Marriage Counseling Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Debbie Bensching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I guide the process to work through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members effected by addiction, trauma: post traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), and dissociative disorders. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or under performing.
I guide the process to work through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members effected by addiction, trauma: post traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), and dissociative disorders. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or under performing.
(503) 406-3624 View (503) 406-3624
Photo of Relationship Gardening, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Relationship Gardening
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Couples (any age, race, gender identity) find relief from gridlock arguments, lost connection, or painful broken trust. Walk & Talk or Zoom (CA or OR) w/Shannon Batts, marriage specialist. You want practical how-tos for deeper understanding & validation from your mate, keeping disagreements from getting all wonky, or finding your way through coming out trans? Workshops, retreats, support groups outside. Visit Relationship Gardening website for marriage help gift. Many clients also are health professionals. Black American couples' Resource Redirection available. Need fees reduced? Call or email today!
Couples (any age, race, gender identity) find relief from gridlock arguments, lost connection, or painful broken trust. Walk & Talk or Zoom (CA or OR) w/Shannon Batts, marriage specialist. You want practical how-tos for deeper understanding & validation from your mate, keeping disagreements from getting all wonky, or finding your way through coming out trans? Workshops, retreats, support groups outside. Visit Relationship Gardening website for marriage help gift. Many clients also are health professionals. Black American couples' Resource Redirection available. Need fees reduced? Call or email today!
(503) 822-6665 View (503) 822-6665
Photo of Michael Makinster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Michael Makinster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216
I have worked as a counselor for over 25 years and have a wide range of experience with marriage, depression and anxiety issues. I have also developed a sub-specialty in pornography addiction. I take time to integrate Biblical faith with practical guidance for all of my clients desiring to practice their faith in a manner consistent with their actions. I love to work with people who are ready to get to work and discover what emotions, behaviors and thinking keeps them from living the life they desire to live.
I have worked as a counselor for over 25 years and have a wide range of experience with marriage, depression and anxiety issues. I have also developed a sub-specialty in pornography addiction. I take time to integrate Biblical faith with practical guidance for all of my clients desiring to practice their faith in a manner consistent with their actions. I love to work with people who are ready to get to work and discover what emotions, behaviors and thinking keeps them from living the life they desire to live.
(971) 803-3860 View (971) 803-3860
Photo of Christina Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Christina Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I am currently accepting new couples clients (self-pay), and individual clients. I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory. Specializing in treating people suffering from trauma and eating disorders, I also work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, addiction, and marital conflicts. I currently offer telehealth sessions to clients in both Oregon and California, as I am fully licensed in both states.
I am currently accepting new couples clients (self-pay), and individual clients. I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory. Specializing in treating people suffering from trauma and eating disorders, I also work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, addiction, and marital conflicts. I currently offer telehealth sessions to clients in both Oregon and California, as I am fully licensed in both states.
(503) 506-4927 View (503) 506-4927
Photo of Claire Colaco, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Claire Colaco, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
My areas of expertise include: Depression/Anxiety; Life Transitions; Eating Issues/Body Image Concerns; Spirituality; Parenthood; Survivors of Childhood Abuse and Neglect; Marriage/Partnership; Prenatal, Pregnancy and Postpartum.
My first job as a therapist is to listen and understand. Deep listening is a time honored tradition and fundamental to healing. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship with clients that is a source of comfort and inspiration. Clients inspire me too! I practice spiritually grounded psychotherapy. This means I see life's challenges as, fundamentally, opportunities to grow spiritually and as a whole person. To me, the process of healing is beautiful and miraculous, something that gives us glimpses of a benevolent force much greater than ourselves.
My areas of expertise include: Depression/Anxiety; Life Transitions; Eating Issues/Body Image Concerns; Spirituality; Parenthood; Survivors of Childhood Abuse and Neglect; Marriage/Partnership; Prenatal, Pregnancy and Postpartum.
My first job as a therapist is to listen and understand. Deep listening is a time honored tradition and fundamental to healing. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship with clients that is a source of comfort and inspiration. Clients inspire me too! I practice spiritually grounded psychotherapy. This means I see life's challenges as, fundamentally, opportunities to grow spiritually and as a whole person. To me, the process of healing is beautiful and miraculous, something that gives us glimpses of a benevolent force much greater than ourselves.
