Photo of Megan S Samsel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Megan S Samsel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I utilize Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Emotions Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
Whether we are exploring the relationship we have with ourselves or with others, I believe compassion and loving-presence are essential to understanding the parts of ourselves that feel tender and/or condemned. It isn’t uncommon for these tender parts to appear to be stuck in patterns that seem to further disconnect us from ourselves and others. I enjoy working with neurodivergence, those with complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. My work is an anti-oppressive, relational, humorous, and client-centered.
I utilize Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Emotions Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
Whether we are exploring the relationship we have with ourselves or with others, I believe compassion and loving-presence are essential to understanding the parts of ourselves that feel tender and/or condemned. It isn’t uncommon for these tender parts to appear to be stuck in patterns that seem to further disconnect us from ourselves and others. I enjoy working with neurodivergence, those with complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. My work is an anti-oppressive, relational, humorous, and client-centered.
(971) 298-7928 View (971) 298-7928
Photo of Kelly Mehigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kelly Mehigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of individual and family work. When working with children, I believe in the power of play, art, and connection to build relationships and skill-build along with process challenging life events. I support families with increasing communication, building compassion and connection while honoring families’ inherent strengths and background. During individual therapy with adults, our work will be geared towards finding balance in navigating the unknown and building coping tools. In all aspects of my work I am committed to working from an anti-oppressive and affirming lens.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of individual and family work. When working with children, I believe in the power of play, art, and connection to build relationships and skill-build along with process challenging life events. I support families with increasing communication, building compassion and connection while honoring families’ inherent strengths and background. During individual therapy with adults, our work will be geared towards finding balance in navigating the unknown and building coping tools. In all aspects of my work I am committed to working from an anti-oppressive and affirming lens.
(503) 461-8747 View (503) 461-8747
Photo of Amelia O'Neil, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Amelia O'Neil
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Please Note: The only type of OHP that I am able to take is CareOregon. If you are struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse, or loss (no matter how far in the past), there is hope. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling, we will create a safe space for collaborative work and healing. We can also use mindfulness, somatic, and creative therapies if you feel drawn to that kind of work. I have particular experience working with people who have been impacted by sexual trauma; PTSD that feels out of control; family/relationship issues; attachment wounding; and significant loss.
Please Note: The only type of OHP that I am able to take is CareOregon. If you are struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse, or loss (no matter how far in the past), there is hope. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling, we will create a safe space for collaborative work and healing. We can also use mindfulness, somatic, and creative therapies if you feel drawn to that kind of work. I have particular experience working with people who have been impacted by sexual trauma; PTSD that feels out of control; family/relationship issues; attachment wounding; and significant loss.
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Photo of Taylor Alderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Taylor Alderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive counseling/psychotherapy. I work with individuals both long and short term. Wanting to understand why adverse or difficult things happen to us is natural. When one can contribute a sense of meaning to a difficult situation the power of the problem is often integrated and diminishes. Therapy is a process that can help an individual find the transformational quality in their adverse experiences and become empowered by them, instead of overwhelmed by them.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive counseling/psychotherapy. I work with individuals both long and short term. Wanting to understand why adverse or difficult things happen to us is natural. When one can contribute a sense of meaning to a difficult situation the power of the problem is often integrated and diminishes. Therapy is a process that can help an individual find the transformational quality in their adverse experiences and become empowered by them, instead of overwhelmed by them.
(971) 257-8937 View (971) 257-8937
Photo of Paula Emerick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Paula Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include addiction and recovery, relationship dynamics (couples, poly, open, kink), LGBTQIAA identity, family of origin, SPMI, sex work, and healing from trauma.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
My specialties include addiction and recovery, relationship dynamics (couples, poly, open, kink), LGBTQIAA identity, family of origin, SPMI, sex work, and healing from trauma.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
(971) 260-4121 View (971) 260-4121
Photo of Dani Drake, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Dani Drake
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I specialize in LGBTQI2S and Trans/Nonbinary children and parents; However, I work with people of all genders and sexualities using a mix of talk therapy and play therapy with family systems interventions.
