About Cynthia
My Background
Cynthia lived in NYC for 35 years, working as a Broadway actress, then as a real estate broker, and then landing on opening a business, a skincare company tailored to cancer patients and those with sensitive skin, Violets are Blue. Cynthia found herself facing anxiety and stress throughout her major career shifts, as well as navigating divorce. When Cynthia was diagnosed with breast cancer, she knew then that it was vital to tend to her mental health, and found a transformative experience in her own personal therapy journey.
Cynthia decided to make the shift into social work after navigating her own challenging experiences, as well as noticing her draw to help others she connected with through Violets are Blue. Cynthia is experienced in supporting individuals navigating crises, divorce/relationship issues, cancer and medical diagnosis/trauma, career adjustments, and grief/loss.
Outside of therapy, Cynthia enjoys hiking, music, pickleball, travel, and snuggling with cats!
Credentials, memberships & trainings:
Masters of Social Work
Licensed Advanced Social Worker & Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker Associate
Cynthia values a collaborative approach to therapy, meaning she values working together to set goals, explore what feels helpful to you (or not), and supports you as you make important decisions regarding your care. Cynthia prioritizes being authentic in how she shows up to therapy, and emphasizes the importance of feeling safe, understood, and supported in the work you will do together. This work is deeply personal to Cynthia, and she honors the space she holds to help others work through the obstacles she knows well.
Cynthia draws on various therapeutic modalities, including approaching presenting issues with a trauma-informed lens and a relational way of being. Cynthia additionally utilizes person-centered, strength-based frameworks, as well as narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). Cynthia additionally values outdoor/walk and talk therapy, and offers this in Bellevue, along with in-person office visits in Ballard, Seattle and telehealth.
Contact Cynthia: www.cynthiabesteman.com; cynpike65@gmail.com