Q Porschatis, LCSW

Coming out as a lesbian in a predominantly Mormon culture and feeling ostracized by my communities, using perfectionism to prove my worth, working in toxic environments as a chef that caused crippling burnout, and staying way too long in toxic relationships caused a lot of my own mental health struggles and trauma from childhood to my late 20s.

I embarked on a quest to "find happiness" and to try to understand why I was the way I was and why my life felt so unfulfilled. I was stuck in a constant fight-or-flight state, which always seemed to end in a depressive episode. However, at that time, I didn't have this language to describe my feelings; I just felt unhappy and disconnected from myself. I was so frustrated by this cycle and the differences in how other people could cope with challenges or didn't seem to have any hardships at all - looking back this was my own projection.

During my undergraduate studies, frustration and curiosity drove me to delve into research. I believed it could provide new perspectives and answers. What I discovered is that human behavior is influenced by both our environments and our genes. Plus, the beauty of behaviors and mental health is that we can learn, grow, adapt, and become more resilient from our challenges. We just need the right tools and support to help us achieve that.

After completing my Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Gender Studies at the University of Utah, I began working in the mental health field in 2013. The work was fulfilling and empowering. As I investigated deeper into understanding people, mental health, and behaviors, I came to realize that we are all interconnected and can each find our true authentic selves through doing deeper therapy work. I was driven to help those who were struggling and to convey the message that facing adversity doesn't define one's future, as I once thought. I wanted to assist individuals in embracing their best selves and transforming their pain and hardships into personal growth. This led me to pursue a Master's degree in social work through the University of Utah.

As I trained in school as a mental health therapist, I was able to join one of the most competitive internships in my program at the University of Utah Counseling Center. There, my love for working with individuals and helping them meet their goals paved the way for where I am today.​ 

Working in mental health for over 10 years has deepened my understanding of vulnerability and human compassion. Over the years, my education has been focused on women's rights, LGBTQ+ issues, sexuality, trauma, and intersectional identities. I specialize in working with clients dealing with trauma, mood disorders, grief, and relationship conflicts.

I'm sharing all of this with you to give you hope. When I was in my 20s, I had no hope and I thought my life would always be miserable and a struggle. Let me help guide you as you work through the trauma and step into your true, authentic self.

Things that help me live my best life: reading about adventures, watching movies, doing puzzles, working out, cooking, writing, planning my next adventure, building things, and trying new food! I also love hanging out with my family, friends, and two dogs Elvis and Oakley. I am not a self-made woman and owe part of my success to my partner, friends, and mentors along the way.