Identity Affirmation
We all possess many facets to our identity that impact both how we see the world and how others perceive us. While identity may not be the major concern for which you are seeking support or change, having the ability to bring all parts of yourself to the therapy room can in an of itself aid the growth process. I strive to create a therapeutic space where all aspects of who you are can be expressed and supported.
My Approach
Productive therapy and life change happens when a solid, trusting relationship forms between client and therapist. My greatest strength as a therapist is forming that bond quickly with my clients so that we can identify and address your concerns together. Because this bond is so important to the therapeutic process, I provide an initial free phone or video consultation to determine if we are a good fit.
My Services
I provide individual therapy, relationship therapy, and sex therapy. If you are interested in scheduling a free consultation to discuss your needs please contact me either by either by email at andrea@andreamize.com or by phone at 503-957-5947.
About Andrea (pronouns: she/her)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist who welcomes adults and seniors for weekly therapy. I received my BA in Psychology from the University of Akron in Ohio in 1995, and my MSW from Smith College School for Social Work in Massachusetts in 2013. I provided psychotherapy and clinical case management in non-profit clinics for several years and now devote myself full time to private practice psychotherapy. I am licensed in Oregon and California. I completed sex therapy training at the Institute for Sexuality Education and Enlightenment (ISEE) in 2022. I am an AASECT-certified sex therapist with specialization in gender, kink/BDSM, and nonmonogamy. I am a graduate of The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy Training under Ellyn Bader Ph.D. at The Couples Institute. This program uses attachment theory to better understand stages of personal and relationship development.
Areas of significant experience and expertise
Anxiety
High achievement/perfectionism/over-functioning
Life transitions and life stress
Self improvement and personal growth
Sexual identity exploration and evolution
Identity invisibility and transitions related to sexual orientation, ability, and illness
Nonmonogamy/polyamory; CNM/ENM; relationship structural shifts and changes
BDSM/kink identity informed therapy
Sexual function concerns
Body image & acceptance – physical and sexual health at any age, ability or size
Anti-racism and racial identity development (based on work of research psychologist Janet Helms PhD, professor of sociology Patricia Hill Collins PhD, professor of law Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw JDM, and author/speaker/educator Anika Nailah)
Specific communities I serve:
BDSM/Kink-identified, and/or curious individuals
Nonmonogamous and/or curious individuals
BDSM/Kink-identified, and/or curious individuals
Monogamous partners of CNM/ENM and polyamorous individuals
Queer-identified, developing and questioning individuals
Transgender and non-binary identified individuals
Partners of transgender, nonbinary and gender fluid clients
Aging clients seeking support for sexual issues with or without partners