Angel Damara

Hello. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon (LCSW) and Washington (LICSW). I have over 16 years experience in mental and behavioral health working with people of all ages in both addictions and mental health.

My approach

I am a transpersonal therapist which means I take a holistic, therapeutic approach that incorporates spiritual wisdom and traditions with modern psychotherapies to promote healing and growth. I use a variety of evidenced-based and best practices such as: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT and CBT-CP). I hold VA certifications in chronic pain management using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. These techniques are used in conjunction with cultivating greater spiritual awareness to enhance interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, and increase meaning and purpose in ones’ life. Overall, value is placed on self-awareness and open-mindedness for both the therapist and client in an honest, mindful, and non-judgmental space.

My focus

I work with adolescents, adults, and couples from different backgrounds, LGBTQ-IA+, race to address Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

My communication style

My approach is calm, mindful, and compassionate and I will meet you where you are at in your healing journey. I am adaptable and can be more direct if this is your preference and/or when needed with your permission. We will go at your pace.

My journey to mental healthcare

I sometimes wish I had a great story to tell about my journey to become a therapist. However, my story is not unusual. As I stepped into my personal power by engaging in a self-healing journey, I also assisted others on their own journeys so it seemed a natural fit. I pursued a Masters Degree later in life, then took my time pursuing licensure as a license was not required for me to conduct therapy at the time. I am a first generation high school graduate and college graduate breaking generational patterns for myself and my children. It is never too late to make change!

My goals for you

I will ask you questions to about your background and explore possible therapy goals for you to work toward. I will introduce you to a few therapeutic modalities to see which therapeutic approach resonates with you. I will also answer your questions as they arise. The bottom line is that this is Your therapy and we will work together to achieve the best outcomes.

My first session with you

I would like to you to know that I am very happy to meet you! I will get to know more about you such as your reason for therapy, past experience(s) with therapy, and your current hopes/goals. I also encourage you to feel free to ask me questions about my therapeutic approach, background, and share your thoughts and feelings about the session so you feel heard.