New Beginnings, Lasting Impact: Serene Life Counseling Opens Its Doors
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – Serene Life Counseling is proud to announce its grand opening, offering compassionate, trauma-informed mental health and addiction services to individuals and families across North Idaho. Founded by Lori Aldrich and Mary Christenson, two dedicated professionals with over 30 years of combined experience in the field, Serene Life Counseling is more than a clinic—it’s a labor of love, healing, and hope.
In 2011, was the beginning of a journey in the behavioral health field—and the start of Lori and Mary’s enduring friendship and professional collaboration, which has grown and evolved for over a decade.
Together, Lori and Mary have built Serene Life Counseling to be a sanctuary of support, growth, and healing. Their shared mission: to walk alongside individuals as they rediscover their strength, resilience, and purpose—fostering transformation through the spirit of Serene Life.
Mission Statement
Serene Life Counseling, LLC provides compassionate, client-centered mental health and Co-Occurring treatment. We empower individuals and families to heal, grow, and thrive by offering evidence-based counseling for mental health challenges, drug and alcohol recovery, and co-occurring disorders in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Vision Statement
To be a trusted leader in mental health and addiction recovery, transforming lives through accessible, holistic, and innovative care. We envision a healthier community where every individual has the tools and support, they need to overcome adversity and live a life of purpose and balance.
Core Values
Compassion
We meet each person with empathy, dignity, and without judgment.
Integrity
We are committed to ethical, transparent, and professional care.
Recovery-Focused
We believe recovery is possible for everyone and support individuals through every stage of their journey.
Inclusivity
We create a welcoming and affirming space for people of all backgrounds and experiences.
Collaboration
We work closely with clients, families, and community partners to provide comprehensive care.
Excellence
We deliver high-quality, evidence-based practices in both mental health and substance use treatment.
Empowerment
We help individuals gain the skills, insight, and confidence to reclaim their lives and achieve lasting change.
What Guides Us Forward
We approach our work with core values that shape every interaction
Compassion First
Every story matters. Every person is heard with care.
Safe, Open Spaces
Judgment-free support, no matter the path you're on.
Personal Empowerment
We foster confidence and self-awareness for meaningful growth.
Meet the Team
Mary, Co-founder and Clinical Director
Mary is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with decades of experience supporting clients through mental health and addiction challenges. Her career has taken her through a range of clinical environments, from community clinics to private practice, all grounded in her commitment to ethical, trauma-informed care. Licensed in both Idaho and Washington, Mary brings empathy, humor, and unwavering dedication to her clients and colleagues alike.
Primary modalities used: CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Client Centered, Skill Building, Self-Esteem, Trauma Therapy
Lori Aldrich, Co-founder and Operations Director
Lori brings a deeply personal story of resilience and purpose. After the tragic loss of her eldest son in 2008, Lori was inspired to earn her GED and later a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a focus on drug and alcohol studies. With over 30 years as a Real Estate Agent and a strong background in Business, she brings leadership, compassion, and deeply informed understanding to Serene Life Counseling.
Evelynn Maas, MSW Intern
Evelynn Maas is an MSW candidate in their final year of study. With a decade of experience in mental and behavioral health, Evelynn works from a strong foundation of trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approaches. They specialize in evidence-based interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), and Mindfulness. Evelynn provides an inclusive, compassionate space for clients to explore their goals and take strides toward mental wellness
Primary modalities used:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), mindfulness, Nonviolent Communication (NVC), LGBTQIA+, Trauma-informed care.
Brianna Williams, Counseling Intern
Brianna is in the final months of her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Eastern Oregon University. She blends fresh clinical training with over a decade of heartfelt experience in the helping professions. At the heart of Brianna’s practice is a genuine, person-centered approach. She believes that you are the expert on your own life, and that being truly heard and understood is where real healing begins. Her areas of focus include trauma, work-related injury, substance use, mental health in rural communities, justice-involved clients, client empowerment, and supporting overall personal and interpersonal well-being from a holistic lens. Brianna is deeply committed to creating a safe, welcoming space where you can collaborate on your path toward growth, resilience, and meaningful change.
Brianna holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Idaho and spent much of her career supporting individuals with developmental disabilities - a rewarding background that naturally grew her capacity for navigating complex, high-needs situations with patience and care.
Primary modalities used:
Brianna is inspired by person-centered therapy, trauma-informed care, DBT, and mindfulness. She looks forward to completing her EMDR Basic Training this summer.
Let’s Start the Conversation
We’re here when you're ready to talk.
Get in touch today.