Education & Training ~ I earned my Bachelor’s Degrece in Psychology from Portland State University, and was awarded a Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Lewis and Clark College in 1990. Throughout my career, I have participated in annual continuing education training to remain current in my field. Among other clinical certifications.Philosophy ~ It is my belief that problems are often created and sustained through well-established, and often unconscious, habits of thinking and behavior. I provide a safe and supportive setting, and have a respectful and practical approach to helping clients address their problems. I work in partnership with my clients, utilizing their world view, strengths, and resources to help them learn and practice new ways to deal with issues that promote distress and disruption.
Approach ~ Depending upon the preferences and needs of my clients, we can engage in one or more of the following processes to gain the upper hand over their problem(s):
- Narrative therapy: (engaging in the process of understanding the influence of the problem in your “life story” and then developing a new “life story” which is free from the influence of the problem)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Dialectical and Behavioral Therapy skills
- Mindfulness-based practices
Specialties ~ My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, working with the following:
- Abuse: Sexual / Physical / Emotional / Domestic Violence
- Anxiety / Fears / Panic Attacks
- Anger Management
- Depression
- Emotional issues associated with hearing loss
- Parenting Skills / Family issues
- Physical manifestation of emotional pain
- Relationship issues
- Stress management
- Women’s issues
- Work-related issues
“Three years ago I was at a point where I didn’t know where to turn or what to do. After only two years of marriage my husband and I were discussing separation and my personal life was in chaos. I came to Maggie Breitenstein not knowing what to expect, but hoping that it could only get better. That decision changed my life for the better, and I am a different person today because of that.
Her business slogan of “Creating Possibilities” is spot on with what you will gain from working with her. Maggie opened my eyes to new approaches in dealing with stress and difficult situations. She pushed me to look within and take accountability for my life and my actions. I look forward to our time together because of the open, inviting environment that Maggie Breitenstein provides. I know that I am safe to express myself and to direct my progress based on my personal needs at that moment. I recommend her services to anybody that is looking to make positive changes and create possibilities in their own life.” T.H.
“With the sharing of different thought techniques, changing my way of thinking and being open to new ideas, I have been helped by Maggie through the most difficult time in my life. With much gratitude, I can truly say I have found happiness within me and I’m eager to move ahead to a positive future that I can create.” D.T.
“I chose Maggie as a counselor, not only because she felt inviting and non-threatening but because I needed help. I had seen several counselors in the past, but never one that has been as helpful, sincere, and knowledgeable. Maggie is very committed to her clients. She is very informative and successful in helping you understand yourself and what will help you. Maggie is kind, caring, and very careful about working with you at your pace. I am very grateful to have discovered her and appreciate all of her help, commitment, expertise, and kindness. I highly recommend her.” K.S.
Fees ~ Most insurance companies cover my services. Please check with your insurance company to verify that I am in-network and that virtual visits (also known as telemental health visits) are a covered benefit. I offer a partial sliding fee scale to a limited number of people, based upon need. The client’s portion of the fee is payable at the end of each session by cash, check, or VISA/MasterCard, PayPal or the Cash app.
Please feel free to contact me by phone or by email to discuss any questions you may have and/or to schedule an appointment with me.
About My Practice ~ Since you are reading this, it is likely that you or someone you care about is struggling with emotional discomfort or pain. You may be looking for someone to provide support and guidance in understanding, managing, or alleviating this pain, and to help create new possibilities that lead to a more fulfilling life.
From the time I was a teenager, my strongest desire has been to make a difference in people’s lives. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and over the course of my professional life, I have helped thousands of people achieve happier, healthier, more satisfying lives and relationships.