Therapists for college students near Portland State University
Jingqing Liu
Many of my clients come to me with emotional wounds. They often felt invisible, rejected, devalued, or deeply hurt by others. They learned to adapt to the unsupportive environment by judging themselves, tensing up, trying to control everything, disconnecting from themselves, numbing their feelings, not trusting others, hiding, or trying to please everyone. As time goes by, these strategies stop working and become symptoms we label as depression, anxiety, disordered eating, substance use, PTSD, self-harm, etc. I work with clients to break free from the past and live life in the way they want. I offer a safe space where clients feel seen, accepted and empowered. I collaborate with clients to set goals and identify/build on their strengths. I use body-based therapies (EMDR, SP, Mindfulness, etc) to help clients resolve past trauma. I incorporate ACT and DBT to help clients manage stressors more effectively and live more meaningful/fulfilling lives. As a BIPOC psychologist and bilingual immigrant, I have extensive experience serving clients with marginalized identities. I show curiosity and respect to client’s lived experiences related to their identities and feel honored to be able to support clients in breaking barriers and living up to their full potentials. If any of these speak to you, let’s chat!
Maya Schmidt, LPC
I specialize in trauma therapy, with extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual violence and other traumatic experiences. If you’ve been through something overwhelming, it can feel like a fog has settled over you, affecting every part of your life. You might find yourself overthinking, being on edge, shutting down, or feeling numb, even when you want to feel present and connected. Many people I work with feel stuck in this space and are unsure how to move forward. Together, we’ll work to understand and process your emotions, thoughts, and past experiences so they no longer hold the same power over you. I use EMDR and other approaches to help you address what’s at the core of your symptoms. Feeling safe and understood is essential to this work. We’ll move at a pace that’s manageable for you, creating a space where you can show up as you are without pressure or judgment. While this is a vulnerable process, it’s also what allows for deep, lasting healing. Therapy can help you relate to yourself with more clarity and compassion, develop new patterns, and move toward the life you want to live. If you’re ready to feel more grounded, connected, and fully yourself—and to feel more in control of your life—I invite you to reach out. We’ll start with a conversation and see if working together feels like a good fit.
Marie Christensen Counseling LLC
You've gotten so good at being who everyone needs that you're not sure anyone actually knows the real you. Nothing is technically wrong, but something’s missing. Maybe you’ve gone looking for answers before, and you’ve seen reel after reel of picture-perfect lives, and you felt more alone than you did before you started. I help people in your shoes build a life where you get to be fully yourself and still feel deeply connected to the people around you. If you're sick of combing through wellness content and never seeing yourself, if you walk away from each reel feeling more invisible, I've been there. Let's talk. I'm a chronically ill therapist with specialized experience in complex trauma and identity formation. I work with teens and adults on PTSD, anxiety, depression, living with neurodivergence, identity shifts and development, social and relational struggles, and big life changes. My background gives me distinct expertise in working with childhood sexual abuse. My therapy is person-centered and attachment-focused, and I emphasize genuine accessibility in all my work. Starting therapy is a vulnerable process, and you've already taken the first big step. You deserve a safe environment to take up space, and it's my honor to hold that space with you. Reach out, and let's talk about what therapy for you can look like.
Kaseja Wilder
I love working with people who aspire toward self actualization. Sometimes staying emotionally regulated can gets in the way of having a clear understanding and experience in day to day life. Modern culture has a way of throwing us ups and downs, but I have good news: There are ways to obtain equanimity, compassion (for yourself and others) and even joy in the process. In my practice, I won't be trying to "fix" you, rather we will be on a journey together to help you obtain more of the life you want to be living.
Eleshia Ledridge, LPC
I specialize in the intersection of neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, AuDHD) and LGBTQ+ adult care. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, identity, life transitions, trauma, or just looking to find your direction in life, I can help. I utilize science-based techniques to help people live according to their values. I offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other third wave behavior therapy modalities. I am currently DBT-LBC Certified, a IBCCES Certified Autism Specialist
Champion Family Therapy
Champion Family Therapy is a small, locally owned practice founded by Jessica Champion, LMFT in 2018. Prior to opening Champion Family Therapy, Jessica Champion had the vision for fifteen years of creating a mental health therapy practice that was family-centered. She saw the need for a clinic that would address the challenges of individuals, couples and families, by incorporating the many facets of recovery, including relational dynamics and core beliefs transferred through generations. From this vision, Champion Family Therapy was born. At Champion Family Therapy, we understand that most people seek therapy after unwelcome challenges in their lives. We are always moved by the desire for change and the risk it takes to make that call. It is our job to meet you where you are with competence and compassion.
