Therapists for college students near Portland, OR

I have always had a passion for giving back to my community and supporting the creation of positive change in ways that are meaningful and respectful to the unique beliefs, needs, and cultures of others. As a therapist I strive to fulfill this passion by helping folks feel empowered to heal, grow, and live authentically. My work is grounded in the belief of the inherent strength of each person, and I am dedicated to helping clients build resilience, self-compassion, and agency in their lives. The approach we decide is best for you will be tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're navigating major life transitions, processing trauma, or exploring gender and sexual identity, I am here to provide a safe, empathetic, and judgment-free space—with just a touch of humor. Together, we’ll identify meaningful strategies to help you build the skills and confidence to move forward in ways that align with your values and goals. Originally from the Midwest, I earned my Bachelor’s in Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University (2017) before moving to Portland. In 2022, I completed my Masters of Social Work from the University of Denver, with an emphasis on trauma and social justice, and have since had the privilege of providing therapy at a local community mental health agency, serving a wide range of folks struggling with complex generational trauma, major life transitions, relationship issues, grief, and gender/sexual identity exploration. Through this experience, I had the privilege of further developing skills specific to LGBTQIA+ folks, a group of individuals near to my heart, which has allowed me to more meaningfully connect with, and help, my community. When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me running around the city or Forest Park training for the next half-marathon, at the coast or a hiking with my two wiener dogs, and most importantly spending time with my friends and loved ones. How I Can Help If you're looking for LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy in Portland or support for anxiety, trauma, relationships, or life transitions, I’m here to help. My goal is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care that empowers you to create meaningful change. Whether you're seeking CBT for anxiety, trauma therapy, or support navigating gender identity, I offer a collaborative, affirming, and client-centered approach to help you move forward. I offer both in-person and telehealth therapy, making it easier to access care in a way that fits your needs. Education & Licenses MSW, University of Denver (Trauma & Social Justice Focus) Clinical Social Worker, OR License #L30027

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You might be here because something inside you feels tangled, uncertain, or out of reach. Maybe you’re trying to navigate the weight of anxiety, low motivation, or a mood that shifts in ways you can’t always predict. Maybe you’re carrying grief, confusion around identity, or a deep sense that parts of your story haven’t been fully understood. Whatever led you here, there’s space for it and support as you navigate what comes next. I specialize in working with adults across Oregon who are navigating: - Anxiety, overthinking, or a persistent sense of unease - Depression or feelings of disconnection and emptiness - Bipolar disorder and emotional shifts that feel hard to manage - PTSD and the lingering impact of past trauma - Identity exploration, especially for queer and trans individuals - Grief, loss, and major life transitions - Relationship challenges and self-esteem concerns My approach is affirming, trauma-informed, and centered on helping you build insight and compassion for yourself and the systems that have shaped your experience.

Abri, based in Portland, Oregon, is one of the first psychotherapy clinics worldwide to specialize solely in Radically Open DBT for disorders of over-control - which includes treatment resistant anxiety and depression and restrictive eating disorder. RO DBT can be particularly helpful with students struggling with academic anxiety and crippling perfectionism. Abri has a diverse and dynamic team of 7 clinicians and a registered dietician. Please see our website for clinician bios and sub-specialties.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who grew up in rural Northern California, where adequate mental health care was not accessible, and differences were not celebrated. I developed a passion for helping others after watching people I cared about struggle without support and going through my own challenges as an adolescent and young adult. After settling in the Portland Metro Area, I have developed a great love of our area's diverse populations and green landscapes, combining all the beauty the Willamette Valley has to offer with the convenience and luxury of inner-city resources and diversity. I have experience working in community mental health, hospice, and counseling with adults and teens ranging from late adolescents to the elderly. I especially enjoy working with those struggling with life transitions, trauma, chronic illnesses, depression, and anxiety. I believe that fostering safety and unconditional positive regard is the backbone of the therapeutic relationship. I use these core Rogerian principles and a strength-based approach along with techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Existential Therapy to aid people in broadening their perspectives, changing behaviors that are not working for them, and developing practical tools they can use in their day-to-day lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and am variably directive in my approach depending on client needs. I am honored by those who share their brightest and darkest times with me. Time and time again, I am amazed by the strength and resilience of those who actively seek change. When I am not with clients, I can be found wrangling my two young children. I am a music, gardening, hiking, equine, and canine enthusiast. I also feel passionately about women supporting women and have enjoyed networking with other women in my local community.

