Frequently Asked Questions
What is Experiential Therapy?Experiential therapy focuses on what is happening in the present moment, not just on talking about events, thoughts, or patterns. While understanding your experiences is important, many of the patterns that keep us stuck don't change simply because we can explain them. Experiential therapy creates opportunities to notice those patterns as they emerge and to experiment with new ways of responding. The goal is not only insight, but new experiences that can create lasting change.
How is your approach different from traditional "talk therapy?"Traditional talk therapy often focuses on understanding, verbally processing, labeling, and meaning-making. Experiential therapy includes those things, but doesn't stop there.
Instead of only discussing a pattern, we may notice it as it unfolds. Instead of only talking about a difficult conversation, we might explore what happens inside you when you imagine having it. —I often think of therapy as both an ongoing conversation and a series of small experiments. We notice a pattern, get curious about its purpose, and explore what we learn when we interrupt it in a safe and supported way.
Will we still talk in therapy?Absolutely. Experiential therapy is still therapy, and conversation remains an important part of the process. We will talk about your experiences, relationships, concerns, and goals. At times, however, I may invite you to slow down, pay attention to what you are noticing in the moment, engage in an exercise, or experiment with a new way of responding. The goal is not to replace conversation, but to move beyond talking about change and create opportunities to practice it.
Do I need to be in a relationship to start therapy with you?No. Many of the people I work with are exploring attachment patterns, dating, friendships, family relationships, identity, or their relationship with themselves.
What will our first session be like?Our initial session will often look different from subsequent sessions. The first time we meet, my goal is to help you get acclimated, understand your history and current pain points, and to develop a collaborative understanding of your goals for our work.
Every session and/or intensive is different, but most involve a combination of conversation, reflection, curiosity, and experimentation.
Some days we may spend time exploring a relationship, a conflict, or a recent experience. Other times, I may invite you to slow down and pay attention to what you're noticing in the moment—your emotions, physical sensations, impulses, assumptions, or reactions.
You won't be forced into exercises that don't feel right for you. Therapy is collaborative, and we'll move at a pace that feels manageable. My role is not to tell you what to do, but to help you notice patterns, experiment with new possibilities, and build the capacity to respond differently when it matters most.
Do you do telehealth or in person sessions?Both! Currently, all in person sessions, including groups, are being held at Bright Horse Counseling. Click here for address and directions.
Telehealth appointments are conducted using a secure HIPAA-compliant telemedicine platform. Once scheduled, you will receive a link to securely join our session. You must be in the state of TN during your appointment.
What are your rates, and do you take insurance?I have created a whole page dedicated to thoughtfully answering any questions related to fees and insurance, which you can access here.
Got More Questions?
Complete this form and include any questions you have, and I will get back to you within 2 business days. You can also schedule an intro call to talk through your questions with me.