Find a therapist in Salem, OR — covered by insurance

I have served aging people since I began working, the last 20+ years as a psychologist. Now, having aged into the group, I understand what it is to live with issues of aging, including the family, health and career / retirement issues that go along with that both personally and professionally. I am here to help others write their personalized how-to manual for a happier second half of life.

I have 31 years of experience working in inpatient, outpatient, academic, and community counseling settings. My work has focused on trauma (PTSD), SUD, and how they affect relationships within individuals, couples, and families.

My approach is holistic, using both Eastern and Western philosophies and a solution-oriented approach.

In today’s world, many of us are carrying more than just personal stress. Climate concerns, the pandemic, economic instability, political division, and rapid cultural change have created a sense of collective trauma that deeply impacts our mental health. In my work, I recognize that individual struggles don’t exist in isolation—they are shaped by the larger systems and environments we live in.

My goal has always been to support people navigating trauma, personality disorders, depression, and anxiety by exploring the deeper layers of the psyche. Together, we work to build self-awareness, understand unconscious patterns, and develop practical tools that support meaningful and lasting change. I work with a diverse range of clients, from adolescents to older adults (ages 13–65+).

My therapeutic style is eclectic, integrative, and holistic. I draw from a variety of approaches to meet each client where they are, while also acknowledging how societal structures can influence mental health. Areas of particular interest in my work include complex trauma, the psychological impacts of modern economic systems, eco-anxiety, non-dogmatic spirituality, and emerging perspectives in psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Above all, I believe healing happens in a space of safety and authenticity. I strive to create a judgment-free, inclusive environment where clients are met with unconditional positive regard, empathy, validation, and genuine care.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, searching for deeper understanding, or simply looking for support, you are welcome to reach out.

I have a world class education, but there is more to me than that: There have been many iterations of "Alan" over the long years of my life. There is the drug addict that has walked the clean and sober path for 33 years. There is the truck driver and the tattoo artist, the husband (married 31 years), the father, the grandfather, the great grandfather, the foster father, the step-father. There is the Buddhist and the philosopher. I am reaching out to you. There is nothing you can tell me that will offend me.

And I can write a darned good introduction too! LOL!

I hope to meet you soon!

Hi! I’m Vanessa! I’m a wife, Mom and entrepreneur. I’m also a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry and women’s mental health. I run a niche mental health clinic called Kavah Wellness Psychiatry. I hold a bachelors degree, two masters degree and a doctor of nursing practice degree. I have almost a decade of experience in the mental health sector. I love everything mental health!

It's not easy starting therapy and investing time in yourself, but you've already done the first step! My experience has primarily been focused in clients with eating disorders and co-occurring diagnoses. With that said, I also have extensive experience working with relationship challenges, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidality. I generally like to pull from my knowledge of various therapy modalities such as DBT, CBT, FBT and EFFT. I also really enjoy self-compassion work. Your goals are always my top priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

Outside of work, I enjoy live music, spending time with friends, and hanging out with my dogs, Nala and Toni. These personal interests help me stay grounded and bring balance to my life, which I believe is crucial for overall well-being.

If you're ready to take the next step, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards healing and growth. Let's work together to achieve your goals!

I specialize in working with individuals across all mental health conditions, with a particular focus on anxiety, depression, anger and irritability, and feelings of frustration or helplessness. My greatest strengths are empathy, strong clinical judgment, and effective communication — qualities that allow me to build genuine therapeutic relationships and develop collaborative treatment plans tailored to each person's unique needs. I am deeply passionate about mental health because I believe every individual deserves the opportunity to improve their quality of life, build resilience, and experience meaningful recovery. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and getting out to explore and shop — life's simple pleasures that remind me of the importance of balance and joy.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s in Social Work from Portland State University. I work with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use, and I bring experience from interdisciplinary behavioral health settings where care often intersects with complex life circumstances.

My approach is collaborative, direct, and rooted in the understanding that healing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Mental health is deeply shaped by culture, community, history, and systems of power. Part of my work is intentionally engaging in a decolonizing approach to therapy—honoring lived experience, questioning one-size-fits-all models of care, and creating space for clients to define healing on their own terms.

I integrate frameworks such as American Society of Addiction Medicine and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as supportive tools—not rigid rules—while drawing from motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and relational work that centers respect, autonomy, and real connection.

I offer a focused practice in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), with careful attention to preparation, safety, and integration. This work is not just about the experience itself, but about making meaning of it in ways that align with your values, identity, and community.