Therapists in Linn County, OR

My approach to counseling is based on a Person-Centered approach as well as a Cognitive-Behavioral approach. I believe that the Therapeutic Relationship in counseling is the main ingredient for healing and growth. Collaboratively, the client and I will identify areas of concern and find ways to achieve wellness for the client. I believe that the client has the ability to find solutions to their dilemmas within themselves, but sometimes need someone to walk alongside of them during this process.

I work to build trust and create a safe space for people to explore themselves and their relationships. Relationships are the bedrock of society, change, and connection. Having a good sense of self requires having a good relationship with yourself. Having fulfilling relationships increases our ability to cope with life, has long term positive effects on our physical and mental health, and makes us happier. If you’re aware that you struggle with the same cyclical issues, it means you’ve awakened to the fact that what you’ve been doing isn’t currently working for you.

Through counseling individuals learn to cope with feelings and situations ; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. Make simple daily changes to your life in order to live your best life.

I am currently welcoming new clients, both individuals and couples. Going to a counselor or therapist when you are feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or simply out of sorts should be as normal as going to the doctor when you have the flu. I see myself partnering with you in a therapeutic relationship as guide and counselor, providing empathy and compassion as we explore issues and concerns, together, along the way. My approach is holistic, based upon the impact of the mind-body connection on well-being. My work background includes ten years as a teacher and twelve years as a hospice medical social worker.

Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Problems with relationships, work, school, and more can lead us to having feelings of anxiety and/or depression. This can begin to feel like the new "norm." I have a passion for helping individuals get out of this painful "rut," and help them to set goals that will help them reach their fullest potential in life.

You want your child to feel loved, safe, connected, secure, empowered, and prepared. This is the foundation they deserve. It is also what you have always deserved, too. Whether any one of your needs was missed, rejected, or abused in your early life, or you lost a sense of your needs and how to get them met somewhere between then and now, you can always find your way back. In doing so, creating or enhancing the capacity within yourself to be that firm foundation of support for your child. It is never too late.

I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing compassionate and informed psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. My specialty is therapy with young children 4-10. I use play therapy and other techniques to help children establish a firm basis for their developmental progress. I offer experience and expertise with all developmental, behavioral and mental health issues of children, adolescents and adults informed by psychodynamic principles, empathy and respect for the individual adult, child or family. I welcome the opportunity to address your particular needs.

My goal is to help clients discover what works best in their individual situation to feel in control of their lives and "back on track." In many cases this can be accomplished through a solution-oriented counseling approach, with warmth and respect for clients as unique individuals. Clients often examine and make choices regarding new ways of thinking about themselves, others and the world. In addition, I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and eye-movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to assist clients with PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, low self-esteem, or an abuse history or trauma.

I work with top performers that are set on improving their relationships. These relationships include with a partner, child, parent, and even oneself. The relationship could be with coping behaviors, such as with work or a substance. I’m speaking to those of you that are highly critical. You likely had challanging times in your youth. These challenges pushed you to the top in your field. Yet they also primed your nervous system to see annoyance, threat, or frustration more easily. You might be afraid therapy will end your edge. I honor your edge. It’s a great gift. Our work together will support you in widening your options.

My ideal client is someone who has realized they keep tripping over the same life problem or unpleasant situation. This individual wants to find out how to do something different to create a positive change in their life.This discovery process might involve some testing, or might be stand alone therapy, but will require effort from both of us. I enjoy a challenge and expect the therapy process to be collaborative whether struggling with a life change, starting over, or dealing with a loss. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sexual abuse are areas of experience, utilizing individual or group format.

Our Therapist: Deidre Lafferty, LCSW, & Mick Fredrickson, LCSW, & Annie Mattox, LCSW, & Michelle La Casse, Professional Counselor Assoc., & Natalie Haight, CSWA, & Autumn Acey, CSWA. We help our clients feel accepted, understood, and supported so they can explore and organize their experiences and create new ways of coping. We are here to help support you through the journey. Whether you are struggling with anxious thoughts, relationships, family conflict, or other emotional pain, you have the ability to take hold of your life and make those changes you may want or need to thrive.

Are you experiencing life changes, relationship issues or suffering from anxiety or depression? Are you struggling with chronic pain or illness, or feeling stuck in patterns that are no longer serving you well? Choosing to pursue counseling is a courageous step towards addressing the issues that you are facing and I aim to honor your courage by providing a space for you to be heard and understood and to help you in identifying your personal goals. I use evidence-based modalities to facilitate forward growth and change.