David Gehlbach-Wilson LICSW, LCSW, MHP
Healing and transformation have always been at the heart of my work. My early experiences in homeless services and search and rescue inspired me to delve deeper into helping others recover from trauma. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of people reclaim their lives, and it’s an honor to walk alongside them on that journey.
As a mixed Indigenous (Mohawk/Métis) and white (Swedish/Irish) therapist fluent in English and Spanish, I bring a unique perspective to my work in Washington state and Hawaii. I’m committed to understanding your story, honoring your lived experiences, and collaborating with you to build a life where you can truly thrive. I believe that when you live authentically, you bring irreplaceable gifts to your community and the world.
My approach to therapy is holistic and grounded in both evidence-based practices and intuition. I integrate modalities like EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Parts Work (IFS), and Expressive Therapies with a deep respect for the wisdom you hold within yourself. Recognizing that our identities are shaped by family, culture, and history, I strive to create a space where healing unfolds in context.
Together, we will work toward your goals, cultivating joy, connection, and a sense of purpose. Whether you’re navigating past wounds, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, I’m here to support you on your path to wholeness.
Skennen’kó:wa (blessing of peace)
Why I do Therapy
My passion for therapy comes from both personal experience and the transformations I’ve witnessed in others. After returning from living in South America, I began overseeing a homeless shelter in Seattle. During those years, I saw incredible resilience but also faced my own challenges—I felt burnt out and was confronted with my own unresolved trauma.
This experience sparked something within me: a deep curiosity about how we, as humans, heal, overcome adversity, and move from grief to thriving. I became committed to understanding the journey from pain to empowerment. It wasn’t just about helping others anymore; it became about finding the tools to heal myself as well. Today, I use what I’ve learned to walk alongside others, helping them navigate the stuck parts of trauma so they can move forward into the life they’ve always wanted—one filled with wellness, strength, and fulfillment.
My mission
I aim to see people reclaim their sense of self, navigate trauma, and unlock their full potential. When we heal we become what the world needs to be healthy and begin to live in right relationship with ourselves, our communities and creation. I seek to make a space where people can feel good, strong, and connected, with the tools they need to thrive in all aspects of life.