(971) 340-2718 View (971) 340-2718
Photo of Heidi Swartzmiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Heidi Swartzmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
(503) 966-8786 View (503) 966-8786
Photo of MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
MindTree offers individual therapy for adults, child/teen therapy, family therapy, play therapy, trauma psychotherapy, marriage & couples counseling, gender affirming care, Grief & Loss.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
MindTree offers individual therapy for adults, child/teen therapy, family therapy, play therapy, trauma psychotherapy, marriage & couples counseling, gender affirming care, Grief & Loss.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
(503) 210-9420 View (503) 210-9420
Photo of Jeanne V Bjorklund, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Jeanne V Bjorklund
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-CA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Some of my specialties include adults recovering from childhood abuse/neglect, understanding and resolving loss and grief, strengthening couples and marriage preparation, and child-centered play therapy.
Most folks can handle the ups and downs of life unless their closest relationships are in trouble. That's what brings people to me. With over two decades as facilitator of personal and relational growth in individuals, couples and families, I am psycho-dynamic (seek to 'peel back the layers') with individuals, helping them to become free from the emotional baggage of childhood. I offer a systems-oriention with couples and families along with some Gottman tools and Prepare and Enrich. I developed a therapeutic program for a children's home in CA and served as their therapist and staff trainer for 5 years.
Some of my specialties include adults recovering from childhood abuse/neglect, understanding and resolving loss and grief, strengthening couples and marriage preparation, and child-centered play therapy.
Most folks can handle the ups and downs of life unless their closest relationships are in trouble. That's what brings people to me. With over two decades as facilitator of personal and relational growth in individuals, couples and families, I am psycho-dynamic (seek to 'peel back the layers') with individuals, helping them to become free from the emotional baggage of childhood. I offer a systems-oriention with couples and families along with some Gottman tools and Prepare and Enrich. I developed a therapeutic program for a children's home in CA and served as their therapist and staff trainer for 5 years.
(503) 987-3367 View (503) 987-3367
Photo of Congruent Therapy: Alexandra Scott, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Congruent Therapy: Alexandra Scott
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Alexandra is a therapist who guides individuals, couples, poly systems. Raised in a religious context, she navigated personal beliefs around sexual orientation and marriage ideals, forming inclusive perspectives. Alexandra supports clients in exploring identities, life choices, and challenging societal norms. Embracing diverse relationship structures, including ENM/CNM and polyamory, she believes in individualized approaches. Alexandra empowers clients in their unique journeys toward fulfilling lives and genuine connections by modeling and teaching her clients about boundary-setting, communication, and collaborative problem-solving.
Alexandra is a therapist who guides individuals, couples, poly systems. Raised in a religious context, she navigated personal beliefs around sexual orientation and marriage ideals, forming inclusive perspectives. Alexandra supports clients in exploring identities, life choices, and challenging societal norms. Embracing diverse relationship structures, including ENM/CNM and polyamory, she believes in individualized approaches. Alexandra empowers clients in their unique journeys toward fulfilling lives and genuine connections by modeling and teaching her clients about boundary-setting, communication, and collaborative problem-solving.
(503) 714-7943 View (503) 714-7943
Photo of Karen Maloney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Karen Maloney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I also specialize in couple and marital counseling using the Gottman method.
I believe you will find counseling it to be an integral and valuable part of your life journey in seeking out the changes and goals you desire. In sessions, I provide a safe and trusting environment, will empower you to discover unused resources and strengths and will sift through what areas are ineffective and need changing.
I also specialize in couple and marital counseling using the Gottman method.
I believe you will find counseling it to be an integral and valuable part of your life journey in seeking out the changes and goals you desire. In sessions, I provide a safe and trusting environment, will empower you to discover unused resources and strengths and will sift through what areas are ineffective and need changing.
(503) 822-6195 View (503) 822-6195
Photo of Tom Dooley, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Tom Dooley
Psychologist, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Areas of Specialty: trauma, anxiety, depression, marital issues, domestic violence, anger control, communication, parenting, and spiritual issues.
