Liz Powers Wells, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Supervised by Amber Caldera LCSW & Tony Lai LPC, RPT-S

My Therapeutic Approach

*Research shows that the key to effective therapy is the relationship between therapist and client.

Feeling safe and understood isn’t a bonus - it’s the starting point for real change. I know what it’s like to navigate a world that wasn’t designed for your brain, your body, or your way of being. My approach is collaborative, relational and rooted in deep respect for how you already exist in the world.

Neurodivergent people often carry complex trauma in their relationships and attachments because their needs and ways of being are frequently misunderstood or overlooked. I specialize in helping clients process these experiences.

My education and training have taught me to understand systems so I can work effectively with individuals, couples, and families. I primarily work with neurodivergent individuals and mixed neuro-type families and couples. I have a special focus on people with late-diagnosed autism, especially those navigating the exhaustion and burnout that come from years of high masking.

Many of my clients have queer identities. I am committed to bringing an informed perspective and real experience to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

I view children as whole human beings who have the right to developmentally informed therapy that respects their individuality and specific needs. Through play therapy, I help kids express what they can’t always put into words. I’m pursuing certification in play therapy as part of my commitment to offering kids the best support I can. Read more about how play can really make a difference.

*Pereira et al. (2024) – Read more Baier et al. (2020) – Read more Norcross & Lambert (2019) – Read more

What I Focus On:

  • Supporting neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults—especially those with ADHD and autism

  • Supporting clients navigating anxiety and uncertainty related to today’s political and economic challenges

  • Helping couples and families with neurominority members navigate a world built for neurotypicals

  • Strengthening parent-child relationships through attachment-based support

How I Work:

  • A humanistic approach grounded in genuine curiosity, compassionate presence, and trust in your capacity for insight and growth

  • Trauma-informed, attachment-rooted approaches

  • Parts work

  • Child-Centered Play Therapy

  • Digital play therapy tools like Minecraft

My Qualifications:

  • Registered Marriage and Family Therapy Associate

  • EMDR Basic Training

  • ACE: Certificate of Effectiveness

  • Working towards Registered Play Therapist Credential

  • AAMFT Member

  • AAMFT Queer & Trans Advocacy Network Member

FAQ:

  • I am contracted through my supervisor, Amber Caldera LCSW and can accept the following insurance plans:

    • Moda

    • Aetna

    • PacificSource (Commercial plans only, not OHP)

    • BlueCross BlueShield (various plans)

    • Out of pocket payments (we can discuss a superbill option)

  • For clients paying out-of-pocket this will depend on the type of therapy you’re seeking. I can discuss any details and answer questions about payment directly. I do currently have some availability for lower-fee or sliding scale clients based on need if your plan is not an option.

  • I am currently accepting both virtual and in-person clients. My office is located at:
    1110 SE Alder St., Suite 301
    Portland, OR 97214