Trauma-informed counseling is an approach that recognizes how past experiences of trauma can affect your thoughts, emotions, and behavior. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive environment where your pace and boundaries are respected. This approach emphasizes empowerment, understanding, and coping strategies, helping you build resilience and emotional well-being without retraumatization.
What is neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence refers to natural differences in how brains process information, think, and experience the world. This includes conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological variations. Being neurodivergent is not a flaw — it simply means your brain works differently. In counseling, we honor these differences, helping you build coping strategies, self-understanding, and emotional resilience in a way that respects your unique needs and experiences.
How do you support neurodivergent clients?
Our counseling is neurodivergent-affirming, meaning we honor the ways your brain and nervous system experience the world. We provide strategies and accommodations tailored to your needs, focusing on coping skills, emotional regulation, and self-understanding. Sessions are designed to reduce overwhelm, respect sensory differences, and help you thrive in everyday life.
Is your counseling inclusive of all gender identities and sexual orientations?
Yes. We provide counseling that is inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our sessions are a safe space where your identity is respected and validated. We focus on supporting your mental health, coping strategies, and overall well-being without judgment, while honoring both neurodivergent and trauma-affected experiences.
How do you support LGBTQ+ clients who are also neurodivergent?
We understand that being both LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent can bring unique challenges. Our approach is neurodivergent-affirming and queer-inclusive, helping you navigate social, emotional, and sensory experiences in a way that respects your identity. We provide tailored coping strategies, self-understanding tools, and emotional support to help you thrive.
Do you provide queer-affirming counseling?
Yes. We provide queer-affirming counseling that respects and supports your sexual orientation, gender identity, and unique experiences. Sessions are designed to be safe, nonjudgmental, and inclusive, honoring both neurodivergent and trauma-affected clients. We focus on coping strategies, emotional well-being, and navigating challenges related to identity, relationships, and mental health in a way that centers your comfort and autonomy
I still want to see you, but you don't accept my insurance, what can I do?
Talk to me about receiving superbills. Superbills will provide you with the information your insurance company will ask for if you file for reimbursement. Reimbursement is not always possible, but if you qualify for reimbursement for some or all of your fees, your insurance company will need you to provide information about my practice and that information can be provided in a superbill.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
How long should I practice new therapy skills/techniques for?
However long you think will encourage you to do it again. So often we set these big goals for ourselves when we are desperate for change, because that desparation is quite motivating. But the truth is, therapy and healing is hard work. And showing up for yourself is hard work. Especially when you're used to showing up for everyone else, but you. I often get asked this question and every time my answer is that quantity beats quality. If you want to take up journaling, or a deep breathing practice, and it feels intimidating-- start with 1 to 3 minutes. Seriously. When you're done I want you to think, "I could do that again", not, "Well that was the worst thing I've ever done". Next time, you can go a little longer. Set a date with youself to practice again in the near future, and it won't feel so intimidating because you've just completed it in a matter of minutes.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.