Lindsey Nelson, PsyD

Come home to yourself

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Vegan Therapist in Portland

Coming to therapy to take the first steps towards healing is one of the bravest things a person can do. I believe that all beings naturally gravitate towards their most actualized selves, and that the therapy room is a space to validate and nurture that process. I view my role in this as an honor and have a deep reverence and respect for individuals that I serve.

In the right environment, growth can happen authentically and naturally. I see my role as helping people feel safe, comfortable, and free to express themselves as they are. Clients appreciate my authenticity, sense of humor, and ability to stay in the moment with them as they tell their stories and explore the aspects of their lives that keep them stuck. In session, this is apparent as I utilize an insight and awareness oriented style of therapy.

I specialize in working with teens and adults across the age spectrum. Generally, people seek treatment in times of great transition and upheaval, which I see as fertile grounds for growth, self-awareness, and healing. I have worked extensively with a wide variety of concerns, and utilize a number of trauma modalities (Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Entheogen Assisted Therapy-coming soon!). Additionally, I have had many years of experience working with addiction and recovery and am happy to serve those seeking to get and stay sober or to work towards moderation of substance use. As a queer identified therapist, I have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients, those with non-conforming gender identities, and individuals engaged in alternative relationship structures.

Specialties:

Trauma/PTSD: I see trauma as a psychological injury rather than a disorder. And just like other injuries, there are a number of techniques to help facilitate healing trauma. Often times, the auxiliary symptoms of trauma are attempted to be treated (depression, anxiety/panic) yet there is a lingering, deeper need to resolve the unprocessed emotions related to the occurrences that we didn’t feel we had adequate resources for. I can help you to explore the ways in which trauma is still impacting you, utilizing both cognitive and somatic strategies to help heal these injuries. Starting in early 2023, I will be offering Entheogen Assisted Therapy, as well as pre-session assessment and preparation and post-session integration sessions.

Addiction/co-dependency: I can help individuals who have struggled to get and stay sober or are grappling with how to better control their use. Learning how to tolerate distress and reduce suffering are some of the ways we can work together on better managing your difficulties with drugs and alcohol. Additionally, I can help loved ones and family members of those struggling with addiction to help navigate setting boundaries and increasing self-care in coping with this. Addiction is a family disease and I can help to navigate your path to wellness.

Eating Disorders and Body Image issues: I have a long history of working with individuals with eating disorders and disordered eating. I utilize Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating as the foundation for my understanding and treatment philosophy. At the core is learning how to have better self-acceptance, self-esteem, and self-compassion in order to live a better, fuller life.

Relationship issues: Do you find yourself repeating certain patterns in relationships, struggling to feel fulfilled, or feeling walked all over? I can help you better understand these dynamics and how to discover what you need in relationships. I have a special interest in working with folks who identify with alternative relationship structures (i.e. ethical non-monogamy, relationship anarchist, monagamish, etc.) and can help to navigate issues related to these relationship structures.

Issues related to gender and sexuality: I have a special interest in working with individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, are feeling unsure about gender identify or are in transition, or those who are questioning/exploring sexuality. I can provide a safe, accepting, and nonjudgmental space.

Existential issues: Sometimes the “big” questions in life cause us to feel extremely alone and anxious. Often, we don’t have a space to talk about these things. Together, we can discover how these “big” questions are impacting you, and how to create meaning in your life.

Chronic pain: Prior to this, I was helping to run an outpatient chronic pain program. I recently completed a chronic pain certificate program, and can help you to find ways to live a fuller, richer life while coping with and managing chronic pain conditions.

I also offer BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) mental health support.

Modalities:

  • Relational Gestalt Therapy
  • Existential Therapy
  • Feminist Psychology
  • EMDR
  • Somatic Experiencing
  • Mindfulness
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating
  • Entheogen Assisted Therapy (coming 2023) *note- this service is not covered by insurance and not part of the Insight Haven Group

I hold a Doctorate in Psychology in Clinical Psychology, specialized Health Psychology track from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Psychologist with the State of Oregon, #3042.

I am currently in training with Innertrek to become certified for Entheogen Assisted Therapy. I have completed the Lewis and Clark Training Program in this area in 2021. Feel free to reach out to inquire more about this! This is separate from my role as a psychologist and is a separate service, OOP, not currently covered by insurance or associated with Insight Haven. Please feel free to reach out so that I can better direct your interest for the future when this is set up!

I hope I have the chance to join you on your healing journey soon!

https://www.insighthavenpdx.com/contact