Kennedy Hanson (they/she)

My Approach to Helping

I value authenticity, feedback, and directness. I tend to utilize a bottom up approach to counseling. I begin by working through what is happening in the body (if tolerable) and with time we will use that as a building block for experiments, visualizing, psychodrama, and storytelling to weave together a narrative that is a combination of real and play. My goal is to challenge people to go outside of the box and view themselves, their lives, the people around them from varying perspectives. Ultimately I want folks to regain the feeling of having choice in their lives. I lead with care, compassion, directness, and honesty. I value humor as it can be healing, I do not believe that I am a ‘blank slate’ therapist. I will always bring my authentic self into the room. I draw on the theories of Gestalt, Somatics, and Expressive Arts Therapy. I value experiential techniques and being flexible with the clients comfortability and needs.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I was drawn to the field of counseling through my work as a community organizer whose main focus was healing through alternative means (gardening, reading, art, etc.) while weaving in sociology and political education. I believe that healing and meaning making is done amongst communities and not in isolation. I utilize a non carceral lens, and draw on theories of black and indigenous political and healing traditions. I saw a need for more healing spaces for folks who have unique experiences and want a therapist who understands what they have gone through first hand. As a queer, multiracial (Black, Indigenous, and white), and gender non-conforming person living in Portland, Or. I have struggled myself with finding a therapist who can meet those needs.