Al Newman
Associate
Pronouns: They/Them
Style: Calm, Collaborative, Compassionate
Identities: I am non-binary and queer
Works with:
- Individuals
- Couples
- Child/Family
- Teens
- Adult Families
Who I am as a Therapist
I believe the human experience is one that, while challenging, can be deeply meaningful. This meaning comes from our lived experiences and stories passed through us from family, friends, community, and the larger systems we are connected to. My goal is to work with you to help you edit your stories in order to create the growth you wish to see in your life. My approach is collaborative in nature and relies on empathy, humility, curiosity, and humor to create an atmosphere where you can feel comfortable to show up authentically. In my work, I pull from narrative, existential-humanistic, and attachment-based therapies to help you untangle the difficulties of life and find new possibilities for relating to yourself and the world around you.
“An abnormal reaction to an abnormal situation is normal behavior.”
Viktor Frankl
Specialty Areas
Mental Health Challenges
- ADHD
- Anxiety (General, Panic, Phobias)
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Attachment & Relational Challenges
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Cultural & Systemic Oppression
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Depression
- Disability
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Gender Transitions
- Grief & Loss
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Identity Developments
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LGBTQIA+
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Life Transitions
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Managing Stress
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Mood Dysregulation
- Neurodiversity
- School Issues
- Sexual Health
- Spirituality
Therapeutic Approaches
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Existential – Humanistic
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Narrative Therapy
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Solution-Focused Therapy
- Transgender Affirming Care
Who I am when I’m not a Therapist
As someone who grew up in Southern California, I love the green landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, although I find myself most excited when the sun comes out allowing me to be near the many bodies of water here in Oregon. I also love seeing live music, attending queer events, spending nights inside watching movies or television with my cat Buffy, and engaging in creative outlets.
Education
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BA Psychology: Cal Poly Humboldt, Arcata, CA
- Masters in the Marriage, Couple and Family Therapy: Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling
Training & Experience
- Worked with neurodiverse children and their families for 2+ years
- Experience working with children with severe trauma histories and their families
- Worked with adults with Intellectual/Developmental and Physical Disabilities for 10 years
- Facilitated a community-led and community centered mental health support group