Rebecca Sturman

Areas of Specialty:

Child development, childhood trauma, LGBTQIA+ experiences, anxiety, and depression.

Philosophy and Approach

I believe that each person has an enormous capacity to recover from trauma and difficult experiences when provided with a safe, warm, and supportive environment. As a therapist, I consider it an honor to participate in the therapeutic relationship with clients and help equip and empower them in their healing journeys. My practice is a client-centered, strengths-based approach rooted in attachment theory. I believe that the therapeutic process is adaptable; Because of this, I draw on several evidence-based theoretical frameworks (play therapy, attachment theory, trauma-focused CBT, DBT) depending on what best fits each client at the time.

Trauma survivors endure the neurobiological and physiological impacts that trauma has on the mind and body. For both adults and children, using both hemispheres of the brain for processing is an important part of forming new neural pathways that pave the way for lasting healing and change. This may involve activities such as play, writing, movement, art making, music, and dance. My client-centered approach ensures that the vulnerability necessary for healing occurs in a safe context where you, as the client, are in control. One of my primary goals as a therapist is to help you cultivate hope that healing is possible.

I recognize that taking your child to therapy also requires a high level of vulnerability. As a child therapist, I seek to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for parents to learn, grow, and heal alongside their children. I am here to partner with you to ensure that you and your child have the resources you need to heal and ultimately flourish as you both cultivate self-esteem and self-love.

Formal Education and Training

I earned my bachelor's degree in Social Work from Portland State University and my master's degree in Social Work from George Fox University. I have worked with children, adolescents, and their families as a therapist in a variety of settings, including schools, a residential psychiatric facility, a child advocacy center and private practice. My areas of particular interest and expertise include child development, childhood trauma (including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and traumatic grief and loss), attachment trauma, LGBTQIA+ experiences, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression, coping with life transitions, and crisis support.

I am currently in the process of earning hours toward my license as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT).