Amanda Best

As a third year Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy student at Lewis & Clark college, I have found myself immersed in a systemic worldview. Understanding that healing is relational, it is apparent to me that we all exist within a web of systems that can either support or stagnate our growth. Taking into consideration the social inequity that privileges some over others, the only way I can systemically support clients is through addressing what my privileges have afforded me.

As a cisgender, able-bodied white woman, accountability and humility are two characteristics I consistently work towards bringing into my life as well as into the therapy room. Being accountable to my clients would look like not assuming I know or understand your experience and working to collaborate with you to ensure you are the agent of your own change. With an interest in intimate relationship structures and sex therapy, I hope to cultivate a therapeutic relationship that generates safety and limitless self-expression while also having fun!

I spend my self-care time dancing, traveling, and connecting with my community. As I am originally from the east coast, I value direct communication, healthy confrontation, and genuine connection. I aim to build an equitable practice that emphasizes these values while also focusing on power dynamics within our own relationships and society.