I am relocating to the Portland area in the near future and considering continuing in this career part time. I get the impression that Portland providers are predominantly independent and not am sure if there are many agencies or any agencies for that matter (not that one is better than the other). Does that seem to be general consensus?

I've read from the grapevine that majority of the girls in portland are managed.  Doesn't mean you can't be independent, esp if you're going to be doing it part time.  Good luck and be safe!