Do you take insurance?

I’m in network with Aetna and United. I also accept private pay.

How long will I need to be in therapy?

I typically meet with clients on a weekly or biweekly basis. The duration of therapy depends on several factors, including consistent attendance, the topics we are working on, and progress toward the goals outlined in the treatment plan.

Do you see kids or couples?

I do not. I primarily work with women, focusing on issues related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief and loss. I specifically love working with women who are interested in incorporating somatic practices, such as Reiki and EMDR, alongside talk therapy.

Where are you located?

Meer Soul Counseling is located in Olde Town Arvada at 5738 Olde Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada, CO 80002 in the Town Square Professional Building.

Do you accept virtual clients?

Yes, I am based in the Denver metro area of Colorado, but I can see clients throughout the state of Colorado. Additionally, I am licensed in Montana, Texas, Wyoming, Idaho, Washington State, Florida and Oregon, so I can work with clients in those states as well. Select Contact Me on my website to inquiry about availability.

How much would a session cost out of pocket?

My rate for a one-hour session is $150 (may be subject to change). I can also provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement.

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is an evidence-based therapy approach used to help people process trauma, anxiety, and distressing life experiences. EMDR therapy helps the brain reprocess difficult memories so they feel less overwhelming and no longer trigger the same emotional intensity.

How do I get started?

I typically begin with a virtual 15-minute consultation to discuss what you'd like to work on and to ensure we're a good fit for each other. You can schedule a consultation by filling out the Contact/Request an Appointment form on my website.

What is KAP (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy)? Is it covered by insurance?

KAP combines prescribed ketamine with psychotherapy to support deeper healing and insight. At Meer Soul Counseling, we partner with medical providers for the medical portion, while we provide the therapy. Insurance generally does not cover the medication, but the therapy portion may be reimbursable depending on your plan.

Who is your ideal client?

I work with millennial women experiencing grief, trauma, anxiety, and major life transitions. My ideal client often feels overwhelmed or disconnected beneath the surface and is seeking deeper, lasting healing through holistic therapy such as EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness.

Empowering Women in Oregon: Unlocking Mental Health with Internal Family Systems Therapy

meersoulcounseling
Sep 12, 2025
4 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Mental health is essential for overall well-being, but it is frequently neglected, particularly among women. In Oregon, celebrated for its natural beauty and progressive values, women are increasingly seeking ways to improve their mental health. One effective method gaining popularity is Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. This post explores how IFS therapy can empower women in Oregon to unlock their mental health potential.

Understanding Internal Family Systems Therapy

Internal Family Systems therapy, developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, takes a unique approach to healing. It teaches that our minds consist of various "parts," each with its own perspective and memories. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other, leading to emotional distress and mental health challenges.

For example, a woman might have a part that desires success in her career while another part fears failure. These conflicting inner voices can create anxiety and hinder personal growth. IFS therapy helps individuals recognize these parts and encourages a compassionate internal dialogue. By integrating these different aspects of the self, women can achieve greater emotional balance.

The Importance of Mental Health for Women

Women face unique challenges that significantly impact their mental health, including societal expectations, work-life balance, and reproductive health issues. In Oregon, where women often take the lead in social change, the pressure to excel can feel overwhelming.

Mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, are common among women. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five women experience a mood disorder in their lifetime, compared to one in ten men. Given these statistics, finding effective therapeutic approaches like IFS is crucial for enhancing mental well-being.

How IFS Therapy Works

IFS therapy operates under the belief that everyone has a "Self" capable of compassion and healing. This Self can guide the internal family of parts toward harmony. The therapy involves several key steps:

Identifying Parts: The first step involves recognizing the various parts within oneself. These could include an inner critic, a caretaker, or a wounded child.
Building Relationships: After identifying these parts, the next step is to cultivate relationships with them. This means listening to their concerns and understanding their roles.
Healing and Integration: The final step focuses on facilitating healing and integration. By embracing all parts, women can develop a more cohesive self-identity.

By addressing these internal conflicts, women can make sense of their emotions and resolve issues that affect their mental health.

Benefits of IFS Therapy for Women in Oregon

Women in Oregon can experience a range of benefits from IFS therapy, including:

Enhanced Self-Awareness: IFS encourages exploration of one's inner world. This can lead to a deeper self-understanding, which contributes to personal growth.
Improved Emotional Regulation: Recognizing and addressing different parts allows women to manage their emotions more effectively. For instance, studies show that therapeutic approaches like IFS can reduce anxiety symptoms by 60% for many participants.
Stronger Relationships: As women resolve their internal conflicts, their relationships with family and friends often improve. By addressing their emotional needs, they communicate better and foster stronger connections.
Empowerment: IFS therapy empowers women to take control of their mental health, nurturing a sense of agency and resilience. This empowerment can have a ripple effect, helping them inspire other women in their communities.

Finding IFS Therapy in Oregon

For those interested in exploring IFS therapy, Oregon has numerous resources. Many licensed therapists specialize in this approach, offering a supportive environment for healing.

To find a qualified IFS therapist, consider these steps:

Research: Search for therapists in your area who specialize in IFS. Websites like Psychology Today provide directories of mental health professionals.
Consultation: Take advantage of initial consultations to ask questions about the therapist's approach and experience with IFS.
Community Resources: Local mental health organizations may offer workshops or group therapy sessions focused on IFS. Engaging with others in a supportive environment can enhance the therapeutic experience.

Personal Stories of Empowerment

Many women in Oregon have transformed their lives through IFS therapy. For instance, one woman shared her journey of confronting her inner critic, which had hindered her for years. By learning to appreciate this part of herself through IFS, she integrated it into her identity and found newfound confidence.

Another woman recounted how IFS helped her manage the challenges of motherhood. By understanding her inner caretaker and wounded child, she found a healthier balance between self-care and caring for her family.

Moving Forward with IFS Therapy

Internal Family Systems therapy provides powerful tools for women in Oregon seeking to enhance their mental health. Through increased self-awareness, emotional regulation, and empowerment, IFS can assist women in navigating the unique challenges they face.

As more women embrace this therapeutic approach, the potential for healing and growth is significant. If you are a woman in Oregon looking to improve your mental health, consider IFS therapy as a path toward a balanced and fulfilling life.