Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are Dr. Church's credentials?
For nearly two decades, I’ve worked at the intersection of psychology, trauma recovery, and systemic change. My professional journey has taken me from clinical psychology to expert witness work, from teaching graduate students to consulting lawmakers. My lived experience as a mother, survivor, and advocate fuels my mission to create justice-informed care and healing spaces for others.
Before opening my own private practice and trauma recovery coaching businesses, I served as Clinical Supervisor, Staff Psychologist, and Coordinator Of Outreach for Baylor Counseling Center at Baylor University.
I also taught as an adjunct professor at Baylor University and Tarleton University, instructing graduate courses in Multicultural Issues, Behavioral Medicine, Group Therapy, and Personality & Counseling Theories & Applications.
I hold the following professional credentials:
- Doctor of Clinical Psychology
- Certified Trauma Professional
- Certified Human Rights Consultant
- Certified Reiki Practitioner
I am currently completing a PhD in Psychology, Public Policy and the Law with a concentration in conflict resolution and peace studies. My doctoral work focuses on addressing outdated systems that perpetuate harm for marginalized and historically oppressed peoples. I hope to use the wisdom gained by personal lived experience, my career as a clinician, and mastery of systemic issues to create a kinder, safer and more just world for all.
What specific tools and modalities does Dr. Church draw from?
- Psychoeducation
- Neuroscience and the neurobiology of trauma
- Nervous system regulation
- Multicultural power and privilege analysis
- Trauma Release and somatic healing
- Cutting edge approaches to mind/body healing
- Cultural and traumatic deprogramming
- Human consciousness expansion
- Self inquiry and self mastery
- Jungian Psychology and personal spirituality
- Forensic science analysis
Does Dr. Church take insurance?
No, as a coach and consultant I do not diagnose or provide therapy. Therefore, my services are considered elective and not covered by insurance.
Does Dr. Church have a sliding scale?
For those with financial need, there are a few sliding scale spots available. Please let me know prior to our first appointment if affordability is an issue for you. I strive to make mental healthcare as accessible as possible.
What's the Difference between trauma coaching and psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy focuses on mental and emotional processing of the past, stabilizing mental health, and reducing symptoms. It utilizes a pathology-based diagnostic system that assists patients in obtaining functionality in their current life circumstances.
Trauma Recovery Coaching is much more holistic, addressing the entire individual in their complexity. Coaching sessions focus on the present and future, drawing relevant data from an individual’s past as needed to help them discover and understand who they are today. And why!
Coaching utilizes client-coach co-created objectives and teaches an individual how to move forward into a future that better aligns with their unique goals and desires.
Is Trauma Coaching Confidential?
Your personal story and the content of your sessions are 100% private and confidential. This is of high importance in a professional helping relationship and offers safety in discussing any area of your life.
Strict precautions are taken to protect your personal private information.
Confidentiality may be broken, at my discretion, under the following circumstances:
- If I believe you are a danger to yourself or someone else.
- If you disclose abuse of a minor or disabled party who needs protection from violence.
Please see the Website Terms of Service & Disclaimer for more information.
How Often Should I Meet with Dr. Church?
Depending on your goals, availability, and financial resources, we can establish a rhythm that works best for you. Because of the nature of my work, it is often best to meet frequently, especially at the beginning of your healing journey.
Many individuals will meet with me once a week in order to engage a quicker trajectory towards their goals. This cadence builds momentum and can lead to substantial breakthroughs in a short period of time. Weekly sessions are ideal for those experiencing life-changing and acute traumas, like the loss of a loved one or a traumatic incident, like sexual assault.
Clients also often choose an every- other-week format which offers more space for reflection and application of learning between sessions. This can be perfect for clients who feel like they take more time to absorb and process what we discuss in coaching sessions.
For individuals wanting a slower-paced experience, once a month sessions are available. However, at this pace, you can expect a longer duration of time to see results.
How Long Will I have to be in coaching?
The time-frame varies depending on a wide range of factors:
- Your goal(s)
- Your commitment and openness to change
- Your capacity for introspection and self-analysis
- Your current mental health and life circumstances
- How quickly and thoughtfully you complete homework assignments
- Many other unique factors
Some individuals utilize an In-depth 1:1 Personal Consultation to obtain quick answers to a specific question and require only one or two sessions.
Others see me to focus on one goal and continue on after they have reached it. They see results, feel understood and validated, and continue on their healing journey to address other concerns in our coaching sessions.
Clients stay with me for weeks, months, and even years to accomplish their goals and build the life they desire.
You, as the client, are completely in charge of how long you would like to continue coaching.