Steven Cohn

My Background

I have a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute near Santa Barbara, CA. And I have an MA in Clinical Psychology from John F Kennedy University, in Berkeley, CA. Clinically, I specialized in becoming a relationship counselor. I also have an MBA degree from the WP Carey School of Business ("Top 50 Business Schools," US News and World Reports). I have lectured at Stanford University and have been called upon as a relationship consultant, appearing on CNBC.com, KATU 2 TV, and KOIN 6 TV. I have also written and published training materials for graduate psychology students with permission from the American Psychiatric Association, and I'm the author of Your Quick Guide to Relationship Success. My post doctoral education and training is devoted exclusively to relationships. I have trained with some of the leading authorities in the world, including both Dr. John Gottman (of the acclaimed Gottman Institute) and Dr. David Schnarch.

Why I Became a Therapist

I founded The Portland Couples Counseling Center on the guiding belief that with the proper support, encouragement, counseling, and education every couple is capable of having the relationship they truly desire and deserve. My dream, and driving conviction --the passion that gets me out of bed in the morning-- is the belief that couples form the foundation of both the family and the larger community. I also believe that if couples are thriving, then we as individuals, as well as our families, children, and communities will flourish as well. I believe that every couple is capable of co-creating a warm, caring, joyous, loving, affectionate, intimate, lasting, and sexually fulfilling relationship. I also believe that it is possible for couples to work through even the most challenging issues while maintaining a sense of dignity, compassion, and respect. This is my highest hope for you and your relationship.