“Therapy is just like a relationship. If you really want to get what you need, don't settle.” — Stephanie Foo
Hi, I'm Amanda, LCSW, MAC. I use she/her pronouns.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oregon and Washington. In 2004, I obtained my Masters degree from the Smith College School for Social Work. I identify as white, cisgender, and queer, and I work from an understanding of how privilege and power show up in my personal life, as well as in my therapy practice. My approach affirms my clients' racial identities, sexual orientation, gender identities, and body size. I maintain awareness of how oppression can impact our internal and external experiences.
I've worked in the mental health field for over 20 years, primarily in community mental health settings as an advocate, case manager, therapist, program developer, and clinical director. I have overseen programs that provided treatment for survivors of trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual violence, institutional oppression, and complex trauma; people experiencing homelessness, and high‐acuity mental health needs. Part of my role as a Behavioral Health Director was to support clinicians with challenges including burnout, vicarious trauma, workplace violence, client loss, institutional oppression, and job transition. I also have experience supporting leaders in healthcare and non-profit settings.
I come to this practice with knowledge and understanding gained from the many individuals who have touched my life. As a leader of mental health programs, I worked with some of the most creative, radical, and inspiring clinicians to make care available to people who struggle to succeed in traditional settings.
As a therapist, I have had the privilege of witnessing the ways people cope, heal, and make meaning of their life experiences. I deeply value the relationships I've formed throughout my career, and am grateful for the many ways they have transformed me.
I also have an extensive background as a trainer and presenter including work as an adjunct professor at the Portland State University Department of Counselor Education. I have presented at state and national conferences and have overseen training programs as part of my work in the nonprofit sector. Training topics I have covered include best practices for working with queer and gender diverse clients, homeless populations, survivors of intimate partner and sexual violence, and approaches to trauma treatment. Currently I work with Susan Wendelborg of Oregon EMDR as a training assistant to offer EMDR Basic Trainings. I am also an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and support therapists seeking advanced learning and certification in EMDR.