Family Therapists in Portland, OR
Are you having difficulty overcoming a problem, mood or behavior? If an issue is not relatively easy to change, then chances are, there is a block of some sort preventing the progression and flow of positive thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is frustrating, discouraging and painful as an intelligent and competent person to work on a goal and not get the results you hope for.
Are you having difficulty overcoming a problem, mood or behavior? If an issue is not relatively easy to change, then chances are, there is a block of some sort preventing the progression and flow of positive thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is frustrating, discouraging and painful as an intelligent and competent person to work on a goal and not get the results you hope for.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA communities and have a passion for supporting neurodivergent couples, families, and individuals, as well as working through life transitions.
Religious trauma. Anxiety that won't quit. Gender identity. Communication. The feeling that you don't quite fit in. If any of that resonates, you're in the right place. I work with people navigating identity, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, and the kind of life transitions that leave you wondering who you even are anymore. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming care, including dedicated training through the Transcendence Project in transgender and nonbinary affirmation. Over 5 years' experience in crisis intervention in psychiatric settings, behavioral support for autistic youth, & EMDR makes me comfortable sitting with hard things.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA communities and have a passion for supporting neurodivergent couples, families, and individuals, as well as working through life transitions.
Religious trauma. Anxiety that won't quit. Gender identity. Communication. The feeling that you don't quite fit in. If any of that resonates, you're in the right place. I work with people navigating identity, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, and the kind of life transitions that leave you wondering who you even are anymore. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming care, including dedicated training through the Transcendence Project in transgender and nonbinary affirmation. Over 5 years' experience in crisis intervention in psychiatric settings, behavioral support for autistic youth, & EMDR makes me comfortable sitting with hard things.
I’m Ash, a graduate student at Lewis & Clark with a focus in family and relational therapy.
I am currently engaged in two ongoing contemporary Gestalt trainings in Portland and Seattle, both of which shape how I practice and relate to clients. I will honor the creative adaptations that have helped you survive, and together we can explore stuck and no longer supportive patterns in your day-to-day relationships and experiences.
I’m Ash, a graduate student at Lewis & Clark with a focus in family and relational therapy.
I am currently engaged in two ongoing contemporary Gestalt trainings in Portland and Seattle, both of which shape how I practice and relate to clients. I will honor the creative adaptations that have helped you survive, and together we can explore stuck and no longer supportive patterns in your day-to-day relationships and experiences.
Guy Burstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
In my experience, life is better and easier if you have someone that understands you, sees it from your point of view, and helps you navigate through it. A good therapist is like a fellow traveler who journeys with us into awareness, facilitating the insight necessary to heal and grow. I am a passionate facilitator of this process, helping my clients make sense of their lives and relationships, heal what's kept them stuck, explore new ways of being and live richly. The therapy we do is deep and has long-lasting effects, and the changes become your second nature, even after therapy ends.
In my experience, life is better and easier if you have someone that understands you, sees it from your point of view, and helps you navigate through it. A good therapist is like a fellow traveler who journeys with us into awareness, facilitating the insight necessary to heal and grow. I am a passionate facilitator of this process, helping my clients make sense of their lives and relationships, heal what's kept them stuck, explore new ways of being and live richly. The therapy we do is deep and has long-lasting effects, and the changes become your second nature, even after therapy ends.
I am passionate about helping others, and believe firmly that each of us holds the answers to our deepest questions and most significant struggles. I believe strongly in identifying what works for each client and tailoring therapy based upon such. I work with an array of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, life changes, adjustment, relational issues and past trauma.
I am passionate about helping others, and believe firmly that each of us holds the answers to our deepest questions and most significant struggles. I believe strongly in identifying what works for each client and tailoring therapy based upon such. I work with an array of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, life changes, adjustment, relational issues and past trauma.
The decision to enter into therapy can be scary, but can also be life changing. Deciding to take action after the thought occurs is possibly the most difficult and courageous thing a person can do. By reading this, you are already taking one step toward putting your thoughts into action. At this point, it is important to find a therapist who can meet your specific needs and someone you feel comfortable with.
