Catherine Palmer (She/her)

My Approach to Helping

I am skilled at helping individuals who are experiencing relationship problems, anxiety, grief, depression, low self esteem, lack of motivation, past trauma, life transitions, and family of origin issues. Whatever your concerns, we'll work together to improve your life. I am warm and nonjudgmental, yet interactive and engaged. Your time with me will provide a safe space to explore your personal goals, gain insight on what is most meaningful to you, and work around any difficulties that may be holding you back or disempowering you. In couples therapy, I can help you break dysfunctional cycles and replace old, worn-out ways of interacting with more intentional and compassionate ones. In addition to teaching new communication and life skills, I can help you expand and reorganize your emotional responses in a way that helps increase empathy and understanding, engenders self-growth, and brings greater intimacy and joy. www.marriagecounselinginportland.com

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I earned my MS degree in counseling from PSU, with a specialty in Marital, Couple and Family Therapy. I've been certified by the NBCC and I have additional, long-term training in Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples, Emotion Focused Therapy for Individuals, EMDR and Internal Family Systems. I've been able to help many individuals, families, and couples create healthier, more satisfying relationships with themselves and others. It's a profound experience to witness the ways in which people are able to overcome their struggles and empower themselves. It brings me great satisfaction to be able to help others make permanent positive changes in their lives and relationships. I also have a Ph.D. in Science and have discovered that my knowledge of both psychology and biology provides me with powerful tools as a counselor. I believe in the interpersonal neurobiology concept of 'inspire to rewire' the brain via a nurturing therapeutic relationship.