About Me
Hi there! I'm Marena Passarelli, MA, LPC, LMHC, and my pronouns are she/her/hers. My clinical approach stems from feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to incorporate evidence-based practices such as, DBT, CBT, , while also being collaborative and client-centered. It is my goal to support you in your goals of connecting with yourself and your body, connecting and communicating with others, and practicing self-compassion and shame resilience through self-exploration and acceptance.
My work stems from the belief that a fully recovered life from an eating disorder IS possible for any individual through exploration, personal narratives, and strengthening a sense of worthiness and self-compassion. I also believe that these same ways help clients struggling with body image, anxiety, relationships, emotion regulation, and so much more. I highly value honoring each person’s journey and story.
I have worked in various treatment settings, including residential and intensive treatment for eating disorders, and community/school mental health.
It is universal and a part of the of the human condition to struggle. As unique individuals, we do not necessarily experience trauma and struggles in the same way, but we all suffer. You may be struggling with an eating disorder that has taken over your life and feel this is the only life you will ever know. You also may have body image distortions that lead you to believe that appearance is key to happiness and success. Or you feel that your intense anxiety is necessary for productivity and overall living. Nothing could be further from the truth.
I suffered from an eating disorder and struggled with body image distortion for far too many years of my life. I am very familiar with feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, fear, and criticism. These experiences can be incredibly debilitating, but with support you can shift into a place of acceptance and liberation in your life.
I have found that in helping you live your authentic life, I too must be authentic. I will bring my authenticity into the room by connecting through shared experiences and a good dose of humor. Let's connect and work together towards helping you achieve your goals.
I am passionate about treating individuals impacted by eating disorders/disordered eating, body dysmorphic disorder/body image distress, anxiety, and those struggling with emotion regulation. My overall goal is to help you be authentically you, set and hold appropriate boundaries for yourself, and feel connected to yourself and others.
Credentials
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (#C5559), registered with the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. I am also registered with the Washington Department of Health as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (#LH61032464),
Previous Counseling Experience
- Primary Therapist at Integrative Trauma Treatment Center Portland
- Primary Therapist at Center for Discovery Portland Outpatient
- Primary Therapist at Clementine Portland, a Monte Nido Affiliate for adolescents
- Individual and Group Therapist (trainee) at East Bay Agency for Children
- Milieu/Group Counselor at Center for Discovery Menlo Park Residential
Education
- MA in Counseling Psychology, Palo Alto University
- BS in Psychology, Portland State University