Psychotherapy in Portland, Oregon
I provide individual psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults (18+) in Oregon and Illinois.
This way of working is grounded in the idea that we don't always know why we act and feel the way we do, and that much of emotional life occurs out of awareness. Our ways of being are informed by past experiences, as well as current environments and context.
Psychodynamic therapy explores how these influences shape your inner experience and sense of self. By looking closely at the unique constellation of your life, we have an opportunity to learn about how your mind works, how you’ve come to be who you are, and how you relate to yourself and others.
Patterns of relating to others, and the symptoms that bring you to therapy, can often be meaningful expressions of your life’s story, ways you’ve survived and adapted to the world around you. In therapy, I hope to help you make sense of your story by offering a relationship within which you can tell it. As you grow in your awareness of yourself, new ways of feeling, living, and relating can become possible.
You can expect a confidential, collaborative space to show up as yourself and say what is on your mind. Whether it's the weight of what you're holding alone, a knot in your stomach, not knowing what to do, not doing what you want, or a longing for something more, all of it belongs here. This is a space to look together and become curious about the experience of your mind, body, and heart, no matter where you're starting from. I'll listen deeply, engage thoughtfully, notice with you what may be hard to see on your own, and help you get in touch with yourself.
Your feelings toward me are part of the process, as patterns that occur outside of therapy are likely to emerge in our relationship. This can lead to meaningful insight and change as we notice and understand these patterns together in real time.
There is no right way to do therapy, and the direction we go will ultimately be unique to you (and us). My style is warm, with a touch of humor and frankness. It is important to me to create an atmosphere where you feel safe and respected, and we will move at a pace that feels right for you.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some concerns I work with include:
While I treat people from all walks of life, I often work with young adults who have experienced early trauma, who are now coping with the pressures and uncertainties of adulthood and relationships. I have specialized expertise working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients. I consider myself particularly attuned to the experiences of those who may feel outside of dominant norms and expectations, or feel caught between different worlds, relationships, or versions of themselves.
If you’re here, I welcome you to reach out! Please use my contact form or send me an e-mail at annsurberlcsw@gmail.com.