Sonja Vegdahl, PHD, LICSW

Personal and interpersonal challenges are complex, with ties to past events and the context of one’s life. As a therapist, I seek to understand your story and what is important to you. I strive to help you envision the kind of life you want and how to be mindful of connecting to your values, hopes, and relationships. I recognize that culture, identities, gender, race, and age can significantly impact your life, the dimensions of your unique struggles, and the path to healing. I want to help you create ways to move closer to the authentic life that is vital to your sense of well-being. I work with clients in an affirming, collaborative, respectful, and non-blaming way. I find narrative therapy and solution focused therapy to be especially effective. 
I have been a clinical social worker for over two decades. My master’s degree is from the University of Chicago and my PhD from Portland State University. I have helped people experiencing a diversity of challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, trauma, adoption, and couple and family relational problems. As the Program Director at Concordia University, I created classes and guided students toward becoming strength-based social workers with a passion for empathy and social justice. I enjoy working alongside individuals, children, families, and couples as they move towards nourishing relationships and satisfying lives. Because I lived outside the United States for nearly a decade, I especially appreciate supporting people as they navigate between different cultures and during times of major life transitions. 
I consider it an honor to be part of people’s healing journey. I consider it an honor to be part of yours. Dr. Sonja Vegdahl