Ivy Medow

I am a licensed professional counselor in Oregon with 4 years of professional work experience as a vocational counselor (in another state), and thirty years in human services. I have been an Occupational Therapy Assistant, an Activity Therapist, a Counselor at a Job Corps site, a Disability Program Navigator, a benefits planning specialist…and more.
I have experience with work related matters, motivation, self esteem, confidence, learning and other disabilities and differences, & coping with life changes.
I am interested in compassion fatigue, and believe strongly in self-care as a strategy for successful living. I have an inclusive approach. I treat people with respect and compassion.
More about my approach:
First of all, I encourage everyone to develop a set of self care skills.
Not everyone wants to try it, but I encourage it and I encourage people to tailor the skills and plan to their own needs, preferences, and tolerance.
In general, I believe people do better in life if they get adequate rest, avoid alcohol and drugs, get exercise and fresh air, eat properly, learn and practice mindfulness activities, kick back with activities they enjoy, and limit exposure to trauma in their everyday lives.
I encourage creative expression of emotions, such as painting, drawing, journaling, singing, dancing…and more.
I encourage people to turn their attention toward that which they can do something about, which is pretty much themselves and their own reactions to things and their own behavior.
I acknowledge the role trauma plays in our lives. I am not completely focused on it, although sometimes it needs to be dealt with, and especially if it’s happening in the here and now, for example an abusive husband. A lot of times working through the effects of the trauma can do a lot to help the person find insight and a path forward that does not give the trauma too much power.
I like to help people differentiate between what’s happened in the past and what’s happening now. Often what’s happening now brings up memories of the past, and it’s helpful to learn and remember how the two sets of events/behaviors/experiences are similar –and how they are different.
Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I am glad you are starting the process!