It’s completely normal to wonder if you’ll have the stamina for an extended session! Many clients are surprised by how quickly the time flies—and I feel that way too. The focused, intentional nature of intensives helps keep the work engaging and meaningful. We’ll take breaks as needed, and I’ll adjust the pace to match what feels right for you. Clients often finish feeling a sense of clarity and accomplishment, saying they got far more out of the time than they expected. My goal is to make the process feel manageable and supportive from start to finish.

Insurance may cover a portion of the cost, depending on your out-of-network benefits. While I’m an out-of-network provider, many clients are able to receive partial reimbursement by submitting a detailed invoice (superbill) to their insurance company. I recommend checking with your provider to understand your out-of-network mental health benefits and what’s required for reimbursement. If you have questions about the process, I’m happy to help guide you through it and provide the documentation you’ll need!

In a 3-hour intensive, you can expect to make meaningful progress on specific issues. For example, we might fully process a traumatic event or association, such as feeling that you need to be perfect to be accepted, struggling with the belief that everything is your fault, or dealing with the impact of past rejection or criticism. While we may not fully resolve every issue in this time, you’ll make great headway in understanding and working through these emotions, challenging negative beliefs, and practicing coping strategies.

For clients experiencing Complex PTSD, starting with intensives can be especially valuable to build a strong foundation of self-regulation techniques and experiential somatic exercises. This helps set the groundwork for ongoing healing. It’s important to note that Complex PTSD often requires continued treatment, and many clients benefit from regular half-day or full-day intensives to support long-term growth and progress.

In a 6-hour intensive, you can expect to accomplish deep and significant progress on complex issues. This extended time allows for thorough processing of one or more traumatic events or associations, such as navigating the impact of feeling unworthy of love, struggling with trust issues after betrayal, or dealing with the lingering effects of critical or dismissive relationships. You’ll have the space to work through challenging emotions, challenge negative beliefs, and practice new coping strategies. We’ll also use experiential somatic exercises to support self-regulation and help integrate what you’re learning.

While meaningful healing can happen in one day, Complex PTSD often requires ongoing work to fully address deeper trauma. Starting with intensives can be especially helpful for building a strong foundation that sets the stage for continued progress. Many clients find that regular half-day or full-day intensives help support lasting growth and keep them moving forward on their healing journey.

To get the most out of your intensive session, here are some tips for planning your day:

• Block out as much of the day as possible: Clear as much of your schedule as you can, especially if you’re a parent or have other responsibilities. Even a few hours of minimized commitments can help you stay present during the session and decompress afterward.

• Prioritize self-care: Plan for a lighter schedule before and after the session and make self-care a priority. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and avoid heavy foods right before the session.

• Expect continued processing: Emotional and mental processing often continues for up to three days after an intensive. This can leave you feeling more raw or sensitive, so give yourself time to rest and integrate the experience.

• Create a comfortable environment: If your session is virtual, set up a quiet space where you feel safe and focused.

• Allow time for reflection: Take time after the session to journal or go for a walk and process what came up.