Frequently Asked Questions
My approach is best described as body-oriented talk therapy.
Processing through talking is important to the therapeutic process. But it's often not enough to create lasting change on its own.
Somatic therapy incorporates the body's signals as another source of information in session. Each time I gently remind you to pause and notice sensations in your body as you share, you'll get to know yourself a little better. When I offer you a grounding tool like a brief practice of breath, movement, or mindfulness, it will not only help you in session but it will become a resource outside of session.
You're always empowered to say no to any practice I offer if it doesn't feel like a fit.
You'll feel the difference with the somatic approach.
While my somatic therapy training is the basis of my work, I balance that embodied approach by sprinkling in helpful ways of thinking from the more logical, rational Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) method. I also incorporate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) when clients are struggling with a disturbing or persistently upsetting memory or set of beliefs. When working with couples, I draw from my training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is designed to help couples learn their patterns of relating so they can shift the dance of their relationship to find greater harmony and satisfaction. Whatever approach I'm taking, my top priority is always connecting with you in the moment to support you in finding greater ease and whole person wellbeing.
Please contact me for my current rate.
I want everyone to be able to experience the benefits of therapy. If my current rate does not fit your budget and I do not have sliding scale spots available, I would be happy to provide you with referrals.
I offer a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation for new clients to see if we are a good fit and to talk through logistics. Contact me to schedule.
I believe therapy in making therapy more accessible to all.
I maintain three sliding scale slots for those who are interested in therapy and have a financial need that would prohibit them from paying the full rate. My sliding scale slots are currently full.
I am also proud to partner with Spark the Change Colorado's Mental Wellness Program to offer one pro-bono slot.
Contact me to inquire about being added to the sliding scale wait list.
I do not accept insurance. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can provide you with a receipt (also known as a superbill) each month for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. You will still pay me upfront and then you are responsible for filing the superbill with your insurance.
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Why don't I take insurance? Most importantly, I believe that you and I, as client and therapist, should be making decisions about how to best support your wellbeing. Insurance companies dictate how often you can receive therapy services, how long sessions can be, and how many sessions you get per year. They also require a medical diagnosis. Many of my clients don't meet criteria for diagnosis, and that's okay! You still deserve to get the help you're seeking.
I offer both options, depending on which works best for you. In-person sessions are hosted at my sunny office in Boulder, CO. Virtual sessions (for Colorado residents) happen via a secure telehealth platform. You are welcome to choose the virtual option even if you live in Boulder. For some clients, the convenience of being in the comfort of their own home is preferable. For others, the in-person connection better supports their process. It's your choice, and we can discuss the options during our consultation.
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy and it was developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987. The method has been extensively researched since and has been found to be very effective for working with a variety of issues.
EMDR harnesses your brain's natural ability to move towards healing. When you get a cut or injury, your body naturally springs into action to heal that wound. The theory behind EMDR is that your brain is similarly designed to move towards repair. One of the ways that your brain conducts repair on a daily basis is through REM sleep, during which your eyes move rapidly.
If you have had a traumatic experience in the past and you're having difficulty "getting over it" or "moving beyond it," EMDR theorizes that this memory or experience was improperly processed by the brain. By using bilateral stimulation through eye movements (or alternating tapping), it is believed that EMDR helps you to shift your relationship with that memory or traumatic event.
If you and our partner are willing and committed to coming to therapy, we can work with a variety of processing styles.
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My couples work is based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which supports couples in understanding the dynamic of the dance that is their relationship in order to gradually shift the music and moves. We'll work together to uncover how each of you plays into the negative cycle in your relationship, and over time we'll practice shifting that in session so you can bring those changes home.
I understand talking about emotions doesn't come naturally to everyone. I'll meet you and your partner where you are and support you in gradually navigating the emotional terrain you need to explore in order to work on your relationship.
Many clients find that bringing in a little bit of yoga or working briefly with the Himalayan singing bowls can enhance the processing work they're doing. I'm happy to incorporate just a few minutes of yoga or bowls into a standard 50-minute session, or we can schedule a longer session to offer more time for each. Reach out and together we'll design your ideal session.