About Me

About

My path to becoming a therapist was born out of my own transformative experience with therapy during a challenging season in my life. Therapy helped me find the courage to forge a new path at a time where I felt lost and unfulfilled, and I allowed myself to follow my shifting priorities and values to show up for others in the hard parts of life.

Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent nearly a decade working in the marketing and advertising industry as a brand strategist. I have always been curious about human behavior, communication, and the stories behind why we do the things we do; a common thread between my previous career and current one.

I have been described as calm, warm, thoughtful, relatable, and having a compassionate nature. I was born and raised in Maryland and feel a sense of home and belonging on both sides of the country, having lived in Portland since 2016. In my spare time I enjoy walking outdoors and admiring the majesty of the Pacific Northwest, knitting, practicing yoga, reading fiction and memoirs, baking sweet treats, spending time with my partner, friends, and visiting family on the east coast, and doting on my cat, Olive.

I received a Masters degree in Marriage, Couple, & Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark College, as well as a Masters degree in Business - Branding from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelor's degree in Media & Communications / English from University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

“Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror. Just keep going. No feeling is final.”

― Rainer Maria Rilke

Approach

I believe that we are all wired for connection, and therefore prioritize the concept of attachment in my work; this starts with our relationship together, as it’s important you feel like you can be your full self with your therapist, and trust that we’re a good fit. In my integrative approach, I incorporate Attachment & Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and eco-psychology and mindfulness techniques.

I pay attention to the mind-body connection as well as “here and now” factors; i.e. what’s happening for you in the present when you retell a story during therapy? Present moment behaviors and sensations can often give us information about our beliefs, feelings, and needs. I will listen, notice, and be curious about these things and more in our work together.

I enjoy referencing nature-based metaphors and often look at the shifting seasons and natural life cycles as parallels for the human experience. I adapt my therapeutic style to the unique needs and life story of each client, as I aim to center you in our work together.

I am especially passionate about grief and loss work, including helping you find meaningful ways to continue bonds after the death of a loved one.

I am welcoming to people of all expressions and identities, and am committed to providing culturally-sensitive, affirming, and trauma-informed care.

Consultation Request

​I offer free 15-minute consultations for new potential clients in Oregon. Please use the contact form to request a consultation or send me an email request. I will follow up to schedule where we can learn more about each other and determine if we are a good fit.

Phone:

971-415-2967

E-mail:

emily@emilysmiththerapy.com