The first session is primarily focused on getting to know each other and gathering information. I'll ask about your current challenges, relevant history, and your goals for therapy. We'll also discuss the therapeutic approaches I use and how they might be helpful for your specific situation. This session helps us determine if we're a good therapeutic match and begin developing a treatment plan.

The length of therapy varies depending on your specific needs and goals. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific issues (8-12 sessions), while others prefer longer-term work for more complex or deep-rooted concerns. We'll regularly review your progress and adjust our approach as needed. My goal is to provide you with the support you need for as long as it's helpful, while also fostering your independence and self-reliance.

Inner Clarity Therapy LLC is in network with Regence BlueCross BlueShield, Aetna, Providence, Moda, and PacificSource commercial insurance.

Virtual therapy sessions are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Before your first session, you'll receive instructions on how to join the video call, along with any necessary forms to complete electronically. You'll need a reliable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or smartphone), and a private, quiet space where you can speak freely without interruptions. Many clients find that virtual therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions, with the added benefits of convenience, comfort, and eliminating travel time.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy for trauma and other distressing experiences. It helps the brain process traumatic memories in a new way, reducing their emotional impact. During EMDR, you'll focus on a distressing memory while experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but sometimes taps or tones). This process helps the brain reprocess the memory so that it becomes less distressing and is stored more adaptively in the brain. EMDR can help with PTSD, anxiety, phobias, and other conditions related to distressing life experiences. In virtual sessions, EMDR is adapted with special techniques and tools that work effectively through video.

There are a variety of ways to bilaterally stimulate the brain including tapping, using visual videos, or a therapist may move their fingers across the screen. Usually clients will try the different options and give feedback about which ones work best for them. There is evidence that EMDR virtually is just as effective as in-person.

Trauma can be any experience where the brain was flooded with stress hormones and the brain was not able to process the memory like other experiences. Examples of trauma can include severe events like a car wreck, witnessing violence, or someone yelling at you, hearing threats, bullying, often being left out of situations, or frequent invalidation of your emotions. Some people may experience trauma when they have strong feelings of abandonment, rejection, shame or powerlessness.

Yes, Leisha provides licensure supervision for associate professional counselors. Her approach is trauma-informed, with a focus on somatic practices. She views supervision as a collaborative mentorship, supporting supervisees in identifying and working toward both their short- and long-term professional goals. If you are interested in supervision with Leisha, please reach out through our contact form or by phone.