Portland Therapy Center
Carolyn Peterson

Carolyn Peterson (she/her/hers)

Clinical Psychologist

PhD

I help adults struggling with trauma, grief, and life transitions by navigating intense emotions and finding peace and connection.

Client Status

accepting clients

Contact

971-402-9705

4039 N Mississippi Ave Suite 206

PORTLAND, 97227

Email Website

At a Glance

Me

Rate: $225-$270

Provides free initial consultation

Practicing Since: 2019

Languages: English

Services

  • Individual

Insurances Accepted

  • Out of Pocket
  • Out of Network
  • PacificSource

My Ideal Client

Are you caught in an unending cycle of feeling insufficient, regardless of your achievements or efforts? As you navigate various roles in your life – partner, friend, caregiver, parent/child, coworker, or manager – do you constantly feel like you're falling short, despite your best efforts? Whether you experience anxiety, stress, depression, or simply feel stuck in a state of "fine" or "meh," know that you're not alone.

My Background and Approach

I’m passionate about helping thoughtful, driven adults who feel overwhelmed and insecure find comfort in who they are and build deeper connections with the people and things that matter. I recognize the weight of unrealistic expectations, both self-imposed and external, that leave you perpetually unfulfilled. Whether stemming from past trauma, intricate learning histories, or the pressures of daily life, these challenges may make you feel like you're merely existing rather than truly living. My approach is grounded in scientific principles, tailored to help you break free from this cycle. Together, we navigate the complexities of your background with compassion and understanding, uncovering the roots of your feelings to cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment and authenticity in your life. If you're ready to move beyond survival mode and embrace a life that aligns with your true self, I'm here to support you every step of the way.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I am multiracial, bilingual in Thai and English, and the proud daughter of a Veteran. My experience of growing up abroad and coming to the United States as an adult allows me to bring a unique perspective to therapy. I am deeply committed to exploring the intersectionality of identities. I strive to create a space that honors and embraces the complexity of our individual background, identities, and experiences. I understand societal context plays a significant role in shaping our perspectives and challenges we face. Throughout my training and professional journey, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds in a range of settings, including university counseling centers, child and family centers, community mental health organizations, and Veteran Affairs Hospitals. You will frequently catch me experimenting with new recipes, watching football, hitting the trails with my furry friend, and giving rock climbing my best shot.

Techniques I Use

Issues I Treat

Specialties

  • PTSD External link

    I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and ACT for Trauma. I have experience working with both men and women for a variety of traumas to also include Moral Injury. Additionally, I am familiar with the co-occurring nature of substance use with trauma.

  • Men's Issues External link

    I work with men to empower them to overcome barriers to seeking help, cultivate self-compassion, and develop healthier emotional expression, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment and connection in their lives. My approach focuses on helping recognize and challenge unhelpful narratives that contribute to feelings of shame and disconnection. I'm familiar with the presentation of cooccurring disorders in men and how this may present differently than in women.

  • Racial Identity External link

    I specialize in racial identity development, particularly multiracial backgrounds. My dissertation delved into the complexities of navigating multiracial identity, including challenges and opportunities inherent in this journey. Having grown up in a multiracial family myself, I intimately understand the cultural and intergenerational dynamics at play. I am sensitive to the nuanced demands and expectations that individuals from multiracial backgrounds often encounter.

Contact Carolyn

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