Therapists in Portland, OR

My professional approach views each client through a biopsychosocial lens. Knowing that each individual is dynamic creates the need for an integrative approach. My approach is client centered and strength based. Integrating, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Lifespan Integration, Art Therapy, CBT, and Collaborative Problem Solving. Client centered therapy is focused on the therapeutic relationship and utilizing client’s strengths. From this platform, I adapt my approach to meet the needs of each client and integrate art therapy directives into counseling sessions to help the client in attaining their goals.

I believe that developing a deeper understanding about our current and historical experiences within the context of a supportive, secure therapeutic relationship can lead to the development of more meaningful and satisfying lives and relationships. I provide psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, where the focus is not just on alleviating symptoms, but on understanding and working through beliefs, feelings, fears, and patterns that operate out of awareness and impact current difficulties. I also provide supervision and consultation for licensees and licensed mental health professionals.

I work with people of all ages and am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse and eating disorders. I enjoy working with adults who are rethinking longstanding patterns, struggling with family-of-origin issues, or adjusting to unanticipated changes in their lives. I see these transitions as opportunities for growth, healing, and the development of greater awareness. I also work with children and teens and bring creativity, experience and common sense to this work. I work with couples and families, especially those experiencing conflict, transitions, or struggles related to loss, trauma, divorce, remarriage, or shifting roles.

*Currently Full, waitlist available* Experiencing trauma/painful events at any age may cause us to feel overwhelmed, unsure, self-critical, anxious, or hopeless. These feelings can then create difficulties in managing our behaviors, our thoughts, and our relationships. I know many of us have tried for years to figure things out on our own and that seeking counseling takes great courage. I respect and honor the strength that clients bring into my office. Together, we can work to move beyond learned responses and toward healing - where you can develop self-regulation skills, improve mood, decrease anxiety, and build self-esteem.

I am passionate about helping people struggling with issues caused by trauma & abuse. These often times include a loss of safety, confusing emotional experiences, and difficulty creating and maintaining healthy long term relationships.

I received my doctorate in psychology from the University of Oregon in 1994 and then completed an internship at the Portland VA Medical Center. I have worked as a clinical psychologist in two community mental health programs and then as a program coordinator with a focus on older adult and younger adults with disabilities at the state Mental Health and Addictions Division. I now have a private practice. Throughout my career I have worked with adults and older adults with a range of behavioral health and medical concerns.

I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.

I offer experience and expertise dealing with recovery from effects of child abuse, family violence, substance abuse, divorce and other life cycle trauma. I use an eclectic therapuetic style including experiential and cognitive means. Developing your personal genogram is a powerful tool to guide you on your journey toward wellness. Personal growth and recovery involves a willingness to challenge yourself to try something different. Everyone deserves to feel more comfortable "in their own skin."

As we navigate the challenges of life, sometimes we get a little stuck. You may be dealing with a major life transition or feeling overwhelmed with life challenges. Maybe there is pain from the past or worries of the future holding you back from living a balanced and fulfilling life. Seeking help is courageous. If you find yourself here, the healing journey has already begun. My goal is to assist you in uncovering your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.

Struggle is part of the human experience and sometimes you need more support than just from those in your immediate surroundings. The tapestry of human emotions is so varied for each individual. Let me support you in finding creative ways to handle anything that comes your way.