Positive Psychology Therapists in Portland, OR
We can all react to situations and make things worse rather than better. Where we end up nurturing our anger or hurt or our pain rather than finding a path to repair. At those times we need support to build new paths in our brain and new responses that help us move towards rather than away from healthy or new adaptive patterns.. The change begins with believing in our own self worth, rather than something acquired. This work allows us to develop relational integrity and build human connections that are lasting and healthy. It also helps us face those situations that have overwhelmed our coping and feel intolerable.
We can all react to situations and make things worse rather than better. Where we end up nurturing our anger or hurt or our pain rather than finding a path to repair. At those times we need support to build new paths in our brain and new responses that help us move towards rather than away from healthy or new adaptive patterns.. The change begins with believing in our own self worth, rather than something acquired. This work allows us to develop relational integrity and build human connections that are lasting and healthy. It also helps us face those situations that have overwhelmed our coping and feel intolerable.
Worn out, disconnected, juggling the demands of work and life? Grappling with purpose or burnout? Questioning whether your days reflect what truly matters to you. Perhaps you’re caught in relationships that feel draining or misaligned, leaving you uncertain about how to move forward. You want to feel more present, purposeful, and connected—not just to others, but to yourself. With over 20 years of experience, I help individuals identify what matters most and make meaningful changes in their lives, drawing from my role as a founding faculty member of Stanford's Compassion Center.
Worn out, disconnected, juggling the demands of work and life? Grappling with purpose or burnout? Questioning whether your days reflect what truly matters to you. Perhaps you’re caught in relationships that feel draining or misaligned, leaving you uncertain about how to move forward. You want to feel more present, purposeful, and connected—not just to others, but to yourself. With over 20 years of experience, I help individuals identify what matters most and make meaningful changes in their lives, drawing from my role as a founding faculty member of Stanford's Compassion Center.
As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you. Are you sick of being overlooked by doctors because you don’t match their outdated image of someone with ADHD, autism, OCD, or bipolar? Does your brain oscillate between overstimulated and understimulated? Are you tired of getting brushed off because you’re not struggling "enough,” but you’re still struggling with tasks like hygiene, grocery shopping, navigating the airport, or feeling lonely?
As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you. Are you sick of being overlooked by doctors because you don’t match their outdated image of someone with ADHD, autism, OCD, or bipolar? Does your brain oscillate between overstimulated and understimulated? Are you tired of getting brushed off because you’re not struggling "enough,” but you’re still struggling with tasks like hygiene, grocery shopping, navigating the airport, or feeling lonely?
We all have the ability to heal and grow from our sources of wounding. I have a passion for working with those who are experiencing the lasting effects of trauma. My collaborative therapeutic approach is rooted in mindful awareness and acceptance, informed by relational and attachment models, and guided by an appreciation of each person’s unique existential search for meaning. I aim to foster a space where you can engage in your present experience, show up as you are, and access choice in the life that is in alignment with you and your true values.
We all have the ability to heal and grow from our sources of wounding. I have a passion for working with those who are experiencing the lasting effects of trauma. My collaborative therapeutic approach is rooted in mindful awareness and acceptance, informed by relational and attachment models, and guided by an appreciation of each person’s unique existential search for meaning. I aim to foster a space where you can engage in your present experience, show up as you are, and access choice in the life that is in alignment with you and your true values.
I apply everything I know about cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies, family systems, attachment, emotional regulation, brain development, child and adolescent development, parenting, and the science of positive psychology to practical strategies for helping youth and families with positive development and growth.
I help children, teens, and families navigate anxiety, ADHD, school struggles, and emotional challenges using evidence-based care like CBT, ACT, and DBT. I also provide parent coaching to strengthen communication, reduce stress, and foster positive change. In addition, I work with child and teen athletes to build focus, confidence, and resilience. Many families find me through referrals from doctors, teachers, coaches, and other parents who’ve seen meaningful growth in their child’s confidence and well-being.
I apply everything I know about cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies, family systems, attachment, emotional regulation, brain development, child and adolescent development, parenting, and the science of positive psychology to practical strategies for helping youth and families with positive development and growth.
