Therapy

  • If you're not feeling quite like yourself and are looking for a safe space to tackle stress, process trauma, or navigate life's twists and turns, you've come to the right place. Learn more about yourself, what drives you, and how you relate to the world around you. Resolve past traumas, manage current stress, and build a successful future. Together we'll develop a holistic wellness plan that creates gradual successes and a life you enjoy.

    I typically work with individuals aged 16-60(ish):

    - Young adults exploring life and career goals

    - Mid-career professionals feeling stuck or wanting to develop confidence and leadership skills

    - Students: Undergrad and Grad; High School juniors and seniors - managing social and academic stress

    - Individuals seeking to build confidence and a sense of self - unpacking trauma and neglect

    - Individuals wanting to improve their relationship with their loved ones - unlearning patterns from past relationships

    - Empty nesters looking to write their next chapter

    - LEOs and Veterans

    - Trans/NB/genderqueer folx exploring identity or considering gender confirming surgery - evaluation, letters, and ongoing therapy

    - Individuals grieving the loss of loved ones - including suicide loss

    - Family/friends of Trans/NB individuals learning to support their journey

    Whether it's coping with change, navigating relationships, tackling depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or grief, or improving self-esteem, I'm here to help. I'm a seasoned therapist and I approach therapy as more than just a quick fix. Recognizing that the road ahead might involve some tough work, my role is to provide a comfortable and supportive space to make your journey a bit smoother. Sure, I can share some effective techniques for fast relief, but the real aim is lasting change. Let's work on helping you become your most authentic self.

Specialty Areas

  • Therapy for life transitions is like having a trusted navigator in your corner as you navigate the twists and turns of change. It’s a space where you can unpack those tough emotions, sort through tricky decisions, and untangle the knots in your relationships. Picture it as a conversation that’s all about finding ways to manage those overwhelming feelings, understand how changes affect you, and figure out how to make choices that align with who you are. It’s like having a seasoned guide who helps you steer through the stormy seas of life transitions, offering tools and insights to help you emerge more resilient and sure-footed on your path forward.

  • Our sessions are a relaxed, judgment-free zone where we can chat about anything that's weighing on your mind— academic stress, social pressures, self esteem, identity, past trauma, relationship and family issues, and more. Using techniques like mindfulness and practical strategies, we'll navigate these challenges together.

    I'll be there to really listen, understand what you're going through, and then we'll work together to build strategies that suit your life—whether it's managing time better or finding ways to flip those negative thoughts. My main goal is to empower you, giving you the tools to handle life with confidence. We’ll make sure you're equipped to tackle whatever comes your way!

  • Trauma work is looking at distressing experiences that can have a lasting impact on your feelings and behaviors. Holding onto trauma is like carrying a heavy backpack of memories that weigh you down.

    First, we'll work on finding ways to cope with uncomfortable feelings related to your experiences, learning techniques to manage overwhelming emotions. When you are ready, we will gradually process the memories in a way that feels comfortable for you.

    Think of it as slowly unpacking that heavy backpack, one piece at a time, until it feels more manageable. Together, we'll work towards helping you find a sense of peace and relief from the weight of the past. It's about giving you the tools and support you need to move forward in a healthier, happier way.

  • I am certified in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Populations and able to provide letters in support of gender-affirming surgery for my active clients.

    The ultimate goal is to create an environment where individuals can explore their gender identity, alleviate distress, and confidently live authentically.

    Gender Affirming Therapy is a supportive, affirming approach designed to help individuals explore and affirm their gender identity. Tailored to the unique needs of transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals, this therapy fosters self-acceptance while aiding in navigating gender-related challenges. Sessions often involve discussions about gender dysphoria, social transitioning, hormone therapy, and surgical options. Additionally, this therapy offers a safe space to address communication strategies with family and significant others regarding identity, pronouns, and other important experiences, assisting individuals in navigating these conversations and fostering understanding and support from their loved ones.