I am honored to work with adolescents and their families. The years from 11-18 are a time of big changes and big questions. Everyone struggles during this developmental phase, but some of us need extra care during this time in order to arrive at adulthood ready to thrive. Parental participation in treatment with me is essential, and I tend to be the best fit for parents wanting to be closer to their child, parents who want to work with their child to heal, or parents who feel they just don't know how to help.
I specialize in LGBTQI2S and Trans/Nonbinary children and parents; However, I work with people of all genders and sexualities using a mix of talk therapy and play therapy with family systems interventions.
I am honored to work with adolescents and their families. The years from 11-18 are a time of big changes and big questions. Everyone struggles during this developmental phase, but some of us need extra care during this time in order to arrive at adulthood ready to thrive. Parental participation in treatment with me is essential, and I tend to be the best fit for parents wanting to be closer to their child, parents who want to work with their child to heal, or parents who feel they just don't know how to help.
(503) 850-0231 View (503) 850-0231
Photo of Andrea Grace Karpinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Andrea Grace Karpinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have dedicated much of my professional life to working with children and families. In my family work, I have enjoyed working with adults and have expanded my practice to include adults. I have worked in a variety of positions which include the following: therapist, youth advocate, teacher, youth employment specialist, Big Brother/Big Sister Coordinator, parent/teen mediator, mentor, coach, youth crew leader and Peace Corps Volunteer. These experiences have provided a wealth of insight into the human condition. They have enriched my life and often inform my work as a therapist.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have dedicated much of my professional life to working with children and families. In my family work, I have enjoyed working with adults and have expanded my practice to include adults. I have worked in a variety of positions which include the following: therapist, youth advocate, teacher, youth employment specialist, Big Brother/Big Sister Coordinator, parent/teen mediator, mentor, coach, youth crew leader and Peace Corps Volunteer. These experiences have provided a wealth of insight into the human condition. They have enriched my life and often inform my work as a therapist.
(503) 406-9103 View (503) 406-9103
Photo of Holly Wigmore, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Holly Wigmore
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is rooted in Internal Family System Therapy.
I think of counseling as a journey. Maybe you're not sure what the next steps are to get where you want to go. Perhaps you are feeling a lost, stuck, or unsure of what peak to journey to next. Maybe you've lost reception completely and need help syncing GPS to even find where you are! That's where I come in. As a therapist, I see my role as journeying alongside you on your unique path of self-exploration. I have a backpack of supplies and tools for us to get there but ultimately, it is your journey that we will be on.
My clinical approach is rooted in Internal Family System Therapy.
I think of counseling as a journey. Maybe you're not sure what the next steps are to get where you want to go. Perhaps you are feeling a lost, stuck, or unsure of what peak to journey to next. Maybe you've lost reception completely and need help syncing GPS to even find where you are! That's where I come in. As a therapist, I see my role as journeying alongside you on your unique path of self-exploration. I have a backpack of supplies and tools for us to get there but ultimately, it is your journey that we will be on.
(503) 907-6890 View (503) 907-6890
Photo of Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC has a team of providers with a wide variety of specialties that include medication management, marital, individual, family and group counseling. Our goal is to bring a sense of vitality and wellness to your life through compassion, wisdom and humor!
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC has a team of providers with a wide variety of specialties that include medication management, marital, individual, family and group counseling. Our goal is to bring a sense of vitality and wellness to your life through compassion, wisdom and humor!
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Photo of Psychology & Wellness Group PDX (Group Practice), Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Psychology & Wellness Group PDX (Group Practice)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, MSW, CSWA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
We see adolescents and adults for individual, couples, family and group therapy.
We are a group practice in SW PDX, previously in Lake Oswego. We want to help you deal with the effects of your emotional pain, often invisible to others. If you are looking to be able to trust yourself and others and to understand the negative repetitive patterns in your life, then therapy can be a possible solution. We believe in competency, honesty and compassion as necessary qualities for therapists; ultimately you need to be able to trust the therapist you choose. Although life can be full of pain, we want to help reduce your suffering. Therapy is one of the ways you can address your emotional pain. Currently updating website.
We see adolescents and adults for individual, couples, family and group therapy.