Feeling stuck in life's circumstances? Don't just "Do it" as Nike says, but "Do something healthy"! With memberships in ADAA (anxiety) and the OCD Institute, trained in trauma treatment, and a certified domestic violence provider, I work with a variety of issues in marital, individual, and family counseling. I seek to be collaborative, practical, and respectful. My doctorate is from George Fox University, and I have been in the field since 1986. Offices are in Vancouver WA and Portland OR. Thank you for considering me.
Areas of Specialty: trauma, anxiety, depression, marital issues, domestic violence, anger control, communication, parenting, and spiritual issues.
Feeling stuck in life's circumstances? Don't just "Do it" as Nike says, but "Do something healthy"! With memberships in ADAA (anxiety) and the OCD Institute, trained in trauma treatment, and a certified domestic violence provider, I work with a variety of issues in marital, individual, and family counseling. I seek to be collaborative, practical, and respectful. My doctorate is from George Fox University, and I have been in the field since 1986. Offices are in Vancouver WA and Portland OR. Thank you for considering me.
(360) 513-7398 View (360) 513-7398
Photo of Tracy Ann Murdza, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Tracy Ann Murdza
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
As a Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Associate, I have a heart for helping families and all of the systems that make them up.
Everyone faces difficult things in life that can become overwhelming to deal with on their own. Having others to rely on is an important component to navigating through those hard times without further emotional distress. As a mental health professional, I hope to support clients in working through all the daily stresses, traumatic events, life transitions, and relationship challenges that they may be facing. I approach all clients with a desire to step into their world as an observer and serve as a guide to uncovering strengths and possible solutions that can bring about change and healing.
As a Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Associate, I have a heart for helping families and all of the systems that make them up.
Everyone faces difficult things in life that can become overwhelming to deal with on their own. Having others to rely on is an important component to navigating through those hard times without further emotional distress. As a mental health professional, I hope to support clients in working through all the daily stresses, traumatic events, life transitions, and relationship challenges that they may be facing. I approach all clients with a desire to step into their world as an observer and serve as a guide to uncovering strengths and possible solutions that can bring about change and healing.
(503) 400-3387 View (503) 400-3387
Photo of Kristina Barnett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Kristina Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I'm a systems thinker with a background in sociology and marriage and family therapy.
I'm so glad you found me! Whether you are struggling with relationship issues or experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, I am here to help. Many of our human struggles emerge from troubled connections with significant people in our lives or with ourselves. Together, we will explore and change the patterns in your life that are getting in the way of your peace and well-being by cultivating a sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
I'm a systems thinker with a background in sociology and marriage and family therapy.
I'm so glad you found me! Whether you are struggling with relationship issues or experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, I am here to help. Many of our human struggles emerge from troubled connections with significant people in our lives or with ourselves. Together, we will explore and change the patterns in your life that are getting in the way of your peace and well-being by cultivating a sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
(503) 461-7367 View (503) 461-7367
Photo of Trish L Gemulla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Trish L Gemulla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
I specialize in working with individuals and couples through life transitions, including adolescence, marriage/cohabitation, becoming parents, career changes, grief/loss, relocation and retirement.
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples through life transitions, including adolescence, marriage/cohabitation, becoming parents, career changes, grief/loss, relocation and retirement.
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
(503) 676-5259 View (503) 676-5259
Photo of Nahomie Guillaume, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Nahomie Guillaume
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I work with couples in the early stages, and those in interracial marriage and intercultural/interfaith relationships.
Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts that you find disturbing? Are you in need of hope, healing, and support? If so, I can help. I will help you identify your life's purpose/meaning, develop healthy coping skills as you grow in your relationships. Beside my professional background, I know firsthand the joy and challenges of raising a family, juggling multiple demands; and have experienced the loss of a child through both miscarriage and stillbirth. If you are looking for someone whom you can connect with on an experiential level, I am that therapist. I look forward to assisting you in your life's journey.
I work with couples in the early stages, and those in interracial marriage and intercultural/interfaith relationships.
Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts that you find disturbing? Are you in need of hope, healing, and support? If so, I can help. I will help you identify your life's purpose/meaning, develop healthy coping skills as you grow in your relationships. Beside my professional background, I know firsthand the joy and challenges of raising a family, juggling multiple demands; and have experienced the loss of a child through both miscarriage and stillbirth. If you are looking for someone whom you can connect with on an experiential level, I am that therapist. I look forward to assisting you in your life's journey.
