Beka Vanden Heuvel, MSW, CSWA, is a behavioral and mental health therapist with Women's Healthcare Associates in Oregon City, Oregon.
"One of the most satisfying parts of my job is watching people reach new avenues of advocacy for themselves. Being able to support them as they do the work then celebrate as they take pride in seeing the outcome of that work is really rewarding."
Originally on a path toward a career in child welfare, Beka was drawn to healthcare during her studies because of the opportunity she saw to help increase access to the type of care and support that could help build stronger families. Specializing in perinatal mental health gives her the opportunity to work with people during pivotal times when their identities are in flux—including pregnancy, the transition to parenthood, following a pregnancy loss or during fertility challenges. Beka uses her training and extensive background with families and children to help people explore and name what they’re feeling, reducing the feelings of isolation that can come along with perinatal anxiety, depression or grief. Building rapport and relationship from a place of non-judgement is her first priority in creating a space where each person feels safe to explore what they are experiencing. In addition to working with families and children, Beka’s background also includes working with people of marginalized identities, such as LGBTQIA+/queer, multi-cultural and neurodivergent individuals and people who fall into multiple identity groups and may experience the challenges of becoming a parent differently.
Beka’s spare time is spent caring for a multitude of pets and visits to the dog park. She also enjoys anime embroidering.
Graduate Degree:
Master of Social Work, Portland State University, 2020
Undergraduate Degree:
Bachelor of Arts, Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2014