Molly Vernon-Zaninovich
Clinical Social Worker Associate
 

Hi! I’m Molly (she/her), and I’m so glad you’re considering therapy with Health Allies. I believe choosing to pursue support for your mental health is an act of courage, and I strive to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and accepted as you are.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, strengths-based, and person-centered, with a strong foundation in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I have specialized DBT training and provide individual DBT therapy and lead DBT skills groups. I am passionate about helping clients navigate intense emotions, understand patterns that may no longer be serving them, and build practical skills to support more fulfilling lives and relationships. I recognize that emotional and behavioral patterns often develop for a reason, and I believe meaningful change begins with curiosity, compassion, and understanding. In our work together, I hope to help you build greater emotional awareness, strengthen your ability to navigate distress, and develop new ways of responding to yourself and the world around you.

I am particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ clients and supporting people as they explore their identities, navigate relationships, and move through life's challenges. I strive to create an affirming space where you can show up as your whole self and feel empowered to explore your experiences, values, and goals without judgment.

Additionally, I am passionate about supporting survivors of sexual violence. My dedication to this work began during my undergraduate studies, when I participated in peer-led sexual violence prevention education. While completing my Master of Social Work degree, I also interned as a Sexual Assault Advocate. These experiences deepened my commitment to promoting autonomy, consent, and sex positivity, as well as challenging the systems and cultural narratives that perpetuate sexual violence. I continue to carry these values into my clinical work, honoring each person's autonomy and recognizing the importance of feeling safe, respected, and empowered in the therapeutic relationship.

I believe therapy is most effective when it honors the whole person. I bring curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to ongoing learning to my work, recognizing that you are the expert on your own life. My hope is that we can work together to build on your existing strengths, develop skills that feel meaningful and useful to you, and move toward a life that feels more aligned with your values.

A little more about me: I’m a white, cis-queer woman who uses she/her pronouns. Outside of work, I’m most likely spending time with my cat and dog—or talking about them with anyone who will listen. I love all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer, and I enjoy hiking, camping, and forever exploring Portland.