Richard McFarland
Counselor
As a dedicated and experienced Professional Counselor Associate, I bring decades of rich life experience and professional expertise to the counseling practice. My diverse life experiences as a guide, facilitator, entrepreneur, father, partner and student of life, bring a unique perspective on healing and personal growth.
Unique Qualifications
Diverse Experience: In addition to leading expeditions, coaching trauma recovery and running a business, my journey has included misattributed parentage, marriage, divorce, and fatherhood, as well as addiction and recovery. My life, both the blessings and the challenges, has provided me with a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience and has equipped me with the empathy and insight necessary for effective counseling.
Unique Qualifications: In addition, due to my lived experience of misattributed paternity, I have devoted myself to training and research on the phenomena of misattributed parentage. I offer specialized support for individuals navigating issues associated with misattributed parentage, adoption, and assisted reproduction technologies.
Educational Foundation: I received my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Oregon University. I merge academic knowledge with real-world application, ensuring a well-rounded approach to therapy.
Areas of Expertise
Individual Counseling: I utilize a trauma-informed person-centered approach, helping clients explore, heal, and grow, fostering resilience, agency and fulfillment in life
Men's Issues: As a founder and facilitator of men’s groups, I have intimate familiarity with issues faced by men in our culture. I provide a container for men to explore vulnerabilities (and strengths), relationships, and emotional health.
Addiction and Recovery: Informed by my own journey into the dark night of addiction, and the hero’s journey of recovery, as well as the stories of countless others on this path, I humbly share my experience, strength, and hope with those seeking support in this area.
Couples Work: I facilitate open communication and understanding between partners, empowering couples to build on a foundation of growth, trust, and intimacy.
Misattributed Parentage: The discovery of unexpected biological heritage via DNA testing is both increasingly common, and frequently traumatic. My lived experience, and unique studies and training, provide a solid foundation of support for those dealing with this challenging life experience.
Group Work: I facilitate peer support groups in the realms of recovery, men’s work, trauma, personal growth, and misattributed parentage. Groups create a container for growth, where individuals share experiences and gain insights from others.
Why Work With Me?
Empathetic Approach: I seek to develop deep, authentic connections with clients, fostering trust and openness, leading to healing, growth, and self-knowledge.
Holistic Orientation: Utilizing an eclectic therapeutic approach and experiential knowledge, I tailor sessions to meet individual needs.
Flexibility and Accessibility: I respect and understand the diverse needs of clients. I offer flexible scheduling options, including in-person and telehealth sessions. My intention is to make therapy accessible.
