Trauma from relationships can only be healed through relationship.
Techniques
I use a variety of methods with my clients. We are all individuals and respond to different approaches. However, the main types of therapy I have studied and utilize are Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Gestalt, as described below.
Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems (IFS) offers a powerful approach to healing and self-discovery, especially for those dealing with trauma. IFS is built on the idea that we all have multiple "parts" within us, each with its own feelings, desires, and roles. These parts can sometimes be in conflict, causing internal strife and confusion.
IFS, also known as "parts work," can help us make sense of these inner dynamics. Have you ever felt like a part of you wants one thing, but another part wants something else, entirely? This inner conflict is where IFS can be particularly valuable. Through IFS, we can identify, understand, and work with these different parts to bring them into harmony, leading to a sense of inner balance and wholeness.
For trauma recovery, IFS allows us to gently explore the parts of ourselves that have been wounded or carry pain. By understanding these parts and giving them a voice, we can work towards healing and transformation. This process often involves discovering "protectors" and "exiles" within us—parts that shield us from pain and parts that hold our deepest hurts. By addressing these parts with compassion and curiosity, IFS can start you on the road to specific, positive changes.
Through IFS, my goal is to help you connect with your core self - the part of you that is inherently wise, calm, and compassionate. With this approach, we can work together to find a deeper sense of integration and healing.
Gestalt Therapy
In Gestalt therapy, the relationship between the therapist and client plays a central role. This therapeutic relationship is viewed as a microcosm for all your relationships, providing a safe space to explore patterns, emotions, and reactions. By examining how you interact within this relationship, we can uncover insights into how you connect with others in your everyday life.
One of the key aspects of Gestalt therapy is its focus on awareness, freedom, and self-direction. During our sessions, I'll encourage you to become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations as they occur. This heightened awareness can help you understand yourself better and gain the freedom to make conscious choices about how you respond to different situations.
Gestalt therapy is especially useful for those who have experienced relational trauma. Through our therapeutic relationship, you can find healing and develop the skills needed to build healthier connections with others. This approach allows us to address relational wounds and work towards restoring your ability to form meaningful relationships.
Together, we'll explore the present moment, examining how you engage with the world around you. My goal is to guide you toward a deeper understanding of yourself, fostering a sense of empowerment and authenticity as you navigate life's complexities.
Somatic Techniques
I find somatic techniques to be invaluable in helping clients connect with their bodies and uncover deep-seated emotions. These techniques focus on the body's physical responses to emotional experiences, providing a pathway to release stored tension and trauma.
Somatic techniques in Internal Family Systems (IFS) work similarly to traditional IFS, but with an emphasis on the body's role in experiencing and processing emotions. This approach allows us to work with different "parts" of you, exploring not only your thoughts and feelings but also how they manifest in physical sensations.
In Gestalt therapy, somatic techniques also play a key role. Here, we focus on identifying the places where you might block or brace against certain feelings. These physical reactions often indicate where trauma is stored or where you're stopping yourself from fully experiencing emotions. As Alice Miller wrote, “The body never lies.” By addressing these blockages, we can help you become more open and present.
Somatic work is done slowly and carefully, with a deep awareness of what your system is ready for. I emphasize a gentle approach, ensuring you feel safe and supported throughout the process. As we explore somatic techniques, I'll guide you in paying attention to your body's signals, helping you release tension and find a greater sense of ease. Ultimately, somatic techniques offer a path to deeper healing and connection, allowing you to move forward with greater freedom and vitality.
The word “therapy” comes from the Greek word therapeuein, which means “to guide.”
Payment
Session Fee
My rate is $200 per session, which run about 50 minutes. I accept cash, check, or credit cards. Please make payments to Jennifer Hastings.
I do not currently have any lower fee therapy appointments available, as all of my sliding scale slots are currently taken. I will change this message when I have reduced rate openings.
Insurance
I participate in many out-of-network insurance programs. I am happy to submit a “Super-bill” to your insurance for reimbursement.
Please contact your insurance company to verify if your insurance plan has out of network benefits.
Questions to ask include:
Do I have out-of-network mental or behavioral health coverage?
Do I need to meet an out-of-network deductible? How much is it?
Does my plan reimburse for psychotherapy services provided by a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT)?
At what rate / percentage will I be reimbursed? (CPT Code = 90837)
Does my plan reimburse for Telehealth?
Is there an annual limit on the number of sessions / total amount that’s reimbursable?
What is the process for getting reimbursed?
Policies
Initial Appointment
To set up an initial appointment, please send me an email via the form on this website. From there, I will contact you for a free phone consultation. Prior to our first session I will send you an email with information about your client portal and intake forms to be completed before your first visit. Completing this process before we first meet will allow more time for us to talk and to begin working together. All information is kept strictly confidential.
Frequency of Sessions
Psychotherapy sessions are generally held once or twice weekly. If you would like to come in to see me more frequently, I am happy to see you more often if our schedules allow. I don’t work with clients on a less frequent basis than once per week.
Cancellation
Please let me know 48 hours in advance if you need to cancel a session. If not within that window, I will do my best to reschedule, but if unable to do so you will be charged for the full fee.
Good Faith Estimate
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.
