Jaclyn E Olson, MA

Relationships, in all their forms, come with challenges. I believe these challenges often serve as invitations for growth—opportunities that begin with ourselves. At the core of this growth is the practice of self-forgiveness, which in turn opens the door to extending grace and understanding to others.

When my husband and I became foster parents, we quickly realized how essential forgiveness was—not only in our relationship with each other, but in building meaningful connections with our children and their families of origin. Forgiveness is a reciprocal process: as we learn to show ourselves compassion, we become better equipped to extend it to others. This dynamic becomes especially important in families formed through foster care and adoption, where traditional instincts may not always apply. Each family system is shaped by unique histories, circumstances, and relationships, and navigating that complexity requires patience, awareness, and flexibility.

In my work, I aim to support clients in exploring their family systems and addressing the challenges that arise within them. I believe in the power of forgiveness—both inward and outward—as a tool for cultivating hope and resilience in relationships. Creating space for grace, humility, and continued growth is essential for families who are healing and evolving.

I strive to practice what I teach, using a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to each family’s unique needs. My work often draws from Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment-based therapies, narrative therapy, Bowenian family systems theory, trauma-informed care, and TF-CBT. I also integrate somatic practices and experiential play therapies, including filial and attachment-based play therapy. I believe that as we gain insight into our internal systems, we become better able to engage with the external world in a grounded and authentic way.

There is no one-size-fits-all formula for healing trauma or creating safety within relationships. By drawing from a diverse set of modalities, I help families discover what works best for them—fostering connection, healing, and sustainable growth.