Gayle Waitches

A lifelong learner and practitioner, I am both a physician and an individual and relational therapist intern. I obtained a MS from Portland State University while also immersing in a year-long internship at the M.E.T.A. Institute (Mindfulness Experiential Therapeutic Approaches) where I studied Hakomi and other mindfulness-based approaches. I also hold a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Midwestern University in Chicago. While I continue to practice radiologic medicine, a yearning for deeper human connection and soulful exploration created a shift in my practice toward the study of mental and emotional well-being. Radiology and counseling share similarities as both require exploration and insight beyond the surface. Therapy offers a loving, safe, consistent and collaborative relational space through which to reacquaint more deeply with oneself, and in so doing, carve a life embodying greater clarity, intention, growth and authenticity. My experience as a physician in the holistic world of Osteopathy offers a unique sensibility regarding the interconnectedness of neuroscience and the tender yet pliable human psyche.

Our work together will be a safe and collaborative journey. I consider myself an honored and compassionate companion along your Self-discovery expedition. Our sessions together can be spacious--precious opportunities to unfold your many complexities. During our time together, I will rely on a variety of methods to accompany you through your process. As you share what feels important, we may pay special attention to what is happening in the here-and-now through your words, emotions, body sensations, visualizations, beliefs, images and/or dreams. You’ll likely want to explore familiar and less conscious parts of yourself-you may even discover parts which surprise you. As you learn more about yourself, such as what motivates or limits you, you will become better at meeting your own needs. Should you encounter inner conflicts or painful emotions, I can help you to tolerate and move through the discomfort, and soothe yourself in healthful ways. When you understand and allow your emotional experience, you harvest this inherent wisdom.

I embrace multicultural humility and affirm people of all genders, abilities, races, ethnicities, spiritualities, religions and other intersectional diversities.