Pam Askew
MSW, CSWA
She/Her/Hers
Pam became a social worker because she believes deeply in people’s capacity to heal and reconnect with themselves, especially after experiences that have disrupted their sense of safety, confidence, or meaning. She is also mindful that many people are navigating systems that are not always fair or equitable, and she was drawn to social work to advocate for individuals and communities who have been historically marginalized or underserved. Pam strives to create a space where clients feel supported, respected, and empowered to move at their own pace. She approaches therapy through a trauma-informed, strengths-based lens and views the work as collaborative, honoring each client’s resilience, lived experience, and inner wisdom. Her goal is to help clients make sense of what they are carrying and move toward greater clarity, self-compassion, and meaningful change.
Before becoming a social worker, Pam dedicated many years to raising her family while remaining deeply involved in her community. She volunteered in Bend-La Pine School District schools, worked with young children and teens and served as a CASA and SMART Reading mentor—experiences that helped shape her passion for advocacy, education, and supporting children, adolescents and families. During her social work training, Pam completed generalist internships with Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice and a local nonprofit supporting adults navigating grief and loss, followed by a clinical internship at Bend High School. She has since gained experience providing individual therapy in a private practice setting as a Clinical Social Work Associate, supporting adolescents and adults with a range of emotional and life challenges.
Pam has lived in Bend since 2002 and considers Central Oregon home. She values authenticity and meaningful connection, and enjoys unwinding with her husband and family, including her adult children and teens. In addition to family time, Pam enjoys the companionship of her dog and cat. She finds balance through running, traveling, and singing, and appreciates the strong sense of community and connection to nature that Bend offers. Pam is honored to support clients as they navigate healing, growth, and meaningful change in their lives.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Portland State University, Bachelor of Social Work
Portland State University, Master of Social Work
Specialties
Pam has advanced certification and training in trauma-informed, strengths-based care and is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Practices and trained in EMDR. Pam works with adolescent and adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adoption-related concerns, identity exploration, and life transitions.
Some Fun Facts About Me
Movie(s) I love:
Star Wars, including all prequels and sequels, Dead Poets Society, Mr. Holland’s Opus, A Beautiful Mind, and any rom-com
Favorite thing to do in Bend:
Outdoor running, walking, hiking, eating out
Favorite quote or personal motto:
”Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa
On a day with no obligations, I will be:
Hanging out with my family
Three words that describe me:
Organized, thoughtful, goofy
Favorite food to eat out:
Japanese
Hobby(ies):
Painting
Favorite weekend destination:
Seattle, Portland, Tacoma
My number one bucket list item:
participating in the Great Wall of China Marathon
Favorite food to cook:
Stir-fry
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