(971) 292-3947 View (971) 292-3947
Photo of Kit Kryger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kit Kryger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Everyone goes through challenges situations in life and while you my have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it, in fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relational difficulties and are committed to making long lasting changes in your life by acquiring the long-lasting benefits and tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome those challenges-take the first step.
Everyone goes through challenges situations in life and while you my have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it, in fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relational difficulties and are committed to making long lasting changes in your life by acquiring the long-lasting benefits and tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome those challenges-take the first step.
(971) 351-2323 View (971) 351-2323
Photo of Mary J DiOrio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Mary J DiOrio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I often work with couples looking for greater intimacy or coping with marital distress, such as healing after an affair.
I am currently accepting new clients. Helping people achieve a higher quality life with more joy never gets old. Working with full spectrum eating disorders, ranging from people who are grappling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, compulsive/emotional eating, to orthorexia. I address body image concerns by helping clients gain insight in order to develop effective coping mechanisms. My practice includes working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, feeling "stuck" or seeking a higher quality of life, social phobias, and obsessive compulsive issues.
I often work with couples looking for greater intimacy or coping with marital distress, such as healing after an affair.
I am currently accepting new clients. Helping people achieve a higher quality life with more joy never gets old. Working with full spectrum eating disorders, ranging from people who are grappling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, compulsive/emotional eating, to orthorexia. I address body image concerns by helping clients gain insight in order to develop effective coping mechanisms. My practice includes working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, feeling "stuck" or seeking a higher quality of life, social phobias, and obsessive compulsive issues.
(971) 832-9986 View (971) 832-9986
Photo of Amy Aulick Gupta, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Amy Aulick Gupta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
And I lead "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work," workshop by John Gottman.
So much of life is learning to deal with the cards we’ve been given. I love seeing people not only deal with the cards they’ve been given, but turn them into amazing card castles. I want to help those that seek to get unstuck grow toward their best selves, have great relationships and enjoy lives filled with joy. I like to use well-researched therapeutic techniques that have been proven to help people grow. In couples therapy that means drawing from the research of John Gottman. In family and individual therapy that means an integrative approach - utilizing practical therapeutic tools that help clients achieve their goals.
And I lead "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work," workshop by John Gottman.
So much of life is learning to deal with the cards we’ve been given. I love seeing people not only deal with the cards they’ve been given, but turn them into amazing card castles. I want to help those that seek to get unstuck grow toward their best selves, have great relationships and enjoy lives filled with joy. I like to use well-researched therapeutic techniques that have been proven to help people grow. In couples therapy that means drawing from the research of John Gottman. In family and individual therapy that means an integrative approach - utilizing practical therapeutic tools that help clients achieve their goals.
(503) 242-1675 View (503) 242-1675
Photo of Wendy Haynes, Counselor in Portland, OR
Wendy Haynes
Counselor, MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
(503) 342-2158 View (503) 342-2158
Photo of Percy Hawkes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Percy Hawkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
In addition to marriage & family therapy, I'm trained in Sex Therapy, Attachment, EMDR (trauma work), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, the Mythopoetic men's movement, Sensate Focus & Surrogate Partner Therapy.
Get better, heal, and integrate. My role is to help you become your fullest version of yourself. My ideal clients are ready to look at new ways of encountering old problems. I enjoy working with many identities, including my own LGBTQIA+ and Latinx communities. Relationships, sexuality, identity, trauma, anxiety, kink, and neurodiversity are recurrent therapy themes. At times in our lives it is key to have the competent support of an advocate to walk through tough life experiences. I see individuals, relationships, and groups.
In addition to marriage & family therapy, I'm trained in Sex Therapy, Attachment, EMDR (trauma work), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, the Mythopoetic men's movement, Sensate Focus & Surrogate Partner Therapy.
Get better, heal, and integrate. My role is to help you become your fullest version of yourself. My ideal clients are ready to look at new ways of encountering old problems. I enjoy working with many identities, including my own LGBTQIA+ and Latinx communities. Relationships, sexuality, identity, trauma, anxiety, kink, and neurodiversity are recurrent therapy themes. At times in our lives it is key to have the competent support of an advocate to walk through tough life experiences. I see individuals, relationships, and groups.
(503) 461-8651 View (503) 461-8651
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.