Unconscious Patterns
Understanding the hidden forces that shape your choices and reactions
Grounded Mind Therapy
Understand the patterns. Transform the future.
Creating space for men to explore what's beneath the surface—without the clinical distance or therapeutic clichés.
About
The patterns you can't see are the ones that run your life. Once you see them, you can choose differently.
Getting to the Root
I'm Dr. Marcus Rivera, and I've spent 12 years helping people—particularly men—understand the unconscious patterns that shape their lives. Based in Portland, Oregon, my practice focuses on psychodynamic therapy: not just managing symptoms, but understanding where they come from.
Most of the challenges we face—whether in relationships, career, or our own sense of identity—aren't random. They're patterns, often formed early and running quietly in the background. My work is about bringing those patterns into focus, so you can make choices based on who you are now, not who you had to be then.
I specialize in men's mental health, relationship issues, and career transitions because these areas often intersect with deeper questions about identity, purpose, and connection. This work isn't about fixing you—it's about understanding you.
12 years of experience in psychodynamic therapy • Portland, Oregon
My Approach
Psychodynamic therapy is based on a straightforward idea: the unconscious mind has a powerful influence on how we think, feel, and behave. Many of our decisions, reactions, and relationship patterns are shaped by experiences we're not consciously aware of.
In our work together, we'll explore those hidden influences. Not through abstract theory, but through your actual life—your relationships, your work, your recurring frustrations and fears. We'll look at where these patterns started, how they're showing up now, and what needs to happen for real change.
This isn't quick-fix therapy. It's a deeper process that takes time and honesty. But it's also practical. You won't leave sessions with vague insights—you'll leave with a clearer understanding of yourself and concrete ways to move forward.
I bring warmth and directness to this work. I won't dance around difficult truths, but I also won't judge you for them. The therapeutic relationship itself becomes a place to understand how you relate to others—and to yourself.
Practical Insight
Connecting past experiences to present challenges in concrete, actionable ways
Lasting Change
Building self-awareness that continues long after therapy ends
Specialties
Areas of Focus
Men's Mental Health
Creating a judgment-free space to explore emotions, identity, and personal growth. Many men have been taught to suppress rather than understand their inner lives. Here, we do the opposite.
Relationship Issues
Understanding unconscious patterns that shape how you connect with others. Whether you're struggling with intimacy, repeating the same conflicts, or feeling disconnected, we'll look at what's actually happening beneath the surface.
Career Transitions
Navigating change, finding purpose, and building sustainable professional fulfillment. Career struggles are rarely just about the job—they're often about identity, meaning, and what success actually looks like for you.
What
Clients
Say
I came in thinking I needed help with work stress. What I got was an understanding of patterns I'd been repeating for 20 years. That shift changed everything.
Marcus doesn't let you hide from yourself, but he also doesn't make you feel broken. It's the balance I needed—direct without being harsh.
For the first time, I understood why my relationships always ended the same way. Seeing the pattern meant I could finally do something different.
What to Expect
Starting therapy can feel uncertain. Here's what the process actually looks like:
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Initial Consultation
We'll talk about what brought you here, what you're hoping to change, and whether this approach feels right for you. No commitment required—just an honest conversation.
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Building Trust
The first few sessions focus on creating a space where you can be honest. We'll start exploring your concerns while establishing a working relationship.
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Exploring Patterns
We'll look at recurring themes in your life—relationships, work, emotions—and start connecting them to deeper patterns. This is where insight begins.
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Deepening Understanding
As patterns become clearer, we'll explore where they came from and why they persist. Understanding the 'why' is what makes change possible.
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Lasting Change
With awareness comes choice. You'll start responding differently to old triggers, making decisions that align with who you actually are, and building a life that feels more authentic.
Common Questions
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions. Here are answers to the ones I hear most.
What is psychodynamic therapy?
Psychodynamic therapy explores how unconscious patterns from your past influence your present behavior, relationships, and emotions. Rather than just treating symptoms, we work to understand the root causes of your challenges. It's a collaborative, insight-oriented approach that leads to lasting change.
I've never been to therapy before. What should I expect?
The first session is a conversation—no pressure, no couch. We'll talk about what brought you here, what you're hoping to change, and whether my approach feels like the right fit. Most people feel more at ease than they expected. You can ask me anything.
How long does therapy typically take?
It depends on what you're working on. Some people find clarity in a few months; deeper pattern work often benefits from longer engagement. We'll check in regularly about your progress and goals. You're never locked in—this moves at your pace.
Do you only work with men?
While I specialize in men's mental health, I work with anyone who resonates with my approach. My specialization means I understand the specific challenges men often face around emotional expression, identity, and vulnerability—but good therapy is good therapy, regardless of gender.
Do you offer telehealth sessions?
Yes. I offer both in-person sessions in Portland, Oregon and telehealth sessions for clients in Oregon and Washington. Many clients find telehealth works just as well as in-person, and it removes the barrier of commuting.
What are your fees and do you accept insurance?
I accept Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Providence insurance plans. Session fees vary based on your plan. I also offer a limited number of sliding scale spots. We can discuss specifics during your free consultation.
Ready to understand the patterns?
If you're tired of surface-level solutions and ready to do deeper work, let's talk. Based in Portland, Oregon, I work with individuals who want lasting change, not quick fixes.
Accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions
Grounded Mind Therapy • Portland, OR
Reach Out
Get in Touch
I'd love to hear from you. Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation, or send a message with any questions.
Phone
(503) 555-0142Location
1234 NW Everett St, Suite 300
Portland, OR 97209
Hours
Monday–Thursday 9am–6pm, Friday 9am–3pm
Telehealth sessions available