Trauma Informed Care

Hi, I’m Kate. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (License #89040) in the state of California. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is an effective treatment for many issues including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, grief, stress management, and other distressing life events. I also use somatic and humanistic interventions and I am Health at Every Size (HAES) informed. I also specialize in helping people with the pain of grief and loss and am affirming to the LGBTQIA+ community. I am effective in helping people to find balance, increase self-awareness, and increase feelings of empowerment.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages the patient to focus briefly on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms. EMDR therapy, rather than focusing on changing the emotions, thoughts, or behaviors resulting from the distressing issue, allows the brain to resume its natural healing process. EMDR therapy is designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain.

“Look for the answer inside your question.”

— Rumi

FAQs

  • The first step is to contact me at (513) 645-3752 (voicemail or text) or email me at katewestengard@empathycounselingservices.net. If I am unavailable at that moment, I will contact you within 1-2 business days. The point of this brief consultation is to see if we are a good fit and to briefly understand your goals of treatment. At this time we will coordinate availability and schedule an intake session and/or I will provide you with referrals to other providers or services that may be helpful for your situaton.

  • A standard session with me is 50-55 minutes; although I do work with some individuals who may need shorter or longer sessions based upon individual preference or need.

  • I am considered an “out of network” provider and would be happy to provide you with a monthly receipt (superbill) which you can use to submit to your insurance company in case they provide out-of-network reimbursement coverage. You are responsible for contacting your insurance to explore your plan benefits.

  • 50-55 minute Individual session: $185

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