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What is therapy?
Therapy is like a car shop for the self. Mechanics help us when our vehicle needs repair or maintenance. Therapists help us when our lives need repair or maintenance.
There are many types of therapy and many types of psychotherapy. Research shows that the client-therapist relationship is more important than the type of therapy being used. That is, you are more likely to reach your therapeutic goals if you vibe with your therapist.
What therapies do you practice?
I practice psycho- and somatic therapy.
Psychotherapy is for our mind. I formally studied the psychotherapy Couples and Family Therapy. Social systems (like family, community, and culture) can have profound impact on our mental well-being. Using words to recognize and change how you exist in these systems is one strategy for healing.
Somatic therapy is for the body. I formally studied the somatic therapy Dance and Movement Therapy. We feel in addition to thinking. Using movement to recognize and change how you exist in your body is another strategy for healing.
Both of these strategies aim to change how you relate to your thinking and feeling nervous system. Relating your thoughts and feelings leads to change in your words and actions. This will change your relationships and your life.
In addition to psychotherapy and somatic therapy, I offer therapy with video game integration. Psycho- and somatic therapy will be included with this integration. Let me know if this is something you want!
Can I have couples and family therapy as an individual?
Absolutely! I practice seeing your difficulties in the context of your relationships. It is helpful if these relationships enter therapy with you, but they do not need to.
Will I be expected to dance?
Absolutely not! I hope that you will experience a joyful relationship with your body. Dance is one way to do this, but it is not the only way.
Can you help me with addiction?
Yes. If your impulsive interaction with substances or behaviors is impeding your life, it is time for a change. Addiction can be a life-long struggle. Together, we will explore how to make reality without the substance tolerable.
Can you help me with anxiety?
Yes. Stress happens. Recurrent stress drains. We can explore anything and everything that is making you worry, fear, and nervous. We can apply acceptance of the things that cannot be changed, courage to change what can be change, wisdom to know the difference. We can jump, we can shake, we can yell, and we can breathe.
Can you help me with depression?
Yes. We can start small.
Can you help me with loneliness?
Yes. At the least, you will find a safe place to speak your mind and feelings in therapy with me. At the most, you will find new life in your relationships with parent(s), child(ren), sibling(s), friend(s), pet(s), and romantic partner(s), and self.
Can you help me with physical pain?
Yes. Pain is like a warning light. Sometimes the light does not go off. We can search for where the pain is coming from and for healthy outlets for release. We can practice re-relating to pain by moving in ways that support physical and mental healing.
Can you help me with relationships?
Yes. I am here to help you strengthen your relationship with your romantic partner(s), parent(s), child(ren), sibling(s), friend(s), or pet(s). Bringing these relationships into therapy is helpful, but not required. We will practice identifying love in ourselves and connecting it with our love for others. We will practice communicating that love gently, patiently, and kindly.
Can you help me with trauma?
Yes. Finding safety in the present moment sometimes requires a trip to the past. We can talk about, paint about, sing about, dance about, and cry about unbearable situations you have been in or are currently going through. We can explore ways to change your present relationship to the past.
How long will therapy take?
It depends. Some find that one session of therapy is enough to spark change. Others stay in therapy for life. You are welcome to come into and leave therapy with me as often and long as you would like.
Do you take insurance?
Not at this time. Many mental health professionals are choosing this route. You will be sent an invoice/superbill monthly. Check with your current insurance - they may cover it.
What if I have other questions?
The best way to reach me is to schedule and attend a free consultation call. You can also email me at GentleTherapy@outlook.com