Shannon Hayter (She/Her)

MA
Accepting Clients

Therapy with me isn’t about fixing what’s broken—it’s about slowing down, getting honest, and finding ways to move forward.

Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Supervised by Laurie Dotten LCSW

About My Clients

I work best with individuals, couples, teens, and families navigating identity exploration, relationship challenges, parenting, recovery, and the lingering impact of trauma or disconnection. I especially welcome LGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC clients, as well as anyone who has felt like an outsider in traditional spaces. My ideal clients are seeking a steady, sincere presence to help them slow down, get honest, and build relationships and lives that feel more authentic.

My Background and Approach

I am a queer, cis woman with an MA in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy from Lewis & Clark College. My background also includes graduate training in special education, which taught me to meet people creatively and outside the margins of “normal.” I bring training in ACT, DBT, EFT, Narrative Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, and Transgender Affirming Care. I work with issues such as identity development, gender transitions, addiction and recovery, trauma, grief, parenting, and non-traditional families. My approach is relational, direct, and socially aware: I listen closely, ask honest questions, and help you explore what’s working, what’s hurting, and what feels possible. Together, we’ll look for small but powerful shifts—moments of clarity, connection, and healing—that support lasting change.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I believe collective healing is possible when people feel fully seen and supported. My own life as a queer, married, chosen-family parent has shown me the beauty and complexity of belonging, and this deeply shapes how I sit with others. I approach therapy through a relational and social justice lens, honoring the ways culture, privilege, and oppression impact our lives. I especially welcome clients whose identities or experiences have left them feeling marginalized—you deserve care that is affirming and inclusive. Outside of therapy, I love hiking with my dogs, traveling with my wife, baking, and spending time with friends and family. I’m always chasing the joy of finishing the book before book club. My values include creativity, honesty, and living into relationships with heart and devotion.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Out of Network
  • Aetna
  • Kaiser
  • Anthem
  • MODA
  • PacificSource
  • Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
  • ODS/MODA Health
  • Moda Health
  • Regence BCBS of Oregon
  • Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
  • Moda
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 2 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $130 - 150/session

Info

Email Shannon
333 S Flower St.
Portland, OR 97219
3636 SW Troy St
Portland, OR 97219

Reach out to Shannon