What happens during our first meeting?
Our first session is to see if you feel comfortable with me, and for you to experience a somatic psychotherapy session. We can begin with talking a bit about what you would like to address in our work together, and I will offer you some somatic experiences related to your concerns. I am also sensitive to those who have difficulty or are fearful of their own bodies, so there is space for patience and sensing your boundaries.
Do you accept insurance?
I am an out-of-network provider, which means that I will give you a Superbill with CPT codes and all necessary information at the end of the month that you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
Fee for service
My regular fee for service is $260 per 45 minute session. I accept Zelle payments, which are due on the day of your session.
Can you work with my current talk therapist?
Somatic psychotherapy is a full-service, bodymind integrated psychotherapy treatment. Seeing two psychotherapists at the same time can be very confusing and possibly even damaging to your treatment. Imagine if you had diabetes and took two different medications for it! Both are effective, but combined could be more detrimental than helpful.
If you love your therapist, stay with them! If you are ready to go beyond talk therapy, give me a call after you feel that you have completed treatment with them.
Do you prescribe medication? What is your view of medication?
I do not prescribe medication. Only a doctor with a medical license can do that, such as a psychiatrist. I believe that medication can be a great support to many people and that it should be used in extreme situations to help a person function and benefit from therapy. This is a collaborative decision between us, and can be discussed if the conditions are appropriate.
How often should I come?
The most effective treatment happens when you attend once per week. Weekly sessions helps to build relationship and get momentum rolling, as well as help you to develop a consistent practice of caring for yourself. Regular attendance helps your body to prepare for sessions, as your body's circadian rhythm begins to adjust to a regular weekly meeting. You might start to have interesting dreams the night before or after a session, or sense a shift in your experience as your "body-self" begins to feel safe in the process.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
Just like any process, what you put into your work is what you will get out of it. Some people come to therapy with a very specific focus and goal in mind, and once reached feel finished. Most wish to enter into a more long-term therapeutic treatment focusing on healing childhood wounds and increasing their capacity to be in healthier relationships. I've had some clients come for just one episodic trauma treatment session, and others I have been working with for 10 years or more. There is no right or wrong.
Cancellation Policy
I maintain a 48 hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel, but do not do so 48 hours in advance, you will be responsible for paying the full cost of the treatment as scheduled.
So now that you know how it works, you can see where we'll meet on the "office location" page...