BEFORE YOU MAKE ASSUMPTIONS

Our Stand on OHA Certification

Why we chose community care and autonomy over state recognition.

WE’RE BUILDING SOMETHING GROUNDED IN TRUST, SAFETY, AND COMMUNITY CARE-ON OUR OWN TERMS.

Rebel Heart Therapy is a queer-owned and operated small business, created by and for LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, and kink communities. In a political climate where trans, queer, and other marginalized people face escalating threats—often from the very systems meant to protect us—we believe it is more important than ever to limit the reach of external institutions into our work and our clients’ lives.

For this reason, we have repeatedly and thoughtfully decided not to pursue OHA certification, despite the potential benefits it might bring. Certification would require a level of state access to clinical records, internal policies, and demographic data—even for clients who don’t use state-funded insurance—that does not align with our values or our commitment to client autonomy.

While Oregon has made meaningful progress in affirming queer and trans rights, our trust in state systems is not unconditional. This approach doesn’t work for our practice. We’re building something grounded in trust, safety, and community care—on our own terms.

We are heartbroken by recent policy changes that prevent our CareOregon clients from accessing covered mental health care through our associate-level clinicians. These decisions have disrupted meaningful relationships. We did not want this—but we will not compromise the integrity or independence of our practice to maintain it.

We remain grateful for OHA-certified partners in our community. Their presence allows us to confidently refer clients with state insurance to strong, affirming providers.