“You keep asking why your work is not enough, and I don’t know how to answer that, because it is enough to exist in the world and marvel at it.” ― Becky Chambers, A Psalm for the Wild-Built
I am providing both telehealth and in-person services.
Over time, we all develop stories and ideas about ourselves, others, or the world. These stories were meant to protect us at some time. For example, do you get upset with yourself for being sad? Down on yourself when worry gets in the way? Frustrated with your partner for not anticipating what you need? Stories like this have a big impact, sometimes without us even knowing, and may not serve us in the ways that they originally did. For some of us, these ideas may be born from experiences of marginalization and harm based on who we are; maybe we begin to believe we’re not good enough, not worthy of love, or there’s something wrong with us. These are painful and powerful ideas; It’s no wonder that you may be trying hard to get rid of or numb them and their effect on you. Unfortunately, trying to control or avoid what we’re thinking or feeling can lead to even more suffering, like having difficulty pursuing what matters to us or putting strain on important relationships.
I specialize in working with people who struggle with anxiety, shame and low self-worth, difficulties in relationships and with intimacy, sexual concerns, identity-related questions or struggles, and reactions to trauma and difficult life events. As a queer person, I have a particular interest in, and have significant experience, serving other LGBTQIA+ and queer folks, and I am poly and kink-affirming. I believe wholeheartedly that you are not someone broken to be fixed. Whether you believe it or not, you already have a wealth of personal strengths that are worth tapping into. While I will actively and thoughtfully integrate my own expertise, you already have the most important resource: yourself. A significant part of growth in therapy happens through the relationship that we’ll develop. We are both human people with experiences and identities that influence how we’ll relate to each other; I couldn’t be a blank slate even if I tried. I find that therapy is most successful when clients and I can talk about the opportunities and limitations inherent in the unique relationship we build together. We will agree at times, disagree at others, all in service of figuring out together how to help you address the concerns that brought you in; laughter and tears included.
Treatment Approach
Orientation: I incorporate several evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and other mindfulness-based interventions, Emotion Focused Therapy for individuals and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). Underlying this is a perspective that acknowledges and integrates the effects of cultural and systemic factors on personal suffering and growth.
Modalities: Individuals and couples
Client Focus
Ages: Adult 18+
Special Populations: LGBTQIA+ adults of any age
Qualifications
Practicing Since: 2014
Degree: Masters in Social Work
Year Obtained MSW: 2016
License Number and State: Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oregon #L12573
Specialties
- Anxiety
- Trauma/PTSD
- Grief and loss
- Sexual orientation and gender identity exploration and concerns
- Relationship difficulties and intimacy
- Sex and sexuality
- Couples work
Financial
Average Cost: $210 – $260
Accepted Insurance Plans: I accept most other insurance as an out-of-network provider
How I Can Help:
I will offer a gentle, encouraging, and hopeful space. Together we’ll develop a relationship that feels safe enough for you to address what’s ailing you. I’ll integrate the knowledge I have based on what has been shown to be most helpful to address your concerns, while relying on your own expertise and experience to guide the process.
Email Address: nhebert@portlandpsychotherapy.com
Phone: 503-281-4852