Kate Boase
At the core of my being is a genuine and heartfelt desire to help others. I approach clients with unconditional positive regard, creating a space of empathy and safety. As a skilled and compassionate listener, I use my accurate empathic understanding to delve deeply into my clients' subjective experiences. Drawing from a rich array of therapeutic techniques (DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Self-Acceptance & Self-Compassion, and more) I highly value and appreciate the unique individuality of each client; collaboratively, I work with them to tailor sessions based on their diverse needs. Equipped with a Master's degree in Counseling, I am not only a dedicated practitioner but also hold additional titles of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, and ADHD Clinical Services Provider; I love learning and eagerly look forward to incorporating additional trainings to my counseling repertoire. I enthusiastically believe in the inherent capacity of every individual to flourish in life and am committed to assisting my clients in realizing their potential to triumph over any goal they aspire to achieve.
Emelia Thygesen
Trauma can be an invisible wound that can affect many parts of our lives we don’t even realize. I work with clients with depression, anxiety, adoption triad concerns, and trauma-related issues. Change can be hard. Having the courage to reach out and discuss your inner pain and anxiety is the first step. I want to help you work through your past painful experiences, feelings of shame, and traumatic events so that you can create a new life path. I believe each person has their own pace, and am willing to find therapies and strategies that work for you. My approach is open-minded, trauma-based, cognitive, and holistic. I started my career in psychology and counseling when I experienced a suicide in my family. It gave me the courage to make changes for myself, and help people around me who were also suffering grief, loss, and depression. I’m an advocate of mental health issues, a proud adoptee, and a supporter of the arts. **I only accept insurance in the state of North Carolina**
Chantia Sturman
Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder or any of the issues that come along with one (i.e. anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, guilt, shame, body image distress, or difficulty in relationships), I would love to help you. Sometimes when you’ve felt anxious or burdened for long enough, it can begin to feel as though this is how it is always going to be. You might even find yourself saying that this is just the life you deserve. Maybe you are a Christian who is trying to make sense of how you are feeling while also navigating your faith. I am here to tell you healing is possible! Therapy with me is a place where you can freely be you, without judgement, as we work together to help you to become a healthier, more whole version of yourself. I offer therapy that allows you to bring in your faith (triumphs, struggles, and all). You don't have to figure it all out on your own (thankfully!). If you feel that I might be a good fit for you, please call or email me to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation or to book your first appointment.
Keilah Pomeroy
Find Your Balance. Discover Your Voice. Be a work in progress. College can be exciting—but also overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating new independence, academic pressure, relationship changes, or figuring out who you want to be in the world, therapy can give you the tools and space to grow. I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience helping people make sense of their inner world. My approach blends logic and curiosity (thanks to my background in Philosophy) with a deep respect for how our emotions, body, and even the unconscious shape our daily lives. You might find us exploring your thoughts through Socratic dialogue, diving into dreamwork, connecting with symbols and stories like The Hero’s Journey, or looking at how your brain makes decisions from a neuro-economics perspective. If you’re ready to explore not just *what* you’re feeling, but *why*, and learn how to bring your hidden patterns into the light, I’ll walk alongside you—helping you meet yourself with more clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Asha Stephen
I use integrative approaches to address a variety of counseling needs. My therapy style is interpersonal, relational and emotion-focused. I work towards helping my clients identify what their goals and motivations are, and collaboratively develop specific strategies and interventions that can help them achieve their goals. I have extensive experience working with relational concerns, trauma, self-esteem concerns, identity development and mood disorders. Therapy is an important investment in yourself and can be incredibly rewarding. I encourage my clients to be open, help identify their motivations to create change, and work on identifying steps to take between sessions that will help overcome barriers to emotional well-being. All aspects of you are important and I welcome people from all walks of life. I want to help you improve your relationships, achieve greater satisfaction in your life, and to channel your energy into accomplishing the goals that are important to you. I want to help you develop a stronger sense of self-compassion, greater self-confidence, and to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and other emotional concerns.