I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 15 years experience in university settings. My work focuses on students with a range of concerns, including depression and anxiety, difficult life transitions, relationship problems or losses, trauma, and identity. I have specific expertise working with the common challenges experienced during college. I also enjoy working with individuals of diverse identities and backgrounds, which has been a focus in both my career and my ongoing education. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and relational. This allows us to explore your concerns together- providing support, identifying patterns, and processing past events, all with attention to working toward your personal goals and growth. I make space for what feels most important to you, while using my expertise to provide guidance. Our relationship is a priority in my work. I use warmth, humor, and honesty to create a safe space where you can be your most authentic self. Please contact me if you would like to connect for a 15 minute phone consultation.

Welcome! My name is Molly Sterling and I am an able bodied, White, cis woman. I provide individual, trauma-focused therapy to adults 18+. I work with adults in individual therapy focused on healing past trauma, developing effective coping strategies to manage anxiety or panic symptoms, or navigating a difficult life transition, such as new parenthood. I particularly enjoy working with perfectionists, people employed in the helping professions, and individuals who find it hard to "get out their heads". I would describe my therapeutic style as relational and eclectic, meaning I don’t adhere to one modality exclusively. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused (SAFE) EMDR and also utilize modalities such as IFS/Parts Work, Mindfulness, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and expressive arts in my work with clients. I believe in the power of connection and curiosity, and I strive to meet clients with compassion, wherever they are on their healing journeys. I am committed to providing therapy that is collaborative, responsive, and affirming. Though I do not identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am an ally and am committed to understanding dynamics of privilege and oppression. I am neurodivergent affirming and Health at Every Size informed. I am currently seeing clients virtually on Thursdays from 9am to 6pm, with more availability coming soon! If you have a specific day/time that you prefer, please reach out to see if I can accommodate.

My approach to counseling is collaborative, compassionate, patient, and kind. I will focus on understanding you where you are at without judgement, so that you can have greater acceptance of yourself and your experience, and be able to be vulnerable and honest with someone who cares as you navigate the challenges you face. I don't believe that there are any "quick fixes" in therapy - rather, I see counseling as more like a journey of lasting change, personal growth, and self-development, one that can be achieved in relationship with someone who can support you and your process. My work focuses on people at all stages of life who are working through developmental transitions (leaving home, starting or ending a relationship, experiencing big life changes, etc.) who want to better understand who they are, and how they can become the best version of themself using the strengths they have within themselves. I help people to understand themselves and their patterns so they can identify and gain insight about their thoughts, feelings, and identify blind-spots to be able to make choices and move forward in a direction that feels best for them.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oregon. I grew up in Los Angeles as a bilingual and bicultural person and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare and Social Justice from California State University, Northridge, and my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. With over 10 years of experience in social services and mental health, I’ve supported people navigating a variety of transitions and hardships, including financial instability, domestic violence, trauma, and relationship challenges. My lived experience, combined with clinical training, has reinforced my belief that therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all; each person’s journey is unique. I strive to meet my clients where they are with warmth, empathy, and flexibility. I consider myself a mindfully authentic therapist—present, responsive, and genuine in our shared space. My approach involves creating a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe, heard, and valued. I believe growth starts with self-acceptance, and my goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. I am passionate about helping couples strengthen their connection, rebuild trust, and heal together. I have experience supporting couples through challenges such as infidelity, communication struggles, parenting, and major life transitions. I also work with adults and adolescents (14+) dealing with PTSD, complex and relational trauma, relationship concerns, postpartum challenges, life transitions, OCD, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, and other anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, phobias, and panic disorders. I take a person-centered, strengths-based approach, integrating evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Informed/Resiliency Care.

