Do you only work with people in recovery?

Not at all. While I specialize in supporting people struggling with substance use, addiction, and recovery, I also work with adults processing trauma, grief, and life transitions. Whether you're new to recovery, considering a change, or have been sober for decades, therapy can help you explore what’s blocking you, build tools for healing, and create a life that feels more aligned with your values.

I attend 12-step meetings and have a sponsor. Do I really need therapy?

12-step programs can be an incredible source of support, and many of my clients find them essential to their recovery. Therapy offers something complementary that can enhance the work you’ve already done — and continue to do — in your program.

In therapy, we can go deeper than what may come up in meetings or in work with your sponsor (even though that can get pretty deep!). Because I understand 12-step recovery, we can integrate your program with what we do in therapy.

For example, many people in recovery still carry experiences or memories that continue to affect them, even after working the steps. Evidence-based approaches like EMDR can help you to heal and move forward in a way that fully aligns with your recovery program.

What is EMDR and how does it work?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy that helps you process traumatic memories, distressing experiences, and the emotional triggers tied to them, as well as visualize how you would like to be in the future. Instead of talking through every detail, EMDR uses guided bilateral stimulation (both sides of the brain) — often through eye movements, tapping, or sounds — to help your brain reprocess stuck memories in a safe, controlled way.

Many of my clients find EMDR especially effective for:

• Addiction-related triggers and cravings

• Childhood or relationship trauma

• Grief and complicated loss

• Feelings of shame or being “stuck”

• Intrusive thoughts or images

We move at your pace, ensuring you feel grounded and supported every step of the way.

What does “inclusive” mean in therapy?

For me, “inclusive” therapy means creating a space where all parts of who you are are welcomed and respected. I affirm people of all races, cultures, religions, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and identities.

It also means meeting you where you’re at — whether you’re exploring harm reduction, working a 12-step program, following your own path in recovery, or navigating trauma and grief. My goal is to ensure you feel seen, heard, and supported while working collaboratively on your goals.

Why do you not accept insurance?

This decision is intentional and focused on protecting your privacy and giving us more freedom in how we structure your care. By not billing insurance, we avoid:

• Formal diagnostic labels unless you choose

• Insurance companies dictating — and sometime denying — treatment, including the frequency and time limits of our sessions, based on their interpretation of your needs

• Required disclosures of your private information

Your therapy stays between us, and we can focus entirely on your needs and goals.

Do you offer virtually therapy?

Yes. I provide secure, HIPAA-compliant online therapy for clients in Maine and Florida. Meeting virtually offers both flexibility and privacy, allowing you to access therapy from wherever you feel most comfortable.

What if I’m not sure I want to stop using substances?

That’s okay. My role isn’t to tell you what to do — it’s to meet you where you’re at. Whether your goals involve harm reduction, exploring recovery, or maintaining long-term sobriety, we’ll create a plan that fits your needs and honors your values. There’s no judgment here.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy can help if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of your next steps. It provides a space to process your experiences, strengthen your coping tools, and explore your goals — all at your pace and on your terms. If you’d like, we can schedule a free consultation to see if we’re a good fit.