
FAQs
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM THERAPY?
Therapy is a collaborative relationship between a client and a therapist. Therapy provides a safe space to explore and identify thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationship patterns. You can expect to gain increased understanding and insight into your unique strengths, challenges and life experiences while also learning new ways of managing, responding to or thinking about life stresses.
WHICH THERAPY APPROACHES DO YOU USE?
My approach to therapy tends to be eclectic and collaborative, tailoring interventions to the unique needs and personalities of each of my clients. The theoretical orientations that most often inform my practice during individual counseling sessions include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In addressing family and parenting issues, I incorporate various family therapy strategies, including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, present-focused therapeutic approach which has been shown to be effective in treating a number of common mental health problems. CBT is based on the premise that our thoughts and interpretations of situations are more powerful in determining our emotional responses and reactions than the situations themselves. In CBT, we learn how to change unhealthy thinking patterns in order to achieve improved mood and remove mental barriers which may prevent us from reaching our goals.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. DBT therapy techniques are based on the key concepts of mindfulness and acceptance. The practice of DBT techniques improves and strengthens emotional regulation, healthy coping skills and interpersonal relationships.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was developed to relieve distress for those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR therapy facilitates the processing of painful traumatic memories in order to bring these memories to a more adaptive resolution. EMDR can eliminate or reduce distress related to trauma and facilitate reformulation of associated negative beliefs. During EMDR, bilateral stimulation (e.g. eye movements or tapping) is used while the client simultaneously focuses on the traumatic memory for brief segments. EMDR uses a three-pronged approach which addresses past trauma, current triggers and future rehearsal.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is conducted through "coaching" sessions during which the parent(s) and child play while the therapist watches the interactions. The therapist provides in-the-moment coaching on skills to manage the child's behavior. PCIT is done across two treatment phases. The first phase of treatment focuses on establishing warmth in the parent-child relationship through learning and applying skills proven to help children feel calm and secure in their relationships with their parents and good about themselves. The second phase of treatment equips parents to manage the most challenging behaviors while remaining confident, calm, and consistent. In this phase, parents learn proven strategies to help the child accept limits, comply with directions, respect household rules and demonstrate appropriate behavior in public.
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?
Insurances accepted include Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia, United Healthcare, Aetna, Oxford and Oscar Health. Use of insurance benefits will be facilitated through a partnership with Headway.
Clients may also self-pay for services with Health Savings Accounts, Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express. A specialized receipt can be provided to those whose insurance plans provide reimbursement for out-of-network services.
Rates for Services:
Initial Evaluation: $140
Therapy Session: $110
Additional Fee for Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy: $40*
*This fee for additional treatment team members (equine specialist, horse) is not covered by insurance.