Preferred Stories Counseling, LLC
With fourteen years of experience working in mental health, as well as two master's degrees (the first in sociology and the second in clinical mental health counseling), I offer respectful psychotherapeutic services that celebrate human agency and diversity in all of its expressions. I honor your courage in reaching out for help as well as your perseverance in finding good help. You matter, even though it may not feel that way right now. I will do everything in my power to support you. ******************************************************************** My specializations include: Neurodiversity and Developmental Differences All services are informed by my position that we all have different and equally valid ways of interpreting information and diverse relational styles. I am trained at the master's level to assess for autism and ADHD. I tailor my approach to your learning style and preferences, finding strategies that work for you. I embrace differences and honor diversity on all levels. Career and Daily Living Whether your challenges are career-related, relational, or just getting through each day—or a combination of these challenges and more—I'm here to help you navigate life more effectively. LGBTQIA2s+and BIPOC Concerns I celebrate all types of diversity and follow evidence-based practices that save lives. With my background in sociology, I always look at contextual factors and work with your goals and value system. I practice with humility and focus on empowering marginalized identities. Post-Traumatic Stress / Adjustment I will help you manage and work through your trauma and adversities, including all types of traumas, from the "Big T traumas" to addressing microaggressions and discrimination and bias. Living with Disabilities I can assist you in coming to a place of acceptance, as well as addressing the complexities of disclosing sensitive information about your disability status, gender, sexual orientation, etc., or opening up to and connecting with supports that may be available in the community. I also provide validating support in living with medical concerns and chronic conditions that make life feel difficult. ****************************************************************** Techniques are personalized to you and your treatment plan. Here are my favorites: Sensory Integration, Bilateral Stimulation, Somatic Attunement, and Movement Especially useful for neurodivergence and trauma, these are powerful tools to assist with self-soothing and grounding. Relaxation & Humor I offer coping skills that make therapy fun, while promoting mental and physical health. Psychoeducation Honoring your pace and learning style, I love to provide informative support to help you understand yourself and your experiences better. Writing, Visual & Experiential Explorations We determine which types of processing are most helpful and, if you are open to it, employ a variety of creative methods to facilitate growth. Narrative Therapy My primary theoretical approach, narrative therapy is empowerment-based, offering tools to deconstruct of systems of being that do not service you or your values and goals. Together, we work towards reconstruction of your preferred stories!
Honu Healing
Aloha, my name is Mahina. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and sole practitioner / owner of Honu Healing LLC, offering individual psychotherapy to adults of all ages and walks of life. Many of the people wanting my support are feeling burdened by anxiety, sadness, or grief, overwhelmed by a variety of stressors, or simply worn down by internal and external elements. Sometimes these experiences lead to self-defeating/sabotaging thoughts and behaviors, feeling disconnected from oneself or others, or struggling with cycles of shame and self-doubt. While these challenges are deeply human, they often impact our relationships, sense of security and identity, ability to be our authentic selves, and our capacity to fully function. It is my heartfelt honor to support individuals through current or lifelong challenges. I specialize in helping adults navigate traumatic experiences, grief, transitions, spirituality, and stress related to school, work, or relationships. I am here to help and guide you with effective, lasting solutions to persistent struggles. My approach is tailored to your unique needs and goals. I utilize trauma-processing methods that engage somatic awareness, your intrinsic wisdom, and inner resources. We will explore habits that are not helpful in your relationships with yourself or others. I will help you reclaim your agency with empowering tools and knowledge and guide you toward applying this in your daily life in self-affirming, embodied ways. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, engaging, gently challenging, and often playful. With reverence for your intrinsic dignity and wisdom, I trust your compassionate capacity to heal and connect with yourself and others. I partner with you using proven methods that go beyond traditional talk therapy and employ your inherent strengths and wisdom. It takes courage to entrust others to ally with you along your sacred journey. With my steadfast help, you will be guided through a journey of brave explorations fostering a kinder relationship with yourself. Please reach out if you are curious about my approach and exploring therapy as a vehicle of nurturing self-discovery, courage, and desired change.
Shelly Ottre
I believe all people are capable of change and growth. Deciding to come to counseling can be scary, or feel strange at first, but we were created to be in relationship with others. I come alongside my clients to help them identify areas where change is needed and we work together to find solutions in a safe space. Safe, secure relationships are where growth happens.
