Therapists in 97202

A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.

I have been practicing in the mental health field for several years working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, existential concerns, and other mental health issues. I specialize in working with individuals across the disability spectrum: those who deal with psychological, cognitive, neurological, physical, and intellectual disabilities. I live with a spinal cord injury and identify as an individual with a disability which allows me the privilege to make a deeper connection with those who deal with chronic conditions that may impede on their desired quality of life.

PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.

I believe that everyone wants to feel loved, appreciated & valued. I enjoy helping individuals identify repeating lifelong patterns that prevent this from happening. Sometimes life can be confusing and frustrating and it can feel that you have tried everything to "fix" a feeling/situation/self belief and can end up feeling pretty hopeless though I can help you to identify your strengths, provide support and work with you so that you can lead the life you currently are dreaming about.

When life feels presents us with stress, whether it be from anxiety, depression, or trauma, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and a sense that our lives have become unmanageable. My greatest satisfaction comes with assisting individuals in recognizing their power to grow and thrive. I assist my clients, who include adolescents and adults, in finding ways to change their relationship to thoughts and emotions and develop a stronger sense of self, establishing core values, and creating an action plan linked to goals based on those values.

My approach is collaborative with a focus on building awareness and flexibility in coping styles, with the goal of decreasing symptoms as quickly as possible. My training and approach include cognitive behavioral therapy, gestalt therapy, developmental theories, dialectical behavior therapy, and crisis/trauma-informed theories. Additionally, I am dedicated to working with first responders, healthcare workers, and other mental health providers.

I am looking forward to working with adults, couples, families, adolescents and/or children (in no particular order) that are interested in art therapy and counseling. I have had 5 years experience in a residential setting with adolescents who struggle with both addictions and mental health concerns. And for another 7 years I worked with children and families in need of significant services at a non-profit organization downtown. I am now primarily working with Clients (like you!) at my private practice in SE Portland and am truly enjoying the experience.