Q: What are some of the common areas of focus in counseling?

Anxiety and depression Trauma and grief Relationships Parenting Behavioral challenges Personal growth and life transitions

Question 1

What are some of the common areas of focus in counseling?

Accepted Answer

Anxiety and depression
Trauma and grief
Relationships​
Parenting 
Behavioral challenges
Personal growth and life transitions

Question 2

Do you specialize in trauma and attachment-related issues?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Olive Tree Counseling offers trauma-informed counseling, with a strong focus on how early experiences and attachment patterns impact emotional well-being and current functioning. Many clients come to counseling to address recurring emotional responses, difficulty trusting, heightened reactivity, or feelings of disconnection. Counseling provides a compassionate space to explore these patterns and develop healthier internal and relational responses.

Question 3

What is EMDR therapy and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy used to help individuals process distressing or traumatic experiences. EMDR supports the brain in reprocessing memories that remain “stuck,” allowing them to be stored in a more adaptive and less emotionally charged way. EMDR therapy can be helpful for trauma, anxiety, and other concerns rooted in past experiences. Sessions are paced carefully, with attention to safety and emotional readiness.

Watch this video from EMDRIA to learn more about how EMDR helps to resolve the impacts of trauma:

Question 4

What can I expect during my first online counseling session?

Accepted Answer

The first counseling session is an opportunity to share what prompted you to seek counseling, ask questions, and begin clarifying goals. The focus is on understanding your concerns, personal history, and what you hope to gain from counseling. There is no pressure to share more than you are comfortable with during the first session. Establishing safety, trust, and collaboration is the priority.

Question 5

How does online counseling work?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are provided virtually, as a convenient and private way to engage in counseling. I utilize a secure, confidential video conferencing platform, so you can meet with me from the comfort of your home, office, or any private space—without the need to travel or sit in a waiting room.

Question 6

What is your service area for online counseling?

Accepted Answer

Online counseling is available to residents of Virginia and North Carolina, and may also be available to those in other states or countries, depending on local counseling regulations.

Question 7

Do you take insurance?

Accepted Answer

I am in-network for most commercial Anthem, United Healthcare, Aetna, Sentara and Cigna plans through a partnership with Headway. I also offer a self-pay option and can provide a specialized receipt that clients can submit to their insurance companies for out-of-network reimbursement, if available.

ONLINE COUNSELING

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