Hello! My name is Carol-Joy Brendlinger. I am currently a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at OSU Cascades and have been holding space for people as a certified Spiritual Director for the past 20 years. A native Oregonian, I love all things outdoors–whether it is kayaking on a mountain lake, hiking in an evergreen forest, or meditating by the river. I find healing and inspiration in connecting with nature and being present in my body. I value deepening relationships with friends and family and being engaged in important conversations and actions that create healing and transformation in our world. It is important for me to learn, grow, and connect with a diverse group of people from different backgrounds and sexual orientations. As a contemplative, I value creating space for meditation and reflective practice with others. In the field of counseling, I want to deepen my understanding of trauma and the body's wisdom and ability to transform and heal.

I believe that every individual has their own deep resources of wisdom, truth, and healing. In our lived experience, we can encounter challenges, tragedy, and trauma that can block our ability to access our inner resources. I am passionate about creating a welcoming and safe space for people to have the courage to face their fears, heal, and live into the deepest expression of themselves. I desire to create a space of companionship, gentle challenge and hope where transformation and greater freedom can flourish. My role is one of deep listening, reflecting back, and asking questions that will help you realize your wisdom and find a deeper sense of belonging in your life.

We are living in challenging times. It can be easy to be bombarded by the many challenges in our world today as well as in our personal lives. It is important to reach out for support when these challenges are larger than you can handle on your own. I believe that as we each find our own healing and live into our authentic selves we can create a more just, safe, and compassionate world.