Erin Spencer
LMFT, 18 years of experience
About me
Hi there, and welcome! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based just outside of Portland, Oregon, and I’m licensed to work with clients in Oregon, Washington, and California. I’ve been practicing for over 18 years and also work full time as a manager in a large healthcare organization, where I support teams and programs focused on helping people grow and thrive. As a therapist, I love helping people get clear on what matters most to them- what they want life to look and feel like, and then walking alongside them as they take steps toward those goals. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a partnership, where we’re exploring together what helps you feel more grounded, capable, and connected. A quick note: My practice focuses on working with individuals. While I don’t specialize in couples counseling, there may be times when it’s helpful to invite a partner or loved one into a session as part of your individual work, we’ll talk through that together if it feels right. If you’re looking for therapy for you and your partner together, I encourage finding a therapist who specializes in couples work to ensure you get the most out of that experience.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
First sessions can sometimes feel like a lot to take in, and that’s completely normal. We’ll start by getting to know each other and reviewing a few important logistics so you know what to expect from the therapy process. From there, most of our time will focus on me asking thoughtful (and sometimes very detailed!) questions to better understand you, your experiences, and what you’d like to work toward. This helps us clarify your goals and begin shaping a plan that fits your needs. I’ll also take time to answer any questions you have and share more about my approach as a therapist. Completing your intake paperwork ahead of time is always helpful, it allows us to spend more of that first session diving into the meaningful parts of your story and what brings you to therapy.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I bring a direct, collaborative, and compassionate style to my work—and I believe that therapy doesn’t always have to feel heavy. Sometimes, a little laughter truly is the best medicine. I value open communication and regularly invite feedback about how our work together is going. My goal is for you to get the support that fits you best, even if that ultimately means working with a different therapist. I have a thick skin and genuinely appreciate honesty, so please don’t hesitate to share if something isn’t working for you. Therapy is most effective when it’s a true partnership, and your voice in that process matters.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I work with individual adults at all stages of life—from those just beginning to navigate the challenges of adulthood to those approaching retirement and exploring what comes next. I enjoy helping clients define what they want from therapy and how we’ll recognize meaningful progress together. While many people come to therapy with the hope of “being happier,” what that looks like is deeply personal. My role is to help you clarify what happiness, balance, or fulfillment mean for you—and to support you as you take the steps to get there. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I’m here to walk alongside you as you create the changes that matter most in your life.
Specialties
Top specialties
Other specialties
I identify as
Serves ages
My treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use an approach called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT (pronounced like the word “act”). It’s one of my favorite ways to work with people because it focuses on helping you build a life that feels meaningful and true to who you are. In simple terms, ACT is about getting clear on what really matters to you: your core values and learning how to take action in ways that line up with those values, even when life throws challenges your way. Instead of trying to get rid of difficult thoughts or feelings, ACT helps you make room for them while still moving forward toward the life you want. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s flexibility, awareness, and a stronger connection to the things that make your life feel worthwhile.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I believe everyone deserves to be met exactly where they are, with understanding and without judgment. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to show up as yourself and explore whatever brings you to therapy at your own pace. As a cisgender, straight, able-bodied white woman of privilege, I value how important it is to approach therapy with cultural awareness, humility, and openness. I’m always learning and striving to provide care that’s equitable, inclusive, and respectful of each person’s unique experiences. I’m here to listen, support, and walk alongside you, wherever you are on your journey.
Gender-affirming therapy
I am honored to work with people of all genders and identities, and I’m deeply committed to supporting and advocating for each person’s right to live as their authentic self. As the parent of a transgender child, I have personal insight into the many layers of navigating family dynamics, social situations, and at times, complex medical and legal systems. I know how important it can be to have someone in your corner: someone who listens, affirms, and walks alongside you through it all. It’s a privilege to be part of that journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support you.