Lev Schneidman (they/them)

My Background and Approach

I believe in creating supportive and empowering spaces where individuals can explore, notice, and redefine intimacy and pleasure as it relates to oneself, others, and the world. My approach is first and foremost to help build, grow, and reinforce one’s relationship to oneself. I received my master's in social work at San Francisco State University in 2017. I have worked both in direct client care and in macro social work in the Oregon State Public Health Department because I believe that change must be made both on individual, community and institutional levels. My background is working with LGBTQIA2S+ communities.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

In my therapeutic approach, I practice mindfulness and somatic approaches, always moving at a pace set by those I work with. This means the client leads the sessions, and I'm here to guide and support them. I believe in a person-centered and relationship-centered approach, which is also deeply rooted in trauma-informed care. Sex and pleasure positivity is an integral part of my practice. I am also polyamory and kink affirming. Together, we can explore and understand the messages your body sends – the "yes," "no," and "maybe” messages that allows one to move towards the life they want. I deeply value the courage and vulnerability it takes to begin therapy and, as a practitioner, I'm committed to fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship. I firmly believe in supporting my clients to access their internal strength and wisdom to navigate life's challenges with some support.