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WHAT ISSUES DOES CRYSTAL TREAT?
She specializes in recovering from trauma and complicated or long-standing grief. This can be related to histories of loss, abuse, neglect or deprivation on many levels. This can show up as depression, isolation, poor job performance, irritability, and rocky relationships. She is specially trained to work with suicidal ideas and self-harming behavior.
She also focuses on anxiety-related struggles. This can include problems like disordered/unhealthy eating, substance use, body-picking, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors (like checking or other rituals). Trouble sleeping or relaxing can also be related, as well as constant worry thoughts and self-criticism. To read more, see her profile on Psychology Today here.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT MY FIRST SESSION?
You both will start by getting to know each other. She will hear your story and begin to understand how you got to where you are, as well as get clear on what you want out of therapy. At the end of session, you both will create plan for moving forward (e.g., how often you come and what to focus on between meetings).
HOW LONG IS EACH SESSION?
A typical session is booked for 60 minutes. The first 50 is considered the Treatment Hour where you focus on the issues at hand. The last 10 minutes are used flexibly for wrapping-up, taking care of any scheduling or other business, and note-taking for your file.
Longer and shorter appointment times are available on a case-by-case basis upon request.
HOW LONG DOES THERAPY TAKE?
That answer is different for everybody. Crystal sees people on both a long- and short-term basis, and will work with you for find the pace that fits your goals. Most people will start to see meaningful change in 6-10 sessions when attending regularly.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF IT'S WORKING?
Therapy should be driven by your experience, not anyone else's expectations. Progress will be defined and discussed regularly. Also, at each session you can fill out a brief survey that will allow for a more objective tracking of change over time. If something is not working in those first few meetings, it can be caught so adjustments can be made.
HOW DOES SHE HELP?
Crystal brings a blend of approaches that are unique to her school and work experiences. At Naropa University she learned how to apply mindfulness and Gestalt techniques in counselling. She was then trained for three years in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and the Hurley-Dodson Enneagram for personality typing. In addition, she has over two years of individual training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
This means she can help you focus on the here-and-now and become more aware of your experience and choices. By working with your thoughts, beliefs and habits you can meaningfully shape the way you feel. And by learning to experience your pain, without avoidance or magnification, you can let the past go and choose how you move forward. She also pays attention to the therapeutic relationship that develops so that you can get more what of you want from the relationships in the rest of your life.
IS SLIDING SCALE AVAILABLE?
There is the possibility of arranging a reduced rate, depending on availability and circumstance. If you would like to learn more, please ask during your intake consultation prior to your first session.
CAN I USE MY INSURANCE BENEFITS FOR THESE SESSIONS?
It is possible, depending on your plan and what services it covers. Please bring this up during the intake consultation before your first session to get personalized details.