What we call obstacles are really the way the world and our entire experience teach us where we’re stuck.
Pema Chodron
FAQs
What are your specialties?
I specialize in working with adults (18+) and couples experiencing big emotions and difficult relationships. This can look like any of the following:
Intense Emotions (e.g. anxiety, depression, grief, anger, etc.)
Childhood Trauma / Complex trauma (CPTSD)
Relationship Problems
Anxious, Avoidant, or Disorganized Attachment Styles
Addiction & Substance Abuse
Borderline traits and / or Personality Disorder (BPD)
Highly Sensitive People (HSP’s)
What modalities do you use in treatment?
I am primarily Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) counselor who uses a Trauma-Informed and Client-Centered / Rogerian lens to work with clients. I also incorporate elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness, and Attachment-Based therapy into my work clients. This means that much of my clinical perspective involves looking at the ways that traumas have impacted my clients and the ways that their strengths have offered them the resilience to get to where they are now. I then work to build on my clients strengths through skills work in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, motivation, and interpersonal skills as needed. I also help my clients examine their thought processes to achieve more balanced ways of thinking about themselves the world, and their story.
What will my counseling sessions look like?
My number one goal in your first few sessions is to begin understanding the root causes of your difficulties. I will mostly give you the floor to share about yourself and listen reflectively. If you don’t know where to begin, I’ll ask guiding questions to get us started. Feel free to be as authentic and open as you are comfortable with. Periodically, I will check in with you about your goals for counseling to ensure that we are on the same page about what you want to work on. Later on in our work, I will offer suggestions of helpful new ways to view your situation and coping skills to better manage your difficulties. This may include articles and worksheets or exercises to practice in session or at home. We can continue sessions for as long as you’d like until you feel you have adequately met your therapy goals. I am happy to also share recommendations for length of treatment based on my clinical observations.
Are your services LGBTQIA+ friendly?
Absolutely! Authenticity and self-expression are some of my top values in life and in my counseling practice. I welcome folks of all genders, sexual orientations, and walks of life into my therapy office. There is always a safe space for you here. If you have specific questions about fit, feel free to reach out anytime to get sense of my style and vibe.
Do you take insurance?
I don’t take insurance at this time. You can pay out of pocket or you can use FSA/HSA. I can also provide a monthly statement called a superbill, which you can submit to your insurance company to request reimbursement. Reimbursement depends on your plan. I recommend speaking with your insurance provider in advance to see what reimbursement options they offer. For more information on how superbills work, see What is a Superbill and How is it used for Therapy?
What is the cost of a session?
$110 per 50-minute session for individuals.
$110 per 50-minute session for relaxation/mindfulness therapy.
$130 per 50-minute session for couples.
If you are unable afford my standard rates for therapy, reach out about options for out-of-network insurance reimbursement or other options for reduced-fee support. Get in touch for more information about this.
Can we meet virtually?
Of course! There are several reasons that face to face appointments can be more beneficial to clients than virtual. However, not everyone is able to make it into the office due to location or scheduling concerns. Plus, sometimes it’s nice to do therapy from home! Feel free to request teletherapy for all sessions or intermittently as needed. I use a HIPAA compliant Google Meet platform and will send you an invite to your session prior to our meeting. Please note: You must be located in the state of Missouri during your appointment to comply with legal and ethical guidelines.