Gary Arfstrom, LPC, Therapist in Hillsboro, Oregon

Gary Arfstrom helps adults and seniors throughout Oregon build greater resilience, emotional balance, and well-being through compassionate, evidence-based therapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor at LifeStance Health, he works with individuals facing anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns, as well as those navigating challenging life transitions. Gary creates a supportive therapeutic environment where patients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes. He offers individual therapy tailored to each person’s goals, drawing from proven approaches that foster lasting growth and improved quality of life. A particular focus of Gary’s practice is helping individuals manage later life transitions, midlife transitions, and the emotional impact of medical conditions and chronic health concerns. He is passionate about supporting people as they adapt to changes in health, identity, relationships, retirement, caregiving responsibilities, or other significant life events. His integrated whole-health perspective recognizes the strong connection between mental and physical well-being, helping patients develop practical strategies to cope with stress, uncertainty, grief, and adjustment challenges while maintaining a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Gary incorporates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches into treatment. His style is collaborative and person-centered, emphasizing practical tools that can be applied in everyday life. In addition to his primary areas of expertise, he offers support for a range of concerns including grief, insomnia, pain management, and other behavioral health challenges. He also has experience working with military veterans, first responders, and other adults seeking effective support during difficult periods of life. Having practiced since 2008, Gary brings years of clinical experience to his work. He earned degrees from Portland State University and Southern Oregon State College, building a strong foundation for helping individuals address emotional, behavioral, and life-transition concerns with confidence and clarity. Gary also speaks Spanish, allowing him to support a broader range of patients. Outside of his professional role, Gary enjoys playing guitar, camping, and reading. These activities help him stay connected to creativity, nature, and lifelong learning, which inform his balanced and thoughtful approach to care.