I utilize evidence-based approaches to empower individuals navigating the complexities of trauma, anxiety, and depression, among other disorders. My perspective is rooted in a family systems framework, recognizing that we all originate from a system that shapes our experiences—either providing support or inflicting harm. Our lives are lived through a mind and body that respond to our environment, influenced by this system. I seamlessly integrate effective methodologies such as internal family systems—also known as parts work—somatic awareness or body work, polyvagal theory emphasizing the mind-body connection, and emotional awareness to foster healing and growth. I am currently level one trauma informed trained in Complex Trauma Certification Training (CCTP).
All sessions can either be in person in my office in Westerville or over a secure Telehealth platform.
The intake session is the beginning of the therapeutic relationship—a space to begin co-creating safety, attunement, and understanding. The approach I take brings the focus is not only on your story, but on how your body holds and responds to your experiences, especially those involving trauma or overwhelming stress. This session typically involves a blend of conversation, gentle observation, and attuned presence. While I may ask about key areas of your life, I will do so with sensitivity to how your nervous system may respond to recalling certain experiences. You are always in control of what and how much you share.
Areas that may be explored include:
Current concerns and symptoms: What brings you to therapy now, and how are those challenges showing up emotionally, physically, and relationally?
Trauma history (when and if appropriate): Only when you are ready I will inquire about past events, while placing emphasis on the impact rather than the details. Attention will be given to signs of overwhelm or dysregulation, with options to pause, ground, or shift focus as needed.
Body awareness and somatic patterns: You may be invited to notice bodily sensations, postures, or patterns of tension or activation. This is always optional and guided slowly.
Emotional landscape: How you experience and express emotion, your relationship to feelings like fear, sadness, anger, or shame, and your internal sense of safety or threat.
History of support and resilience: Significant relationships, cultural or spiritual strengths, and inner resources that have helped you survive or adapt.
Coping strategies and self-regulation tools: Both helpful and habitual responses to stress, including behaviors like dissociation, people-pleasing, substance use, or overcontrol.
Therapeutic goals and pacing: You and your therapist will begin to explore what healing might look like for you, and at what pace you’d like to proceed. This includes creating a shared understanding of consent, boundaries, and choice in the therapeutic process.
This session is less about gathering every detail and more about establishing a foundation of trust, regulation, and mutual respect. Your therapist’s role is not to push for information, but to support you in noticing what’s happening in the moment—inside your body, your emotions, and your relational field.
After our intake session, we will collaboratively determine a schedule that feels right for you. I often recommend weekly visits during the initial months to foster a strong therapeutic relationship. In our future sessions, we may delve into tracking sensations, exploring your personal narratives, gently addressing any trauma that surfaces, and nurturing your ability to self-regulate, remain present, and connect with yourself and others.
Laurel Tree Counseling, LLC 