Frequently Asked Questions

I specialize in trauma-focused therapies including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), brainspotting, and body-mind psychotherapy that integrates somatic therapy and clinical hypnotherapy. These evidence-based approaches work with how trauma and emotional patterns are stored in the nervous system, often reaching deeper levels than traditional talk therapy.

Trauma therapy can be beneficial if you experience symptoms like intrusive memories, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, depression, or feeling "stuck" in patterns that don't respond to other approaches. Many people benefit from trauma therapy even when they don't have a formal PTSD diagnosis.

Trauma therapy specifically addresses how traumatic experiences are stored in the nervous system and body, using specialized techniques to process and integrate these experiences. Regular therapy often focuses on thoughts and behaviors, while trauma therapy works directly with the neurological and somatic impacts of difficult experiences.

Treatment length varies significantly based on individual factors and trauma complexity. Some clients experience substantial relief in 6-12 sessions for specific traumas, while complex trauma may require longer-term work. We'll discuss your specific goals and timeline during our initial consultation.

Both EMDR and brainspotting work with eye movements and trauma processing, but they use different approaches. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation across the visual field to help the brain process traumatic memories, while brainspotting finds specific eye positions where your brain naturally wants to process, allowing for more sustained and often deeper work.

Body-mind psychotherapy integrates somatic therapy and hypnotherapy to work with patterns stored in both the body and subconscious mind. While EMDR and brainspotting focus primarily on processing specific memories, body-mind approaches help develop ongoing awareness of how emotions live in your physical being.

All three approaches can be highly effective for complex trauma, often used in combination. Brainspotting and body-mind psychotherapy are particularly gentle for complex trauma because they work at your nervous system's natural pace, while EMDR can be very effective when combined with adequate preparation and stabilization.

Yes, these approaches can be highly effective for anxiety and depression even when no clear trauma is present. Anxiety and depression often stem from nervous system patterns or subconscious beliefs formed early in life, which these therapies can access and transform at their source.

Virtual therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for trauma work, and many clients find certain advantages. EMDR, brainspotting, and body-mind approaches all adapt well to telehealth, and being in your own safe environment can actually enhance your sense of safety and comfort during processing.

You'll need a stable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or smartphone), and a quiet, private space. For some techniques, headphones can enhance the experience. I'll provide specific setup guidance to ensure optimal session quality.

Yes, I use a HIPAA-compliant video platform specifically designed for healthcare to ensure your privacy and security. Virtual sessions maintain the same confidentiality standards as in-person therapy, with additional security measures for online communication.

Absolutely. EMDR adapts to virtual sessions using on-screen bilateral stimulation, self-administered techniques, or audio stimulation through headphones. Brainspotting works seamlessly through video sessions, as I can guide you to locate specific eye positions through your screen just as effectively as in person.

Initial sessions focus on understanding your goals, history, and current challenges while beginning to develop safety and resources. We'll discuss which therapeutic approaches might be most beneficial and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and comfort level.

Not necessarily. EMDR, brainspotting, and body-mind approaches often work without requiring detailed verbal processing of traumatic events. The healing happens through your brain's natural processing mechanisms rather than through extensive talking about what happened.

Emotional responses are a natural part of healing, and I'm trained to support you through whatever arises. These therapy approaches are designed to work within your window of tolerance, meaning we process material at a pace your nervous system can handle without becoming overwhelmed.

Progress often shows up as reduced emotional charge around triggers, improved sleep, decreased anxiety or depression symptoms, increased sense of calm and presence, and greater capacity to handle stress. Some clients notice changes immediately, while others experience gradual shifts over several sessions.

I operate on a fee-for-service basis and do not accept insurance directly. This approach allows for more flexibility in treatment without insurance company limitations.

Standard session rates are $175 for 60 minutes, with sliding scale options available for those experiencing financial hardship. I believe everyone deserves access to effective trauma treatment regardless of financial circumstances.

I offer virtual therapy sessions to residents of Wisconsin and Minnesota. Virtual sessions allow me to serve clients throughout both states, including Milwaukee, Madison, Minneapolis, and Saint Paul, as well as rural areas where specialized trauma therapy might not be readily available.

I offer free, no-obligation phone consultations to discuss your needs and determine if my approaches align with your goals. You can schedule through my website or contact me directly to arrange a time that works for your schedule.

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These trauma therapy approaches are designed to be safe and non-retraumatizing. They work with your nervous system's natural capacity rather than forcing processing, and we always ensure you have adequate resources and stabilization before working with difficult material.

Yes, trauma often manifests in physical symptoms like chronic pain, digestive issues, sleep problems, or autoimmune conditions. Body-mind approaches and somatic techniques can be particularly helpful for addressing trauma's physical manifestations.

Many people benefit from trauma therapy even without clear traumatic events. These approaches can help with any patterns that feel "stuck," overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, or sense that something is blocking your full potential and aliveness.