The newest addition to our clinician team is Marlys! She pronounces her name "MAR-liss". But, she is gracious enough to go by a few variations of that (which I may have learned from experience). You can get to know a little bit about her journey into counseling right here!

My Journey Into Counseling in Tigard, OR

Marlys Peterson, warm caring female therapist in Tigard, OR for online therapy in Oregon at Discover Counseling.
Marlys Petersen, MA LPC Intern

When I graduated from college, I had my first real job. Living overseas in Germany I mentored and taught American Military middle and high school students under the umbrella of the military chapel. Just as I had found in my college days, my presence seemed to create an atmosphere that created a safe place for the youth I worked with to open up.

As I sat with these young people, stories of trauma, abuse, and feelings of depression and anxiety poured out as well. It was then that I realized I cherished the privilege of holding someone else’s pain with them, yet I also felt I lacked the knowledge and tools to share with them what was so critical for their growth. It was then that I decided to return to school to get my Master’s Degree in Counseling.

Growth and Change

That experience was over twenty years ago and a lot has transpired since then. And, has created a greater depth of what I bring to the table as a counselor!

two hands holding
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

I now have three teens/young adults of my own, which has humbled me like no other experience. For the past 12 years, I have had social work jobs where abuse and neglect, addictions, anxiety, and depression have threaded through almost every family I have worked with. I know life can be hard. And, I have walked alongside enough people that I also know that healing, freedom, and growth are possible in people’s lives.

As I step back into the counseling office, I feel incredibly privileged to know that it will be a whole new group of people to have the honor of journeying life with. And, that this time, I will have more tools in my toolbelt. Plus, another layer of education from both school and life from which to draw from.

The Power of Presence

I know that when someone is fully present with me, listening intently and providing space for me to spill out the thoughts and feelings that I have buried deep inside, it is a true gift. Author George MacDonald once said,

“Few delights can equal the mere presence of one whom we trust utterly.”

George MacDonald
two people riding scooter on road near foresty cliff exhilerated
Photo by Jordan Opel on Unsplash

The frenetic speed of our world, distractions from the media all around us, shifts caused by a pandemic at our doorsteps. And, realities of racial injustice that have long been sewn into the fabric of our nation eventually all catch up to us. Slowly over time, anxiety can start to seep in and depression’s clouds can get darker and darker. We lose track of tending to our soul – and our mental and emotional health suffers.

My heart’s desire as a counselor is to be able to offer a presence. And, a fellow journeyer on this road. As a counselor, I get to be one who listens to the direction you want to go. The person who points you in a direction when it’s needed. And, someone who is present through both the hills and valleys. So, for the season you NEED counseling, you don’t walk alone.

Learn More About Therapy in Tigard, OR and Online Therapy in Oregon

Marlys offers counseling for individuals and couples, both in-person and via telehealth. Visit our online calendar to schedule an appointment with her, or send her a message to get in touch with her. You can also learn more about Marlys on her profile page.