Steven Miller, LPC
"The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are."
~Carl Jung~
My Story
History
To tell you a little bit about myself, I have lived experience with addiction and recovery, a late-in-life Autism diagnosis, 2e neurodivergent, and have an invisible disability. I understand complex trauma, what it's like growing up "different" than others but not knowing why, and what it's been like to navigate a world that wasn't exactly designed for us neurodivergent folks. My own healing journey led me into this profession, where I wanted to be of service to others. There's something deeply and spiritually fulfilling for me when I immerse myself in the service of others. This work is profoundly personal for me - it's not just a job.
Steven Miller (he/him)
LPC
Clinical Experience
I have been working as a counselor in the field since 2016, starting at a local alcohol and drug agency. I eventually changed to another agency where I earned my CADC-I and CADC-II. I worked extensively with mandated clients involved in DHS, Parole & Probation, court-ordered, and DUII. I then transferred to a community mental health clinic, where I worked with a diverse population with complex presenting problems, from general anxiety to psychotic symptoms. I co-facilitated a DBT program, earned my EMDR certification, participated in advanced EMDR consult groups, and received my CADC-III, demonstrating my expertise in the addiction field.
My Theoretical background.
My approach to psychotherapy is heavily rooted in psychodynamic theory and grounded in current neuroscientific literature. I hold the belief that healing happens in relationships. People tend to grow through connection when they feel safe, seen, heard, and valued. The therapeutic relationship can then become a corrective emotional experience. What I mean by that is people often unconsciously recreate familiar relational patterns inside the therapeutic relationship — a process called transference. For example, someone who expects criticism may fear being judged by the therapist, or someone who experienced emotional neglect may assume their needs are “too much.”
The healing happens when the therapist responds differently than the person’s past relationships did. Instead of rejection, there is curiosity. Instead of shame, there is acceptance. Instead of inconsistency or emotional withdrawal, there is steadiness and attunement. This creates a “corrective emotional experience” because the client is not just intellectually understanding something new — they are emotionally living through a new kind of relationship in real time. Over time, these repeated relational experiences can reshape internal working models about trust, self-worth, intimacy, and emotional safety. In psychodynamic work, the relationship itself becomes a central vehicle for insight, repair, and transformation.
Approaches
To facilitate this, my approach integrates IFS, EMDR, DBT, and somatic practices, grounded in Polyvagal Theory, Structural Dissociation, and Attachment Theory. I am also trained in Family Systems, CBT, ACT, and Motivational-Interviewing, and I will incorporate aspects of these when appropriate. Throughout, a neurodiversity-affirming practice and trauma-informed care are a given.
Credentials
LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) C9371
MBACP (Registered Member with the British Association for Counseling Professionals) 419553
NCC (National Certified Counselor) 1725409
CADC III (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor III) No. 24-09-30124
CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) 313291
EMDRIA Certified (EMDR International Association) 399340
ASDCS (Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist) 483134
*Licensed to practice in Oregon and the UK.
