We will take stock of your strengths and skills as well as your relationships and social support systems. Diagnoses may be required for insurance reimbursement, the goals for your treatment (decided mutually) will be to identify areas in which you are struggling and formulate a plan that utilizes your strengths to help mitigate symptoms.  This process may include discomfort (e.g. sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, frustration, loneliness, or helplessness) and/or unpleasant feelings.  This is a natural part of the change process. In time and as our relationship grows, this will get better. Therapy is a wonderful (underused) resource. Our time together depends on what issues you want to work on. We might have only a few sessions together to help you get over a stressful situation or we might work longer to get through issues that may have compounded with time. Sometimes clients come in for a tune-up or a check in. Whatever you need we can work through a plan together. 

 

As humans, we are wired for connection. Therefore,  during the therapeutic process, I encourage you to seek out support systems,  including family, friends, 12-step, self-help, and support groups, religious affiliations, group therapy, medication, and enjoyable, enriching, and expressive activities, such as art, writing, music, exercise, etc. I will provide referrals to help develop a support system at your request.   

 

I practice a combination of Ecotherapy (our connection to nature and how the natural world influences our mental and physical health) and Relational-Cultural Theory (analyzing and strengthening relationships through a cultural lens). As an Ecotherapist, I may suggest that our sessions take place in an outdoor environment such as a park, nature trail, beach, etc. We will discuss in advance best places to meet in the outdoors. There is strong research evidence which suggests that just 5 minutes in a natural setting boosts our feelings. We will discuss your connection to natural places and ways in which, through a reciprocal relationship, nature can help you heal.

 

At this time, I am not on any insurance panels. I can provide you with a bill that you can submit to your insurance. Check with your plan to see if you have out of network mental health benefits. My rates range from $110-150/hour depending on the location and duration. I can also talk to you about a sliding scale. 

 

Making the phone call or sending an email is an important first step. It takes courage and strength. Send me a note and let me know when you can talk – we can have a conversation on the phone (free of charge) to see if I might be the right person to help you on your journey to wellness.