion, Thich Nhat Hanh defines Buddhism simply as “a clever way to enjoy your life.” Mindfulness techniques are helpful for those who follow various religious and spiritual traditions, as well as for those who are looking for practical tools to manage stress, emotions, and daily challenges.