Hop on over to my “Contact” page to submit a contact form, or you can send me an email at carolyn@serenewaterspsychotherapy.com. From there, we will schedule a free 15 minute video consultation to determine if we are a mutual fit.

I do! I am in network with Optum products (Medica, United HealthCare, UMR, Optum), Healthpartners, Cigna, Medical Assistance, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. At this time, I am out of network with Aetna, Medicare, and Hennepin Health.

The Initial Sessions (1-4): Building the Foundation

During the first few sessions, we will focus on getting to know you and your needs. This time allows you to share your story, assess whether we're a good fit for working together, and establish your treatment goals and plan. We will also focus on building a strong, trusting rapport. These foundational steps are essential for long-term progress and cannot be skipped, as meaningful change requires a solid foundation.

The Treatment Phase: Engaging in the Work

Once the initial groundwork is laid, we’ll move into the active phase of treatment. This phase involves engaging with your goals and the strategies we’ve developed together. The exact process will vary based on your unique challenges and my clinical approach.

In these sessions, you’ll work on gaining insights, building new skills, processing emotions, and making changes that promote long-term progress. While I will provide guidance and support, the success of your journey depends on your commitment to engaging with the work, both in and outside of our sessions. The more you invest in practicing what we discuss, the greater your progress will be.

I specialize in working with queer and transgender folks, people in alternative relationship styles (such as polyamory, kink, swinging), neurodivergent people, complex trauma (also known as C-PTSD), and highly sensitive people.

I utilize Anchored Relational Therapy, formerly known as the AIR Network Model. This is a neurodevelopmental, competency-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals heal from complex trauma and neglect. It emphasizes understanding the neurological impacts of trauma and focuses on building internal resources to foster healing.

I may also combine the Anchored Relational approach with EMDR, if the individual I am working with chooses to target traumatic memories.

My clients tell me that I provide “a gentle push” towards change. I take this to mean that I will ask direct questions, but ultimately respect my client’s choices. I also incorporate humor, the occasional pop culture reference, and authenticity in my sessions.