Portland Therapy Center
Benita Munson

Benita Munson (she/her)

Licensed Professional Counselor

LPC, CRC, CADC I

Are you feeling stuck in your life or in your current relationship? I am here to help explore and build healthier communication patterns.

Client Status

not accepting clients

Contact

5033606656

5319 SW Westgate Dr.

241

Portland, OR 97221

Email Website

At a Glance

Me

Rate: $170-$190

Provides free initial consultation

Provides telehealth services

Practicing Since: 2013

Languages: English

Services

  • Individual
  • Relationship

Insurances Accepted

  • Out of Pocket
  • Out of Network
  • PacificSource
  • Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield

My Ideal Client

I am experienced and happy to work with heterosexual, LGBTQ relationships, support around dating, parenting teen issues, chronic illness, and substance abuse disorders. In individual sessions, I will teach you ways to set boundaries, show up compassionately for self and others, how to use grounding techniques to soothe yourself when you are activated, and identify areas in life where you are struggling.

My Approach to Helping

I have post graduate training in EFT Couples Therapy, which has allowed me to help couples create healthier, more satisfying relationships with themselves and others. EFT Couples Therapy is evidence based to be highIy effective in relationship satisfaction. I believe that quieting the inner critic, and increasing self compassion changes the way we see ourselves and the world, and I incorporate Kristen Neff's work around self compassion into my practice. I am experienced working with chronic illness and disability, and use EMDR in my practice to treat negative beliefs as well as previous trauma. I am passionate about helping clients recognize and set boundaries, and learn compassionate yet assertive communication tools. We will work collaboratively to identify areas in your life that are problematic, and work on necessary changes. For more information about me and my practice you can go to www.maplecounselingpdx.com

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I grew up in Canada and have been working in a helping capacity since my early 20's. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Criminology/Psychology and a Masters of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. I am a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and have previously worked in inpatient drug and alcohol treatment. I am also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, which means I specifically support people with chronic illness and disability to achieve their maximum potential. I completed an externship in EFT Couples Counseling and continue to pursue training in Gottman, Terry Real and self compassion. I am passionate about my children, travel, animals, and equality for all people. In my spare time I enjoy connecting with friends, family and pets, finding new restaurants in PDX, nature walks, and playing pickleball. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their past, in order to appreciate the present, and look forward to the future. I truly love what I do.

Techniques I Use

Specialties

  • Couples Counseling External link

    My private practice is currently comprised of 40% couples, 60% individuals. I am passionate about working with relationships as the relationship is in the room in front of me, and I can see parties making small changes that enhance their relationships immensely. I have specific training in EFT couples therapy, and weave in John Gottman's research, Terry Real, Esther Perel and evidence based practices for each.

  • Motivational Interviewing External link

    Motivational Interviewing helps to address ambivalence in a person's quest to reduce substance use. There is a part of you that knows you need to cut down usage...yet you also need that substance as a security blanket or a coping strategy. Motivational interviewing helps us to address this.

  • Emotionally Focused External link

    I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples through Edwards Psychotherapy in Portland. In EFT I will teach you how to access your primary emotions (IE sadness, fear) that are underlying secondary defensive reactions (resentment, jealousy). Once a person can communicate their primary emotion to a partner, it helps to increase connection and attachment. We will also do enactments in session which heighten emotion and also build connection and attachment.

Issues I Treat

Specialties

  • Relationship / Marriage Issues External link

    During our sessions we will review what is working and what is not working. We will identify your negative interaction cycle in the relationship, taking steps to break it down and improve it. I have completed an EFT couples training as well as participate in an EFT couples consultation group. I weave in Gottman strategies, as well as Terry Real to build support. I believe humor can be an important part of therapy as well.

  • Codependency External link

    Are you co-dependent in your relationship? I can help you to identify the warning signs of a one-sided, emotionally destructive and/or abusive relationship. Together we can rebuild your identity and self worth, weaving in self compassion and exploration of your family of origin, as well as necessary boundary work.

  • LGBTQ Issues External link

    I have worked with numerous LGBTQ clients with varying issues over the course of my career, and am extremely comfortable with appropriate language, and offering a climate of total support without judgement. All parts of you are welcome here. I have worked with many LGBTQ+ relationships and continue to pursue training in this area.

  • Alcohol Abuse and Alcohol Dependence External link

    I have extensive experience working with alcohol abuse/dependence and drug addiction after working in an inpatient program for years. If you are struggling with either of these issues, I can help you recognize triggers, deal with relapse, and provide support for your recovery.

Contact Benita

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