Stone & Sapling Psychotherapy
College is supposed to feel like progress. A lot of the time it just feels like pressure: grades, expectations, figuring out who you're becoming, and doing it all while looking like you've got it handled. From the outside, you seem responsible and on track. Inside, your mind doesn't slow down: replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, feeling guilty for resting even when you're exhausted. I work with students and young adults dealing with anxiety, perfectionism, and the kind of self-imposed pressure that doesn't ease up even when things are going okay. A lot of the people I see are worn down by overthinking and frustrated that doing everything "right" hasn't actually made them feel better. Together, we'll figure out what's keeping that cycle going and build tools you can actually use like before an exam, in a hard conversation, or just on a day that feels like too much. My approach is practical, down-to-earth, and LGBTQ+ affirming. No jargon, no script. Most people start out feeling like they're carrying more than they can hold. Over time, that tends to get lighter through more confidence in your own decisions, less dread before the hard stuff, and a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks from the outside. If you're ready to stop carrying this alone, I'd be glad to connect.
Abigail Hirschfeld LCSW
The college years can be full of fun and excitement, and they can also come with all kinds of challenges - academic pressure, perfectionism, anxiety, homesickness, identity shifts, and major life changes. You may be coping with experiences or challenges you faced before you got to college, or you may be facing new feelings that you aren't sure how to navigate. Whatever it is you’re going through right now, I’ll meet you with compassion & honesty, and we will work together toward your goals as a team. This is always an LGBTQI+ Safe Space. I began my work in mental health 10 years ago and have since worked with all ages in many settings. I support students who are navigating: - Anxiety and perfectionism - Depression - Trauma and past experiences - Chronic illness and chronic pain - Homesickness and life transitions - Identity and self-worth I also support clients in navigating complex medical and school systems, learning self-advocacy, & processing painful experiences. I help clients realize their inner strength, and feel empowered in their own care and in their lives. My approach to therapy is rooted in trust & rapport, because that’s what makes this work together possible. I am warm, honest, and encourage clients to challenge & dismantle negative beliefs they have about themselves. If you are feeling ready to take next steps, please reach out - I'd love to work with you!
Brad Carmichael, MSEd, LPC, LLC
I believe that a trusting relationship with you is of the utmost importance. During our time together I will work to create an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance so you feel free sharing and exploring whatever is troubling you. My approach is a trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive integration of attachment theory, psychodynamic therapy, and cognitive therapy which emphasizes (1) trusting the client as an expert of their own reality, (2) exploring the patterns through which we come to understand ourselves, others, and the world, and (3) seeking meaningful emotional experiences in a safe therapeutic relationship. I will work to build a supportive, trusting, and safe relationship with you so you can bravely identify and confront the challenges you're facing. Counseling can seem like a daunting task to take on, but it also be incredibly rewarding and life-changing. If this sounds like a journey you would like to begin, then please contact me!
Lynn Roberts
Struggling with navigating life, managing in a world that may feel overwhelming, and still managing to get up every day, looking to better yourself and your relationships? You may struggle with anxiety or depression, confusion or stress due to a whole host of reasons. Infidelity, infertility, body image, low self-worth, lack of confidence, existential crises, unhealthy coping mechanisms, narcissistic moms, everyday stressors and life transitions. Anything sound familiar? You may feel isolated and alone. Don’t worry. You’re not! You are unique, but you are not alone. Many many people struggle with these things and come to learn how to live differently.
Greg Peterson PhD, LPC, LMHC
Hi, my name is Greg, and I am a licensed counselor in OR and WA. I have over 15 years of experience providing counseling, and much of that time has been in serving students in universities. I have previously served as the director of the university counseling center at both the University of Portland and Concordia University PDX. I highly enjoy working with college students on a variety of issues. I am a generalist provider that is LGBTQ+ affirming, and utilize an acceptance and commitment therapy perspective to help students with issues such as depression, anxiety, academic stress, life changes, future direction, traumatic experiences, and relationship issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you in your academic and life journey.
Amanda Saoit
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I’m grateful for your courage in taking this step. The college years can be a very stressful time due to all of the changes and transitions happening in your life. Whether you're looking for just a few sessions or long-term therapy, I believe healing can happen with the right knowledge, hard work and laughter along the way. I use EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, and life coaching in my therapy sessions. If you've read this far, I encourage you to reach out to see if we are a good fit.