Gina Lisiecki LPC

Throughout my life, I experienced deep levels of joy, fun and connection along with extreme loss, fear and uncertainties. What I discovered was when I had at least one person in my life who I could connect with in which I felt safe to communicate my real thoughts and emotions, that it was in those times that I thrived. It didn't matter what the problem was or whether or not I had the answers. What kept me moving forward was knowing that someone saw me for who I was and cared about me or loved me anyways. I found that I began, as an adult, to try to connect with people on a more intimate level in which they did not have to pretend to be anything or anyone other than who they were in the exact moment of our connection. This led me to the profession of helping others.

I have learned that pain is not only real but it comes in many different forms and presents its effect in our lives at sometimes the most inopportune times. But pain can be a guiding factor that motivates us to do incredible things in our own lives that we might never have known was possible had the pain been absent. Am I saying that pain is good, no not exactly. I do not hope for people to feel hurt, broken, lonely, scared or scarred. I have learned that it is through those moments (trials, challenges, experiences) that our life purpose gets formed. That we can use those experiences to create beauty out of ashes. We are not bound to our past unless we never discover that there are doors to the freedom to wonder, persevere, create, soar and have victory. I want to guide others to find their life purpose and the healing and change that is available to them.

My approach to therapy is very individualized and integrative. There are key elements that evolve around the foundation of what each ct is hoping for and what they know about themselves, in each moment that we connect, that will help move them (quickly) to their individualized desired outcome for their life. This may include understanding life long (or newly formed) core beliefs about self and the world; how the mind and body connect or disconnect throughout life experiences; ways in which attachments to past memories are keeping one stuck or allowing for growth; and ultimately finding solutions that move you forward towards a preferred future. This all happens within a safe, non-judgmental and open setting of talk therapy. There are moments in which we may dive deep into one concern or we may explore multiple topics simultaneously. It may be that I need to do more listening while you allow your thoughts, emotions and beliefs to flow uninterrupted or we may have a back and forth discussion based on any number of hopes, struggles or questions. Whichever approach is taken, I will be guided by what you need in that moment.

• Oregon, Licensed Professional Counselor, c4232