Mackenzie Solton

M.A., M.Ed., Professional Counselor Associate, CADC-I
She/Her/Hers

Mackenzie became a counselor because she has always been drawn to helping others. Even as a young child, she was the first to stop and help reunite a lost dog with its owner or set up a lemonade stand to raise money for charity. That compassion and desire to make a difference have remained at the heart of who she is and ultimately led her to a career in counseling. After discovering her passion for psychology and human services in college, Mackenzie began her career working with teens and their families as a substance use counselor in Eugene. Witnessing the resilience people show during life's most difficult moments inspired her to expand her training by earning a master's degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling. Mackenzie is passionate about creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. She believes every person has unique strengths and the capacity for healing, and she considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they navigate challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change. She is honored to serve the Bend community and looks forward to supporting individuals on their journey toward greater well-being.

Before becoming a counselor, Mackenzie gained experience in a variety of helping roles including being a camp counselor, babysitter, and social service assistant at a residential facility for teens. Most recently, she worked as a substance use counselor on a research project at the Oregon Social Learning Center in Eugene, supporting adolescents and their families. 

Mackenzie has lived in Bend since 2026and moved because she fell in love with the area during frequent weekend trips from Eugene, where she lived for the prior 10 years. What began as a favorite getaway eventually became the place she dreamed of calling home. She loves that Bend offers many of the things she enjoyed growing up in Los Angeles such as year-round sunshine, an active lifestyle, and a vibrant community all while being surrounded by Oregon's incredible natural beauty. 

Mackenzie enjoys spending time with her two dogs and partner, going on walks around town, floating the river, going to concerts, and trying new restaurants. She feels incredibly grateful to partner with clients who are committed to their growth and healing. She considers it a true privilege to witness their journeys and is continually honored by the trust clients place in her as they share some of the most meaningful parts of their lives.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Double major in Psychology and Family and Human Services with a minor in Spanish from the University of Oregon

Master of Education, Prevention Science from the University of Oregon

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bushnell University

Specialties

Mackenzie has advanced certification and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Contingency Management. 

Mackenzie works with teens (ages 12-18), emerging adults and adult populations. She has experience helping clients facing depression, anxiety, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders. She has also worked with clients experiencing disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) and bipolar disorder. Additionally, she has experience working with neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities.

Some Fun Facts About Me

Movie(s) I love:
Pirates of the Caribbean, Always Be My Maybe, Hunger Games, 50 First Dates

Favorite thing to do in Bend:
Float the river and have breakfast at Jackson’s Corner

Favorite quote or personal motto:
"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou

On a day with no obligations, I will be:
Sleeping in, then walking my dogs to get bagels and a matcha latte before strolling by the river and going home to cook a meal or try out a new restaurant with my partner

Three words that describe me:
Curious, compassionate, and intentional

Favorite food to eat out:
Thai, Sushi

Hobby(ies):
Cooking, pilates, yoga, hiking, traveling

Favorite weekend destination:
Dundee Hills

My number one bucket list item:
Go island hopping in Greece 

Favorite food to cook:
Italian, Mediterranean

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