Zachary Cope (he/him)

My Approach to Helping

I am a current graduate student at George Fox University and my primary approach to working with clients is Restoration Therapy. This model uses mindfulness, attachment theory and emotional regulation for a holistic approach to bettering mental health and relationships. I also believe in the importance of the mind-body connection and working with the nervous system. I like to use TRE (tension, stress, and trauma releasing exercises) for those it can benefit. I value work with people of all genders but love to help males create a new lens for viewing the world. Society does not teach the value of vulnerability and emotionality to boys. Men often put on a mask, being competitive, aggressive, rational, tough, and not viewing interpersonal relationships as a true measure of success. Working with individuals with ADHD through a strengths-based approach is also a passion of mine.

Why I Became a Therapist

I have always been inclined towards helping people. I worked at summer camps with kids suffering from life threatening illnesses and coached sports when I was younger. I am a small business owner and have found joy over the years in mentoring young entrepreneurs. I’ve worked to develop community-oriented projects and have traveled internationally for volunteer projects. My views of culture, values and beliefs were in part shaped by these experiences. Most of my background is in the business world but I always had the underlying thought inside of me about having a career helping others work through personal and interpersonal issues.