My name is Miki Darby, and I am a neurodivergent therapist with over 20 years of experience providing mental health support to diverse populations across Japan, New York City, Chicago, and Portland. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, psychodynamic, and strength-based, rooted in the belief that a strong, trusting relationship between client and provider is essential for meaningful and effective treatment. My ways of thinking have been shaped by a sensitivity to nuance, structure, and human experience—qualities that have guided me both personally and professionally. For much of my life, I lacked the language to describe this perspective. What is now understood as neurodivergence has never felt like a deviation, but rather a unique and meaningful way of perceiving the invisible architecture of systems, relationships, and emotional landscapes.

In my work, I listen closely—not only to what is said but also to what remains unspoken. When offering support or advocating in moments of distress, I naturally consider behavior in context. My approach honors both vulnerability and capacity, recognizing the complexity of human needs.

I have become adept at navigating tensions between appearances and truth. In environments where image or tradition dominate, I feel compelled to gently address what may be overlooked—not to critique, but to expand understanding. My goal is to create spaces where people do not need to conform in order to feel a sense of belonging.

My neurodivergent processing aligns with a strong internal drive for ethical clarity. Fairness, integrity, and empathy are not distant ideals for me—they are integral to my daily practice.

I now see these differences not as obstacles, but as vital tools for connection, insight, and justice. I remain committed to cultivating environments grounded in mutual respect, acceptance, and authenticity—places where all people are welcomed as they are.

I have a multicultural background, having been born and raised in Japan with additional time spent in the U.S. throughout both my childhood and adulthood. I am fluent in both English and Japanese, giving me firsthand experience navigating the complexities of cultural adjustment. Currently, I work as a high school counselor, supporting students in the school’s dormitory program, many of whom come from abroad.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Waseda University in Tokyo and a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University in New York. My professional experience spans diverse settings, including schools, medical hospitals, clinics, and courtrooms. I have worked with individuals of all ages—from newborns to the elderly—and have experience in foster care, adoption, homelessness, addiction, and psychiatric crisis intervention (for both youth and adults).

In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, sewing, crafting, learning, organizing, and taking nature walks with my family. I am married, have two daughters, and live with a dog and a cat.

Qualification & Certifications:
*Oregon State Licensed Clinical Social Worker
*UCLA PEERS® for Adolescents
*ADHD-CCSP (ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider)
*ASDCS (Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist)


早稲田大学卒
コロンビア大学ソーシャルワーク大学院卒

日本語、日本語／英語バイリンガルのカウンリングの提供もしています。