What happens in a first session and how do you build safety for trauma work?

A first session with me is a “get to know each other” session. Typically, we will start by going over some paperwork, and then I will ask you some questions to help me understand what you want to work on, and a bit about your history. This helps me create a mental road map of where you’ve been, and it helps you get a feel for sitting in a room with me. You can share as much or as little as you want — in the first session, and always. If you decide you’d like to continue working with me, we’ll find a time to meet again.

Safety in trauma work comes from you feeling that you are in control of what you share and when. My hope is that you leave the first session feeling respected and seen, without feeling pressured. From there we move through the work in collaboration — with you setting the pace, and me holding the space for safety and security.

 

Who do you work with?

I work with adults navigating a wide range of challenges — including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, relational difficulties, professional distress, or simply feeling that the world has become overwhelming. My clients include people healing from difficult life experiences, service members and veterans carrying the weight of their service, those who are searching for a clearer sense of self, and people who feel disconnected from the relationships that matter most to them. You are welcome in my office without judgement, no matter who you are. My goal is to be respectful of every client regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religious affiliation.

 

What types of trauma do you work with?

I support people who have experienced childhood physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as childhood neglect. I also work with clients who have experienced partner relational violence, sexual assault, single event traumas (car accident, etc.), and military trauma, —both combat and other service related experiences. Trauma comes in many different forms whether a single event or chronic abuse, it carries consequences that live deep in our lives. My job is to support you in finding the healing you need so that you can develop a feeling of safety and connection— to your own life and the people in it— which may feel difficult to access right now.

 

What is the difference between PTSD and complex or developmental trauma?

PTSD and complex trauma are related but distinct. PTSD is a particular set of responses — flashback memories, avoiding people or places associated with the event, changes in mood, increased arousal — that can emerge immediately, months or even years following a traumatic experience. Complex or developmental trauma occurs when a person suffers long term, interpersonal trauma such as chronic abuse or neglect, often during childhood. This type of trauma can lead to difficulty forming secure attachments, a strong, negative self-concept, and difficulty managing emotions, among other things. Both can have a serious impact on survivors, and both can be treated in a therapeutic setting — often with really positive outcomes.

 

What therapy approaches do you use for trauma?

I use a combination of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, parts work, somatic interventions (body awareness), as well as traditional talk therapy. Trauma work requires me to be deeply attuned with your needs. The pace of therapy is guided by your sense of security in the therapy room, and the strength and quality of our relationship. Trauma work can be really difficult, so knowing that you’re in control — and that your needs will always be honored — are keys to being able to stick with it.

 

Do you accept insurance and what are your rates?

I accept Tricare insurance (for military service members and their dependents). My fee for the therapy hour (55 minutes) is $190. For clients paying out of pocket, I’m happy provide you superbills that you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement depending on your plan. I don’t work directly with any insurance companies outside of Tricare.