Hello! I’m Dr Swan and I find my work to be very meaningful when I am supporting and facilitating the ongoing healing and growth of my patients into the fullness of their unique selves. I am a relational psychologist who prays and practices psychoanalytic therapy. I’ve done this for over 30 years in Beaverton, Oregon. I am also a husband, father, and grandfather still enjoying and growing with family and friends. As a life-long learner and Christian who values my personal relationship with Jesus Christ, I work from a developmental and eschatological model of human growth and fullness. My experience as a parishioner and past youth paster developed my own sensibilities for empathy with both Shepards and Sheep.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma sensitive, synergistic and holotropic. I’m willing to discuss any of this further if you would like to meet and explore the question of whether or not I might be the right person for your current needs. A large portion of my services are invested in professionals and students who have been in the Helping Professions, 12-Step Sponsorship, and Spiritual Direction. Many of my patients have tried previous attempts at psychotherapy and simply needed a more intensive treatment alliance. I offer morning and early afternoon appointments M-F and I prefer meeting in-office but can make Telahealth work when indicated. I do not work with Children and I do make referrals to colleagues approved by Focus on the Family when treament for Children and their Families is indicated.
For life changing psychotherapy to take place, God’s help and a “good fit” are of vital importance – the fit between the One-Who-Suffers and his or her Helper. This is why I am happy to address your initial questions on the phone and in the subsequent sessions, as we find the optimal ways to work together. If, in the first consultation, either of us decide we are not a good-enough fit, I will not charge you for this meeting and I will try to hand you the names of providers who I believe to be more suitable for your expressed needs and preferences.
I am also available to talk with your church or community group on topics such as “How painful shame can actually help you live into a healthier version of yourself.” Many of my patients who suffer from depression and anxiety have experienced broken trust in some manner and at some point in life. The calm but emotionally responsive nature of my presence seems to be an important element that I witness God using in healings. This is consistent with Attachment Theory. Many parents who are trying to grow past their traumatic backgrounds also value my insight and assistance in improving their presence with their children as empathic and mindful parents.
Is it time to make the phone call?
Glory to God in all things.
