In this world we are influenced by two sentiments,
Joy and Pain.
–Abdu’l-Baha
Both are a natural response to our environment, but sometimes we find ourselves overwhelmed by pain and barely able to feel joy at all. In this state, you can find yourself overwhelmed with sadness, anxiety and an array of dysfunctional behaviors. Unchecked, this can affect your sense of self worth, cause you to engage in unhealthy numbing behaviors, negatively impact your relationships, and at its worst, it can lead to thoughts of ending your life. Unfortunately, all of these often result in shame which only leads to more pain and can put one in a downward spiral.
Lua Weatherdon, L.C.S.W.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers. I have more than seventeen years of experience working in mental health in a variety of settings such as domestic and sexual violence, residential treatment centers, home-based services, crisis intervention and stabilization, outpatient treatment, and schools. Having lived and traveled extensively abroad and having worked with a multitude of different people from diverse cultures, I understand the importance of providing nuanced, culturally appropriate interventions. I speak Spanish and have worked extensively with Latinos and Hispanics.
I received my Masters of Social Work in 2005 from Michigan State University. I am passionate about partnering with folks to address trauma and abuse, difficulties adjusting to major life changes, depression, anxiety, and also people struggling with a lack of balance or peace in their life. I have found that working with the whole family often results in the longest lasting, most positive outcomes, so where relevant I try to incorporate family into the work we do together.
I provide an environment where you can:
share freely without feeling judged
uncover defeating patterns of behavior
identify goals and develop strategies to reach them
challenge, disagree, or feel angry and still feel safe
celebrate and acknowledge all of your positive attributes