Tammy Upton, MA, Professional Counselor Associate

SERVING CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULT INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, AND FAMILIES

Philosophy and Approach:

Life is an unpredictable journey. The hard chapters can feel very isolating, scary, and lonely. When we are experiencing hardship or pain, it can be easy to believe that no one understands and that no one cares. As your therapist, it is my honor to come alongside you, creating a safe space, filled with grace, where you can feel understood and supported.    

I approach counseling from an integrative perspective that adapts to the unique needs of each person. I value holistic counseling that recognizes the interconnection of mind, body, spirit, relationships, community, history, and culture when considering any issues of need or growth.  

Formal Training and Experience

I am a Registered Associate Counselor in the state of Oregon (R8102). My education includes a Masters of Arts in Counseling from Colorado Christian University and a Bachelors of Science in Family and Human Services with a Minor in Psychology and Intercultural Studies from John Brown University. Major course work included Child and Adolescent Therapy, Cross-Cultural Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Empathy Training, PTSD, Crisis and Trauma, Greif and Loss, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.

I have experience working in residential mental health treatment programs and working in community-based therapy at Youth Villages and Catholic Community Services with high-risk youth and their families. These experiences equipped me with hands-on training in crisis management and experience with a wide range of mental health needs and complicated family dynamics. Before starting my counseling career, I had opportunities to live abroad working with various non-profit programs in Romania, Guatemala, and India. These experiences working with people of diverse cultural, socio-economic, and spiritual backgrounds, as well as various age populations contribute to the high value and commitment I have for providing care equipped to meet the needs of a diverse client.

Payment for Services:

My fee is $100 for a clinical hour (50 minutes). Payment is made upfront for each session by check or credit card on file. Currently, I do not accept insurance, however, I am able to provide receipts for you to submit to your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement. Limited sliding scale options are available based on need and availability. All appointments will be charged as stated above unless cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment or if there has been an agreed-upon emergency related to cancellation. 

A BIT MORE Personal:

I was born and raised overseas living in various countries in Asia (Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines) until my family returned to the US when I was a teenager. I was in Colorado for high school, Arkansas for college, and traveled as much as I could until meeting my husband in India. After getting married, life seemed to move at a whirlwind pace - within our first 7 years of marriage we had moved 6 times, had 3 children, and completed both of our master’s degrees. Almost 10 years ago we relocated to Oregon from Colorado, and we’ve been calling the Northwest home ever since. Our 3 kids are now spread out between elementary, middle and high school! When not busy with our family’s needs there’s a good chance my attention is being given to one of our many pets – we have two dogs, two cats, and a rabbit - feels like a bit of a circus at times! If I get some time alone, you can probably find me out for a walk or hike with our dogs, doing a random DIY home improvement project, or curled up with a good book and a cuddly pet. 

To schedule an appointment, please call me at 503-998-5578 or email Tammy@waypointpdx.com