About me

I’m Kennedy and I am passionate about working through complex trauma, especially with folks who have been historically harmed by oppressive systems. 

I was drawn to the field of counseling through my work as a community organizer whose main focus was healing through alternative means (gardening, reading, art, etc.) while weaving in sociology and political education. I believe that healing and meaning making is done amongst communities and not in isolation.

I utilize a non carceral lens, and draw on theories of black and indigenous political and healing traditions. I saw a need for more healing spaces for folks who have unique experiences and want a therapist who understands what they have gone through first hand.  As a queer, multiracial (Black, Indigenous, and white), and gender non-conforming person living in Portland, Or. I have struggled myself with finding a therapist who can meet those needs.

I received my bachelors in psychology with a minor in environmental justice from the University of Oregon. That is where I discovered my passion for understanding how the brain reacts to differing types of trauma. I then later got my Master’s in Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling from Portland State University.

I enjoy working with clients who identify as Queer, Trans, and/or Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. I work with both individual clients or folks in dyads or triads who are in relationship; whether it be romantic, platonic, or a familial system. I do not put value on one type of relationship over the other and believe that all people in relationship should have access to shared mental health care spaces. 

I draw on the theories of Gestalt, Somatics, and Expressive Arts Therapy. I value experiential techniques and being flexible with the clients comfortability and needs. I specifically enjoy utilizing techniques pulled from psychodrama to process traumatic experiences. 

When I am not doing therapy I am doing community organizing, playing board games with friends, watching anime, reading, or taking a nap. I also spend a lot of time cuddling and staring at my dog, Stokely.