Therapists in 97209
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
ursa major counseling is for my fellow sensitive stargazers feeling less-than-stellar in this insensitive world. Being highly sensitive is kinda like The Force: very lightside/darkside. Lightside: your care is vital to those connected to you, vibes write you novels, you keep showing up & giving despite being drained nearly dry, you have the kind of intense emotional connections they write songs about. Darkside: you're exhausted from hustling to please everyone & get it perfect, you somehow feel both never enough & too much, you have the kind of intense emotional connections that they write songs about.
ursa major counseling is for my fellow sensitive stargazers feeling less-than-stellar in this insensitive world. Being highly sensitive is kinda like The Force: very lightside/darkside. Lightside: your care is vital to those connected to you, vibes write you novels, you keep showing up & giving despite being drained nearly dry, you have the kind of intense emotional connections they write songs about. Darkside: you're exhausted from hustling to please everyone & get it perfect, you somehow feel both never enough & too much, you have the kind of intense emotional connections that they write songs about.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
I work with adults who are carrying complex, layered experiences—often involving trauma, grief, family or relational rupture, minority stress, or patterns that seem to reach across generations. As a gay/queer therapist, I especially welcome LGBTQ+ adults into this work. My clients tend to be thoughtful and self-aware, yet may still feel stuck in ways of relating, protecting, or coping that insight alone hasn’t changed. They come to therapy looking for a deeper, more embodied way of understanding their experience and moving forward with greater freedom and choice.
I work with adults who are carrying complex, layered experiences—often involving trauma, grief, family or relational rupture, minority stress, or patterns that seem to reach across generations. As a gay/queer therapist, I especially welcome LGBTQ+ adults into this work. My clients tend to be thoughtful and self-aware, yet may still feel stuck in ways of relating, protecting, or coping that insight alone hasn’t changed. They come to therapy looking for a deeper, more embodied way of understanding their experience and moving forward with greater freedom and choice.
Do you feel disconnected from your body, other humans, and the earth? You’re not alone. Our work together is about rekindling that connection. My clients are artists, musicians, storytellers, gamers, professionals, movement practitioners, and everything in between. They share a longing to feel more at home in their bodies, more present with the people and world around them, and more fully seen.
Do you feel disconnected from your body, other humans, and the earth? You’re not alone. Our work together is about rekindling that connection. My clients are artists, musicians, storytellers, gamers, professionals, movement practitioners, and everything in between. They share a longing to feel more at home in their bodies, more present with the people and world around them, and more fully seen.
In my therapy practice, I welcome clients from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of concerns. An ideal client may be someone who is seeking support and guidance in navigating various life challenges. They may be experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or facing significant life transitions. Their needs include a safe and non-judgmental space where they can openly express their thoughts and emotions, while receiving empathetic and compassionate understanding. Their goals may involve gaining insight, developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, or achieving personal growth.
In my therapy practice, I welcome clients from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of concerns. An ideal client may be someone who is seeking support and guidance in navigating various life challenges. They may be experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or facing significant life transitions. Their needs include a safe and non-judgmental space where they can openly express their thoughts and emotions, while receiving empathetic and compassionate understanding. Their goals may involve gaining insight, developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, or achieving personal growth.
With warmth, humor, and compassion, we will collaborate to build upon your intrinsic strengths and support your present intentions for your therapy and self-development. As we work together, I invite you to bring the fullness of your lived experience into the room.
With warmth, humor, and compassion, we will collaborate to build upon your intrinsic strengths and support your present intentions for your therapy and self-development. As we work together, I invite you to bring the fullness of your lived experience into the room.
Life can be hard and many of us feel out of control or alone. We are meant to have connections with others to and these bonds form the framework of how we interpret the world around us as well as our own sense of self. When crisis and conflict occur, and these relationships are challenged, life can seem impossible. This is where interpersonal growth can occur. No matter what the issue, finding the desire and courage to overcome these challenges is a personal and important decision. Choosing the therapist who is the right fit for you is the next step. *I am able to respond to email inquiry significantly faster then by phone
Life can be hard and many of us feel out of control or alone. We are meant to have connections with others to and these bonds form the framework of how we interpret the world around us as well as our own sense of self. When crisis and conflict occur, and these relationships are challenged, life can seem impossible. This is where interpersonal growth can occur. No matter what the issue, finding the desire and courage to overcome these challenges is a personal and important decision. Choosing the therapist who is the right fit for you is the next step. *I am able to respond to email inquiry significantly faster then by phone
As a therapist, I provide an inclusive, non-judgmental space in which you can process the feelings, while feeling heard and understood. As a client, you can expect to join efforts to explore, laugh, and find your voice again. I help my clients to find freedom and strength as you express thoughts and emotions in a safe environment, thereby deepening your relationship with your true self and with others. I believe the therapy relationship should be one of mutual respect and collaboration.
As a therapist, I provide an inclusive, non-judgmental space in which you can process the feelings, while feeling heard and understood. As a client, you can expect to join efforts to explore, laugh, and find your voice again. I help my clients to find freedom and strength as you express thoughts and emotions in a safe environment, thereby deepening your relationship with your true self and with others. I believe the therapy relationship should be one of mutual respect and collaboration.
Laura Birchard, LPC – Portland Depth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCI
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
You hold a unique process of transformation within. Yet becoming your authentic self in the world can be deeply challenging. You may feel stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by something you can’t quite name. A part of you longs for change, yet the way forward feels unclear. I work with teens and adults, helping them understand their emotions, build resilience, and reconnect with what feels true and whole. Symptoms can be a calling to deeper self-connection. Using a compassionate, creative approach, I support those facing personal growth challenges, trauma, stressful or overwhelming experiences, anxiety, and mood disorders.
You hold a unique process of transformation within. Yet becoming your authentic self in the world can be deeply challenging. You may feel stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by something you can’t quite name. A part of you longs for change, yet the way forward feels unclear. I work with teens and adults, helping them understand their emotions, build resilience, and reconnect with what feels true and whole. Symptoms can be a calling to deeper self-connection. Using a compassionate, creative approach, I support those facing personal growth challenges, trauma, stressful or overwhelming experiences, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
Would you like to improve your assertive communication skills, manage stress and conflict more effectively, deepen your relationships and improve your sense of well-being? If so, therapy may be able to help you reach your goals. You may also be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or a major life transition. Talking with someone you trust can help you discover key insights, barriers to change, and effective coping strategies. Participating in therapy takes a lot of courage: my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can share what's most important to you and we can work together to support your growth.
Would you like to improve your assertive communication skills, manage stress and conflict more effectively, deepen your relationships and improve your sense of well-being? If so, therapy may be able to help you reach your goals. You may also be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or a major life transition. Talking with someone you trust can help you discover key insights, barriers to change, and effective coping strategies. Participating in therapy takes a lot of courage: my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can share what's most important to you and we can work together to support your growth.
Esther Hermiz, Complex Trauma
Licensed Professional Counselor, MT-BC, LPC
13 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
You feel your throat close, your temperature rise, your heart rate increase. You want to be seen, heard, and deeply understood. But sometimes, you don’t even know where to start, or how. The fact is, this isn’t your fault. Your nervous system was hardwired at a young age to ignore your needs, to push away your feelings. This is because it was not safe. Maybe you experienced relational trauma and neglect in childhood. This had a profound impact on how you relate to others and find safety within connection. And so, it can be difficult for you to communicate your feelings and needs.
You feel your throat close, your temperature rise, your heart rate increase. You want to be seen, heard, and deeply understood. But sometimes, you don’t even know where to start, or how. The fact is, this isn’t your fault. Your nervous system was hardwired at a young age to ignore your needs, to push away your feelings. This is because it was not safe. Maybe you experienced relational trauma and neglect in childhood. This had a profound impact on how you relate to others and find safety within connection. And so, it can be difficult for you to communicate your feelings and needs.
I assist adults and couples with psycho-spiritual practices, relationships, parenting, life transitions, anxiety/depression, and loss. My practice is oriented toward psychological and spiritual integration. Through a combination of mindfulness, somatic and systems therapies, clients develop deeper relationship with all aspects of themself. Together, we'll help you access more Love and appreciation for parts of yourself you may judge harshly; and look for guidance from the Wisdom that you already embody.
I assist adults and couples with psycho-spiritual practices, relationships, parenting, life transitions, anxiety/depression, and loss. My practice is oriented toward psychological and spiritual integration. Through a combination of mindfulness, somatic and systems therapies, clients develop deeper relationship with all aspects of themself. Together, we'll help you access more Love and appreciation for parts of yourself you may judge harshly; and look for guidance from the Wisdom that you already embody.
You may appear to have it all together while feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck inside. I work with adults, couples and families navigating trauma, anxiety, disordered eating and body neutrality, addiction and recovery, relationship challenges, life transitions, sexuality, and family-of-origin wounds (amongst other concerns). Many of my clients have spent years taking care of others or repeating painful patterns they can't seem to change. Together, we'll explore the emotions and experiences beneath those patterns, helping you build insight, resilience, healthier relationships, and lasting change, not just temporary relief.
You may appear to have it all together while feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck inside. I work with adults, couples and families navigating trauma, anxiety, disordered eating and body neutrality, addiction and recovery, relationship challenges, life transitions, sexuality, and family-of-origin wounds (amongst other concerns). Many of my clients have spent years taking care of others or repeating painful patterns they can't seem to change. Together, we'll explore the emotions and experiences beneath those patterns, helping you build insight, resilience, healthier relationships, and lasting change, not just temporary relief.
