maddi’s story

Hi! I'm Maddi Elkin-Aquino (she/her). For me, therapy is an in-the-moment, co-created dance that provides connection and healing. I see wellness as the innate interconnections between bodies, minds, and relationships. By tapping into these connections, people and communities can find their own paths to healing.

 A little bit about me: I love a good cup of tea and a chat. I spend my free time reading, cuddling my dogs, moving my body, hanging out with my loved ones, learning in community, and laughing. 

Now for the professional stuff:

I completed my Master’s degree in mental health counseling with a speciality in Somatic Counseling at Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. I’m a Registered Counselor Associate, which means that even though I’m not yet fully licensed, I’m authorized by the state of Oregon to work with clients, and I receive regular supervision from a licensed therapist Molly Dressler, LCSW. 

My approach is based in somatic therapy, but it is also eclectic drawing from humanistic/person-centered therapy, polyvagal theory, trauma-informed approaches, attachment, multicultural/social justice systems paradigms, and IFS theory. This provides a client centered experience that supports you in achieving your therapeutic goals. Somatic counseling is a form of therapy that brings the body into the therapeutic relationship. In session, this can look like movement,touch, and other mindfulness or breathwork practices in addition to traditional talk therapy. Therapy with me will feel holistic and relational. 

I work primarily with adults individually and in group settings on topics including trauma, gender and sexuality, grief and other life transitions. 

My experience includes: 

- Counseling adult individuals with a variety of experiences including developmental and relational trauma (i.e. attachment wounding, sexual assault and abuse, domestic violence, etc.), grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and transpersonal/spiritual experiences. 

- Working with LGBTQ+ teens and adults therapeutically including providing gender-affirming medical transition assessment.

- Supporting transgender teens within their family and school systems. 

- Supporting neurodivergent clients navigate institutions and systems. 

- Facilitating a variety of therapeutic and educational groups, including groups for LGBTQ+ clients, Support Groups, Deep Rest and Connection Groups, and health education groups. 

- Providing case management and mentor support to people facing housing crises. 

- Working in public health and community-based settings. 

Maddi is supervised by Molly Dressler, MSW, LCSW.

See our fees and insurance page to determine if Maddi is in network with your insurance plan.

You can reach Maddi directly at maddi@sprouttherapypdx.com