sadie’s story
Hi there, I’m Sadie!
I'm so glad you're here.
In both my work as a therapist and in my own life, I am a strong believer and advocate for the benefits of therapy. I believe on its most basic level therapy is a chance to explore, reflect, understand, and grow.
I approach clients I work with from a trauma-informed perspective that aims to create a safe space free of judgment or discrimination, and that fundamentally honors not only each unique story, but each individual's set of morals and values. My intent is to always act in a manner that is cognizant of and does not abuse position, power, or privilege.
I aim to utilize a person-centered, compassion focused approach with clients to highlight strengths and encourage self-compassion. I integrate evidence-based practices to encourage tangible, realistic changes that align with identified goals.
At the end of the day my goal is to help you on your journey through individual exploration and healing, with the overall pursuit of what for you is a life worth living. I care about you caring about yourself, and will encourage you to do so habitually.
When I’m not working, I love cooking, making ceramics, moving my body, exploring Portland’s delicious food offerings, spending time with loved ones, and hanging out with my cat. I enjoy reading (our library system can't be beat) and going to the movies (in the theater, of course). I place deep value in doing things that bring joy, and am always trying to do so for myself. I am from Las Vegas, Nevada but lived in Southern California for a number of years prior to moving to Portland.
Some professional stuff:
I have experience working with individuals that face the following struggles: anxiety, depression, chronic stress/stress management, life transitions, issues relating to self-esteem, mood disorders/bipolar disorder, grief and loss, spiritual abuse/religious trauma, navigating relationship difficulties/conflict, attachment, trauma and PTSD, dissociation, hallucinations/delusions/other psychosis, severe and persistent mental illness, suicidal ideation and prevention, parenting, family conflict, codependency, intimate partner violence, chronic illness.
Technical theoretical influences on my approach include but are not limited to: person centered therapy, compassion focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and collaborative problem solving.
Previous experience comes from: providing outpatient therapy to a variety of ages at Sprout Therapy PDX; outpatient therapy with adolescents within a high school setting; counseling and advocacy for adolescents with a dual-diagnosis of intellectual/developmental disabilities + mental health disorders within a group home setting; and outpatient therapy and case management for adult individuals struggling with severe + persistent mental illness combined with highly restrictive barriers to fundamental resources. I have additional experience working with families and significant others within these settings, and experience navigating various community mental health and human services systems throughout Portland.
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in Southern California. My education focused on developing a clinical perspective of mental health and wellness, with application of therapeutic modalities to support relationships with self + others. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology with an emphasis on counseling from Azusa Pacific University also. For continued growth, I maintain continuing education + training on a variety of topics and consult with supervisors and peers at Sprout Therapy PDX.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Oregon.
See our fees and insurance page to determine if Sadie is in network with your insurance plan.