What is Depthwork and how is it different from psychotherapy / counseling?
Depthwork focuses on resolving the residual energy patterns that often underly physical, emotional, energetic, and spiritual concerns, often stemming from personal and intergenerational trauma, grief, and unresolved past life or ancestral experiences.
Psychotherapy means, literally, healing the soul, offering the possibility of relieving suffering through becoming as fully as possible who we are, becoming free to make and live with our own choices, and developing the compassion for ourselves and others that comes with full acceptance of our own journey.
These are not mutually exclusive endeavors–elements of depthwork are often incorporated in psychotherapy (and acupuncture) sessions. Also there is some overlap especially with regard to the dynamics of trauma, intergenerational trauma, and obstructive patterns,
Do you offer telehealth services?
Yes. Depth coaching is by telehealth, available anywhere in the US or internationally by voice or videoconference. Psychotherapy is generally in-person only, but for those in remote areas of Alaska or those with disabilities or other circumstances that create challenges to in-person therapy I’m open to exploring telehealth options.
Do you offer acupuncture without psychotherapy?
Yes. I offer acupuncture/Chinese medicine on its own. However, from the perspective of classical Chinese medicine it is important to address psychological dynamics which may be related to a physical ailment, so acupuncture often includes some discussion of personal history, life circumstances and situations, behavioral and lifestyle concerns, and other psychological considerations.
Do you offer psychotherapy without acupuncture?
Yes. I offer psychotherapy in ‘traditional’ format, a 50-55 minute counseling session. It is not necessary to include acupuncture; however, some elements of Chinese medicine such as limited acupuncture, nutritional counseling, qigong, and herbal medicine may be included with psychotherapy if you wish.
Do you offer combined psychotherapy and acupuncture?
Yes. These can be combined in a variety of ways, including alternating (psychotherapy / acupuncture) weekly sessions, back to back sessions, multiple sessions in the same week, or incorporating limited elements of acupuncture / Chinese medicine in a psychotherapy session.
Can I see you for acupuncture if I’m working with another psychologist, psychiatrist, or other therapist or counselor?
Yes. If you’re working with another mental health provider, it’s fine to see me for acupuncture in conjunction with your existing psychotherapy; this can be a helpful adjunct to other therapies.
Can I see you for psychotherapy if I’m working with another acupuncturist, energy/bodyworker, or other alternative medicine practitioner?
Yes. Psychotherapy and other healing approaches often work well together; if you are already working with an acupuncturist or other alternative medicine practitioner, it is fine to see me for psychotherapy and continue with your current healing arts practitioner.
How frequently will I need to see you?
For psychotherapy, weekly visits are typically recommended, although in some cases greater frequency may be appropriate.
For acupuncture, at the beginning of treatment, it can be helpful to come regularly–weekly, or sometimes twice a week, depending on the type and longevity of condition, and of course on practical considerations (your schedule, my availability, etc.). After some progress is made, it may be appropriate to decrease frequency.
Traditionally, in addition to addressing illness, acupuncture was considered a means to remain well, and monthly or quarterly visits can be helpful for this–especially around times of season change.
Why might I want to see an acupuncturist-psychologist?
From the perspectives of both depth psychology and Chinese medicine, psyche and body are a single system; regardless of cause, injuries to this system can emerge in a variety of emotional and physical forms.
As a seasoned practitioner of both healing traditions, I find they inform each other and mutually deepen the healing process–as well as offering an array of practical approaches to working with both physical and psychological concerns.