My Approach to Helping
I believe a healthy and trusting relationship is paramount to creating a therapeutic environment in which growth and change can occur. My approach to therapy is integrative and often shifts based on the needs and preferences of my clients. Although I am largely conversational and process-oriented in my style, I can readily shift into evidence-based, behavioral, and skills focused therapy approaches to help my clients develop specific skills, as needed. I strive to help my clients explore the experiences that have shaped who they are and grow into the person they want to be. I have frequently noticed that all too often clients are overly skilled in identifying their flaws and shortcomings then quickly using this information to validate their negative and critical beliefs about how they are "not good enough." My work with these clients often focuses on challenging these overly critical beliefs so they stop being globally applied to who they are as a person while still being able to identify areas they still want to grow. Softening the critical beliefs about self improves our ability to see ourselves as deserving of love, care, and attention so we can provide space and opportunities to improve in the areas we are wanting change.
More Info About My Practice
I am a licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. My clinical experiences have allowed me to work with high school and college students, athletes, and veterans who come from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. I am passionate about helping others explore the unique aspects of who they are and integrate their interests into a stronger sense of self and identity. I strive to be very open, honest, and genuine with my clients and invite them to take an active role in creating a therapeutic environment and relationship that is best fit for their needs and preferences.
You can request an appointment with Dr. Jacob Lehman via email at (drjacoblehman@pdxinsight.com) or phone (971-276-5922).
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
Therapy is a vulnerable experience and having a previous negative experience can create hesitance to try therapy again. I am willing to process past negative experiences you may have had and collaboratively work with you to address any guardedness you may experience. I invite my clients to provide feedback about their experience and take an active role and building a healthy and trusting therapeutic relationship.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
I have frequently heard people voice concern about not wanting to go to therapy because they do not want to appear weak or flawed. I believe that choosing to go to therapy and striving to improve is a sign of strength and often takes courage and bravery. Growth, no matter the setting, is uncomfortable. I often equate my work with clients to the experience of going to physical therapy after a physical injury or surgical procedure. We want to identify where the pain is and create a plan to address the pain while also improving our ability to function after our injury. With the right support and guidance, meaningful and sustainable change can more efficiently be made in our lives. I have a passion for helping others identify barriers and struggles in their lives while also finding new and creative ways to navigate challenges more effectively.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.