FAQs
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Trauma-informed care means we understand how trauma impacts the nervous system, emotions, and relationships, and we prioritize safety, pacing, and choice in the therapy process. Trauma-focused care goes a step further by actively working with those patterns using approaches like EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic therapy to help process what the nervous system has held over time. Our work is trauma-focused.
What is the difference between trauma-focused care and trauma-informed care?
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What actually happens in sessions? Do we just talk?
Sessions are a mix of conversation and experiential work. At times we may slow down to notice thoughts, emotions, and body responses in real time, or explore different internal “parts” through an IFS lens. Other times, we may use EMDR or somatic awareness to support your system in processing what feels stuck. The pace is guided by what feels manageable and supportive—not forced or rushed.
What is IFS and how does it show up in therapy?
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Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a model that understands the mind as made up of different “parts,” each with its own emotions, roles, and protective strategies. In therapy, we get curious about these parts rather than trying to eliminate them.
A big part of this work involves slowing down and asking questions—about what different parts of you are feeling, needing, or trying to protect you from. This process often helps people relate to themselves with less shame and more clarity over time.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps the brain and nervous system process distressing experiences so they feel less activated over time. You do not have to go into every detail of your experiences for EMDR to be effective. We work at a pace that supports stabilization, consent, and emotional safety throughout the process.
What is EMDR and do I have to relive my trauma for it to work?
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What is “somatic therapy,” and what does that actually mean?
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Somatic therapy involves paying attention to the connection between your mind and body in real time. This might include noticing sensations, shifts in tension, breath, or impulses as part of understanding your experience. The goal is not to force anything, but to help your system have more capacity to notice and respond differently over time.
What if I don’t feel very connected to my body?
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That’s very common, especially for people with trauma histories. We never assume you already have that awareness. Part of the work is gently building the capacity to notice your internal experience in a way that feels safe and tolerable—not overwhelming or forced.
How do I know if this type of therapy is right for me?
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This approach tends to be a good fit if you feel stuck in patterns like anxiety, emotional overwhelm, shutdown, self-criticism, or relational difficulty—and you’re looking for more than coping strategies. Many clients come wanting to understand what’s happening internally and create change at a deeper level over time.
How long does therapy usually last?
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There is no fixed timeline. Some clients come for support around specific goals, while others engage in longer-term work focused on deeper patterns and relational experiences. We revisit this over time so therapy continues to feel aligned and useful.
Why is the practice called “The Breath Between”?
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The Breath Between represents the subtle pauses where change becomes possible—the moment between trigger and response, between past and present, and between overwhelm and a sense of steadiness. The name of our practice comes from that small, quiet space between an inhale and an exhale. It is both an invitation and a reminder that even in the smallest pause, the body can begin to remember safety, regulation, and the possibility of change.
What is your availability for sessions?
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Availability can vary based on current openings and schedules. We offer daytime and limited evening appointments, both in person and via telehealth, when available. We do not currently offer weekend sessions. Please schedule a consultation to discuss current openings.
How soon can I start therapy?
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Start times vary depending on scheduling needs and current openings. During your consultation, we can discuss timing and whether our practice is the right fit for your needs.
Do you offer weekly or biweekly sessions?
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Most clients begin with weekly sessions, though frequency can be adjusted based on goals, availability, and clinical needs.
Do you accept insurance?
In Network with: Aetna, Anthem and Optum including Optum VA Community Care Network.
We can verify benefits with you before starting so you have a clear understanding of coverage and any out-of-pocket costs. For private pay sessions, fees vary by clinician, and we can provide documentation for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
