FAQs | Psychotherapy Portland for Anxiety, LGBTQ+ Clients, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Eric Goodwin, Licensed Professional Counselor, is a Portland-based therapist providing LGBTQ+ affirming counseling and anxiety therapy. He offers in-person sessions in Portland and online therapy across Oregon.
You’ve been trying to manage it all on your own; navigating stress, anxiety, and self-doubt without the support you deserve. When you’re overwhelmed or questioning your next step, psychotherapy in Portland can offer a path toward relief, reflection, and real change.
Whether you’re exploring anxiety therapy in Portland, looking for a LGBTQ therapist who truly understands, or wondering how mindfulness-based therapy can support you, I know it helps to get some answers before you reach out. That’s what this page is here for.
Below you’ll find frequently asked questions about what therapy looks like with me, from logistics to what you can expect emotionally and practically. I hope it helps you feel more grounded and ready to reach out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting Therapy in Portland
What is psychotherapy, and how can it help?
Psychotherapy offers a chance to explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns in a supportive and consistent relationship in an effort to work toward goals of healing and personal growth. In my Portland-based practice, I work with clients who are wanting to understand themselves more deeply and navigate change, not just manage symptoms, but to find relief and healing with resilience and purpose.
What is anxiety therapy, and how do you work with anxiety?
Anxiety therapy in Portland can look different depending on the therapist, but I focus on helping you develop a new relationship with your anxious thoughts and body cues. Together, we slow things down, explore what drives your worry, and find steadier ground so you don’t feel hijacked by anxiety all the time.
How do I know if I need anxiety counseling or therapy?
It isn’t unusual for people to feel uncomfortable emotions or experience anxiety or depression from time to time. If you’re finding that these experiences are getting in the way of your day to day life (relationships, sleep, your ability to focus on work or hobbies) and your current coping skills (or lack of) aren’t helping - it may be time to ask for some help in counseling!
What does LGBTQ-affirming therapy mean to you?
As a Queer therapist in Portland, I offer LGBTQ-affirming therapy that honors your full identity; not just as a checkbox or specialty. It means understanding the nuances of gender, sexuality, and community without you having to explain or justify who you are or having to try and be seen by someone who views approaches for the LGBTQIA+ community as being the same. It also means holding the intersections of anxiety, shame, and societal stress with care.
How does mindfulness therapy work in your practice?
Mindfulness therapy in Portland can support clients in slowing down, observing their internal experience with curiosity, and making choices from a place of awareness. I don’t teach one-size-fits-all techniques; instead, we’ll explore how mindfulness can help you understand your thoughts, emotions, and nervous-system responses with more compassion and less overwhelm.
How often will I need to come to counseling?
Based on how I work, clients get the best results with weekly sessions. During your consultation or first session we will decide on a regular day and time to meet and that spot will be yours during our work together.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
How long you spend in therapy depends on many factors. Some clients come for a few months, others may continue longer as long as there is a need for and a benefit to counseling. Throughout our work together we will regularly talk about the progress you’re making toward your goals and have open communication about your readiness to end counseling.
Do you offer a free consultation?
You can schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation by calling me at (971) 533-5590. Feel free to ask any questions you may have to determine if we would be a good fit to work together!
How much does therapy cost in Portland?
Each therapist will set their own rates based on their practice structure and how they work. The standard rate for a 50-minute session with me is $170.
How long does a session last?
Sessions last for 50 minutes. Sometimes, there is a need to extend our time but we would discuss that together.
Are sessions covered by my insurance?
I am not in-network with any insurance companies. I recommend calling your insurance carrier and asking if they provide coverage for out-of-network providers and what percentage they pay if they do. Let me know what type of statement you would need for reimbursement and we can create a process for you to have your sessions covered.
What happens during the first session of psychotherapy in Portland?
During our first session we’ll go over what brings you to counseling and I’ll ask some questions to get to know you. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask any remaining questions you may have. The first session is usually the only one where you’ll see me taking notes because we cover a lot and it’s important to me that I remember in your words.
We begin setting your goals for counseling in the first session.
When are sessions scheduled?
Sessions are held Monday-Thursday between 11am and 7pm. I do my best to find a regular time that fits our schedules.
Where are your therapy sessions held in Portland?
Sessions are either held in my office at 1110 SE Alder St, Suite 301, Portland, OR 97214 or by video for telehealth sessions. There is limited availability for in-person sessions. Videos are hosted through a HIPAA-Secure system.
What if counseling isn’t working?
We’ll regularly communicate about your progress toward your goals and if you are not getting what you need from therapy we will either adjust our work together or I will work with you to find an appropriate referral for another therapist or treatment.
What ages do you work with?
I work with adults (18+) at various stages of life.
What is a Good Faith Estimate and am I entitled to one?
Under the No Surprises Act, you have a right to a Good Faith Estimate that explains the cost of mental health and medical care. Click here to learn more.
I’m ready to start, what do I do next?
Call to book your free 15 minute phone consultation with me in Portland, OR at (971) 533-5590. I’ll share how and if I can help, and if I’m not the right fit I’ll do my best to help you find the right therapist.