Frequently Asked Questions

Do you specialize in postpartum and women’s mental health?

Yes. A central focus of my practice is supporting women through the perinatal and postpartum periods, as well as those experiencing emotional distress related to hormonal changes, reproductive health, and chronic stress.

You are not alone—and you are not overreacting.

  • 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder (PMAD), yet many are misdiagnosed or dismissed.

  • It takes an average of 7–12 years to receive a correct diagnosis for endometriosis.

  • IBS affects twice as many women as men and often worsens during hormonal shifts or emotional stress.

  • Research shows women’s pain and symptoms are more likely to be minimized—especially in reproductive and GI-related care.

  • Nearly 80% of new mothers report feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsupported during the postpartum period.

  • Hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact mood, anxiety, sleep, and emotional regulation—yet are often overlooked in traditional mental health care.

Many women are told their symptoms are “normal” or “just stress”—when in reality, their body and mind are asking to be understood, not dismissed.

At Compass Counseling Services, I believe in listening to women fully—not just treating symptoms. You deserve to be believed, supported, and cared for in a way that respects your experience. If I don’t have the answer, we’ll work together to find the right resources and referrals.

What types of clients do you work with?

I primarily work with:

  • Women navigating the perinatal or postpartum period, chronic pelvic pain, or emotional overwhelm

  • Individuals healing from trauma, anxiety, or body-based symptoms

  • Men navigating emotional suppression, fatherhood stress, or identity challenges

  • Federal and government employees experiencing burnout, high-performance pressure, or compartmentalization

  • Couples, on a limited and case-by-case basis, particularly those navigating transitions or relational repair

Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

Not at all. Many clients begin therapy unsure of what’s “wrong”—they just know something doesn’t feel right.

You do not need a formal diagnosis to begin. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, anxious, irritable, or stuck, therapy can help you better understand what’s happening and how to move forward.

Do you work with trauma?

Yes. I provide trauma-informed care for individuals who have experienced:

  • Medical trauma (especially birth-related)

  • Childhood emotional neglect

  • Sexual assault or boundary violations

  • Domestic violence or controlling relationships

  • High-functioning anxiety rooted in past experiences

I also offer EMDR, an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess and release traumatic experiences. This can reduce the intensity of triggers, flashbacks, and negative self-beliefs.

Therapy is always paced intentionally—I do not move into deeper processing until you feel safe and ready.

Do you refer out or help build a care team?

Yes. I believe in whole-person care, and healing often involves collaboration across disciplines. I may refer or coordinate with:

  • Pelvic floor physical therapists

  • Psychiatric providers for medication evaluation

  • OB/GYNs and reproductive health specialists

  • GI or functional medicine providers

If additional support would benefit you, I will help you find providers who align with your needs and values.

If a concern falls outside my scope of practice or requires a different level of care, I will always provide appropriate referrals to ensure you receive the support you need. My priority is that you are connected with the right resources—even if that extends beyond my services.

Do you offer couples counseling?

Yes—on a limited, case-by-case basis. I work with couples navigating communication challenges, parenting transitions, emotional disconnection, or relational repair.

I intentionally keep a small number of couples cases to ensure each relationship receives focused, thoughtful care.

Do you work with men?

Yes. I work with men navigating:

  • Fatherhood and identity shifts

  • Emotional suppression or difficulty expressing feelings

  • Relationship challenges and role transitions

  • Work-related stress or burnout

Therapy provides a space to slow down, reflect, and develop healthier ways of coping and connecting.

Do you accept insurance or offer self-pay?

I currently accept:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

  • TRICARE East

  • United Healthcare

I also offer private pay (self-pay) options:

  • Individual sessions: $150

  • Couples sessions: $200

If your insurance is not currently accepted, you may choose to begin with self-pay or request to be placed on a waitlist. Please note that waitlist placement does not guarantee future availability.

Are you on social media?

At this time, Compass Counseling Services does not maintain public social media accounts.

Due to my role as a federal employee, my online presence is intentionally limited to professional platforms, including Psychology Today and the official Compass Counseling Services website.

I also value the role that reduced or intentional social media use can play in supporting mental health and overall well-being.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to this website or my Psychology Today profile.

Still have questions?
I welcome you to reach out to see if we’re a good fit.