Let Me Be by Your Side While You're Navigating Difficult Life Transitions
I know first-hand how difficult and overwhelming it can be to "start over" when you've left a group you dedicated your whole life to. I was raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was a devout Mormon until early adulthood when my faith crisis began. I've since dedicated my work to helping others through the life-changing journey of healing spiritual wounds, rebuilding life, and reconstructing identity.
If you are currently in or have recently left a high-demand group or religion, you may be experiencing a number of difficult-to-name issues. I encourage you to review the "Religious Trauma Syndrome" section below. You are not alone in your struggles, and you don't have to do this alone.
As a licensed therapist but, most importantly, as an individual who has been through what you're going through right now, I can help you make sense of the whirlwind of emotions you're experiencing and find the strength and resources to live a meaningful life.
Please reach out for a free consultation where we can discuss how therapy may help.
Psychotherapist Specializing in Post-Mormon Adjustment, Trauma, and Adult ADHD
As an experienced therapist who was once a member of the Mormon community, I understand firsthand the intricacies of the life transition you are undergoing. My life story and personal journey have fueled my passion for assisting individuals like you in finding solace and strength amidst the transformational process.
The path of post-Mormon adjustment can be both liberating and challenging, stirring a myriad of emotions experienced every step of the way in everyday life. Whether you are experiencing feelings of loss, confusion, or even newfound freedom, I am here to walk beside you, offering unwavering support as you navigate this significant life transition.
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Post-Mormon Adjustment
Leaving the LDS church isn't easy. The grief and trauma you feel is real. Together we can process the loss of spiritual certainty, and the trauma of being betrayed by an institution you trusted. Only then you can begin the process of rebuilding your identity and living a fulfilling life.
EMDR
Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related mental health disturbances. As a trauma therapist, I use this type of therapy to help clients reprocess disturbing memories so that they can live more fully in the present. By targeting distressing memories and beliefs related to religious experiences, EMDR can help reduce the power of trauma-related emotions and even body sensations, allowing you to integrate your past in a more adaptive and empowering manner.
Thriving After Mormonism Group
You don't have to do this alone. There are many like you struggling to adjust to life after leaving the church. Whether they are trying to get a deep understanding of their past, learn how to build healthy relationships, or access the necessary tools to manage mental health issues, they are ready to live an authentic life. No matter if you only read the CES letter last night or removed your name from church records years ago, you are welcome to join us as we discover how we can thrive after Mormonism.
Adult ADHD
ADHD is one of the most common brain differences, yet it is often overlooked and misdiagnosed by mental health professionals. Together we can explore how ADHD affects you and develop a plan to optimize your lifestyle for your unique brain. We will navigate the challenges of adult ADHD, unveil your unique strengths, and unlock the vast potential that lies within you. Embrace this journey as an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and the realization of your full capabilities.
Trauma & PTSD
When we experience overwhelming, potentially life-threatening events, our brain and body do everything they can to help us survive. Sometimes this process goes haywire, and we find ourselves struggling to enjoy the present because of what happened in the past. The journey to healing from trauma and PTSD requires courage, compassion, and patience. It is not a linear process, and there is no single "right" way to heal. Therapy can help!
Religious Trauma Syndrome
Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) is a highly useful construct that describes the otherwise confusing constellation of symptoms that occur when a person leaves a high-demand group or fundamentalist faith. RTS explains the emotional, cognitive, somatic, and social problems that arise after leaving. The impact of RTS can be profound, resulting in anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and a loss of identity and purpose. I can provide the mental health care you need to navigate your healing process.
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What exactly is EMDR Therapy and how does it work?EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Through a structured eight-phase treatment, EMDR Therapy involves recalling distressing events in brief doses while I direct your eye movements. This powerful technique is believed to be associated with the biological mechanisms involved in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, aiding in the reprocessing of traumatic experiences to reduce their lingering effects.
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Can EMDR Therapy help with issues other than trauma, like anxiety or depression?Yes, EMDR Therapy is not limited to treating trauma. It is also effective for a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and certain personality disorders. The approach helps to identify and process the distressing events that may contribute to these conditions, supporting clients in achieving a more balanced mental health wellness.
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How long does EMDR Therapy take to see results?The time it takes to see results from EMDR Therapy can vary based on the individual and the complexity of their issues. Some clients may experience relief after just a few sessions, while others with more complex trauma may need a longer-term approach. Each session typically lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, and the overall therapy may span several weeks or months.
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Can EMDR Therapy be effective in treating religious trauma?Yes, EMDR Therapy can be an effective modality for addressing and healing from religious trauma. This kind of distressing experience can deeply impact one's life and belief systems. EMDR offers a nonjudgmental space and a compassionate therapeutic relationship, helping individuals reprocess and reconcile painful memories and negative patterns related to their spiritual or religious experiences.
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Is EMDR Therapy done only in person, or can it be done virtually?EMDR Therapy can be effectively conducted in both in-person and virtual settings. My private practice offers flexibility with sessions available in my Littleton office, as well as online for residents of California and Colorado. This ensures that you have access to therapy in a setting that is most comfortable and convenient for you.
Providing Online Therapy in California and Colorado
I am a licensed therapist in California and Colorado. Talk to me so we can explore and navigate your thoughts and emotions. I look forward to connecting with you soon.