Trauma therapy & EMDR in Virginia

Therapy is a relational process, and a strong connection is the key to meaningful work. It’s kind of like matchmaking! While our therapeutic relationship will grow and change over time, I offer a free 15min phone call to help us assess our initial fit. You can schedule yours here.

On our call, we’ll talk about what you’re looking for. I’ll share more about my approach, and you can ask any questions as you explore whether I’m the right match. If I’m not the best fit, I’m happy to refer you to other trusted therapists in Richmond or across Virginia.

Of course, you’re also welcome to go ahead and schedule your first session (or “intake”) if you’d like to go ahead and get started.

For further guidance, I recommend this Psychology Today article, which outlines some helpful questions to ask when choosing a therapist.

Research indicates yes: Therapy can be a meaningful investment in your mental health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.

While it can help ease symptoms of anxiety, trauma, or burnout, therapy also offers much more. Our work together can support you in gaining clarity, building resilience, strengthening relationships, and — above all — reconnecting with your core values.

In my experience (both personally and professionally) therapy offers a space for lasting growth, not just quick fixes. If you’re ready to invest in a more grounded, authentic life, therapy is absolutely worth it.

Our first session (often called an “intake”) is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin collaboratively outlining what support might look like.

I’ll also ask some questions about your mental health, family, and personal history to help me better understand your story. Finally, we’ll review practice policies and make sure you feel comfortable moving forward. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have — during our intake session, or at any point through the therapy process.

Intake sessions are 60 minutes for individual or couples counseling, and 90 minutes for EMDR intensives. If you’re ready to begin, you’re welcome to go ahead and book your intake session.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy originally developed to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s now widely used to help with anxiety, grief, phobias, negative self-beliefs, and other challenges rooted in past experiences.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (like eye movements, tapping, or tones) to help your brain reprocess distressing memories in a more adaptive way. If you’ve ever paced while talking through something difficult on the phone, or found that a problem feels clearer after a good night’s worth of REM sleep, you’ve experienced the power of bilateral processing.

The brain is a fascinating puzzle! While researchers don’t yet fully understand why EMDR works, decades of clinical research show that it does — and it’s recognized as a frontline treatment for PTSD by organizations like the American Psychological Association and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This overview from EMDRIA is a great introduction to the benefits of this trauma treatment.

EMDR can be offered in weekly sessions or in a focused intensive format. Intensives are ideal if you’re feeling stuck, want to make meaningful progress quickly, or have a specific issue you’re ready to address. For most people, we can address a single traumatic experience or phobia in 1-2 intensive sessions (3 hours each). For those facing complex, attachment, and childhood traumas, we will likely schedule 3-6 intensive sessions. In any case, we’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan that best meets your needs.

All services are self-pay. I strive to offer clear, accessible rates that reflect the quality and care of the work we’ll do together.

I’m happy to provide a superbill you can submit to your insurance provider for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Most HSA and FSA accounts also cover therapy services. If you need assistance in figuring out what your benefits might cover, I’d be happy to discuss further.

I reserve a limited number of reduced-fee spots for those with financial need; please email me or visit my OpenPath profile to learn more about my sliding scale.

I reserve a limited number of reduced-fee spots for those with financial need; please email me to check availability and rates, as there may be a waitlist. You can also visit my OpenPath profile to learn more.

If you’re not using insurance, you have the right to a Good Faith Estimate that outlines the expected cost of services. You’ll receive one before your first session. Learn more at cms.gov/nosurprises.