Ariel Oakes | Professional Counselor Associate
No matter what you've been through or how stuck you feel, you are not defined by your pain, your past, or how others have treated you. You are not too broken or too much. I am here to walk alongside you as you face your suffering, strengthen your relationships, grow your self-esteem, and become empowered to build a life you are proud of. I offer a space where you can be your whole genuine self, free from judgement. Even if it feels hopeless right now, you are still deserving of healing, and a flourishing life. I work with ages 10+ !
My presence in the therapy room is direct, compassionate, and deeply respectful. I'm here to listen kindly and hold space for your most painful and vulnerable moments. I describe myself as "stubbornly nonjudgmental," and my hope for you is that you can find relief from your suffering.
Background & Training
I hold a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Portland State University. My undergraduate studies focused on at-risk youth, laying the foundation for my long-standing commitment to working with teenagers. I don't treat teenagers like they are children, because I've seen how transformational therapy can be for young people when they're met with respect, consistency, and care. Today, I work with individuals ages 10 and up. My clinical experience spans a wide range of settings, including work with foster youth, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals navigating serious mental health concerns. I specialize in complex trauma, and understand the impacts that trauma has on survivors emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually. I'm trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a leading therapy for trauma and PTSD. EMDR helps clients process distressing experiences and shift how those memories live in their bodies and minds. I also have a passion for working with domestic violence survivors. I completed the 40-hour domestic violence advocacy training, which helps me to support survivors as they make sense of the abuse they suffered and work to reclaim their strength and identity. Throughout my career, I've worked with clients from many different cultural, ethnic, religious, political, and personal backgrounds. I honor each person's unique perspective, and work with you to find your version of healing, purpose, and self-respect.
My Approach
In addition to EMDR and other trauma-informed treatments, I also incorporate Existential Therapy to explore purpose and meaning. This can come through relationships, creativity, advocacy, faith, family, or anything else that feels meaningful. When we focus on those things, we gain the strength to face our pain and move through it. I also draw from CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation to help clients build insight, gain tools, and manage the ups and downs of life. If you're feeling stuck, we'll explore, and brainstorm together to find what can ease your pain.
Personal Life
I am married, and have a sassy free-roam bunny. I enjoy writing, backpacking, and knitting. I can be spotted in the wild in a comfy cardigan, and with a black americano in hand.
License Information
Ariel Oakes, MS, NCC, Professional Counselor Associate
License Number: Oregon R11394
Supervisor: Pam Mongrandi, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CAADC, CCTP
Supervisor License Number: Oregon C9661
Ready to Get Started?
I'd be happy to answer any questions you have and discuss whether we might be a good fit to work together.
Schedule a Free Consultation