  • Grief work requires a caring and understanding space where we talk about the pain and emotions that come with losing someone or something important to you. I'm here to help you navigate through these feelings and find ways to heal. We'll talk openly about your memories, thoughts, and any struggles you're facing. I'll offer practical advice and support to help you cope with the grief. It's like having a trusted companion on this journey, someone who can help you process your emotions and find a path forward, even when it feels really hard. Additionally, I have experience supporting individuals who have lost loved ones to suicide, understanding the complex layers of this experience and offering specific guidance and compassion tailored to this unique grief. Together, we'll work towards finding a sense of peace and acceptance.

  • Therapy offers a vital lifeline to veterans and law enforcement officers (LEOs), providing a safe space to navigate the unique challenges they face.

    For veterans, it can help process traumatic experiences, manage PTSD, and re-establish a sense of normalcy post-service.

    Similarly, LEOs often encounter high-stress situations, and therapy assists in coping with the emotional toll, preventing burnout, and enhancing overall mental well-being.

    Through tailored approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy, these individuals gain valuable tools to tackle triggers, anxiety, and depression, fostering resilience and promoting healthier lifestyles. Ultimately, therapy isn't just about addressing issues—it's a powerful tool that empowers veterans and LEOs to reclaim control over their lives and find renewed strength in their roles. description

  • When we talk about self-esteem, we're really discussing how you feel about yourself - your worth, your abilities, and how you see yourself overall.

    We'll explore the thoughts and beliefs you have about yourself, especially the ones that might be holding you back or making you feel down. I'll help you challenge those negative thoughts and replace them with more positive, realistic ones.

    We'll also work on building your confidence and self-belief. It's like giving you tools and strategies to see yourself in a kinder, more positive light. Together, we'll help you feel more confident and comfortable, so you can tackle life's challenges with a stronger sense of self-worth. It's about recognizing your own value and learning to appreciate yourself for who you are.

FAQs

  • Virtual psychotherapy, or online therapy, is an increasingly popular form of mental health support. Online therapy functions similarly to in-person therapy but harnesses the convenience of digital platforms. Clients access sessions via secure video calls interacting with licensed therapists in a confidential online setting. This approach offers flexibility, allowing individuals to engage in therapy from their chosen environment—be it their home, office, or while traveling—provided they have a stable internet connection. The accessibility of virtual therapy breaks down geographical barriers, offering support to those with hectic schedules or limited access to traditional therapy settings. It ensures a professional therapeutic experience while accommodating diverse lifestyles and preferences.

  • Gretchen Murchison is able to provide psychotherapy in the following states: Florida, Indiana, Maine, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Washington, Washington, DC, and West Virginia. Please share in advance if you are planning to travel outside of these states. Laws about teletherapy vary, and may require obtaining consent to provide services legally and ethically while you are traveling.

  • We'll have a quick consult call to make sure we're a good fit before scheduling our first session.

    During our initial session, we'll focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere while we get to know each other. I'll invite you to share your story, goals, and any challenges you're facing. Together, we'll outline a plan and discuss how we'll work through these challenges in our future sessions. By the session's end, I aim for you to feel understood, with a clear sense of our collaborative approach moving forward.

  • Embarking on therapy involves setting achievable goals—no need for extreme specifics, but having direction helps steer progress. Remember, the effort you invest tends to mirror the outcomes you'll see.

    It's crucial to maintain realistic expectations; therapy isn't a quick fix or a cure-all—it's a gradual journey toward growth and healing.

    Effective communication with your therapist is key. Be clear about your needs, whether you're seeking short-term solutions, ongoing support, or diving into deeper-rooted issues. Also, discuss the frequency of sessions that suits your pace—weekly, bi-weekly, or as needed.

    View therapy as a relationship where growth often means stepping out of your comfort zone. Embracing discomfort can lead to significant breakthroughs and personal development.

    When it comes to concluding therapy or taking a break, open dialogue with your therapist is essential to navigate these transitions smoothly.

    For teletherapy sessions, ensure your space is conducive to privacy and comfort, minimizing distractions for a focused session.

  • I am credentialed with several insurance companies and I accept self pay clients.

    See Fee Schedule for additional details.