Meet Our Team - Catharine Perrin-Martin
Catharine Perrin-Martin, LICSW
Position at the Hallowell Todaro ADHD Center:
Intake Therapist
How long have you been working at Hallowell Todaro ADHD?
Since February, 2022
Where did you grow up?
Eugene, Oregon
What are your favorite books / TV shows / movies?
I love mysteries and psychological dramas (both fit with my career choice!). My favorite book is “The Hours” by Michael Cunningham. I rarely re-read fiction, but this one I re-read every year. It is just amazing how he can weave a historical figure into multiple eras and lives. I love comedies. My two favorite movies are “Best in Show” and “Rushmore.”
What is your favorite sport and/or sports team?
In our house, if there is a soccer game it is playing on TV. We love the Sounders, of course! Also, Chelsea is a big favorite.
Complete the following sentences:
When I’m not at work, you can find me...
out in the garden or wandering around our beautiful Whidbey Island.
When I want to de-stress, I...
go to the beach or on a hike. I also try to meditate daily which really helps to keep me centered, mindful and focused on what is important. Playing with our three dogs helps too!
My favorite time of year is...
definitely summer. I do love the beginning of fall, but when it starts to rain- not my favorite time. And I have lived in the PNW almost all my life and do love it here.
My favorite thing to cook is...
Honesty time. I love to eat and love healthy food, but I do not cook often. I am an awful cook and it just seemed best to let others take that role.
The best gift I ever received was…
my daughter, who is diagnosed with ADHD, finally having a teacher who saw her academic potential and strengths. That a teacher recognized her strengths changed the way she saw herself and gave her the insight that she actually liked school. It was transformative.
If I could travel anywhere in the world, I’d go to...
Thailand.
What led you to pursue a career helping others?
In college, I was immediately drawn to psychology courses. As I volunteered in different areas, including mental health and domestic violence it was very clear that I felt purpose in aiding and supporting others. I just could not imagine working in any other field.
What education, skills, and expertise do you bring to your role?
I received my MSW over 30 years ago, beginning my master's program in my mid-20's. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have experience working with diverse populations and in various settings (30 years of practice allows a lot of experiences and opportunities). I have worked with children/families as a mental health therapist and as a mental health school consultant. This allowed me the opportunity to support children in their homes and advocate for them at school as well. I have additional experience working with adults within an Employee Assistance platform and also as a telehealth generalist. My favorite employment was working within the college system with low income/designated "disabled" students. This is where my desire to support individuals who with the right advocacy, skill-building and encouragement are able to succeed in a traditional college setting and in life.
Who/what inspires you?
Honestly, people inspire me on a daily basis. I witness people reaching out for guidance and opening up to being vulnerable and that courage creates awe in me always.
What’s your personal philosophy/approach toward the work you do?
After working for so long as a social worker I can say my philosophy changes as I grow as a person and clinician. My goal is to always be as present as I can and to focus on understanding the experiences and goals of the individuals/families I am working with.
What is one small thing people can do to improve their lives and increase their happiness?
That is a big question! I have seen the impact of mindfulness on people’s everyday lives. Bringing yourself back to the present when overwhelmed can really make a big difference.
We provide a range of support for people with ADHD.