We are a group practice in SW PDX, previously in Lake Oswego. We want to help you deal with the effects of your emotional pain, often invisible to others. If you are looking to be able to trust yourself and others and to understand the negative repetitive patterns in your life, then therapy can be a possible solution. We believe in competency, honesty and compassion as necessary qualities for therapists; ultimately you need to be able to trust the therapist you choose. Although life can be full of pain, we want to help reduce your suffering. Therapy is one of the ways you can address your emotional pain. Currently updating website.
(971) 257-1389 View (971) 257-1389
Photo of Lisa Sloan Strom, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lisa Sloan Strom, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
You've let go of the toxic relationship, addictive behavior, and self defeating patterns, and you want to remain empowered, strong, supported through it all. You seek someone you can talk to, someone other than friend or family. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or a major life event like Pandemic or career change, it's time to build support and concrete skills for the healthy, authentic life you've always desired.
You've let go of the toxic relationship, addictive behavior, and self defeating patterns, and you want to remain empowered, strong, supported through it all. You seek someone you can talk to, someone other than friend or family. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or a major life event like Pandemic or career change, it's time to build support and concrete skills for the healthy, authentic life you've always desired.
(503) 743-6638 x974 View (503) 743-6638 x974
Photo of Meagan Shaw, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Meagan Shaw
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I have a relational style that incorporates Gestalt theory, Internal Family Systems, AEDP and Family Systems Therapy.
Life and relationships are full of growth opportunities for all of us. I work in collaboration with clients to increase connection and awareness of core values so they can make lasting change. My style is positive, warm and direct. For those working to find increased joy and stability within themselves and their relationships, we can explore together the areas that feel stuck and ways to increase functioning and open up more choice.
I have a relational style that incorporates Gestalt theory, Internal Family Systems, AEDP and Family Systems Therapy.
Life and relationships are full of growth opportunities for all of us. I work in collaboration with clients to increase connection and awareness of core values so they can make lasting change. My style is positive, warm and direct. For those working to find increased joy and stability within themselves and their relationships, we can explore together the areas that feel stuck and ways to increase functioning and open up more choice.
(541) 513-7303 View (541) 513-7303
Photo of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97216
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am Chad Ernest, Owner and Counselor of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC. Every one could use some sunny sky in Portland now and again. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, who believes in the best in all of us and tries to help you find that in yourself. Whether that means I am working with you as an individual, your family, or as a couple, I am working to help you find the best outcomes. I believe in a client/family centered approach with collaboration in treatment between you and myself.
Hello! I am Chad Ernest, Owner and Counselor of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC. Every one could use some sunny sky in Portland now and again. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, who believes in the best in all of us and tries to help you find that in yourself. Whether that means I am working with you as an individual, your family, or as a couple, I am working to help you find the best outcomes. I believe in a client/family centered approach with collaboration in treatment between you and myself.
(503) 374-1642 View (503) 374-1642
Photo of Carin Lee Cunningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Carin Lee Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
Past trauma, childhood family dynamics and life experiences all impact our personalities and emotional stability and need to be part of the path to the solutions.
My goal is to meet the client where they are at and work together towards identifying what their struggles are, what gets in the way of addressing them and building skills to grow from there. Using mindfulness to increase awareness and understanding of the connection between mind and body we learn to recognize how emotions and other factors impact mood, attitude, attention and relationships. I view people through a trauma informed lens to ensure that all aspects of their past and present are considered possible influencers and may need to be better understood. I like to say my hope as your therapist is "helping you help yourself".
Past trauma, childhood family dynamics and life experiences all impact our personalities and emotional stability and need to be part of the path to the solutions.
My goal is to meet the client where they are at and work together towards identifying what their struggles are, what gets in the way of addressing them and building skills to grow from there. Using mindfulness to increase awareness and understanding of the connection between mind and body we learn to recognize how emotions and other factors impact mood, attitude, attention and relationships. I view people through a trauma informed lens to ensure that all aspects of their past and present are considered possible influencers and may need to be better understood. I like to say my hope as your therapist is "helping you help yourself".
