Complex Cases
Trauma therapy in Portland, Oregon
I have a particular interest in working with clients with complex cases who are seeking to heal from trauma.
What is a complex case?
You may have a complex case if:
You have attempted multiple forms of trauma-focused therapy and/or other trauma healing modalities with limited success
You’ve often been left with the impression that therapists don’t know what to do with you or that you can run laps around them without getting any meaningful work done
You struggle with experiences, behaviors or symptoms that therapists tend to find intimidating, such as extreme dissociation, intense emotional reactions to triggers, angry outbursts, or frequent suicidality
You’ve racked up a long list of DSM diagnoses and/or have been given (or believe you meet criteria for) a highly stigmatized diagnosis
You memories of significant life experiences are fragmented, confusing, chaotic, hard to make sense of, or partially/largely absent
How I approach complex cases
I do not see or treat my clients as fragile. I believe trauma survivors are strong enough to confront their memories, tolerate their overwhelming emotions, and do the work it takes to make real change.
I will not always agree with you or make you happy, but I will work hard for you, believe in the best in you, and stubbornly move us towards the best possible therapy outcome.
I believe that fundamentally, therapy is about being in relationship with someone, not doing something to someone. Our relationship is a crucial part of your therapy, and you can expect that we will be talking about it.
It is particularly essential for clients with complex cases to find a therapist who is the right fit.
I am not that therapist for everybody, but if you think I might be for you, schedule a consultation and we can talk.
I do not take complex cases that involve severe active substance use disorders, severe unmanaged eating disorders, or severe untreated OCD. If you deal with some issues in those areas but are unclear about whether you fall into the “severe” category or not, feel free to schedule a consultation with me and we can discuss it.
