Therapists in Portland, OR

The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.

Have you been through a difficult experience? I specialize in emotional and relational disorders arising from trauma, sexual abuse, attachment disruptions, and less-than-optimal early childhood experiences. These types of experiences can create life-long distress and difficulty with relationships. Finding the right therapist is an important first step in healing from trauma. My orientation integrates modern neuroscience with relational psychotherapy. In addition to traditional methods, I utilize expressive approaches such as sandtray, play therapy, psychodrama, movement, and art therapy in my practice. I will tailor your sessions to meet your unique needs and ways of expressing yourself.

Only accepting group therapy referrals. 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.

The common misconception is that therapy is for "crazy" or "sick" people. Instead I believe it is a chance to work with clients on how to use their challenges as opportunities for change and growth. It is also a time to better understand our view of the world, examine any relationship issues, and become better versions of ourselves. I focus on each individual's unique characteristics, instead of what a diagnosis may say about them.

I have a great deal of respect for the unique stories of individual lives, and I strive to create a collaborative and supportive environment where clients can safely learn about themselves, develop new skills, and make real and lasting change. I try to help people not only reduce distress and suffering, but to also cultivate more genuine and fulfilling relationships with themselves and others. My primary areas of expertise include: stress management, mindfulness, anxiety and mood concerns, assertive communication, bicultural issues, performance enhancement, LGBTQ concerns, and adjustment, relationship, and identity concerns.

When does wanting something more become an issue? When our normal desire for change has no recognized solutions. When our wants lead to self-rejection or frustration that keep those we care about at arms-length. When we disengage to avoid expressing a need, but get accused of not caring. We prepare for arguments before entering the room and the script plays out as expected, but it's not what we want. These are common struggles without generic answers. Relationship dynamics are as unique as the individuals who live them, which is why change requires specific approaches addressing unique issues.

Client motivation focused;,believing personal change is possible for anyone who desires it. The human spirit is powerful and will persevere if nurtured, empowered & supported. My therapeutic approach: teaching, empower, intervene &support for the therapeutic change process with clients. Combining education + professional & personal experience I provide a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic approach conducive to healthy changes. Perspective of personal strengths vs the medical model of "sickness" clients are empowered with hope and skills for positive change.

I AM NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a psychotherapist, licensed as a clinical social worker, certified as an alcohol and drug counselor and TRE® provider, drawing on over 25 years of experience. My primary foundational belief is that our mind and body operate as one organism, which contains its own healing potential. I use evidence-based approaches (EMDR, TRE, IFS) to assist clients in the natural healing process that includes moving to a state of regulation in the nervous system and accessing the wisdom that already exists in a person’s brain chemistry and somatic experience.