Venture Free Counseling
About
I am a therapist who is passionate about the work of helping people. I cannot deny that my origins and interest in this work was birthed by own experiences. I have known the depths of suffering like many of my clients. Most do not escape trauma in life. It is a part of our human citizenship. But it is my belief that we can rise above our most desperate of circumstances. We can learn and grow and recover from what was lost. We can repair what was broken--with others as well as with ourselves.
Ultimately, we can heal and go on to live lives of meaning, purpose and joy. This deeply held belief is the lens from which I see and work. This is the hope I hold and carry for my clients. What we need is a nurturing place to feel, express and be. A place to tell the truth. A place that is safe and without judgement. This is where we grow.
I have worked with those experiencing trauma, abuse, grief/loss, addiction, betrayal, relational issues and family problems. I also work with shame, low self-worth, spiritual and identity issues, anxiety/depression, divorce, and parenting issues. If you feel like we might be a good fit, please don't hesitate to call. I would be honored to work with you.
I am most passionate about the topic of "safe people". I want people to get safe and become safe. I want to see them gain profound insight on themselves-who they are, who they've been and who they most want to be.
I firmly believe that we all have seasons in our lives where we are suffering with emotional pain, grief, loss, trauma, relationship problems, life transitions, etc.
The truth is that as humans we shift, change and grow with time and events. It makes sense to me that we need some nurturing assistance with some of these massive changes at times. I long to be that safe person for people as they explore, discover, process, and grow. I am passionate about my belief that it is in the framework of a healthy and safe relationship that we are able to heal.
It is probably my greatest life's joy to be able to witness and be a part of this growth, healing and transformation with my clients.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I invite all questions and concerns and offer a free 15 min phone consultation to see if we might be a good fit. Intake and consent forms will need to be completed intitally- either online or during first meet up. I really take the time with my clients to listen to their hopes, needs and desires and help them understand the mechanisms of counseling and what we can hope to achieve together.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelors of Arts degree in Human Development from WSUV. I have a Masters of Arts Degree in Counseling from Western Seminary and am Gottman Level 1 certified for couples counseling. I am a licensed SUDPT in the state of WA with clinical experience in the residential/PHP/IOP settings of a drug/alcohol rehab center working with addicts and their famiies. I have clinical experience working in a nonprofit agency with partners of the sexually addicted who are suffering from intimate betrayal and betrayal trauma.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Please see my website for my initial intake fee (typically 75 minutes).
My normal hourly rate is $100.00 per 50 min session for individuals.
It is $125.00 per 50 min for couples.
I do see clients and couples for extended amounts of time per request (often 50 minutes may not be enough time).
I am out of network and private pay only.
If your insurance however has "out of network" benefits, sometimes it will pay for a portion of your session with me. Please contact your insurance beforehand to inquire about this.
How did you get started in this business?
Counseling is something I have always loved to do and be a part of. I have always been curious about people and have loved listening to them. I guess you could say I was drawn to it from a very young age. It really began with me and venturing out on my own to engage in therapy services in my early twenties. When I experienced for myself the significant power and healing properties of therapy, I knew it was something I wanted to do as a career. Helping others break free, heal, recover and thrive is my life's passion.
What types of customers have you worked with?
All kinds. People in addiction recovery-substances and sexual addiction. Partners who have been betrayed through infidelity, or sexual betrayal. People experiencing grief, loss, trauma, and life transitions. People experiencing depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I counsel individuals, couples and families.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Getting a new puppy (he is now 7 months old). My kids and I have wanted a dog for so long. His name is Bear. He is part pitbull and German Shepherd. We love him so much (even his dog drool, and sloppy kisses).:)
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Ask alot of questions. Be transparent and honest with your concerns no matter how trivial you might think they are. Listen to your gut and follow your instincts. A good and effective therapist should feel like the right fit for you. It is so important that you feel comfortable and safe with them. It might take a couple of sessions to be able to assess this. Don't be afraid to just say that you feel you need to keep shopping around. Good therapists want clients to advocate for themselves on what feels good and right for them.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Please see my website for this.