Renata Austin Counseling
About Me
I identify as a biracial 3rd gen filipina/white, able-bodied, neurodivergent, cisgender woman. I grew up in Berkeley, CA and moved to Portland, OR in 2011. As someone who has intersecting marginalized identities, I have first hand experience navigating the challenges of not “making sense” to others and of feeling like I don’t belong. I know how this experience can impact wellbeing. I’m also familiar with the negative impact that mental health stigma can have within AAPI communities, in particular the Filipino/a/x community.
I completed my M.S in Marriage Couple and Family Counseling from Portland State University in 2020 and spent 3 years working as a counselor serving refugees and immigrants at a local community agency. Before I became a counselor I supported individuals and families around reproductive health, pregnancy options, the perinatal period, early childhood, and parent engagement. It was through this work that I recognized my strong desire to become a counselor. Outside of my work I enjoy spending quality time with friends, tending to my houseplants, crafting, and camping. I’m also a singer and musician.