The decision to enter into therapy can be scary, but can also be life changing. Deciding to take action after the thought occurs is possibly the most difficult and courageous thing a person can do. By reading this, you are already taking one step toward putting your thoughts into action. At this point, it is important to find a therapist who can meet your specific needs and someone you feel comfortable with.
I'm a Marriage and Family Therapy Associate in the state of Oregon, supervised by Bryce Taylor, LPC, and hold a training certificate in EMDR.
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, systems-focused, collaborative, and attachment and emotion-based through the use of different modalities and techniques such as EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness, CBT, and DBT. Some of the populations I work with include, but are not limited to, clients presenting with poor anger management, relational issues, OCD, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply ready for change, I welcome you into a compassionate space where healing and growth can begin!
I'm a Marriage and Family Therapy Associate in the state of Oregon, supervised by Bryce Taylor, LPC, and hold a training certificate in EMDR.
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, systems-focused, collaborative, and attachment and emotion-based through the use of different modalities and techniques such as EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness, CBT, and DBT. Some of the populations I work with include, but are not limited to, clients presenting with poor anger management, relational issues, OCD, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply ready for change, I welcome you into a compassionate space where healing and growth can begin!
What matters most is that you find someone you can trust with your inner world. Whether you're navigating neurodivergence, trauma, relational wounds, identity questions, or patterns that no longer serve you, you need someone who won't flinch when things get intense. You can expect to feel met quickly—there's an intuitive quality to how I track unspoken dynamics and what lives between the lines of what you're saying. At the same time, you'll experience clear boundaries, consistency, and a grounded presence that holds steady even when your process feels messy or overwhelming.
What matters most is that you find someone you can trust with your inner world. Whether you're navigating neurodivergence, trauma, relational wounds, identity questions, or patterns that no longer serve you, you need someone who won't flinch when things get intense. You can expect to feel met quickly—there's an intuitive quality to how I track unspoken dynamics and what lives between the lines of what you're saying. At the same time, you'll experience clear boundaries, consistency, and a grounded presence that holds steady even when your process feels messy or overwhelming.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I understand people within the context of their relationships and life experiences.
If you are stuck in painful loops, constantly explaining yourself, or wondering why your relationship feels disconnected, therapy can help you slow down and understand what is happening beneath the surface. Sometimes the coping strategies that used to protect you no longer work, leaving you feeling frustrated or unsure of yourself.
I work with young adults and couples who want deeper, lasting change. Together, we will explore the patterns, emotions, and experiences shaping your life. My goal is to help you build clearer communication, find peace, and foster a stronger sense of authenticity.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I understand people within the context of their relationships and life experiences.
If you are stuck in painful loops, constantly explaining yourself, or wondering why your relationship feels disconnected, therapy can help you slow down and understand what is happening beneath the surface. Sometimes the coping strategies that used to protect you no longer work, leaving you feeling frustrated or unsure of yourself.
I work with young adults and couples who want deeper, lasting change. Together, we will explore the patterns, emotions, and experiences shaping your life. My goal is to help you build clearer communication, find peace, and foster a stronger sense of authenticity.
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting.
30+ years experience & in private practice since 1992. Licensed: Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, with Masters certification in addictions, extensive training in relational dynamics, trauma, women's empowerment; consultation and supervision. In addition to insight oriented psychotherapy I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR and hypnosis.
Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting.
30+ years experience & in private practice since 1992. Licensed: Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, with Masters certification in addictions, extensive training in relational dynamics, trauma, women's empowerment; consultation and supervision. In addition to insight oriented psychotherapy I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR and hypnosis.
I have been working with new families for almost 20 years.
Using mindfulness techniques like belly breathing, yoga, and movement can be powerful healing tools. I am happy to teach all of these skills to help you connect with your mind, body, and emotions. Also, these skills help us feel grounded, safe, build self-esteem and confidence.
I have been working with new families for almost 20 years.
Using mindfulness techniques like belly breathing, yoga, and movement can be powerful healing tools. I am happy to teach all of these skills to help you connect with your mind, body, and emotions. Also, these skills help us feel grounded, safe, build self-esteem and confidence.
I have over 35 years of specialized training and experience in trauma informed care, collaborative problem solving, child and family therapy, couples and individual life transitions.
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.
I have over 35 years of specialized training and experience in trauma informed care, collaborative problem solving, child and family therapy, couples and individual life transitions.
