Brian is a Clinical Social Work Associate with a deep commitment to helping youth, teens, and young adults navigate emotional challenges and develop greater resilience. Drawing from his experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Supportive PACE, Brian works collaboratively with clients to help them understand their feelings, confront challenges, and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Brian’s therapeutic background includes working with youth and adults facing a range of issues, including psychosis, depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship challenges, and trauma. He is particularly passionate about empowering young people to recognize their strengths and potential, guiding them through the process of healing and personal growth.

As a longtime educator, Brian believes strongly in the power of collaborative relationships to cultivate learning and personal growth. He has a strong conviction in every person’s internal capacities and strengths to initiate a positive change in themselves. Brian’s goal as a therapist is to help young people guide their own healing and uncover their unrecognized potential.

Therapeutic Approach:

Brian’s approach is collaborative, supportive, and strengths-based, grounded in his belief that every person has the internal capacity to create positive change. He uses evidence-based treatments to support clients in identifying and managing difficult emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns. His primary therapeutic modalities include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A highly effective, goal-oriented therapy that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with healthier thinking and coping strategies.

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): A specialized form of therapy primarily used to treat anxiety and OCD, ERP helps clients gradually face their fears and learn how to reduce compulsive behaviors in a safe, structured environment.

• Supportive PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy): A therapeutic approach focused on building a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, behaviors, and experiences in a supportive and empathetic environment.

Areas of Expertise:

• Youth & Young Adult Therapy: Helping children, teens, and young adults manage emotional challenges and develop healthier coping strategies.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders through thought reframing and behavioral interventions.

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Aiding individuals with OCD and anxiety disorders in confronting fears and reducing compulsive behaviors.

• Trauma Recovery: Supporting clients in processing trauma and developing emotional resilience.

• Family & Relationship Support: Collaborating with families to strengthen communication, improve relationships, and support personal growth.

Brian completed his Master of Social Work (MSW) at Portland State University, where he gained experience interning at the Lifeworks NW EASA program and the NW Anxiety Institute. During his internships, Brian provided counseling services to youth and adult clients dealing with a variety of mental health challenges, including psychosis, depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma. His time working in these settings solidified his passion for helping young people and families work through their emotional difficulties.

Brian lives in SE Portland, where he loves to create art, trail run, play guitar and explore the Pacific Northwest with his wife, daughter and golden doodle.

Supervised by Abigail Olivares, LCSW