Current Openings|Weekdays & Saturdays
Steven Ponec
MA, PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR ASSOCIATE
INDIVIDUAL THERAPIST +
ADHD EXECUTIVE FUNCTION THERAPIST|TEENS, ADULTS & COUPLES|PORTLAND
THE WORK I DO
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Pulling from years of lived experience with ADHD, as well as years of professional training, I meet my clients where they are at to help them find balance and fulfillment. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been working through these challenges for years, I will guide you in your journey with ADHD and neurodivergence.
My approach involves looking for concrete solutions and emotional regulation support, often using organizational systems. I work with ACT, DBT, and CBT to help clients through mindfulness and building skills to work with brain wiring differences.
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Whatever you’re struggling with, whether it’s family conflict, life transitions, mental health challenges, or other personal difficulties, I aim to build a strong, trusting relationship with you so we can grow together as I walk alongside you on this journey.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating neurodivergence-related challenges. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, grounded in empathy, understanding, and genuine care. My goal is to walk with you, helping you meet your needs in a way that feels supportive, empowering, and tailored to you.
To best support you, I draw on mindfulness practices and collaborate with you to explore solutions that fit your life. I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), providing practical tools while honoring your unique experiences. I understand how challenging it can be to show up for therapy (and to show up for yourself in this way) and I’m here to make that process as safe and supportive as possible.
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As someone who has navigated the challenges of neurodivergence in high school (and college) as a teenager, I bring a special understanding to my work with young clients. I remember what it was like to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about navigating the challenges of adolescence. This personal experience informs my approach, allowing me to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for my teenage clients.
In our one-on-one sessions, I meet my clients where they are emotionally, whether they are feeling strong, struggling, or going through a change, and I’m happy to teach them important skills, mindfulness exercises, and ways to stay organized, all tailored to their individual needs.
Using a solution-focused approach that emphasizes empowerment, I work together with each client to recognize their strengths, set goals, and find personalized ways to overcome challenges. Through supporting and guiding them, I help my clients build resilience, confidence, and the skills they need to succeed during these important years.
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When relationships become strained and difficult, it can seem like you always fight to get your point across, feel unheard, or have a hard time finding common ground. Sometimes, the quiet moments between words can feel even more upsetting than the arguments themselves.
In my sessions with couples, we work together to break this cycle of frustration and help you find a way back to each other. As we move forward, you’ll learn how to communicate more thoughtfully and really listen to each other’s feelings. We’ll work to build trust, avoid defensiveness, and bring back the closeness that brought you together in the first place, with more love, trust, and harmony in your relationship.
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Life can be challenging, especially when dealing with mental health concerns. Seeking counseling is a brave first step, and I’m here to offer a compassionate ear and support as you navigate your unique situation. My approach is client-centered, grounded in empathy, understanding, and genuine care, ensuring you receive the support you need and deserve.
I tailor my approach to fit your needs, drawing from a variety of talk therapy techniques. I incorporate mindfulness practices and collaborate with you to explore solutions that work for your life, using tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your journey.
ABOUT ME
WE’RE ALL UNIQUE
Hello! I’m Steven. I’m a professional counselor associate, and I’m passionate about working with adults and teens who want to feel more calm, confident, and understood. I especially enjoy supporting people who are neurodivergent, and I bring both professional training and my own lived experience with neurodivergence to the work I do. My goal is to create a space where you can feel safe, accepted, and able to be your full self.
MY BACKGROUND
Before becoming a counselor, I spent years as a photographer and absolutely loved creating art. I have a degree in Art Practices with a focus on photography, and I’ve found that my creative background really shapes how I connect with and support clients. I also have a personal passion and connection to the neurodivergent community, which deeply informs my work. As a clinician, one of my biggest goals is to show up with authenticity and help clients feel safe bringing their full selves into the therapy space.
UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOU’RE GOING THROUGH
In my work as a therapist, I’ve had the privilege of working with people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences—including those who are neurodivergent and from diverse communities. I feel connected when working with young clients around high school age because I understand firsthand the challenges they face. However, through my own experiences I can say I understand the struggles of many different age groups. My goal is to support you in improving your quality of life and to help you feel comfortable being your most authentic self. I’m open and affirming toward neurodivergent minds and LGBTQIA+ individuals, and I’m here to help teens and adults navigate life’s transitions and manage the challenges that come with mental health.
MY APPROACH TO THERAPY
I want to create a warm, safe, and accepting space where you can be yourself. I understand how self-regulation can be difficult, which is why I can act as a regulating force in the therapy room and approach each session with kindness and understanding. I use a human centered focus with a mix of evidence based cognitive practices that help you build skills and practice mindfulness. My goal is to listen and support you so you feel comfortable sharing your feelings and struggles.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
When I’m not seeing clients, I love spending time with my cats, going for walks with my wife, or trying new restaurants around Portland. I honestly believe that life can be a beautiful experience. We often just need the tools and skills to be able to live our lives to the fullest.
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I currently accept Regence BCBC, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UMR, and Cigna insurance.
For clients paying out-of-pocket, I can provide a superbill (an itemized receipt) that you may submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
We are also in the process of contracting with additional insurance companies, so please reach out if your plan is not listed above.
In addition, I offer a limited number of sliding scale rates for clients who meet income requirements. I’m happy to provide more information—please don’t hesitate to ask.
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I work under the clinical supervision of Leslie Taylor, MA, LPC
License # C9013