My heart's work is connecting with people, holding space for their hurt, and empowering them to reach towards a connected, integrated life. My ideal client is someone who is curious about WHY troubling symptoms exist in the first place; someone who is ready to either step into therapy for the first time (hurrah!) or to step away from traditional talk therapy and begin deeper, more profound healing from the bottom up instead of the top down; someone who is wanting to feel more connected to themselves and others, and to feel more joy. I specialize in treating trauma, dissociative disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and life disturbances of all kinds. I have obtained extensive advanced training in EMDR, dissociative disorders, preverbal trauma, and somatic experiencing. I use EMDR psychotherapy as the framework for my practice and have witnessed amazing results. Jung said "Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul." I will create and hold space for you to just be, and you will find me a warm, experienced, intuitive presence. We will work together to move you towards a more connected, joyful, playful life. I can't wait to meet you!

I help adult individuals, youth and families navigate difficult times, process past traumas and become aware of unhelpful thinking patterns and habits. I have extensive experience assisting others in overcoming depression, PTSD, anxiety and trauma-based symptoms. I approach the therapeutic relationship with warmth, kindness, genuine curiosity and positive regard. I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be cooperative, honest and strength focused. This aligns with research on the subject showing that outcomes depend on a strong and genuine connection. I have been formally trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), family systems theory and collaborative problem solving (CPS). I hold a master’s degree in counseling psychology and strive to continue my own education and personal growth.

My practice is guided by the belief that every person strives to do the best they can. The individual or family system may need assistance in developing necessary skills and guidance in solving problems. Working collaboratively with clients I help them to narrate new ways of interacting with their environment. I work with several young adults / young professionals as they navigate major life transitions (college, grad school, careers, families and parenting) and the accompanying challenges (ie: depression, anxiety, ADHD, isolation, imposter syndrome, challenging relationships, perfectionism). A major part of my practice is helping clients with trauma - esp developmental trauma.

Are you experiencing difficulties with your mental health? I view counseling as a journey that, while challenging, is ultimately rewarding. I work with couples, teenagers, and adults facing issues such as ADHD, adolescent challenges, suicidal thoughts, addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, PMDD, and menopause. I am certified in Prepare and Enrich for couples and relationships, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certfied in DBT. My experience includes extensive work with school-aged populations, those with serious and persistent mental illness, dual diagnoses, couples, and addiction issues. I help navigate a journey through healing.

As a psychologist, Emily supports people to live richer, fuller lives aligned with their personal values. She views her clients as the experts on themselves and sees her role as their collaborator, working together to help bring forward their greatest potential. Emily works with a diverse set of individuals, and with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, interpersonal relationship challenges, overcoming barriers to goals, and other issues her clients strive to work through. She utilizes an assortment of therapeutic modalities, often blending these approaches, including mindfulness, Jungian analysis, Behavioral Modification, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Ecopsychology, and relaxation training, always with a focus on the individual needs of the client. Emily believes that an integrated approach to overall well-being is important, including aspects of nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene, with an understanding of how these interact with and impact psychological well-being. Over the years, Emily has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and not-so-young adults, each seeking help with a range of concerns, problem behaviors, and disorders. Emily also enjoys working with couples as they address problematic areas in their relationship, and as they find ways to improve and reconnect with each other. When she works with children, she is also working to make sure parents are appropriately involved, and helping to implement therapeutic assignments beyond the counseling environment and at home. This is especially important as we impart positive parenting approaches to reinforce certain behaviors, and to help a child feel secure as they learn to cope with trauma, anxiety, or depression. Emily completed her Bachelor’s of Science degrees in Biopsychology and Ecology and Evolution at University of California, Santa Barbara, later earning a PhD in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in neuropsychology, and a second PhD in Wildlands and Wildlife Conservation at Brigham Young University. When Emily is not engaging with her clients in psychotherapy, she teaches psychology undergraduate college courses, and enjoys hiking, spending time with her family, connecting with nature, and cooking.

