ABOUT CORNERSTONE PSYCHOLOGISTS

Cornerstone Psychologists began in 1996 when husband and wife, Drs. John and Michelle Estelle, first opened their private practice in Spokane.

Cornerstone Psychologists began in 1996 when husband and wife, Drs. John and Michelle Estelle, first opened their private practice in Spokane. Both John and Michelle have PhDs in Clinical Psychology and master’s degrees in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and continued learning and education is a tightly held value in their practice today. Their years of research and expertise make them highly sought after by those who are navigating complex mental health situations and desire to work with a seasoned clinician. 

Cornerstone was founded as a faith-based practice and remains so, but as the Estelles have evolved in their own Christian faith, their lens of spirituality and how it intersects with psychology and the human experience has broadened. Today they are proud of the nuanced, trauma-informed, open approach they take with clients who have an active faith practice (particularly traditional Christianity), who come from a faith background, or who identify with no faith tradition at all. Faith is a welcome conversation in the Cornerstone office, though not a prerequisite for treatment. In fact, core to the Cornerstone approach is a celebration and appreciation of diverse worldviews and deep respect for differing worldviews. 

Both John and Michelle have nearly 30 years of experience as psychologists and are not only skilled at meeting with clients, but also continue to thoroughly enjoy it. They are proud of the way the practice has progressed in philosophy and in service, such as offering telehealth options, to meet the felt needs of individuals in our contemporary world.

 Meet Michelle

Michelle is an engaging, approachable therapist.  She desires to know the specific needs of her clients at the time of their work with her at Cornerstone, and to contextualize those needs in light of personality variables and life experience.  Together, she hopes to craft a working idea of goals for growth and well-being.  The work will include healing, assessment of needs and self care skills, and emotional stabilization.  Greater self understanding and improved relational abilities are expected outcomes. Ultimately, emotional wellness and confidence will be enhanced.

Meet John

John became interested in the integration of theology and psychology when he was an undergraduate student at Whitworth University. John did his doctoral research on gender roles and male development in the early adult years.  John has long been interested in fathering and the positive impact of meaningful paternal involvement, and often supports clients through positive paternal involvement with their children.  John has also worked extensively with couples trying to rebuild their marriages after infidelity, which he commonly refers to as “affair repair.” Additionally, for more than three decades, John has worked with people who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors/sexual addiction. His practice with people from a variety of faith backgrounds strives to be respectful to the client's expression of faith, including those who identify as not religious. This is especially true of LGBTQ+ clients and their families, as John has become a safe and knowledgable venue for these individuals over the years.

 

OUR SERVICES

We offer therapy for individuals, couples and families.  We work with adolescents individually and with their families as needed.  Our sessions are 50 minutes long, and are available in person, or via telehealth.  John offers both in person and telehealth options.  Michelle offers telehealth only. 

 

01

Individual Therapy

At Cornerstone, individual therapy is focused on emotional stabilization, self understanding and increased self confidence.

02

Couples Therapy

Couples therapy emphasizes working toward cooperation, repair and improved communication.

 

Other services and issues addressed (in both individual and couples therapy):

Treatment of compulsive sexual behaviors , emotional struggles, such as depression, anxiety, and relational challenges


FEES

Intake Session - $250.00

Subsequent visits - $200.00

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • The first session will be a good time for you and your therapist to get to know each other. There will be questions about your current struggles, and what you hope to gain through your work together. If you feel comfortable being open with your provider, then it is likely a good fit!

  • Yes we do. Please call us to inquire about your specific insurance. Many private insurance companies pay for our services at the rate according to their prescribed plan.

  • In short, yes. Absolutely. We celebrate working with LGBTQ men, women, nonbinary individuals, and their families.

    Moreover, if you are a Christian, come from a Christian background, or are looking to integrate a faith perspective with questions or trauma around sexuality and gender identity, then you have come to the right place. Cornerstone sits at the intersection of the faith community and the LGBTQ+ community and offers a safe, affirming space to anyone who seeks mental health therapy that upholds both the evidence-based science of psychology while also remaining open to spiritual mystery and evolution.