Therapy for individuals, relationships, and families.
In Oregon, California, and Washington.
Taking the first step toward therapy is a tremendous act of courage and self-compassion. It signifies the beginning of a transformative journey toward personal growth and healing, often empowered through meaningful relationships and connection with others. In a safe and supportive environment, we can work together to explore your inner thoughts and emotions, process life experiences, and prioritize fostering healthy relationships, all to guide you toward achieving your personal goals and life fulfillment.
About Me
Hi! My name is Melissa DeForest and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Oregon, California, and Washington. I have a Master’s Degree in Couples and Family Therapy from University of Oregon - Go Ducks!, I am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist-Consultant, and I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), an evidence-based approach to trauma.
I have 13 years of experience working with individuals and families in eating disorder recovery. A majority of my career has been working in higher levels of care including Residential, Partial Hospitalization, and Intensive Outpatient. Most recently, I served as the Regional Director of Clinical Services at Monte Nido, where I oversaw the clinical care and operations for five programs in Oregon. Working with eating disorders led me to the field of therapy, and I am deeply committed to working with individuals struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. Although a majority of my career has been devoted to supporting those on the eating disorder recovery journey, I also have expertise in working with relationship and family systems and in treating anxiety, depression, women’s issues, and trauma.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, being outdoors, going out to eat, reading, cooking, and watching sports: specifically the Ducks and the Blazers!
Oregon (T1330), California (LMFT135687), Washington (LF61289971)
My Approach
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in healing through relationships. My approach, rooted in attachment theory and emotion-focused therapy, recognizes the impact of connections on well-being. I emphasize authentic communication and true emotional expression as catalysts for change. As a relationship therapist, I understand the importance of systemic change for lasting growth and healing.
I view each person as unique, shaped by their context. This perspective allows us to explore your circumstances and surrounding systems to understand their impact on your daily life.
I'm passionate about enhancing communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening connections. I create a safe environment for open expression, emotional exploration, and growth identification. Together, we'll set goals and develop a plan that’s tailored to you, your partnership(s), or your family. I'll guide and support you in self-discovery and healing, encouraging you to embrace discomfort for growth and lasting change.
I'm trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma, an evidence-based approach to process traumatic experiences. As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS-C), I have extensive experience with disordered eating and body image issues. For more on my approach, check out my services page.
Services
Virtual Therapy
I offer convenient and accessible virtual therapy for individuals, couples, and families residing in Oregon, Washington, and California.
Clinical Supervision
I provide clinical supervision in Oregon for Marriage and Family Therapy Associates and Professional Counselor Associates.
Eating Disorder Specialization
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C), I offer specialized treatment for eating disorder recovery and consultation for professionals seeking CEDS specialization through IAEDP.
Schedule a free introductory call.
Let’s see if we are the right fit! Please fill out the form here, once received, I will reach out to schedule an intro call with you.
mdeforest@deforesttherapy.com
(503) 862-3476