Jarae Swanstrom, LCPC

Online Trauma Therapy for women in Boise and throughout Idaho

Woman on top of a mountain with hands in a heart shape after seeking therapy for disordered eating and negative body image.

Jarae Swanstrom, LCPC

Hi, I’m Jarae. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in helping women heal from the impact of trauma. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, I create a safe, supportive space where you can heal and reconnect with yourself. My goal is to empower you and guide you toward the life you have always wanted, leaving the weight of the past behind.

Jarae Swanstrom Female Counselor in Boise and Throughout Idaho

My journey to becoming a therapist and opening Mountain River Therapy

My path to becoming a trauma therapist has been shaped by years of experience and a deep desire to help others heal. It began over a decade ago when I worked as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. During that time, I saw many women struggling with disordered eating, negative body image, and the pressures of weight loss. Over time, it became clear to me that these struggles were often rooted in something much deeper—unresolved trauma.

That realization inspired me to shift my focus to counseling. I wanted to help women heal not just on the surface but at a deeper, more transformative level. Through additional education and training, I learned that trauma can impact every aspect of a person’s life, from their self-worth to their relationships and even how they experience their own body. I also saw how powerful trauma therapy can be in helping individuals break free from these patterns and live more fulfilling lives.

My work centers on helping women untangle the effects of trauma so they can feel more connected to themselves and the world around them. I’m passionate about offering a space where you can safely explore how the impact of your past is affecting your present and preventing you from being the amazing self you desire to be.


I bring a holistic approach and deep empathy to my work as a therapist.

A woman outside looking at the mountains with her arms up and displaying the peace sign because she processed her trauma with EMDR Therapy.

I’m passionate about helping women heal from the deep-rooted trauma that affects every aspect of their lives. I understand that past experiences shape how you feel about yourself and how you navigate the world.

I want you to know we CAN change this!

My approach uses EMDR, a powerful therapy designed to help you process and release trauma. EMDR therapy works by addressing painful memories and emotional wounds that keep you stuck, allowing you to heal and regain control over your life.

Through this work, I focus on helping you reconnect with your body and sense of self. Together, we’ll work to release the emotional weight you’ve been carrying so you can move forward with more confidence, ease, and a sense of empowerment.

I am so passionate about helping Women heal from trauma.

There’s nothing more rewarding than watching women step out from under the weight of their past and reclaim their lives. My passion for trauma healing comes from both personal and professional experiences. I know how deeply trauma can affect your sense of self and your ability to connect with others. Helping women move from survival mode into a space of empowerment and self-acceptance is the heart of my work. I am here to walk alongside you as you heal, grow, and rediscover the strength within yourself that’s always been there.

  • MS in Marriage, Couple, & Family Counseling, Walden University

    BS Nutrition & Exercise Physiology, Washington State University

    Idaho Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, 8331208

  • Trauma Conscious Yoga Method (2023)

    Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship (2022)

    EMDR Training - EMDRIA Approved (2021)

    ACSM - Clinical Exercise Physiologist (2011)

  • I emphasize the importance of a strong, trusting relationship in my therapeutic practice. I focus on connecting with my clients and understanding their unique experiences. I combine Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, and Somatic-based practices to help my clients tune into their emotional and bodily experiences. For trauma processing, EMDR is a key part of my practice. I aim to help you regulate your nervous system and find a path to holistic healing.

A woman sitting on top of a mountain over looking a mountain river seeking self-care as she processes trauma with EMDR Therapy.

Get started with therapy with Jarae today.

You don’t have to live with the guilt and shame of not feeling in control of your eating or your body.  Online therapy can help you heal from past trauma and find a peaceful relationship with food and your body.  Mountain River Therapy in Idaho specializes in helping women overcome disordered eating and body image struggles. To start your counseling journey, follow these simple steps:

Step 1

Contact Mountain River Therapy

Step 2

Meet with Jarae for an intake session.

Step 3

Rediscover the joy of eating foods guilt-free and finally feeling confident in your body.