Get to Know Me

A Licensed Professional Here to Guide You

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Portland area. I lived and trained in New York from 1997-2006. I love dogs and sometimes volunteer as a foster for animal shelters. I love running, and travelling. I get cold when it's below 70 degrees! I practice meditation and love art and drawing and listen to Hip Hop and Reggae.

I am direct and straightforward with my approach and try to understand and work with the big picture of you - how you learn, and what your values are. I am authentic and also a goof ball- so I like to have a good time as therapy can be fun!

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Neuroplasticity

"Neurons that wire together fire together"

The foundation of treatment is recognizing the capacity and capability for change- Neuroplasticity. Our brains are like our bodies. In order to be strong they need to work out too! Hence, the need for therapy. During our work, I assist you in understanding trauma/ reactive brain (emotional mind), and problem solving brain (thinking mind), and teaching you to get them to better communicate in times of duress.

Specialized Clinical services for People with Cognitive and Learning Challenges.

Empowerment

I have 20 years of experience in the field of individuals with developmental disabilities who have mental health diagnoses as well. Often, these clients are not adequately served when placed in one system or the other, and the systems do not always work together. I am here to bridge the gap between fields and create pathways for clients to thrive.

DBT skill building

When we are in emotional mind or rational mind only, we are not utilizing our full potential. Understanding wise mind is the premise of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Together, we learn, practice and individualize the skill sets in your daily life.

I accept referrals for clients who may not be accepted into Portland DBT due to cognitive disabilities or difficulty engaging in a group. I welcome care providers to assist clients in session with any homework. I have been trained on the Skills Building System by Julie Brown (a colleague of Marsha Linehan).

Reference: "The Emotional Regulation Skills System for Cognitively Challenged Adults".

Radical Acceptance and Mindfulness

Radical Acceptance is the process of "accepting the things we cannot change, changing the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference" -- Serenity prayer. Unfortunately, life is full of difficulties. So, the goal is not to "get rid" of adversity, as it is impossible. The goal of Radical Acceptance is learning to be at ease with suffering in kindness and compassion.
Reference: * Tara Brach, "Radical Acceptance".

Reference and recommended book:
Tara Brach, "Radical Acceptance"

Generational Trauma through a Jewish Lens

Judiasm is not only a religion. It is a culture, it is a way of a life. As a Jewish Woman and the daughter of a first generational immigrant, I am well aware and trained in some of effects of being the only child of a family traumatized by the effects of being in Germany as well as escaping Eastern Europe during the war. While all of us experience trauma showing up in different ways, there are some commonalities between Jews that are both survival mechanisms and affect our fight and flight tendencies. As a community, I identify as someone who has a self deprecating sense of humor, have endless neuroses, and am obsessed with sales. While these may sound like stereotypical traits, many Jews share an experience that creates a special bond or "member of the tribe" feel when looking for a therapist.

Jewish Therapist Collective - Profile