Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in Salem, OR

“Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.” I see my life as a mission to help others see themselves in their original beauty, to learn the truth about who they are so they can be set free, to assist them in opening to their own unique destiny, and to work through beliefs and behaviors that keep them trapped in old ways of being. This is work I have had to do on myself, and still continue to do. I believe in using a holistic approach, which addresses every level of our being - the body, emotions, mind, and spirit.

I specialize in work with individuals who experience Anxiety Disorders (OCD, General Anxiety, Phobias), Depression, Insomnia, Autism Spectrum Disorders as well as those with medical or complex presentations (e.g. depression and diabetes). I believe therapy must involve a human connection and have come to find a good sense of humor is critical to the work done in therapy. Without a strong therapeutic relationship, it is nearly impossible to make progress. However, within the context of a collaborative, supportive environment, CBT tools can be very useful. When CBT tools are not helpful, eccentric evidence-based practices may be.

The therapeutic process is a highly personal and fulfilling experience. Understanding our needs and what motivates us through our daily experiences helps us appreciate and live life on a higher level.

I am passionate about helping individuals understand and embrace all parts of themselves. Sometimes you can feel like you're stuck in a rut or have hit a wall and just need a little support to hep you. I'm here to help you out of that rut or over that wall, by learning new coping skills, managing anxiety or depression, working through life transitions, handling stress, building self-esteem and more. I welcome all clients to bring their full self into the room, where they can be seen and heard.

Life is like a roller coaster, constantly surprising us with twists and turns. Sometimes they provoke happy reactions, and other times it feels as though we have had the wind knocked out of us. Grief counseling is something that is near and dear to my heart. I have done grief counseling with clients ranging from the ages of 18-60. I work to provide a safe environment for clients to begin processing some very difficult and traumatic events in their life. I work towards the goal of creating an atmosphere of comfort for my client based on trust, empathy, and understanding.

Trauma is a highly complex and personal experience. Everyone's experience and definition of trauma is different. Among both professionals and clients, it is often incredibly misunderstood. It affects us across physical, social, emotional, and spiritual bounds. It compromises our ability to process sensory input and renders us incapable of communicating at times. Traumatic experiences can make us feel "small" and incompetent, incapable of managing basic tasks at times, or we may even develop intermittent or chronic pain.

I believe in and help to foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship based on compassion, trust, and humility. As a psycho-spiritual counselor with a holistic perspective, I work with mind, body, spirit connections, and as such I see my clients as full of potential and creativity. I am deeply interested in the emerging field of psilocybin assisted therapy and I am happy to work with clients as they integrate their own personal journeys. I have a passion for social and environmental justice, and as an ever-aspiring multicultural counselor, I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles.

Do you or your child need a help? Are you going through a difficult time? Or are you concerned for you or your child's mental health? Seeking help can be difficult and frustrating for both you and your loved ones. I believe that youth and young adults need counselors who truly care about them. In my experience with this demographic I have come to learn how important it is for them to have a safe place where they can open up and express themselves without shame or judgement. I want to help you and your loved ones find freedom and safety and I believe that counseling is a wonderful way to do that.

I am convinced there is HOPE in your circumstances. You can reach an optimum state of mental health. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong reliance on both cognitive -behavioral and emotion focused modalities. Within you there lies a myriad history of life circumstance, cultural influence, spiritual richness, and challenge that has formed who you are. Walking along with each individual, couple or family, it is my privilege to explore life together, to hear your story, and to design a plan that allows for the optimum life experience. There is HOPE!

I primarily work with young adults on an individual basis and have experience with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, severe and persistent mental illness, self-esteem, interpersonal issues, trauma, identity issues, spiritual and existential concerns, life transition, and other emotional wellness concerns. I am currently only providing services via telehealth / secure online video chat. For Oregon clients, at this time I am only accepting Moda insurance or private pay.

Are you experiencing something that feels impossible to overcome and you are reaching out for the first time? Are you anxious about something or depressed and need someone to validate what you're feeling? This could be your first step in partnering with a counselor who is truly interested in helping you along on your journey. I believe in honoring your experience(s) in life without adding judgment, guilt, or shame.

Evergreen Behavioral Health is a growing group practice of trauma trained clinicians located in Salem, OR. Evergreen provides counseling services that specialize not only in standard trauma treatment, but in providing therapeutic services focused on attachment trauma and breaking up the cycle of intergenerational trauma. Evergreen provides services to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. Here at Evergreen we value the experience and healing that face-to-face, in-person sessions provide. While we offer telehealth as a backup option, we encourage clients to attend in person.

I believe that everyone can reach an optimum state of mental and emotional health as they commit to the process of growing in wholeness. As a Person-Centered therapist, I believe that wholeness is a result of spiritual, relational, emotional and mental wellbeing. I believe that counseling provides opportunities for self-awareness and personal growth within the context of a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship.