Meet the Therapists at The Hope Connection


  • chui-tan Lee (pronounced Tre-Tan), MA, LMFT Intern/Pre-licensed professional

    In today's fast paced society, stress has become our daily battle.  With my experience as a former professional musician and teacher for 25 years, I have witnessed the increasing stress that children and families face in our hyper-competitive society.  As an immigrant, I have also experienced the adjustment stress of being in a new culture.  These are only a few examples of how stress can manifest.  Studies have shown that stress can affect concentration, decision making, learning, and a host of other everyday functions.  Over time, it can lead to family discord and health problems.  My aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore with clients their challenges in life.  The theoretical approaches I use are Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, and other client-centered modalities. Together with clients, I will utilize these strength-based theories to allow clients to play a larger role in their journey in finding a better path in life.


    I work with children, adults, couples and families.  Special focus on immigration adjustment, depression, anxiety, and other related issues.  I hold a Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle University. I speak English, Mandarin and Cantonese.


    Chui-Tan works out of the Portland location.

    You can contact Chui-Tan at: Chui-Tan@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 503-433-8257


    Supervisor: Liz Gregory, LMFT, RPT

  • DEBBIE JOHNSEN, ma, LMFT Intern/pre-licensed Professional


    Debbie provides an accepting and non-judgmental counseling relationship to help clients feel safe and supported. She understands that longstanding patterns of thoughts or behaviors can interfere with achieving a fulfilling life and she works with her clients to pursue effective life changes. Debbie focuses on highlighting strengths in individuals and relationships as a foundation of growth. Debbie has a Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from George Fox University. She works with individuals, couples, and families to address whatever issues or challenges her clients choose. Areas of focus include couples work, life transitions, grief, depression, PTSD, Alzheimer’s/dementia, and communication skills. 


    Debbie works out of both the Portland and the Newberg locations. She provides EMDR therapy services.

    You can reach Debbie at: Debbie@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 503-549-4920

    To learn more about this therapist click here


    Supervisor: Jackie Zebrowski, LMFT

  • Jackie zebrowski MA, LMFT

    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

    Clinical Supervisor


    I specialize in strengthening relationships, which includes the one you have with yourself.  I provide a safe space for you to explore past trauma, share vulnerable emotional experiences, and identify barriers to your success.  I believe you are the expert in your own life and my role is to help facilitate the changes you want to make.


    One style of therapy does not work for everyone; therefore I integrate different approaches to best serve you.  My strengths-based approach incorporates your past successes, strengths, resources, and hopes for the future.  Together we will co-create goals to improve your emotional and mental well being as you see fit.  I am passionate about the work I do to help individuals, couples, and families create the lives they desire.


    Jackie works out of the Portland location.

    Jackie can be reached at Jackie@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: (858) 703-5341

    PDS

    To learn more about this therapist click here



  • jacklin hordes, MA, ATR-BC, LPC #C5260

    Jacklin is a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist.  She received her Master's Degree in Art Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia.  Since then she has worked with an array of clients, specializing in children with emotional and behavioral concerns.


    Jacklin encourages clients to utilize art in session as a way to express themselves in an alternative manner.  She works to create a safe environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring challenges as well as strengths.  Jacklin uses a holistic approach to therapy, working to understand her clients as a whole.  One type of therapy does not work for everyone and in turn Jacklin uses a variety of techniques to create an individual approach that fits each client's needs.


    For more information about Art Therapy please visit the American Art Therapy Association's website:

    https://www.arttherapy.or/upload/2017_DefinitionofProfession.pdf


    Jacklin works primarily out of the Portland office but is available at the Newberg office.  

    You can reach Jacklin at: Jacklin@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: (971) 302-2585

    PDS

  • Jolee scott, ms, lpc

    Licensed Professional Counselor


    JoLee Scott is a Masters Level Professional Counselor.  She has an immense amount of life experience that informs her current practice of helping those who have endured domestic and/or narcissistic abuse.  This personal knowledge aids in her ability to understand clients through a very broad lens, appreciating that every person has their own journey and expert knowledge about their life and themselves.  In addition to her work with domestic and narcissistic abuse, JoLee works with couples.  Her strong desire to help couples on their journey of awareness and acceptance is the catalyst for her work.  She aims to assist couples in their desire for a better life by understanding the delicate nature of this intimate relationship.


    JoLee works out of the Portland location. She also provides EMDR therapy services.

    You can reach JoLee at JoLee@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 503-974-4357

    To learn more about this therapist click here

    PDS


  • Krista Lawless, MA, LPC intern/Pre-licensed Professional


    Krista works hard to create a non-judgmental environment where clients are safe to be authentic. She is a professional post-graduate counselor intern who works with individual adults, adolescents and couples. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor's degree in Social and Behavioral Studies from George Fox University. Krista's specialties include teen issues, adult and teen survivors of childhood abuse, toxic faith/religious abuse, women's issues, domestic and dating violence, depression, anxiety, spirituality, shame, coping skills and grief and loss.


    Krista works primarily out of the Newberg office.

    You can reach Krista at: Krista@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 971-264-2335.

    To learn more about this therapist click here

    PDS

    Supervisor: James Gurule, LPC

  • liz gregory, ma, LMFT, RPT

    Co-Founder, Program Director , Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Registered Play Therapist


    Liz is a Child and Family therapist with over 20 years experience working with children, teens and families. As a mother of 2 she is sensitive to the challenges of being a child in this generation as well as raising a cohesive family. Liz believes attunement and attachment are at the core of every human connection and she assists each client with ways to nurture that foundation. 


    She works with children, adolescents, couples and individuals.  Her specialties include working with children ages 3 and up with self-regulation, self-esteem and problem solving skills through Play Therapy; helping families navigate communication, separation or divorce challenges; Prepare/Enrich Pre-Marital counseling, PTSD and trauma, survivors of sexual abuse and anxiety, EMDR and much more.  

    Liz also offers to speak to groups and schools on Mindful Parenting.


    Liz works out of the Portland location.


    You can contact Liz at: Liz@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 503-928-6542

    To learn more about this therapist click here

    PDS

    License #T1390

  • mark porterfield, MA, LMFT intern/pre-licensed professional



    Mark builds safe, empowering relationships with clients, where experiences in therapy propel each one forward in the search for joy, change and meaning. His training enables him to creatively integrate attachment-based theory, interpersonal neurobiology and existential-humanistic perspectives into work with clients dealing with a variety of emotional disturbances, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma and loss. Mark’s work with clients often involves experiential and expressive therapies including: Sandtray Therapy with individuals and families, Play Therapy with children and Emotionally-Focused work with couples. He is also a certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator, offering pre-marital counseling for couples. 


    Mark works out of both the Portland and Newberg locations.

    You can reach Mark at:  Mark@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: (503) 782-0603

    To learn more about this counselor click here

    Supervisor: Michelle Engblom-Deglmann PhD, LMFT




  • Megan Murphy, LMFT

    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist


    Real life is complicated and often times, it hurts.  The struggles that we experience can take on a variety of forms, ranging from depression and anxiety, to trauma.  As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to supporting my clients on their journey towards healing, empowerment and hope.  I strive to offer a personalized and collaborative approach in therapy that focuses on developing strong, trusting relationships with my clients.  I utilize a humanistic, strength-based, non-judgmental style to provide a safe space for my clients and their families to explore, heal and grow. I work with a wide variety of individuals and groups (adolescents, adults, couples and families) and work in depth with trauma/abuse, women's issues, infertility, postpartum struggles, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.  I aspire to help my clients improve coping skills, enhance interpersonal relationships, increase self-esteem and build positive communication skills.


    I have many years of experience working specifically with children, adolescents and young adults and was a former therapist and MAT Assessor in Los Angeles, California working with The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) and children in the foster care system.  I obtained my Bachelor's (B.A.) degree in Psychology from Concordia University and earned my Master's (M.A) degree in Psychology (Marriage & Family Therapy) from Chapman University.  I am also licensed in both Oregon and California as an LMFT.


    Megan works out of both the Portland and Newberg locations.

    Fees range from $120-$150.  Sliding scale available.  I am an out of network provider for insurance companies and am happy to provide you with a monthly statement for reimbursement. 

    You can reach Megan at Megan@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: (971) 337-0731

    To learn more about this therapist click here



  • melissa Wijetunga, MA, QMHP, LPC Intern/ Pre-Licensed professional

    At times, there are circumstances in our lives which make us feel uncertain about who we are, the options we have, and whom to turn to for support.  I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth.  I believe that each of us is capable of change because mood, thoughts and behaviors are all interconnected enabling a flexible perspective while building upon successes.  Let's discuss what's working and what isn't.  Part of our work will be identifying barriers while maintaining your health and safety.  I'm certain you already have some of the skills you need to start moving towards your goals.  I am a pre-licensed counselor with a Master's degree from Lewis & Clark College. I work with individuals (including children, teens and adults), couples and families.  My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, identity formation, racial identity, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, peer relationships, divorce, self-esteem, coping skills and career counseling.


    Melissa works out of both the Portland and Newberg offices and can be reached at Melissa@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 971-717-259

  • Director of Operations and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

    Clinical Supervisor


    Shari is an Individual Couples and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with teens, individuals, families and couples. She has over 12 years experience working as a Mental Health Therapist, Parent Educator, Teacher, Child Advocate and Mentor. She specializes in working with individuals and families that have experienced trauma, PTSD and family relational issues. 


    Shari works out of both the Portland and Newberg locations. She provides EMDR therapy services.

    You can contact Shari at: Shari@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: 503-336-9744

    To learn more about this therapist click here


  • skyler Johnston, MA, LPC

    Licensed Professional counselor

    Researchers have consistently found that the most powerful determinant of therapeutic success is the relationship with one's counselor.  It is the safe, non-judgmental and genuine connection that enables the healing process to move forward.  I have made it my mission as a helping professional to bring a lens of radical openness to my interactions with others, to foster safe spaces where we can collaboratively explore behaviors, thoughts and experiences. The aim is always to promote greater well-being, personal growth and integration both within oneself and to the environment around us.


    I work with families, couples and individuals age twelve and up, across a wide spectrum of issues and concerns.  These include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, sex and intimacy, career counseling, health, nutrition, family systems, aging, grief and loss.


    My approach to counseling has been strongly influenced by the field of positive psychology and solution focused therapy.  Both emphasize the here-and-now and work to address problems and areas of dysfunction, whilst simultaneously identifying strengths and promoting wellness.  The process of change is not always easy, but it doesn't have to be undertaken alone.


    Skyler works out of both the Portland and Newberg locations.

    You can reach Skyler at: Skyler@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone: (206) 518-9790


  • Tara Palansky MA, LMFT, LPCC

    Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist


    "Only when we are brave enough to explore darkness will we discover infinite power of our light." Brene Brown.


    It is a brave and daunting step starting psychotherapy to better understand oneself.  It takes great courage to get the support you need and deserve.  The fact that you are here, reading these words says that you are ready to take the first step.  I am here to support you. Through a healthier understanding of your patterns and your past, we will gain the ultimate goal of therapy...unconditional self-acceptance.  I hold a safe and respectful place to explore ways for you to reduce your suffering, while helping you create alignment and joy in yourself and your relationships.


    If I were to use one word to describe my strength and style it would be 'compassionate.'   In my many years as a therapist, I have worked in depth with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, identity, crisis/stress management, infertility, addiction and many more of life's mental and emotional transitions.  I specialize in grief  and all aspects of end of life.  My in depth knowledge in these fields give me a unique perspective in the psychotherapy community. 


    As a licensed marriage and family therapist it is my profound belief that no matter how dark it seems there is always light to be found. It is not always about where to find it, but how.


    After years of practicing in Los Angeles, CA I recently began my practice in Portland, Oregon. I am licensed in both California and Oregon.

    I work with individuals, couples, children and their families. 


    Tara works out of the Portland office.

    You can reach Tara at Tara@hopeconnectioncounseling.com

    Phone at 503-907-9900