FAQs
Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions?
I currently offer in person at my office in mid-town Anchorage, and virtual to individuals within Alaska. Virtual sessions are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform and can be a flexible option for many clients.
Do you take insurance?
Yes, I am in-network with several insurance providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Optum, and TriWest. I courtesy bill all insurances (in and out of network) and I’m also happy to provide a superbill, if preferred. Please see the section Rates & Insurance for further information and questions you can ask your insurance company.
What kinds of therapy do you offer?
I use a blend of trauma-informed approaches, including Brainspotting, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and more. Therapy is always tailored to your needs—we’ll choose methods that feel supportive and aligned with your goals. You can learn more in the Services section.
What’s the difference between talking to you and my best friend or family?
Talking to trusted friends or family can be incredibly supportive—but therapy offers something different. As a therapist, I’m trained to listen without judgment, help you explore patterns, and guide you toward deeper insight and healing. Our time together is confidential (you won't have to worry about others "knowing my business"), and focused entirely on you, grounded in evidence-based tools that support lasting change. Therapy can offer the kind of space where all of you is welcome—without needing to protect anyone else’s feelings.
Could my mental health symptoms have a medical cause?
Yes, it’s possible. Sometimes symptoms like anxiety, depression, fatigue, and mood swings are connected to underlying medical conditions such as thyroid imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, or hormonal changes. I encourage you to check in with your primary care physician and request a full medical evaluation, including blood work if needed. Ruling out and/or getting support in these areas can aid and strengthen the work we do together in therapy.
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.
What can I expect in the first session?
Our very first appointment will be an intake, where I gather pertinent information on your history and answer any questions you have about the therapy process. After the intake, our first session is about getting to know each other. Maybe there is something specific you want to discuss, or perhaps you want to learn a new coping skill— the time is yours! You’re welcome to share at your own pace—there’s no pressure to go into anything too deep right away.
How long is each session?
Most sessions are 50–55 minutes long. Occasionally, we may schedule a longer session if we’re doing more intensive work like EMDR or ART, and we’ll talk ahead of time if that feels like a good fit.
How often will I need to come?
Weekly sessions are common at the beginning through middle stages to help build momentum and consistency. As you feel more stable or make progress, we may shift to every other week or another rhythm that fits your needs and goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Therapy is a collaborative process—there’s no script, and you don’t have to prepare anything perfectly. In each session, you’ll be invited to talk about what’s on your mind, reflect on your experiences, or explore how you’re feeling in the moment. Sometimes we may use specific techniques or approaches (like EMDR or Brainspotting), and sometimes we simply focus on building awareness, connection, and insight.
You’re always in control of what you choose to share. My job is to create a safe, supportive space and guide the process in a way that feels manageable and meaningful for you.
How long will it take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, because healing and growth look different for everyone. The length of therapy depends on your goals, your current circumstances, and how deep you want to go in the work. Some clients come for a few months to focus on a specific issue, while others choose longer-term support for deeper healing. We’ll check in regularly to make sure therapy is supporting you in the ways that matter most.
What if I’m nervous or not sure I’m ready?
That’s completely okay. It’s normal to feel uncertain, especially if you’ve been through hard things. You don’t have to know exactly what to say or where to start—I’ll meet you wherever you are. Taking the first step is already a sign of strength.
What is trauma-informed therapy?
Trauma-informed therapy recognizes the ways trauma can impact the body, mind, and relationships. It emphasizes safety, choice, and collaboration. You’ll never be pushed to talk about anything before you’re ready, and we’ll always go at a pace that feels manageable for you.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
That’s a great question—and a great mindset. Therapy works best when you show up regularly, stay open to the process, and share honestly, even if you’re unsure where to start. Progress often happens in small, steady steps, not just big breakthroughs.
In addition to what we do in sessions, here are some general self-care practices that can support your healing:
Give yourself time to rest—Healing work can be emotionally tiring.
Take care of your body—Movement and nutrition are medicine!
Limit overexposure to stressors when possible, especially right after sessions.
Engage in grounding activities like walking, journaling, creative expression, or spending time in nature.
Stay curious, not critical—if something feels hard or stuck, that’s often part of the process.
Reach out—you don’t have to navigate everything alone, and asking for help is a strength.
And remember: there’s no “perfect” way to do therapy. Simply showing up and staying engaged—at your own pace—is enough.