Currently accepting clients. I offer consultation, clinical supervision, and therapy. I take a relational and collaborative approach in all of my work and strive to create a space for clients to be genuine and transparent as we work together to address their needs. I am a good fit for individuals who are looking to gain deeper self-awareness and insight, increase meaning and fulfillment in their lives, and reduce mental health symptoms that interfere with their wellness. Clients report that they benefit from my integrative, relational approach to psychotherapy.
Currently accepting clients. I offer consultation, clinical supervision, and therapy. I take a relational and collaborative approach in all of my work and strive to create a space for clients to be genuine and transparent as we work together to address their needs. I am a good fit for individuals who are looking to gain deeper self-awareness and insight, increase meaning and fulfillment in their lives, and reduce mental health symptoms that interfere with their wellness. Clients report that they benefit from my integrative, relational approach to psychotherapy.
Welcome! If you find yourself navigating through this platform, you may be here because something in your life no longer feels quite right—or because an old way of living is no longer enough. You may be carrying trauma, living within limiting internal patterns, or searching for a deeper relationship with yourself and your life. My integrative approach looks beyond symptoms alone to the feelings, experiences, relationships, and patterns beneath them. I use a body-centered, trauma-informed approach, and make room for what has been held in the body.
Welcome! If you find yourself navigating through this platform, you may be here because something in your life no longer feels quite right—or because an old way of living is no longer enough. You may be carrying trauma, living within limiting internal patterns, or searching for a deeper relationship with yourself and your life. My integrative approach looks beyond symptoms alone to the feelings, experiences, relationships, and patterns beneath them. I use a body-centered, trauma-informed approach, and make room for what has been held in the body.
The struggle that comes with managing everyday life can be as debilitating as major trauma. Anxiety, depression, irritability, low frustration tolerance are all important symptoms be curious about and explore; letting you know that a shift is needed in order for you to find peace, increased mood stability, and fulfilling relationships. I provide supportive, psychodynamic and attachment based psychotherapy. I teach emotional regulation skills while also examining underlying issues. My expertise ranges from working with children ages 4 and older, adults and couples.
The struggle that comes with managing everyday life can be as debilitating as major trauma. Anxiety, depression, irritability, low frustration tolerance are all important symptoms be curious about and explore; letting you know that a shift is needed in order for you to find peace, increased mood stability, and fulfilling relationships. I provide supportive, psychodynamic and attachment based psychotherapy. I teach emotional regulation skills while also examining underlying issues. My expertise ranges from working with children ages 4 and older, adults and couples.
Let's connect and find the area of your life where you would like to see actual prosperity. Are you prepared to leave something behind to chase your dreams? My approach is client-centered. In my work with you, I will always strive to provide an open and safe place for you. Building trust with you is very important to a successful outcome for you.
Let's connect and find the area of your life where you would like to see actual prosperity. Are you prepared to leave something behind to chase your dreams? My approach is client-centered. In my work with you, I will always strive to provide an open and safe place for you. Building trust with you is very important to a successful outcome for you.
Are you seeking stability and understanding in your life? If so, let's work to find balance through self-discovery and strength. I specialize in trauma treatment, day-to-day stress, adult ADHD, behavioral change, self-esteem and self-compassion, maladaptive coping strategies, anxiety, and depression. I believe in examining the self through a lens of understanding, curiosity, and patience. We'll discover and break down the roots of why you're not feeling fully satisfied with your life. Through a collaborative social justice oriented approach to counseling, we'll move towards healing in a comfortable, safe and challenging manner.
Are you seeking stability and understanding in your life? If so, let's work to find balance through self-discovery and strength. I specialize in trauma treatment, day-to-day stress, adult ADHD, behavioral change, self-esteem and self-compassion, maladaptive coping strategies, anxiety, and depression. I believe in examining the self through a lens of understanding, curiosity, and patience. We'll discover and break down the roots of why you're not feeling fully satisfied with your life. Through a collaborative social justice oriented approach to counseling, we'll move towards healing in a comfortable, safe and challenging manner.
See more therapy options for 97209
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 97209
300+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in 97209 who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Anxiety |
| 92% | Social Anxiety |
| 92% | Health Anxiety |
| 92% | Driving Anxiety |
| 86% | Depression |
| 80% | Relationship Issues |
| 77% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 70% | Aetna |
| 61% | Regence |
| 60% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in 97209 see their clients
| 60% | In Person and Online | |
| 40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 69% | Female | |
| 25% | Male | |
| 6% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 97209?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.