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.
Just being human in this world can be confusing, exhausting and heartbreaking. We all feel stuck sometimes—in old patterns, painful feelings, anxious thoughts, or harsh beliefs about ourselves or others. And therapy is a great place to change those things. But I believe the true magic of therapy is in learning to feel—really feel in your bones—how whole and worthy you actually are, no matter how stuck or broken you might feel today. My job is to support and challenge you to get to know and accept all parts of yourself (yes, even that harsh inner critic). Together, we'll heal old wounds so you can feel more balanced and integrated.
Just being human in this world can be confusing, exhausting and heartbreaking. We all feel stuck sometimes—in old patterns, painful feelings, anxious thoughts, or harsh beliefs about ourselves or others. And therapy is a great place to change those things. But I believe the true magic of therapy is in learning to feel—really feel in your bones—how whole and worthy you actually are, no matter how stuck or broken you might feel today. My job is to support and challenge you to get to know and accept all parts of yourself (yes, even that harsh inner critic). Together, we'll heal old wounds so you can feel more balanced and integrated.
I believe a strong therapeutic alliance is the key to developing a plan for change and that therapy is a collaborative process. I relate to clients with warmth and honesty (as well as some occasional humor) that promotes space for non-judgmental and empathic exploration of experiences. My goal is to provide a friendly, safe environment where clients can authentically express themselves and gain insight that informs meaningful change. As a generalist psychologist, I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds with a variety of presenting concerns.
I believe a strong therapeutic alliance is the key to developing a plan for change and that therapy is a collaborative process. I relate to clients with warmth and honesty (as well as some occasional humor) that promotes space for non-judgmental and empathic exploration of experiences. My goal is to provide a friendly, safe environment where clients can authentically express themselves and gain insight that informs meaningful change. As a generalist psychologist, I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds with a variety of presenting concerns.
I believe we possess the ability to tap into what is already within us to bring forth change, truth, and transformation. I focus on the client’s strengths and help them find solutions that work within their systems so that they are maintainable over time. I use different modalities and techniques that are individualized and based on client needs. We all have a story with good and not so good seasons. I am a tool that can assist you in the season that you are in.
I believe we possess the ability to tap into what is already within us to bring forth change, truth, and transformation. I focus on the client’s strengths and help them find solutions that work within their systems so that they are maintainable over time. I use different modalities and techniques that are individualized and based on client needs. We all have a story with good and not so good seasons. I am a tool that can assist you in the season that you are in.
Through our work, my clients develop deeper relationships with romantic partners/friends/ family and themselves.
Beginning the process of healing can be both beautiful and activate challenging emotions that are hard to face alone. I support individuals and couples track hard to see patterns, themes, and truths with compassion and kindness. It can be vulnerable to sit with tough emotions and discomfort often associated with grief and emotional pain. My goal is to guide clients through this healing process so that they feel a greater sense of confidence, pride, and growth. With greater relief from symptoms, clients are able to increase awareness of their patterns and make changes that create long term change.
Through our work, my clients develop deeper relationships with romantic partners/friends/ family and themselves.
Beginning the process of healing can be both beautiful and activate challenging emotions that are hard to face alone. I support individuals and couples track hard to see patterns, themes, and truths with compassion and kindness. It can be vulnerable to sit with tough emotions and discomfort often associated with grief and emotional pain. My goal is to guide clients through this healing process so that they feel a greater sense of confidence, pride, and growth. With greater relief from symptoms, clients are able to increase awareness of their patterns and make changes that create long term change.
With a background in Human Development Family Studies and a Master’s in Counselor Education, I blend creative arts with various counseling approaches to support youth and adults.
My approach is holistic and collaborative, recognizing each person's strengths and wisdom for growth. Using Trauma-Informed CBT, Mindfulness, and Creative Arts, I help individuals understand how thoughts shape reality and guide intentional change. In a safe, supportive space, they learn coping skills and gain insight to lead healthier more fulfilling lives.
With a background in Human Development Family Studies and a Master’s in Counselor Education, I blend creative arts with various counseling approaches to support youth and adults.
