My name is Marcella. I’m a white, cis-gendered, queer, monogamous, able-bodied woman who is committed to anti-hate, anti-racist, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming work in and out of the therapy room. I’m humbly aware of my privilege and committed to unlearning harmful internalized ways of thinking and being.

I believe that suffering is a part of life, but suffering alone is intolerable. When we have a safe, secure connection to loved ones, we have a safe haven and a secure base with which to go forth and thrive confidently in the world and we can find comfort and soothing in those relationships when we experience hardship, and when we don’t, we suffer alone with depression, anxiety and many other mental health issues. When we experience trauma in our relationships, it can hamper our ability to connect safely with others, but in gentle, relational therapy we can slowly heal our ability to find, build, and allow ourselves secure connection.

My main modality is Emotionally-Focused Therapy, an evidence-based relational and experiential therapy developed by Dr. Susan Johnson. It is based in the science of attachment, and works to build or rebuild safety and security between partners, family members, or within individuals, which becomes threatened when we experience trauma, crisis and loss. I also utilize tools from CBT, DBT, AEDP, EMDR, and Gestalt therapy when the situation calls for it, as each case is unique and requires care tailored to each individual. I am committed to learning and understanding as much as I can about your particular concerns and circumstances, and to collaborating with you on what therapy works best for you.

Me? I grew up in Northern California and carry redwood forests in my heart. I’ve discovered home here in Portland, Oregon, and can be found in deep contemplation, rock climbing, biking through the city, hiking in the mountains and mossy woods, reading my favorite authors and writing poetry, gardening, playing with my two cats, and goofing around with my fiancé.