I help children, teens, and families navigate anxiety, ADHD, school struggles, and emotional challenges using evidence-based care like CBT, ACT, and DBT. I also provide parent coaching to strengthen communication, reduce stress, and foster positive change. In addition, I work with child and teen athletes to build focus, confidence, and resilience. Many families find me through referrals from doctors, teachers, coaches, and other parents who’ve seen meaningful growth in their child’s confidence and well-being.
Do you want to consciously create your life and live the truth of who you are? Do you value growth, creativity, connection, courage, authenticity and curiosity? I invite you to join me in a uniquely experiential process that is structured to empower you in consciously creating a life aligned with your True Self. Integrating your spirituality in this holistic approach, the meaning you find within translates into a life well-lived. My 50+ years of life has provided me with growth and healing opportunities ranging from joyfully inspiring to excruciatingly painful that informs my deep compassion for the range of our human experience.
Do you want to consciously create your life and live the truth of who you are? Do you value growth, creativity, connection, courage, authenticity and curiosity? I invite you to join me in a uniquely experiential process that is structured to empower you in consciously creating a life aligned with your True Self. Integrating your spirituality in this holistic approach, the meaning you find within translates into a life well-lived. My 50+ years of life has provided me with growth and healing opportunities ranging from joyfully inspiring to excruciatingly painful that informs my deep compassion for the range of our human experience.
As a person-centered counselor, I understand that every individual has unique needs and reasons for seeking counseling. I meet you where you’re at and we chart a path forward. I believe in your capacity to discover new pathways that will help you grow as a person, elevate your relationships, help find more meaning in your work, life, or relationships, or simply enjoy life to its fullest.
As a person-centered counselor, I understand that every individual has unique needs and reasons for seeking counseling. I meet you where you’re at and we chart a path forward. I believe in your capacity to discover new pathways that will help you grow as a person, elevate your relationships, help find more meaning in your work, life, or relationships, or simply enjoy life to its fullest.
Greetings, I specializes in adult mental health counseling, offering a holistic approach to trauma healing and recovery. Through a blend of EMDR therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Somatic Therapy, and Secure Attachment Theory, I integrate science and soul to help reprocess past traumas, build resilience, and reconnect with your inner wisdom. Through a compassionate, collaborate approach, we'll work together through each stage of healing; building trust, creating safety, and transforming challenges into growth. Wherever you are on your journey, you do not need to walk it alone.
Greetings, I specializes in adult mental health counseling, offering a holistic approach to trauma healing and recovery. Through a blend of EMDR therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Somatic Therapy, and Secure Attachment Theory, I integrate science and soul to help reprocess past traumas, build resilience, and reconnect with your inner wisdom. Through a compassionate, collaborate approach, we'll work together through each stage of healing; building trust, creating safety, and transforming challenges into growth. Wherever you are on your journey, you do not need to walk it alone.
Finding a therapist can be a difficult task; actually calling one is even harder. When I am struggling with something I find myself irritable, directionless, and without energy (or too much nervous energy) a difficult time to build new relationships. It is my hope that stepping into my office might feel like finding an oasis; a welcoming place where you can put down your burdens, relax, and see what you can unpack or unload. I engage with people with acceptance and curiosity. I find things I like and inspiration in conversations. I am constantly amazed by people’s creativity, perspective, and desire to connect in a personal ways.
Finding a therapist can be a difficult task; actually calling one is even harder. When I am struggling with something I find myself irritable, directionless, and without energy (or too much nervous energy) a difficult time to build new relationships. It is my hope that stepping into my office might feel like finding an oasis; a welcoming place where you can put down your burdens, relax, and see what you can unpack or unload. I engage with people with acceptance and curiosity. I find things I like and inspiration in conversations. I am constantly amazed by people’s creativity, perspective, and desire to connect in a personal ways.
Therapy is an opportunity to deepen your relationship with yourself and with the world around you. Arriving at therapy means that you are ready to challenge beliefs that no longer serve your highest self.
Therapy is an opportunity to deepen your relationship with yourself and with the world around you. Arriving at therapy means that you are ready to challenge beliefs that no longer serve your highest self.
