The move of offices from her home in Astoria to new facilities in Warrenton was largely for her clients, said licensed professional Counselor Pam Christensen.
"When young clients had to wait for rides from parents, or someone was running behind schedule, it could be uncomfortable for clients to share the same space," Christensen said.
In her new location, a 1,000 sq. ft. home in an area zoned for commercial use, there’s ample room for both waiting before and after an appointment, and for counseling services.
Christensen, with her husband Neil, purchased the house over a year ago, first remodeling it then renting it out until the time was right for a move. Christensen Counseling began operating from the house, located near the Skipanon River at No. 60 8th St., on March 24.
Christensen, who is a 12-year practitioner of psychodynamic psychotherapy, is pleased to have the separate rooms in the new offices, which afforded her the opportunity to expand her services.
"I hope to see the addition of a second tenant, another counselor, in July of this year," Christensen said.
In addition to adding a counselor, Christensen said she plans to use an upstairs loft area for group therapy.
"I’m forming groups now for teens and adults with eating disturbances, as well as families affected by substance abuse. Group therapy can be very effective for people working with these issues," she said.
An added benefit of the new location is its proximity to the Skipanon River.
"We hope to provide recreational therapy that might include kayaking on the river, and plan to add a sweat lodge on the property," Christensen noted.
Another expanded service offered is pet-assisted therapy.
"About half of my practice consists of teens and ‘tweens’ who are between the ages of 10 to 12," she said. "They benefit from the focus required to work with animals, and having all the space will make this a comfortable place to provide this kind of service."
Christensen Counseling’s services are available by appointment between the hours of 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information call (503) 791-8833.