(503) 300-4019 View (503) 300-4019
Photo of Bill Maier, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Bill Maier, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
"When you come into therapy it is a time to expand the sense of yourself. Our job is to get familiar with the values that have helped you get through difficult situations and use them now. You may be a combat veteran, mental health or law enforcement worker having family or relationship problems. You need clear and practical strategies for replacing automatic reactions with mindful responses. Feeling understood by another human being is useful for flexible problem solving and clarifying your values. The majority of my experience is working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD will definitely get better with knowledgeable treatment."
"When you come into therapy it is a time to expand the sense of yourself. Our job is to get familiar with the values that have helped you get through difficult situations and use them now. You may be a combat veteran, mental health or law enforcement worker having family or relationship problems. You need clear and practical strategies for replacing automatic reactions with mindful responses. Feeling understood by another human being is useful for flexible problem solving and clarifying your values. The majority of my experience is working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD will definitely get better with knowledgeable treatment."
(503) 832-5987 View (503) 832-5987
Photo of Barbara Eggenberger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Barbara Eggenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist serving clients via zoom in California and Oregon. If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist serving clients via zoom in California and Oregon. If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
(916) 571-9297 View (916) 571-9297
Photo of Jeffrey C. Peyton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jeffrey C. Peyton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
My approach is based on respect and compassion, while drawing on tools of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, family systems, adolescent development and other evidence-based practices.
As an experienced adolescent therapist, I am passionate about helping teens and young adults figure out who they are, who they want to be, and the barriers keeping them from realizing these goals. I have assisted hundreds of adolescents through academic challenges, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, ADHD, traumatic experiences, social anxiety and divorce. We work together to develop healthy ways to manage our emotional life, identify strengths which can support self-confidence and motivation, and learn to trust we are worthy of the love and connection we want in our relationships.
My approach is based on respect and compassion, while drawing on tools of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, family systems, adolescent development and other evidence-based practices.
As an experienced adolescent therapist, I am passionate about helping teens and young adults figure out who they are, who they want to be, and the barriers keeping them from realizing these goals. I have assisted hundreds of adolescents through academic challenges, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, ADHD, traumatic experiences, social anxiety and divorce. We work together to develop healthy ways to manage our emotional life, identify strengths which can support self-confidence and motivation, and learn to trust we are worthy of the love and connection we want in our relationships.
(503) 406-1557 View (503) 406-1557
Photo of Gary Neil Reiss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Gary Neil Reiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
My specialties include working with body symptoms; dreams; couples and family issues; sex therapy and intimacy work; trauma personal and collective; and working with money issues.
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.
My specialties include working with body symptoms; dreams; couples and family issues; sex therapy and intimacy work; trauma personal and collective; and working with money issues.
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.
(458) 218-8186 View (458) 218-8186
Photo of Tom Kelley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Tom Kelley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am trained and licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT).
I see individuals, couples and families who are seeking support for things they feel are not going well in their lives. From the Family Systems perspective, any number of issues can be looked at together. My work is centered around interpersonal relationships and how we interact with each other, our selves and our communities. Relationship dynamics are constantly in and out of balance. Managing these relationships is key in helping develop healthy ways of dealing with life issues. The work we do together should feel helpful and focused on your goals.
I am trained and licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT).
I see individuals, couples and families who are seeking support for things they feel are not going well in their lives. From the Family Systems perspective, any number of issues can be looked at together. My work is centered around interpersonal relationships and how we interact with each other, our selves and our communities. Relationship dynamics are constantly in and out of balance. Managing these relationships is key in helping develop healthy ways of dealing with life issues. The work we do together should feel helpful and focused on your goals.
(503) 406-4283 View (503) 406-4283
Photo of Elizabeth Langford, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Elizabeth Langford
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I also provide family therapy and parent coaching.
Let's shoot straight to the point. You're here because you; A) at a loss with your kid these days; B) can't stand your parents; or C) don't know what to do about yourself. I'm here to help you, your child, or your family feel more human.
I also provide family therapy and parent coaching.
Let's shoot straight to the point. You're here because you; A) at a loss with your kid these days; B) can't stand your parents; or C) don't know what to do about yourself. I'm here to help you, your child, or your family feel more human.
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Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.