Erin Smith, MA
Child and Family Therapist
Supervised by Heather Vliet, LPC
Scheduling: 503.444.8230
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:00am-6:00pm
“Our stories about who we are and how we see the world begin in our bodies.”
— Deb Dana
Socio-cultural realities of privilege, oppression, and power influence daily interactions, with tangible impacts on mental health. I believe that each person is the true authority on their own experience and that it is essential for persons and communities to be able to tell their own stories, on their own terms. I value cultivating connection, honoring difference, and acknowledging impact. Identity matters to me.
With a background in expressive arts, outdoor experiential education, and trauma-informed treatment, I bring creativity and a body-focused relational lens to my work with individuals and families. Utilizing art and play materials can be a helpful way for clients to communicate things they don’t yet have words for. Polyvagal theory heavily influences my work – I believe that increasing awareness, understanding, and compassion for the intersecting layers of one’s experiences is a crucial step towards befriending the body, navigating life’s challenges, and cultivating the power to heal. Together we can create room for all that is you and discover ways to soar.
Ages:
6 years - young adulthood
Caregivers
Specialities:
ADHD
Adjustment difficulty
Anxiety and depression
Behavioral and emotional concerns
Expressive arts
Family relationships and conflict
Grief and loss
Play therapy
Polyvagal theory
Strengths-based
Trauma and attachment