Background, Education and Training

I draw from many disciplines and personal life experience. My formal education began by receiving my my bachelors degree in fine arts from Colorado State University, and my elementary teaching credential from University of California at San Diego, teaching elementary school for 10 years.

I later went to massage school and worked as a therapeutic bodyworker/massage therapist for 6 years. During that time, I attended graduate school and earned Master of Social Work  (MSW) from the University of Utah. I completed a certificate program in Person Centered Expressive Arts therapy, and completed level 1 and 2 training in EMDR Therapy through EMDRIA. I also completed the Hakomi, MAPS, and Attachment trainings through M.E.T.A (Mindfulness Based Therapy Approaches) Training Center in Portland.

Throughout the years have attended many professional trainings and workshops including, but not limited to: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma informed therapy, and 40 hour sexual assault crisis training, social justice training, and LGBTQ+ competency. I continue to participate in conferences,  continuing education, classes, and ongoing peer consultation to improve my skills and presence both personally
and in my work with clients.

Formal Education
  • Master of Social Work, University of Utah
  • Elementary Teaching Education Program, UC San Diego
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts, Colorado State University
  • Trained and experienced supervisor for MSW and CSWA's working toward their license
  • Certificate in Person Centered Expressive Arts Therapy
  • Completed level 1 and 2 EMDR training (EMDRIA)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) training

Clinical Experience
  • Private Practice Psychotherapy 2006-present
  • Mental Health Therapist  2003-present
  • Supervisor for MSW interns and CSWA's 2008-present
  • Senior Therapist, Rape Recovery Center- SLC, UT- 4+ years
  • Therapist, Cornerstone Counseling -3+ years (adult substance use disorder treatment)
  • Internship/Practicum: University of Utah Counseling Center-1 year
Words from a colleague:

"I highly recommend Robin Friedman. ... I have always experienced her as a dedicated, action-oriented professional with a passion for her work. She is conscientious and detail-oriented... I referred a client to one of her expressive art therapy groups, not sure how [my client] would handle the experience, but the feedback I got was that Robin helped her to feel welcome and safe. My client had very positive feedback about her group experience, and Robin in particular. I was sorry to see Robin leave SLC...Portland is lucky to have her!"

Professional Memberships (current and/or past)
Back to  ABOUT ROBIN
Robin Friedman LCSW LLC 1235 SE Division St. #202b Portland, Oregon 97202
​503-348-4085 CONTACT

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