Kaeli Parrish, Graduate Student Intern

she/her

Professional Life

I am a graduate student earning my Master of Arts in Counseling at Northwestern University. My prior career as a college academic counselor gives me an understanding of the unique needs of young adults transitioning into adulthood. 

In addition to my professional background, my experience leaving the high-demand religion I was raised in, coming out as a queer woman and discovering my neurodivergence in adulthood have made me particularly interested in supporting clients through: 

• Life transitions

• Identity exploration

• Faith transitions/Deconstruction

• Neurodiversity affirmation

I focus on creating a collaborative, authentic and safe environment for my clients. I aim to help clients to better understand their life experiences, define their personal values and foster meaningful connection with others. As part of my supervision at Oregon City Counseling, I am receiving training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).

Personal Life

I was born in California and moved to the Portland area in 2022 to be near friends and experience all four seasons. When I’m not working towards my degree, you can find me:

• Snuggling my dog, Denali

• Spending time with my chosen family

• Seeing live music, comedy shows and musicals

• Doing my latest hyperfixation hobby (currently: furniture rehab)