About Heather
Hi. I’m glad you’re here. I’m Heather Chase, a mental health therapist. My work involves supporting individuals to recover from traumatic events, navigate obsessional doubt and to make important changes in their life. Most importantly, I have been given the privilege of witnessing tremendous growth and healing from clients. Their resilience and fortitude continues to amaze me and is truly one of the best parts of my job. My years of experience have taught me that people can move through horrific and almost unspeakable events and get to the other side. I honestly believe that leading a fulfilling life is possible for everyone.
Outside of being a therapist I am a small business owner, artist and very serious gardener. Each summer I grow over a dozen rare, heirloom tomato varieties. I have a flock of hens that each have unique personalities. A couple of years ago my partner and I started a food product company for endurance athletes and a few times throughout the year I am attending ultra distance races or bike packing events. I find joy in being a casual runner, a challenge which helps me to practice acceptance and distress tolerance. It’s a small reminder that I can do hard things.
It is important to me that my clients benefit from our work together. I limit the number of clients that I work with, to ensure that I am able to be present and attentive for each person. I value having time outside of session to consider what may be helpful for my clients, to learn new methods and therapy techniques, and to participate in training and consultations. Every therapist is different, and this is what has worked best for me.
I enjoy working with clients from a wide range of backgrounds with various concerns and presentations. However, individuals with obsessional doubt, traumatic experiences, intense emotions, perfectionistic tendencies and over control issues have a special place in my heart. Working with clients who are motivated to participate in therapy keeps me motivated, as we collaboratively work towards acceptance and change.
If you’re curious about my credentials & education:
BFA in Intermedia from Pacific Northwest College of Art
MA in Art Therapy Counseling from Marylhurst University
Licensed Professional Counselor (Oregon) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (Washington)
Licensed and Board Certified Art Therapist (LCAT & ATR-BC)
Intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy from Portland DBT Institute
Approved Provider for Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD
