Therapy for Sex Workers in Portland, OR
As a sex worker, you may have experienced misunderstanding or judgment in your relationships with others. We’re here to provide a supportive, affirming space where you can be yourself and work openly and honestly on what you are struggling with.
You may be here because you…
want to process emotional and/or physical stress
feel lonely, isolated, or lacking social support
seek a space to talk openly about your professional experiences without shock, judgment, invalidation, or assumptions
struggle with your own judgment and feelings of self-worth
want to explore how sex work and other factors of your identity intersect (neurodivergence, LGBTQ, disability, chronic illness, race, etc.)
want help navigating challenging relationship dynamics that could be impacted by your work
experience depression and/or anxiety and would like some relief
We know it can be challenging to find a space to meet these needs, which is why we offer therapy coming from a perspective that is informed and experienced, open-minded and unassuming, compassionate, authentic, and holistic.
Our therapists want to listen to your personal goals and challenges in order to help you…
process your experiences in a supportive space where you will feel heard and validated
learn tools and skills to address emotional strain, depression, anxiety, trauma, etc.
improve your self-view to feel more compassionate, accepting, worthy, and empowered
process the impacts of minority stress, cultural prejudice, and capitalistic disadvantages
feel more satisfied in your relationships and interactions with others
Sex worker affirmative therapy means your therapist is educated about sex work and the diverse range of sex worker experiences, is aware of the potential impacts of minority stress and institutional oppression, challenges assumptions and stigma, views each individual client as unique with specific experiences and needs, and takes a holistic approach that recognizes sex work as one of a multitude of factors shaping you and your life.
It’s important to point out that just because your therapist is sex worker affirming, it does not mean that sex work needs to be the focus of your therapy. Just as sex work is one part of your life and as much of your identity as you choose for it to be, it can be as much or as little of your therapy as you want it to be. Our therapeutic approach is client-centered in order to hear you, understand you, and empower your voice.
Intersectionally-Informed Care
We recognize sex workers can hold many intersecting identities. We are anti-racist, anti-ableist. We provide therapy that is neuro-affirming (affirming od those who are neurodivergent), disability affirming, fat affirming, queer & trans affirming, and BIPOC affirming. Our clinicians hold various intersecting identities and bring both their lived experience and core values around justice to their work.
Our Therapists that Focus on Therapy for Sex Workers
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Jess Peterson
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Sarah Sumner
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Tamzin Johanson