TRAUMA SENSITIVE YOGA
Expressive Art Therapy
Mindful SElf-compassion
INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS
Trauma sensitive yoga
I was trained in Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) in 2020. TCTSY is an evidenced-based clinical treatment for complex and chronic trauma or PTSD, developed by David Emerson and Jenn Turner of the Center for Trauma and Embodiment at the Justice Resource Institute. Research has found that TCTSY increases participants' sense of safety and connection in their own bodies, decreases dissociation and flashbacks, improves emotional self-regulation, and empowers choices in other areas of their lives.
Each yoga form and movement is an invitation and participants are given an opportunity to make choices, be present in the moment, and notice feelings in a way that is useful to them. No previous yoga experience is necessary and TCTSY can be practiced on a mat or chair. Because the physical expression of the yoga form is less important than the inner experience, there are no physical assists.
“This should be of no surprise when we realize that a common denominator of all traumas is an alienation and disconnection from the body and a reduced capacity to be present in the here and now.”
-David Emerson, Overcoming Trauma through Yoga: Reclaiming Your Body-
Expressive Art Therapy
I often bring creativity into the therapeutic process, along with talk therapy. Using creative modalities, such as poetry, music, and art provides opportunities to communicate in a different way, often leading to greater insight, transformation, and positive change. I have taken additional training on the use of creativity in counseling, in order to assist those I work with in the healing process.
I have several different creative mediums available, such as clay, oil pastels, markers, and collage materials that can be used to explore and make what was previously invisible, visible. Clients have brought their journals, artwork, and musical instruments to sessions, as well. Research is showing that creativity has the power to improve cognitive functioning, reduce pain, increase our ability to manage stress and improve the quality of life.
"Art is a wound turned into light."
- Georges Braque -
Mindful Self-Compassion
I believe we all hold the capacity for healing within ourselves. Therapy can be helpful in identifying hidden strengths and resources, as well as bringing an awareness of those unhealthy patterns in our lives. There is an opportunity for change when we understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and behavior and the impact that has on us.
I’m trauma informed and take a healing centered approach to counseling. I incoprporate mindful self-compassion, to assist clients in being present in the moment with kindness towards those difficult emotions and painful experiences. Many of us have learned to be self-judgmental and overly critical when we perceive shortcomings in ourselves. This cycle of thinking causes an increase in anxiety, depression and keeps us in a cycle of shame and judgment, affecting our ability to live fully. Research has shown that when we can be with our pain and discomfort, with curiosity and kindness, rather than avoiding it, our happiness is increased, anxiety and depression is lessened, and our ability to manage stress is improved.
"If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete."
-Buddha-
INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS
As an IFS-informed practitioner, I integrate the principles of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy into my work, supporting clients as they explore the complex inner world of their thoughts, emotions, and patterns. IFS views the mind as composed of distinct “parts,” each with its own role, burden, and intention.
At the heart of IFS is the understanding that every part has a positive intention, even if its strategies cause distress. Healing does not involve banishing or suppressing these parts — instead, it arises through curiosity, compassion, and connection. By gently turning toward these parts with respect and openness, clients begin to unburden long-held pain and beliefs.
Beneath all parts is the Self — a calm, compassionate, and curious presence that can lead the internal system with wisdom and care. When we create space for the Self to lead, healing, integration, and deep transformation become not only possible but natural.
“Parts are little inner beings who are trying their best to keep you safe.”
-Richard C. Schwartz-
session costs + insurance information
$175 for a 50-60 minute Individual session
EMDR Therapy Intensives
WE’LL WORK TOGETHER TO DETERMINE HOW MANY HOURS AND DAYS WOULD WORK BEST FOR YOUR THERAPY GOALS DURING OUR 20 MINUTE CONSULTATION.
These days can be consecutive or spread out over time.
Weekend Rates Add $25 per Hour
EMDR Intensives are preceded by two 50-60 minute preparatory sessions. These sessions give us the opportunity to:
Get to know each other and build therapeutic rapport
Clarify your goals for the Intensive
Identify key memories or themes to target
Ensure that EMDR is the right fit for your needs
These sessions are an important part of the process and may be covered by insurance, depending on your plan.
I do accept some insurance plans, though most Insurance companies will not pay for sessions longer than 60 minutes. I MAY BE ABLE TO BILL YOUR INSURANCE FOR THE 60 minutes PRE AND POST EMDR INTENSIVE SESSIONS.
if I do not take your insurance, I can provide you with an invoice for services if you are interested in submitting claims to your insurance company, for possible reimbursement.
Please contact your insurance company if you have questions about your benefits.