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What kind of therapy do you do?

 

I describe myself primarily as an Existential therapist. You can read a little more about what that means here, but in a nutshell, I work with clients to explore meaning, reckon with loss and change, and understand identity. I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence-based treatment for acute and chronic trauma, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for trauma, anxiety, and treatment-resistant depression. I utilize somatic (body based) techniques within both of these modalities. In addition, I bring elements from Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and other talk therapies to help clients understand repetitive patterns, work through strong emotions, and learn to communicate skillfully in relationships.

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What is EMDR?

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Check out my blog post, EMDR in a Nutshell, previously published in Mad in America, for info about this modality and how I use it.

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What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?

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Ketamine is a legal and safe prescribed psychedelic medicine. Its advantages are twofold: first, during the session, emotion and insight are more easily accessible; and second, it enhances neuroplasticity for days to weeks afterwards, which can assist "keeping the change". It is not a magic bullet, but it is a wonderful accelerant of the familiar essential work of therapy.

Before a ketamine session, I will work with you to identify your intentions. During administration and subsequent change of consciousness, I will sit with you and provide guidance and support. Afterwards, I will facilitate your understanding and integration. Please feel free to contact me for recommendations of medication prescribers.

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What kinds of clients do you see?

 

I see adult clients individually, in relationship therapy (couples and polycules), and in groups. 
 

I frequently see clients working with:

· Trauma, PTSD & C-PTSD (including sexual trauma)

· Impacts of organized and cult abuse

· Chronic illness & disability

· Existential & spiritual dilemmas​

And in the following identity groups: 
· Queer

· Trans and gender diverse

· Polyamorous
· Kinky

· Sex workers
· Neurodivergent (including autism and ADHD)

· Plural (multiple or dissociative identities)

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What are your qualifications?

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Being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts means my training emphasized direct client work above research & assessment. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Cornell University in 2011, and my Master of Arts in Psychology from William James College in 2014. Beginning in 2013, I have also completed several postgraduate trainings and seminars with the New England Center for Existential Therapy, or NECET (learn more.) My clinical experience with adults includes community mental health and psychiatric hospitals, hospice work, and college success programs. I just celebrated the 7th anniversary of founding my private practice!

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How does payment work?

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Please be aware that I do not take insurance directly. Many clients are able to receive partial or full reimbursement for our sessions by filing out of network, depending on your policy.

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Is it ok to call with questions before scheduling an initial session?

Please do! Studies show that trust and fit with one's therapist is the most important factor in a beneficial therapy outcome, even more so than therapeutic technique. I encourage clients to get to know me in whatever ways feel important, and to move along from any therapist they don't feel a gut resonance with. I encourage anyone interested to schedule a 15 minute call (no charge) by emailing me at kerrypinnisicounseling@gmail.com.

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What do you like to do outside the office?

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I sing with the Kinsey Scales, Boston's premier queer a cappella group, and have been playing classical piano most of my life. I'm dedicated to exercise, particularly rowing, yoga, and swimming, and I'm fascinated with learning about anatomy and physiology. I love playing board games & video games (and attending conventions!), and painting & lettering. I'm also currently working on stabilizing and returning to thriving with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, so I'm learning a lot about both illness & health, and spending a lot of time honoring my rest. Let me know if we have any interests in common!