Childhood, adolescence, adulting, relationship building, families, parenting ... these are all incredibly meaningful and often times challenging dynamics to be living through, especially in today's climate. You might often feel lost, frustrated or even hopeless and needing someone to walk alongside you as you navigate it all. You are not alone. I work with a diversity of children, youth, and adults through various constructs of relationship including marriage, open and closed partnerships, and a wide range of family compositions (nuclear, adoptive, divorced, chosen) and provide support in reaching some peace and comfort.
Childhood, adolescence, adulting, relationship building, families, parenting ... these are all incredibly meaningful and often times challenging dynamics to be living through, especially in today's climate. You might often feel lost, frustrated or even hopeless and needing someone to walk alongside you as you navigate it all. You are not alone. I work with a diversity of children, youth, and adults through various constructs of relationship including marriage, open and closed partnerships, and a wide range of family compositions (nuclear, adoptive, divorced, chosen) and provide support in reaching some peace and comfort.
Life can sometimes hand us more than we can easily handle. At these times, I help clients navigate life’s trials and transitions. I believe that everyone has abundant natural strengths and capacities to draw from to achieve goals and move closer to your desired life. I collaborate with you to harness and amplify your own strengths in the service of achieving your therapeutic goals, and achieve personal and relational well-being. I provide a warm, inviting, and respectful space for you to explore and express your thoughts and feelings.
Life can sometimes hand us more than we can easily handle. At these times, I help clients navigate life’s trials and transitions. I believe that everyone has abundant natural strengths and capacities to draw from to achieve goals and move closer to your desired life. I collaborate with you to harness and amplify your own strengths in the service of achieving your therapeutic goals, and achieve personal and relational well-being. I provide a warm, inviting, and respectful space for you to explore and express your thoughts and feelings.
I would describe my approach to therapy as mindfulness/self-compassion-based. I treat a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, addictions, interpersonal issues (i.e. couples counseling), psycho-spiritual/religious conflicts and abuse, sexuality,/poly and pragmatic goal-attainment. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, some "out," others not; some religious, others not. I use elements of CBT, ACT, DBT and other models. I also explore with my clients deeper-seated issues, including exploring our "shadows" areas, blindspots and the roots of addiction and shame. I am licensed in OR and WA.
I would describe my approach to therapy as mindfulness/self-compassion-based. I treat a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, addictions, interpersonal issues (i.e. couples counseling), psycho-spiritual/religious conflicts and abuse, sexuality,/poly and pragmatic goal-attainment. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, some "out," others not; some religious, others not. I use elements of CBT, ACT, DBT and other models. I also explore with my clients deeper-seated issues, including exploring our "shadows" areas, blindspots and the roots of addiction and shame. I am licensed in OR and WA.
If you're ready to feel better, I'm ready to help. Whether it's recovering from trauma, reducing anxiety and depression, or improving your relationship with yourself and others, I'm here to support you through therapy. I work with individuals to find healing, self-discovery, and emotional balance. With years of experience, my aim is to provide you with compassionate and evidence-driven support on your journey. Clients appreciate the blend of practical approaches, emotional processing and good humor that we create together. Our time together can empower you to make lasting, positive changes.
If you're ready to feel better, I'm ready to help. Whether it's recovering from trauma, reducing anxiety and depression, or improving your relationship with yourself and others, I'm here to support you through therapy. I work with individuals to find healing, self-discovery, and emotional balance. With years of experience, my aim is to provide you with compassionate and evidence-driven support on your journey. Clients appreciate the blend of practical approaches, emotional processing and good humor that we create together. Our time together can empower you to make lasting, positive changes.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. Through my own experiences in the military, I experienced first-hand Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, and depression. After leaving the Navy, I sought therapy to help process what I experienced. While completing my education, I worked at Veterans' Affairs, helping combat Veterans who experienced PTSD and other challenges, including drug and alcohol addiction. I bring this experience to working with you in processing trauma and other issues you may be experiencing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. Through my own experiences in the military, I experienced first-hand Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, and depression. After leaving the Navy, I sought therapy to help process what I experienced. While completing my education, I worked at Veterans' Affairs, helping combat Veterans who experienced PTSD and other challenges, including drug and alcohol addiction. I bring this experience to working with you in processing trauma and other issues you may be experiencing.
