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.

Navigating Emotional Whiplash Understanding the Push and Pull of Your Nervous System

meersoulcounseling
16 hours ago
3 min read

One moment you’re calmly answering emails, preparing dinner, or chatting with a friend. The next, your chest tightens, patience vanishes, tears well up, or you feel the urge to shut down completely. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why was I fine just five minutes ago?” you’re not alone. These sudden emotional shifts can feel confusing and unsettling, especially when they seem to come out of nowhere.

This post explores why these rapid changes happen and how your nervous system plays a key role. Understanding this can help you respond with more compassion toward yourself and find ways to manage these overwhelming moments.

Your Nervous System Works Like a Battery

Imagine your nervous system as a battery that powers your emotional and physical energy throughout the day. Every stressor you face drains a bit of that energy. These stressors can be obvious or subtle, such as:

Poor sleep the night before
Work deadlines or pressure
Conflict with family or friends
Constant notifications from your phone
Caring for children or aging parents
Physical illness or chronic pain
Unresolved past trauma
Making hundreds of decisions daily

Each challenge on its own might feel manageable. But as these small stressors add up, your emotional “battery” starts to run low. Eventually, a minor event—like forgetting your grocery list or receiving a brief text—can feel overwhelming. It’s rarely about the event itself but about your nervous system reaching its limit.

Understanding Your Window of Tolerance

Mental health professionals use the term Window of Tolerance to describe the zone where you can handle stress effectively. When you’re inside this window, you can:

Think clearly
Solve problems
Regulate your emotions
Stay connected with yourself and others
Manage everyday stress without feeling overwhelmed

When stress pushes you outside this window, your brain switches into survival mode. This can happen in two main ways:

Hyperarousal (Fight or Flight)

You might experience:

Anxiety or panic
Racing thoughts
Irritability or anger
Feeling overwhelmed or restless
Difficulty concentrating

This state prepares your body to respond to danger but can feel exhausting and out of control when triggered by everyday stress.

Hypoarousal (Freeze or Shutdown)

You might notice:

Feeling numb or disconnected
Low energy or fatigue
Difficulty speaking or moving
Wanting to withdraw or hide
Feeling emotionally “shut down”

This response protects you by conserving energy but can leave you feeling stuck or isolated.

Eye-level view of a quiet forest path with soft sunlight filtering through trees — A calm forest path symbolizing the nervous system’s balance

Why These Shifts Happen So Suddenly

Your nervous system is constantly scanning for threats, even when none are obvious. When your emotional battery is low, small triggers can push you out of your window of tolerance quickly. These triggers might be:

A sharp tone in someone’s voice
A sudden change in plans
Feeling rushed or pressured
A memory or thought that stirs old feelings

Because your nervous system is already taxed, it reacts strongly to protect you. This reaction is automatic and not a sign of weakness or failure.

How to Expand Your Window of Tolerance

While you can’t control every stressor, you can build your capacity to handle stress better. Here are some practical ways to support your nervous system:

Practice Mindful Breathing

Slow, deep breaths signal your nervous system to calm down. Try breathing in for 4 seconds, holding for 4, and exhaling for 6.

Create Small Breaks

Take short pauses during your day to check in with yourself. Even a minute of silence or stretching can help reset your energy.

Prioritize Sleep and Rest

Quality sleep replenishes your emotional battery. Aim for consistent sleep routines and restful environments.

Set Boundaries

Learn to say no or limit exposure to draining situations or people. Protecting your energy is essential.

Engage in Physical Movement

Exercise releases tension and boosts mood. Even gentle walks or stretching can make a difference.

Connect with Supportive People

Talking with someone who understands can help you feel grounded and less alone.

When to Seek Professional Help

If emotional whiplash happens frequently or severely disrupts your life, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapists can help you:

Understand your nervous system responses
Develop coping strategies tailored to you
Work through unresolved trauma or stress

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and self-care.

Emotional whiplash is your nervous system’s way of signaling it needs attention. By recognizing these shifts and learning how to support your nervous system, you can regain balance and respond to life’s challenges with greater ease. Start by noticing your stress levels, practicing small calming techniques, and reaching out when you need support. Your emotional health is worth the effort.