My approach is holistic and collaborative, recognizing each person's strengths and wisdom for growth. Using Trauma-Informed CBT, Mindfulness, and Creative Arts, I help individuals understand how thoughts shape reality and guide intentional change. In a safe, supportive space, they learn coping skills and gain insight to lead healthier more fulfilling lives.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. I’m Milagros Garcia, LCSW-QS, MSW, a bilingual psychotherapist fluent in English and Spanish, working with adults. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can explore the challenges you’re facing at your own pace. Together, we’ll build insight, develop practical coping strategies, and help you feel more confident navigating daily life. I bring clinical expertise and cultural sensitivity to help you feel understood and empowered. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, and major life transitions.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. I’m Milagros Garcia, LCSW-QS, MSW, a bilingual psychotherapist fluent in English and Spanish, working with adults. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can explore the challenges you’re facing at your own pace. Together, we’ll build insight, develop practical coping strategies, and help you feel more confident navigating daily life. I bring clinical expertise and cultural sensitivity to help you feel understood and empowered. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, and major life transitions.
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.
I work with people who have struggled with domestic violence, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, PTSD, addiction, problematic drug or alcohol use, depression, shame, men's issues, and working with systems. I help people achieve the freedom and success that they desire.
I work with people who have struggled with domestic violence, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, PTSD, addiction, problematic drug or alcohol use, depression, shame, men's issues, and working with systems. I help people achieve the freedom and success that they desire.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Family Therapy Searches for Portland
- Aloha
- Beaverton
- Boring
- Clackamas
- Damascus
- Gladstone
- Happy Valley
- King City
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Oak Grove
- Tigard
FAQ - About Family Therapy
What issues does family therapy help with?
Family therapy can help families navigate the complex dynamics of family life, including communication challenges and recurring conflict between family members. A therapist can help family members identify dysfunctional patterns in communication and develop healthier ways of relating. Family therapy may also be helpful during major life transitions or stressful events that affect the family system, such as grief, divorce, trauma, relocation, or a serious illness. In some cases, family therapy can support families coping with specific mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, alcohol or substance use disorders, and eating disorders. In these situations, therapy can provide education and support for family members, as well as to the individual with the mental health diagnosis.
How do I know if my family needs counseling?
Family therapy may be helpful if a family consistently struggles with conflict or communication in a way that affects daily life or relationships. It can also be beneficial when someone in the family is experiencing significant emotional or behavioral changes, such as a family member becoming aggressive, withdrawing, or struggling to cope after a traumatic event. Additionally, some concerns, such as addiction or eating disorders, may be especially important to address in the context of the family unit.
Who attends family counseling sessions?
Family counseling sessions are often attended by members of the immediate family, such as parents, caregivers, children, or siblings. However, other family members may attend when appropriate, including grandparents, stepparents, stepsiblings, or co-parents. Who attends may depend on the family’s needs, the therapist’s recommendations, and the goals of treatment.
Can family therapy be done online?
Family therapy can often be done online. Virtual sessions may be especially convenient when family members live in different locations, have busy schedules, or live in an area where family therapists are less accessible. However, online therapy may not be the best fit for every family. In-person care may be more appropriate when there are safety concerns, severe conflict, limited privacy at home, or when young children have difficulty engaging through a screen.
What therapeutic approaches are used in family counseling?
Family therapy can take different forms, including systemic family therapy (exploring how individual actions affect the family), structural family therapy (uncovering the structure and relationship dynamics of the family unit), and attachment-based family therapy (focusing on how bonds between family members shape relationships). Family therapy may also include psychoeducation, which helps family members learn more about a mental health condition and how to respond to it more effectively.
How much does family therapy cost and is it covered by insurance?
Family therapy sessions, which typically last about an hour, often range from $150 to $250 or more, depending on factors such as location, therapist experience, session length, and practice setting. In general, family therapy may cost more than individual therapy because it involves multiple participants and more complex treatment planning. Insurance coverage for family therapy varies by plan. Some plans may cover family therapy when it is part of treatment for a diagnosed mental health condition affecting one family member. However, many plans do not cover therapy for general family conflict, communication concerns, or relationship issues alone. Before starting therapy, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm whether family therapy is covered, what your copay or deductible may be, and whether any diagnosis, referral, or prior authorization is required.