Are you a recovering people pleaser who struggles with boundaries? Maybe you're looking for an empowering therapist post-breakup or you're a new mom wanting to find yourself again as you navigate this new normal. Whether you are struggling to cope with personal challenges, seeking to improve your relationships, or simply desire a better understanding of yourself, therapy can help. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together and get you back to feeling like yourself again!
Email me to set up a free consultation.
Are you a recovering people pleaser who struggles with boundaries? Maybe you're looking for an empowering therapist post-breakup or you're a new mom wanting to find yourself again as you navigate this new normal. Whether you are struggling to cope with personal challenges, seeking to improve your relationships, or simply desire a better understanding of yourself, therapy can help. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together and get you back to feeling like yourself again!
Email me to set up a free consultation.
I work with a range of issues (depression, anxiety, addiction, creativity/inspiration, relationships, job stress, grief/loss) and offer both long- and short-term therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their current experience and to identify realistic steps to facilitate change in order to better serve life goals. I encourage active engagement in treatment to better support greater and long-term desired change and will serve as an advocate on your behalf in these pursuits.
I work with a range of issues (depression, anxiety, addiction, creativity/inspiration, relationships, job stress, grief/loss) and offer both long- and short-term therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their current experience and to identify realistic steps to facilitate change in order to better serve life goals. I encourage active engagement in treatment to better support greater and long-term desired change and will serve as an advocate on your behalf in these pursuits.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
What do you want to change? At the shorter end of things, it's possible to make positive changes in a handful of sessions. This is often the case for issues related to specific events. For more serious and/or chronic problems, longer-term work is appropriate, especially when a sufficiently safe therapeutic relationship takes more time to build.
What do you want to change? At the shorter end of things, it's possible to make positive changes in a handful of sessions. This is often the case for issues related to specific events. For more serious and/or chronic problems, longer-term work is appropriate, especially when a sufficiently safe therapeutic relationship takes more time to build.
I work with individuals, couples and alternative relationships. Have you tried therapy before and found that you weren’t sure what you were working on or where you were going? I am not a therapist who passively listens; I will supportively challenge you and push you toward growth. I will show up authentically; with curiosity, humor, compassion and directness. You will feel “uncomfy” at times, because that is the cost of gaining insight and healing. I don’t believe you can just “talk” your way into substantial life change. Progress happens through awareness, intention and commitment to new ways of seeing and behaving.
I work with individuals, couples and alternative relationships. Have you tried therapy before and found that you weren’t sure what you were working on or where you were going? I am not a therapist who passively listens; I will supportively challenge you and push you toward growth. I will show up authentically; with curiosity, humor, compassion and directness. You will feel “uncomfy” at times, because that is the cost of gaining insight and healing. I don’t believe you can just “talk” your way into substantial life change. Progress happens through awareness, intention and commitment to new ways of seeing and behaving.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Positive Psychology Therapists Searches for Portland
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Gladstone
- Gresham
- Happy Valley
- Hillsboro
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Oregon City
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
Positive Psychology Therapists
How does positive psychology therapy work?
Positive psychology therapy derives from the work of Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania. He and others developed the field of positive psychology building on humanistic theory. Positive psychology therapy is similar to acceptance and commitment therapy, and it essentially quiets emotional distress through positivity, contentment, and well-being. This therapy does not reduce the individual to symptoms and conditions.
When do I know if I need treatment using positive psychology?
If an individual is overwhelmed by emotional distress and general negativity, they may feel trapped. A positive psychology therapist can help them view their emotions and behaviors differently, and approach life with a better understanding of their positive strengths. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.
What should I expect from positive psychology therapy?
The patient may be asked to explore their signature strengths. The therapist will also ask the individual to talk about their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Discussing negative experiences and symptoms is important, but so is the exploration of positive experiences. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more positive and fulfilling way. This therapy is proactive and may use forgiveness, gratitude, hope, and compassion to help reframe negativity.
Is positive psychology effective in therapy?
Positive psychology therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with eating disorders benefit from this type of intervention. This therapy encourages the person to reframe their distressed thoughts and move into healthier patterns of functioning. This therapy also aims to move an individual toward what works well in their life. Positive psychology therapy can elicit lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.