About Me
My journey in psychotherapy started with my psychoanalysis in 2013 in London when I enrolled in a year-long introductory course in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at British Psychotherapy Foundation. Theoretical knowledge was not enough, and I entered an open-ended analysis myself, which lasted for three years. This experience made me realize the benefits of a solid therapeutic alliance and increased my interest in how early childhood experiences shape the present.
In my practice, I explore how early relationships and significant events impact my clients’ mental health and limit their ability to make satisfying choices in life.
As a queer, bi-lingual, triculural immigrant, I have a unique perspective, but also an endless curiousity about what it means to be human across cultures, genders, sexual orientations, ages, races, ethnicities, abilities, and income brackets. Because of my deep commitment to acknowledging diverse identities and experience, I apply an integrative approach in my counseling practice. I’m dedicated to continuous learning, I drive for connection and tailor my approach to individual needs, communication preferences and personality types.
Focusing on meaningful and in-depth dialogues with clients
I try to identify my client’s hidden desires, conflicts and dreams, as I believe that making the unconscious conscious is deeply healing. My approach, which emphasizes meaningful and deep dialogues with clients has led me to supplement my training in contemporary Gestalt therapy with Gestalt Associates Training Los Angeles.
Gestalt requires one to pay attention to the here and now, inform the client how they impact others, unearth buried needs and hopes, and encourage feelings and sensations in sessions.
My commitment to trauma work has also drawn me to somatic therapy, which I am currently studying under the supervision of Roza Skenderova LPC, who is trained in body-centered experiential Contemporary Reichian Therapy.
I have also trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy at Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy I find this approach can be highly effective for depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Most of my clients at PTP were LGBTQ+ with OHP insurance
I hold a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Portland State University and completed two internships during my last year in the program. I interned at Portland State University Community Counseling Clinic under supervision of Deanna N. Cor, PhD, LPC, NCC where I worked with variety of clients providing affordable individual counseling to marginalized populations via Telehealth. Simultaneously, I interned at Portland Therapy Project (PTP) under supervision of two clinicians: Sawyer Salameh, LPC and Roza Skenderova, LPC.
My Counseling Rates
I accept Oregon Health Plan and private pay clients. The standard rate is $130 – $200 per 50-minute session.
Sliding Scale
If my fee is a barrier, under certain circumstances I may offer a sliding scale. Please inquire about the availability of my sliding scale slots when you first contact me.
Payment
I can accept payment for counseling:
Cancellation Policy
If you are unable to attend a session, please make sure you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand. Otherwise, you may be charged for the full rate of the session.
Any Other Questions
Please contact me for any additional questions you may have.
I look forward to hearing from you!
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My Mental Healh Counseling Services in Portland, OR
Check the services I focus on below. Please contact me for any additional questions you may have!
Creating a compassionate, understanding, and affirming space to explore sexuality and gender identity… As a queer person born and raised in a conservative culture, I have personally experienced oppressive harassment and discrimination because of my sexual orientation and gender expression.
People thrive in secure and loving partnerships! As a helping professional and a human, I believe in the healing power of connection. I engage in empathetic dialogues with my clients to understand each person deeply.
It’s no surprise that gay marriage counseling is in demand because it may be more challenging for LGBTQ people to remain grounded during arguments and set and maintain healthy boundaries.
A cornerstone of my practice is supporting survivors of gender-based violence and creating a safe space for women.
I do know what it means to acculturate and make new connections to question identity and navigate interculturally.