Carmen ryan
licensed professional counselor associate
Carmen earned her Bachelor of Science in International Management and Marketing at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, then earned her Master of Business Administration at Santa Clara University. She went on to earn a Master of Science in Education School Counseling at Portland State University and completed a Principle License Program at Lewis and Clark College.
about carmen
Counseling Experience
I have served families, students, and staff as a school counselor for the past 10 years in primary and middle school settings. My passion is to develop inclusive practices where all students can attend their home school and learn in general education classrooms, collaborating with internal and external specialists, if needed, to ensure every student is able to fully access their education and unleash their genius.
I am currently pursuing my professional counselor license through my practice at ANLCC in order to deepen my work with families, help them to find more peace and balance at home, as well as better navigate the school setting and ensure they have the resources and support needed for their student(s) to thrive.
I have earned many certificates, highlighted by specialized training and certification in: Play, Nature, and Expressive Therapy; Trauma-Informed Practices; Crisis Prevention and Care; YogaCalm; and Collaborative Problem Solving. My dream is to create a healing focused rescue farm for families that have experienced trauma.
Faith Perspective
I believe humans are designed with a space within us that yearns to connect with our Creator, and this need is filled in different ways--something I'm careful to honor with my clients. Personally, my faith is my greatest strength. I've explored and grown in my relationship with Jesus throughout my life by being part of a church community; volunteering at faith-based schools, youth groups, and children's programs. I have also led small group Bible-studies and consistently read books about faith and spirituality.
Counseling Approach
I strive to meet every client where they're at socially and emotionally. I seek to create a safe, non-judgmental space for each client through careful listening and observation, and by forming an authentic, trusting, and compassionate relationship where understanding and healing can begin. In processing difficult experiences, thoughts, and behaviors I take a whole-brain, whole-body approach and customize a treatment plan for each client. We also build upon their strengths and unique gifts, and utilize play, art, nature, and book therapy, as well as YogaCalm and Collaborative Problem Solving.
My goal is to have a calm, grounded client that finds joy at home, work, and school and possesses the capacity to set goals and pursue their dreams. I welcome collaboration with other external providers, agencies, and schools to create a cohesive and seamless approach to support each client effectively.
Carmen provides in person sessions in Wilsonville, OR as well as telehealth sessions for clients residing in Oregon.
