Emalie Coplan, MA LMFT
Ready for change?
I’m a Portland based therapist who helps queer folks with childhood trauma feel empowered as their most authentic selves.
My values
My core beliefs and how they inform my work
Commitment to Racial Justice
I actively engage with the realities of systemic racism, recognizing the historical and ongoing exploitation of Black and Indigenous communities and the pervasive violence of policing. I recognize the diverse experiences of BIPOC individuals in navigating racial aggression, both overt and covert. By examining my own whiteness and the dynamics of collective whiteness, I seek to create space to address racial issues that may arise in our therapeutic relationship. When I cause harm, I take accountability and strive to offer repair.
Celebrating Body Diversity
Operating from a Health at Every Size (HAES) perspective, I prioritize body positivity and neutrality. I understand that societal standards of desirability are entangled with white supremacy and ableism.
Affirming Neurodiversity
I celebrate neurodiversity, recognizing that neurological differences are a natural and beautiful aspect of human variation. I value the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals while acknowledging the harm that ableism has perpetuated against them. In our therapeutic work, I strive to create an inclusive environment that fosters belonging and empowers you to embrace your neurodivergence, providing support tailored to your needs.
Gender Inclusivity
I affirm all gender identities without requiring dysphoria as validation. My support extends to trans youth, and I acknowledge the harm that the medical system has historically inflicted on trans individuals. I offer surgery-support letters to those interested.
Critical Inquiry
I advocate for a thorough examination of our lives, recognizing that they are shaped by intersecting systems of oppression. It is vital to interrogate these systems and bring them into the therapy room as we pursue collective liberation and healing. The field of therapy has the potential to reinforce these oppressive dynamics, so I welcome honesty and collaboration. You have the right to be informed about our therapeutic process, and I encourage open dialogue about what’s effective and what isn’t.
Embracing Sexual Diversity
I advocate for healthy, consensual sexual expression at all life stages and acknowledge the transformative power of pleasure. I embrace the full spectrum of human experiences, including kink, non-monogamy, and asexuality. I hold deep respect for sex work and recognize the importance of affirming the labor of sex workers. As a queer person, I am especially committed to affirming the experiences of and working with queer and trans communities.
How I work
Therapy is what you make it.
I’m passionate about working with folks who want to process past trauma and relearn how to feel safe in the present. I frequently work with people who grew up in dysfunctional families, and have experienced neglect and abuse in close relationships. These experiences often lead to secondary challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relational concerns. I work with clients who are eager to reconnect to their authentic selves & feel ready to dive into this process with dedication and courage.
In our therapeutic relationship, we will collaboratively create a safe space for exploration, delving into your past and navigating the path between where you currently stand and where you aspire to be. I tailor interventions for each client, drawing on IFS and experiential techniques like somatics and Brainspotting. Emphasizing the cultivation of self-compassion, communication skills, healthy boundaries, and the processing of unresolved emotions. My approach is relational, client-led, collaborative, and social justice-oriented. My ultimate goal is for you to feel secure in your relationship with yourself.
We are a good fit if you are —
Ready to share your inner thoughts and feelings
Open to experimenting with new approaches
Willing to embrace discomfort as part of the process
Open to exploring your past experiences
Committed to engaging in therapeutic practices outside of our sessions
We are not a good fit if you are —
Not prepared to acknowledge your role in your challenges
Wanting to vent but are uncertain about trying anything beyond that
Hoping for someone to dictate your next steps, offer advice, or provide a “quick fix” solution
Unwilling to engage in therapeutic activities outside of our sessions
My Background & Training
01
Education
Master of Arts | Marriage and Family Therapy | 2019
Bachelor of Arts | Global Studies | 2013
02
Training
I love to learn and I am a forever student. Here is a glimpse into what I’m studying:
Autistic-Informed Autism Assessment | Properties of Light | Virginia | 2025
Clinical Training in Analytical Psychology | The Salome Institute of Jungian Studies | Portland, OR 2025
Brainspotting 2 | Awaken Consulting Services | Mpls, MN| 2024
IFS 1| IFS Institute| Oak Park, IL | 2024
Ketamine Therapy Modules 1-5 |Polaris Insight Center |San Francisco, CA| 2023
Psilocybin Facilitation | Inner Trek| Portland, OR | 2023
Brainspotting 1| Awaken Consulting Services | Mpls, MN | 2022
Post Induction Therapy | The Meadows | Phoenix, AZ | 2022
EMDR | Life Development Resources | Lakeville, MN | 2021
Emotion Focused Couples Therapy| MN Couple Therapy Center | Roseville, MN | 2017
