Specialties & Expertise

I specialize in helping clients with:

Trauma Processing and Recovery

  1. Substance Use and Recovery Support

  2. Anxiety and Stress Management

  3. Depression and Mood Disorders

  4. Rural Mental Health Challenges

  5. Life Transitions and Personal Growth

  6. Grief and Loss

Trauma, Anxiety, and Substance Use Specialist

Licensed in Utah and Wyoming

Book a Free Consultation | Psychology Today Profile

My Approach to Holistic Healing

Life's journey presents unique challenges that require careful navigation through diverse experiences. With over 20 years of professional experience across various settings, I've had the privilege of working with individuals facing a wide range of distinct challenges. These experiences informed my decision to earn my Master of Social Work (MSW) and become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). For the past four years, I've specialized in individual therapy, leveraging my expertise to make a meaningful impact in clients' lives.

My approach to therapy centers on treating the whole person—connecting mind, body, and spirit in the healing process. I believe that true wellness emerges when we honor the interconnection between our thoughts, physical experiences, and deeper sense of meaning. This holistic perspective allows me to address not just symptoms but their underlying causes, creating opportunities for profound and lasting transformation.

As a certified practitioner of both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Advanced and Enhanced Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), I bring specialized trauma-processing modalities to my work. These evidence-based approaches allow me to help clients process and heal from difficult experiences with greater efficiency and less distress than traditional talk therapy alone. Combined with my extensive experience in rural clinical settings working with diverse mental health and substance abuse challenges, I offer a unique blend of specialized expertise and compassionate, personalized care.

Evidence-Based Approaches

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Certified

  • Advanced and Enhanced Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) - Certified

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Mindfulness-Based Interventions

  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

  • Motivational Interviewing

  • Trauma-Informed Care

Holistic Elements

I integrate several holistic elements to enhance the healing process:

  • Movement & Embodiment Practices

  • Creative Expression Through Art

  • Music as a Therapeutic Tool

  • Mindfulness & Breathwork

  • Nature-Connected Healing

  • Somatic Experiencing Techniques

My Background

My journey to becoming a therapist has been shaped by over two decades of professional experience working with individuals across diverse settings. This rich background has given me unique insights into the complex challenges people face and the remarkable resilience they demonstrate. After witnessing the profound impact of trauma and mental health struggles, I pursued my MSW and LCSW credentials to provide more specialized support to those in need.

My work in rural clinical settings has been particularly formative, allowing me to develop expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health and substance abuse challenges with limited resources. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, creativity, and relationship-building in the therapeutic process. It also deepened my appreciation for the unique strengths and challenges that individuals bring to therapy, informing my commitment to personalized, client-centered care.

What to Expect When Working With Me

When we begin working together, you can expect a collaborative, respectful partnership focused on your unique needs and goals. Our initial sessions will focus on building rapport and developing a clear understanding of your concerns, strengths, and aspirations. From there, we'll create a tailored treatment plan that incorporates appropriate therapeutic approaches based on your specific situation.

My therapeutic style balances warmth and professionalism, creating a safe space where you can explore difficult experiences without judgment. I believe in being present with clients through both challenges and breakthroughs, offering support, insight, and practical tools throughout the process. Whether we're using EMDR, ART, or other therapeutic approaches, I'll guide you through each step, ensuring you feel informed and empowered in your healing journey.

As we progress, we'll regularly assess your progress and adjust our approach as needed. My goal is not only to help you address current concerns but also to equip you with skills and insights that support your continued growth and resilience long after our work together concludes.

Schedule Your Free "Vibe Check" Consultation

I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to ensure we're a good fit before beginning our work together. During this call, you can ask questions about my approach, share what brings you to therapy, and get a sense of how I work.

Gypsie@yourholisticcounseling.com
(385) 202-6155

Telehealth based in Highland, UT 84043; Jackson Hole, WY 83002

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between EMDR and ART therapy?

Both EMDR and ART are evidence-based approaches for processing traumatic experiences, utilizing eye movements to help the brain reprocess difficult memories. While they share similarities, ART tends to work more rapidly for many clients and includes a "voluntary memory replacement" component that helps create more positive associations with traumatic memories. During our consultation, I can explain these differences in more detail and help determine which approach might be most beneficial for your specific situation.

Do you work with substance use issues?

Yes, I have extensive experience working with substance use disorders and recovery support. I take a non-judgmental, harm-reduction approach that meets you where you are while supporting your goals for change. Whether you're seeking moderation, complete abstinence, or just exploring your relationship with substances, I provide compassionate, evidence-based support.

How do you define "trauma-informed care"?

Trauma-informed care means recognizing the widespread impact of trauma, understanding potential paths for recovery, recognizing signs and symptoms of trauma, and responding by fully integrating knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures, and practices while actively resisting re-traumatization. In our sessions, this translates to creating a safe environment, respecting your boundaries, collaborating on treatment decisions, emphasizing your strengths, and understanding how your past experiences may influence your present reactions.

Do you offer telehealth sessions?

Yes, I provide secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions to clients throughout Utah and Wyoming. Many clients find that online therapy offers comparable benefits to in-person sessions with added convenience, especially for those in rural areas with limited access to specialized mental health services.

What is your approach to working with clients from rural communities?

Having worked extensively in rural settings, I understand the unique challenges and strengths of rural communities. I'm sensitive to concerns about confidentiality in smaller communities, practical barriers to accessing care, and the complex dynamics that can influence mental health in rural settings. My approach honors the self-reliance and resilience often found in rural populations while providing specialized support that might otherwise be inaccessible.