FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy may be beneficial if you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally stuck, experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with past experiences, or simply wanting healthier ways to cope with life's challenges. You don't have to wait until you're in crisis to seek support.

What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?

Every therapist and every therapeutic approach is different. Many clients come to EMDR after feeling like traditional talk therapy helped them understand their experiences but didn't fully resolve them. Together, we'll determine the approach that best fits your goals and needs.

What should I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first session focuses on getting to know you. We'll discuss your current concerns, personal history, goals for counseling, and answer any questions you have about therapy. Together, we'll develop a treatment plan that fits your needs and decide whether EMDR or another therapeutic approach is appropriate.

What ages do you work with?

I provide virtual counseling for teens and adults throughout Oklahoma, specifically ages 13 to 99+. Therapy is individualized to meet each client's developmental stage, goals, and unique experiences.

Is everything I share confidential?

Yes. Counseling is confidential, with a few legal and ethical exceptions required by law, such as concerns involving immediate safety, abuse, or court orders. These limits of confidentiality will be reviewed with you during your first appointment.

How does virtual therapy work?

Virtual therapy is conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. You simply log in using your computer, tablet, or smartphone from a private location. You'll receive the same individualized care you would during an in-person session while avoiding travel time and increasing flexibility.

Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person counseling?

For many concerns—including anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress—research has found virtual therapy to be as effective as traditional in-person counseling. Success depends more on the therapeutic relationship, your engagement in treatment, and selecting the right therapeutic approach than on the physical location of the session.

Do you offer Christian counseling?

Yes. Faith can be integrated into counseling if that is important to you. Christian counseling is always provided at your comfort level and is never forced into treatment. Whether you'd like Scripture, prayer, discussions about faith, or simply a therapist who respects your Christian values, treatment is tailored to your preferences.

Do I have to be a Christian to receive counseling?

Absolutely not. Everyone is welcome. While I offer Christian counseling for clients who desire faith integration, I also provide evidence-based therapy for individuals of all beliefs, backgrounds, and faith traditions.

What are the benefits of virtual therapy?

Virtual therapy offers many advantages, including:

• Attend sessions from home

• No commute or travel time

• Increased privacy

• Greater scheduling flexibility

• Easier access for rural communities

• Continuity of care during illness or travel

• Comfortable, familiar environment

Many clients find they feel more relaxed discussing difficult topics from their own space.

How do I prepare for a virtual therapy session?

Choose a quiet, private location with a reliable internet connection. Use headphones if possible, minimize distractions, and have water, tissues, or a notebook nearby if desired. For EMDR sessions, ensure you have enough space to comfortably participate in any guided exercises.

What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help the brain process distressing memories and experiences that may be contributing to anxiety, trauma, depression, or emotional distress. Rather than repeatedly reliving painful experiences, EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity associated with those memories so they no longer feel overwhelming.

What concerns can EMDR therapy help treat?

EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective for a variety of concerns, including:

• Trauma and PTSD

• Childhood trauma

• Anxiety

• Panic attacks

• Depression

• Grief and loss

• Stress and burnout

• Low self-esteem

• Negative beliefs about yourself

• Distressing life experiences

Even if you have never experienced a single traumatic event, EMDR may help address experiences that continue to affect your daily life.

Is EMDR therapy effective when conducted virtually?

Yes. Research has shown that EMDR can be effectively provided through secure telehealth platforms when appropriate procedures are followed. During virtual sessions, therapists use adapted forms of bilateral stimulation while maintaining the same evidence-based treatment approach. Many clients appreciate completing EMDR from the comfort and privacy of their own home.

Do I have to talk in detail about my trauma during EMDR?

Not necessarily. One of the unique aspects of EMDR is that clients do not have to describe every detail of a traumatic experience for the therapy to be effective. Your therapist will guide you through the process while helping you stay emotionally regulated throughout treatment.

How many EMDR sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies based on your goals, history, and current concerns. Some clients experience meaningful improvement after addressing a single distressing memory, while others benefit from a longer course of treatment to address multiple experiences or more complex trauma. During your initial sessions, we'll work together to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Is EMDR therapy safe?

Yes. EMDR is considered a safe, evidence-based treatment when provided by a trained clinician. Before beginning memory reprocessing, we'll spend time building coping skills and ensuring you have the resources needed to manage emotions that may arise during treatment.

What if I'm not sure EMDR is right for me?

That's completely okay. EMDR is just one of many effective treatment options. During your initial assessment, we'll discuss your concerns, treatment goals, and history to determine whether EMDR is appropriate or if another evidence-based approach would better meet your needs.

How soon can I start feeling better?

Healing looks different for everyone. Some clients notice improvements within a few sessions, while others experience gradual progress over time. Therapy is not about rushing the process—it's about creating lasting change by addressing the root causes of distress and building healthier patterns for the future.

How do I schedule my first appointment?

Getting started is simple. Contact Empowered Roots Counseling by phone or through the online contact form to schedule a consultation or your first appointment. Together, we'll discuss your goals and determine the best path forward toward healing and growth.