Dr. Lindsey Poe is a Licensed Psychologist originally from the Blue Ridge Mountains in rural Appalachia. Witnessing the impact of poverty, generational trauma, and substance use in her community influenced her desire to pursue a career in clinical psychology. Her hometown – like much of rural Appalachia – was the target of pharmaceutical companies and opioid distribution in the 90s, better known as the opioid epidemic today. After she was afforded the opportunity to focus her clinical and research studies on substance use, trauma, and serious mental illness, Dr. Poe discovered a newfound passion for helping clients conceptualize the systemic factors (e.g., being targeted by corporations, community violence, poverty) that contributed to their symptoms to ultimately release them from internalized guilt and shame. Given her upbringing in a close-knit town, Dr. Poe also values relationships and community above all else and prioritizes authenticity, humor, and warmth in the therapy room. If choosing to work with Dr. Poe, clients can expect to receive a safe and affirming therapeutic space to explore the balance of unconditional compassion for current distress paired with ambitions for change.

Dr. Poe’s approach to treatment is broadly trauma informed, and she approaches clinical work with the understanding that each client she sees may have experienced trauma(s), which can come in many forms. Dr. Poe will spend a portion of initial sessions taking time to understand each client’s contextual factors, including symptoms, developmental factors, cultural influences, learning styles, strengths, values, and personal preferences. With this information, she will tailor interventions for each individual client and collaboratively work with them to discover what might fit best. Ultimately, Dr. Poe hopes to inspire a sense of self-reflection in her clients that fosters curiosity over judgment, and compassion over criticism. 

In her free time, Dr. Poe seeks renewal in nature. She recently moved to Western Washington (but misses Appalachia dearly), where she and her partner enjoy trail running, hiking, reading in the sun, gardening, tending to their 45 houseplants, and trying to get her cat to come back inside. For her own self-care, Dr. Poe practices mindfulness and meditation, in addition to keeping a gratitude list. She also enjoys baking bread and binge-watching TV shows with her partner and cat.