*I am licensed in both Oregon and California, and can work with students who often travel between these two states.* When the difficult experiences from your past are still impacting you, it is hard to know what to do. You don’t feel like yourself anymore, and the people in your life are starting to notice. It’s coming out at school, in your relationships, in your mood. You might be thinking “I just want to move on with my life. Why can’t I just get over it already?” But no matter how many times you try to move on, you still feel stuck. You are not alone. I help people who have been through difficult childhood, sexual, and relationship experiences look at how their experiences have shaped them, and explore how to take back their lives from the memories that have burdened them for so long. Together, we will build a trusting relationship where you can feel safe enough to explore what happened in your life, the ways you have survived, and how to get unstuck so you can move toward a life that is ruled by you, and not by the past. I know reaching out to begin therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I offer a free 15-20 minute consultation, where you can share a bit about what you would like to work on, ask me any questions you may have, and we can determine whether I might be a good fit for your needs. Please feel free to visit my website to learn more and schedule a consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!

UpWell Psychiatry was founded with the intention of giving a more human, personal touch to psychiatry. In a world of 15 minute med checks, our practice seeks to truly meet you where you are at and to understand your symptoms in the context of your life story, not just as check-boxes in a diagnosis list. We believe in working together to come up with a plan that works just for you. Kelly Aldinger, PMHNP specializes in Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar and loves working with young adults. Megan Sapp, PMHNP, CNM, FNP is a triple certified nurse midwife, family nurse practitioner and psychiatric NP who is exceptional at treating pregnant or post-partum folks, folx working with hormone replacement, as well as those struggling with significant illness, injury, or big life transitions.

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment for specific challenges like OCD, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and depression. This requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I am offering primarily telehealth based appointments within Oregon and in-person appointments within the Portland area as needed. Treatment is focused on creating behavioral changes, starting with areas where symptoms have had the most significant, and negative life-impacts. Focusing on one small change at a time can lead to greater freedom from symptoms, and more time spent actively pursuing what is most important in your life.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

We all come into therapy for different reasons. Some people may have specific challenges they are looking to overcome, while others may just need to explore why they feel the way they do. Both in relationships and as individuals, often we first feel the barriers in front of us before we really understand where they are coming from. Challenges in my own life and the very complexities of identity itself have profoundly shaped my empathetic approach to life. I see therapy as a conversation, and I am deeply committed to maintaining an open dialogue with you. I also recognize that you are the expert on your own lived experiences. I am here to support you in your journey of resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery. I provide a space where you can feel safe exploring gender and sexual identities, overcoming the stigma of addiction, understanding the impact of discrimination, overcoming depression, anxiety, trauma and other intersecting issues. My approach to counseling is based on a holistic person-centered philosophy that emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. As a therapist, my primary goal is to empower you to take control of your journey toward change, providing a safe and collaborative space where we can work together.

You feel alone, prioritize the needs of others, and wonder if things will change, asking: "What am I protecting? Who am I trying to be? What do I want?" Relationships (breakups, separation, dating, divorce) can bring up anxiety, regret, fear and self-judgment. These effect the relationship we have with ourselves. Resentments, anger, and guilt - toward others and within ourselves make us feel disconnected and alone. As a therapist, my aim is to help you reconnect with your SELF. Everyone is different. Our expectations and ideals are influenced by family history, surrounding cultural expectations, and unique experiences. Our therapy sessions help you develop tools to define relationships you want, conquer anxiety, past regrets, self doubt, negative self-image, and slowly dispose of the negative loud inner-monologue (which comes up frequently, when you are trying to navigate your road ahead.) I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapist using Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gottman therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) tools to develop a solid foundation of self - (via telehealth, online) in both Oregon and Washington State. Specialties: Individuals dealing with sleep issues/insomnia, difficulty with focus (ADHD); folks going through separation/divorce to develop purpose, motivation and intention; individuals in relationships cultivate/improve connection; single individuals build a sense of self (aligned with values) which can be applied toward dating and future relationships. __________________________________________ Interested in seeing if we connect? Feel free to text me/call me at 503-498-6879 for free consultation. Want to learn more about me? Check out my website: https://heatherackles.com/ _______________________________________________________