Trauma and Grief

Unexpected. Out of control. Frustrated. Stuck. Exhausted.

Trauma and grief can come out of left field, and leave you reeling. So often, it’s completely under-appreciated how impactful trauma and grief can be, along with how many different areas of your life they can impact. The mental, social, physical, and biological impact of trauma and grief can completely shift the ways we view ourselves, other people, and the world around us.

It’s incredibly common for responses to trauma and grief to be very delayed - sometimes for months or even years - but it can also be extremely confusing as to why it took so long for things to ‘sink in.’ It also can take longer than we think it should, to heal and put the pieces back together again.

For each of us experiencing trauma and grief, regardless of the context or capacity it’s happening in, there are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answers for how to move through it. Different people benefit from different approaches in order to process and heal. I believe in exploring options in order to find what works for each individual. Because of that, I use three different therapeutic approaches in my practice. They are CBT, DBT, and EMDR. For more information about each approach, please continue reading below.

COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)

CBT is a short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment with a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. Its goal is to improve the way you feel by adjusting the patterns of thinking or behaviors that create barriers.

CBT is an evidence-based intervention, meaning it’s a proven and effective treatment of symptoms associated with depression and anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, and communication challenges. It also improves coping with transitional challenges and behavior patterns.

EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION & REPROCESSING (EMDR)

EMDR is a heavily researched, evidence-based psychotherapy that is a proven and effective treatment for trauma and/or distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. The goal of EMDR is to reduce the uncomfortable effects of traumatic occurrences.

EMDR is endorsed as an effective treatment by The American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs/Dept. of Defense, and the World Health Organization, among many other national and international entities.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

As an evidence-based intervention, DBT is a proven and effective treatment for mood dysregulation and maladaptive behavior patterns. DBT is a specific type of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. Since its development, DBT has helped treat a range of issues, including symptoms associated with depression and anxiety disorders.

I’m ready

What can you expect from therapy with Michele?

Therapy, also called psychotherapy or counseling, is the process of resolving challenging behaviors, beliefs, feelings, and/or traumatic experiences. This process will concentrate on you as an individual or have a family/relationship focus.

Everyone has an individual pace, so the first few sessions will determine if therapy at this time is right for you. Michele will ask questions about your past and current experiences to understand your family, work, and social life. Through this initial process, you and Michele will determine the best path forward. You will identify your therapy goals with a thorough consultation, and Michele will recommend the best intervention method.

Evidence-Based Interventions

When choosing a therapist and method, it’s essential to consider evidence-based interventions. Evidence-based interventions are well-researched with clinical experience and ethics.

Your therapy is essential to Michele, which is why she uses evidence-based interventions that genuinely help you resolve those challenging thoughts and behaviors. Methods like CBT, EMDR, and DBT were developed through research, analytics, and results-driven, clinical experience. Michele will use these techniques while personalizing your experience to ensure the consideration of your preferences and culture.

The Benefits of Telehealth

Long gone are the days of commuting to a therapist’s office, waiting in line, and collapsing on an old couch to get the help you need. In today’s modern world, telehealth provides healing without hassle.

No Travel Required

Telehealth allows you to see Michele without having to leave the comfort of your own home. You can conduct therapy with your mobile phone, tablet, or computer! Indulge in simplicity and save money on gas, parking, or public transportation.

No Need to Leave Work

As long as you have a safe and confidential space available to you, there’s no need to leave work and battle traffic to enjoy your session with Michele. You can simply schedule your appointment at a convenient time during lunch, before or after work, or on a break.

No Elder or Child Care

Some clients have the responsibility of caring for children or older adults. Arranging care can be challenging and expensive. Telehealth resolves that additional stress and allows you to conduct your session at home. However, don’t forget to set a safe and confidential space for yourself!

No Waiting

Telehealth prioritizes and values your time. Your session with Michele will never require wasted minutes in a waiting room. While you anticipate your scheduled appointment, you can keep working at home or in your office and hop on when you’re ready.

Improved Quality of Care

With these various benefits, telehealth provides easier access to mental health services and increases your likelihood of sticking to your treatment plan. It eliminates those everyday challenges and roadblocks that tend to stop us from accessing care.

Services