The first session
This typically involves getting to know each other, discussing the reasons for seeking counseling, and setting goals for the therapy process! It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the counseling process.
All other sessions
A typical therapy session involves discussing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a confidential environment. During the session, clients may explore past experiences, set goals, and learn coping strategies to improve their mental health and overall well-being. I may use various techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, or EMDR therapy, to help clients reach their goals and make positive changes in their lives.
A little more on trauma…
Trauma-informed counseling involves providing therapy that takes into consideration anxieties, depression, stressors, and the impact of past traumas on a person's mental health and well-being. It focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their experiences, process their emotions, and develop coping skills to manage the effects of trauma.
Being trauma-informed is crucial, as the impact of trauma on the body is significant as it can manifest physically and emotionally. Learning resourcing skills in counseling is essential to helping individuals cope with and heal from trauma effectively. By developing these skills, individuals can better regulate their emotions and manage the effects of trauma on their bodies.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that aims to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories or experiences. It involves the use of bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or taps, to help process and reframe these distressing memories. EMDR is commonly used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other trauma-related conditions, anxiety disorders, and phobias, as it helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories in a safe and controlled manner. The effectiveness of EMDR is believed to stem from its ability to activate the brain's natural healing processes, allowing individuals to integrate and resolve traumatic experiences more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we meet virtually?
Yes! We will meet through a HIPAA-compliant virtual platform for all video sessions. The app or website is free for you as the client! I do not offer telephone sessions.
How long is a session, and how often will I see you?
Sessions are typically 55 minutes long and are often scheduled weekly, especially in the beginning. Most people have been struggling to deal with difficult situations by the time they come to therapy. Weekly sessions will help to keep you accountable and motivated to work towards your goals in an efficient way. As therapy progresses, we can work together to determine if weekly sessions will continue to be useful. Some people will find that as they begin to heal and grow, fewer sessions are needed. The frequency of sessions can be adjusted in order to best meet your needs and maintain positive change.
How long does therapy last?
Every client is going through a unique situation, so the length of treatment will vary. Most people attend therapy for an average of 8-20 sessions, but it is always up to you how long you want to meet. Some clients will get what they need in 4-5 sessions, whereas other people attend therapy for six months to a year. There are many factors that will help determine the length of therapy, including the complexity of the issue, how much growth and change you want to make, how deeply you would like to explore the issue, and your commitment to making and maintaining the positive changes. I will work with you to determine an appropriate schedule for therapy!
What is the ‘Good Faith Estimate’?
Under Section 2799-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a federal health care program, or who are not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage, both orally and in writing, of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges.
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost under the law. Health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059.