….. “It is my privilege to work as a counselor and therapist, to be trusted with the most personal of your concerns as you explore and examine whatever it is that stands in the way of having the life you desire.”

…

My Therapy Style – Truth-Telling & Integrity

My style is best described as forthright, grounded, honest and open. Therapy with me is often challenging, frequently lighthearted, and always, always supportive. I am relentlessly curious and I encourage you to be just as curious. We’ll both ask and answer lots of questions. My expectation is that through your thoughtful and honest consideration of these questions, and of my feedback as well, you’ll find the solutions you’re looking for.

One thing my clients will tell you is that I’m a stickler for truth-telling. I try to be watchful, helping clients recognize when they’re holding themselves (or me) at arm’s length from the truth. We learn subtle dishonesty in our culture. We’re angry and we say “nothing’s wrong.” We’re hurt and we say “It’s OK, really.” We’re too depressed to come to work and we call in sick.” We rage at our partners that they don’t understand us, but rarely are we courageous enough to speak the simple truth… yet we yearn to be understood.

When we’re not grounded in truth, we settle for less… less integrity, less authenticity, less intimacy, less life. It may seem easier, but in the long run, it’s exhausting. I work to help my clients become more familiar, and more comfortable with the experience of living and speaking the truth.

Education, Experience & Training

My first career, in the 1970’s was as director of the sexual assault prevention and women’s self defense program, Womenstrength, for the Portland Police Bureau. In the 80’s, I founded a nonprofit organization, now known as “Listen to Kids” providing education on child abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence.

In graduate school, I managed the Community Counseling Clinic at Portland State University and served on the clinical team at Tualatin Valley Mental Health (now known as LifeWorks). Currently, I’m on staff at Providence Portland Medical Center providing assessments, individual and group therapy to those whose symptoms of depression and anxiety are so severe that seeing a therapist once a week just isn’t enough.

My master’s degree in Counseling and bachelor’s degree in Administration of Jusstice were awarded with honors from Portland State University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, hold national certification through the National Board of Certified Counselors, membership in the American Counseling Association, the Oregon Counseling Association and the Women’s Therapy Project Northwest, and I abide by the highest ethical standards of my profession. I complete more than 60 hours of continuing professional education each year. I have completed: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, couple’s therapy with Drs. John and Julie Gottman, cognitive behavioral therapy with Dr. Judith Beck, Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy through the Wellness Institute, and intensive hypnotherapy training with Dr. Emmett Miller.

I have expertise in issues of relationship (with partners, as well as with one’s self), depression, self defeating behaviors and beliefs, and spirituality. With regard to the use of medications, I recognize that they can be helpful for some clients, but I firmly believe medications alone are rarely the answer.

Spirituality

I have deep respect for my clients’ spiritual paths and I find spirituality is often fundamental to the process of growth and healing. There’s ample scientific evidence of the positive impact of spiritual practice and meditation on brain chemistry ~ how could it not have an influence on our thoughts, emotions and behaviors?

Guided Visualization and Hypnotherapy

The notion of “alternative” therapies may sound like unproven, “new-age” techniques. But when provided by a well trained professional, these therapies are very valuable. They are firmly grounded in decades of research, documented and endorsed by the American Medical Association. In guided visualization, you can experience extraordinary relaxation during which your critical, analytical mind can rest while your inner wisdom, your conscious and subconscious mind can work in harmony to bring about the changes you desire.

Fee Policy

I offer an initial consultation at no cost, and discounted fees to those for whom therapy would otherwise be unaffordable. My fee is $95 per 50-55 minute hour for individual and couple’s sessions. If, after the initial consultation, we agree to begin therapy and you are unable to pay my standard fee, we will decide together on fees you can afford. Payment is made by check or in cash at each appointment. Other than illness or accident, if your appointment is canceled with less than 24 hours notice, I ask that you honor the payment of fees for that scheduled hour.

In the early years of my practice, I made a decision not to accept payment from insurance companies or third parties. I’m glad to provide receipts so you can seek reimbursement from your insurance company.

I do accept credit and debit cards.

First Appointment

At our first session, we will create a written agreement that outlines:

(1) confidentiality and the exceptions to confidentiality;
(2) a “treatment plan” (the primary problem that you’re dealing with, and your thoughts about what you want to get out of therapy) and
(3) our fee agreement. The treatment plan will keep our work on track and moving toward your goals.

We will meet weekly for a given period of time – often 4 to 12 weeks. As that time comes to an end, we will review and evaluate the work we’ve done together and figure out what the next step will be. I’m happy to provide short term, solution-focused counseling, as well as long term insight oriented therapy.

Confidentiality

Therapy can only be effective with the assurance of privacy. All records of our work together are held in the strictest confidence. There are certain important exceptions to confidentiality that we will discuss at our first appointment.

I’m guessing that if you’ve read this far, you’re on a diligent search for just the right therapist. If you have a hunch that might be me, please give me a call in Portland at 503-282-0182, e-mail me at: lynnejoy@gmail.com or just fill in this form:

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All the best,

Lynne Joy

A few of my very favorite websites…

Comedysportz Workshops (improvisational, competitive, funny, fun)

WomenStrength (FREE self defense training for women in Portland metro area)

The Baha’i Faith

World Scripture: A Comparative Anthology of Sacred Texts (amazing)

Beliefnet – Wonderful site- Spirituality & Wellness
Including searchable sacred writings of all world religions