Frequently Asked Questions

We commonly treat: Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders and traits, interpersonal relationship difficulties, difficulty with concentrating, focusing or motivating self, hyperactivity, socializing difficulties, poor sleep/wake cycles, poor appetite or overeating, restricted eating or binging, suicidal thoughts or ideation, trauma including PTSD and Complex PTSD, history of abuse or neglect, substance dependence, substance use, or recovery assistance, bipolar cycles including mania and hypomania, impulsivity, self-harm behavior including cutting or burning, severe temper tantrums or outbursts, hyperfixations, ruminations or obsessive thoughts, obsessive compulsive disorder, and many, many more. We also regularly support those who have adjustment difficulties related to sexual orientation or gender identity. If you are unsure please give a quick call to check!

We offer therapy sessions Monday through Friday, with evening availability both in person and over secure telehealth platform- whichever you choose. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy technique designed to help people process and heal from traumatic experiences, distressing memories, or emotional difficulties. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, it is especially effective for treating trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but has also been used for anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Bilateral Stimulation: The core of EMDR involves the use of bilateral stimulation, often through eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. While the client focuses on a disturbing memory or thought, they are simultaneously directed to track the therapist’s hand or another stimulus back and forth across their field of vision. This process mimics the eye movements that occur during REM sleep and is believed to facilitate the brain’s natural healing and processing abilities.

• Quick Symptom Relief: Many clients report experiencing relief from trauma symptoms more quickly than with traditional talk therapy.
• Non-invasive: It does not require clients to delve deeply into the details of their traumatic experiences for extended periods, which can be helpful for people who feel overwhelmed by such discussions.
• Long-lasting results: EMDR can create lasting changes by altering how the brain processes traumatic memories, helping to resolve the emotional and cognitive impact of trauma.

No. If you prefer not to engage with bilateral movements or stimulation, you do not have to do that. We will still use Adaptive Information Processing from the EMDR approach to dig up roots and then will tackle your specific symptoms using a combination of grounding and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (and biofeedback or neurofeedback as requested). However, after establishing rapport and a safe relationship with your therapist, most find they are open to the whole process of EMDR. We only proceed in therapy as fast or slow as you are comfortable and safe going. You never have to do anything you don't want to do, or talk about anything you don't want to talk about. No judgements here.

Neurofeedback is NOT invasive! And yes, it works. Neurofeedback sessions are typically twice a week, so we just ask for your dedication to this schedule as best as you can for approximately 15 weeks (30 sessions), sometimes less or more.

EEG Neurofeedback, or Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback, is a brain-training therapy that helps individuals regulate their brainwave activity to improve mental health and cognitive functioning. It’s a non-invasive method that uses real-time monitoring of brain activity to provide feedback and promote self-regulation of brain states. Neurofeedback is often used for a variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, traumatic brain injury, and for people with autism or those who are neurodivergent.

1. Measuring Brainwaves: Electrodes are placed on the scalp to measure brainwave activity. This activity is then displayed in real-time through specialized software, creating a visual or auditory representation of the brain’s electrical patterns. The most commonly measured brainwaves are:
   • Delta waves (0.5–4 Hz): Linked to deep sleep and restoration.
   • Theta waves (4–8 Hz): Associated with drowsiness, creativity, and the brain’s emotional and subconscious processes.
   • Alpha waves (8–12 Hz): Occur during relaxation and calmness.
   • Beta waves (12–30 Hz): Related to active thinking, focus, and problem-solving.
   • Gamma waves (30–100 Hz): Associated with higher cognitive functioning and information processing.

1. Feedback Loop: The individual receives real-time feedback based on their brainwave patterns. This feedback can be visual (like a video game that only plays when the brain is in a desirable state), auditory (like tones that change with brain activity), or sensory (like vibrations). The goal is for the brain to recognize and reinforce patterns that are more balanced or healthy.
2. Training the Brain: Over multiple sessions, the brain learns to regulate its activity by using the feedback provided. For example, if someone with anxiety has an excess of fast beta waves in certain areas of the brain, neurofeedback can help them reduce this excessive activity and achieve a calmer, more relaxed state.

• Improved Self-Regulation: By training the brain to produce healthier patterns, neurofeedback can help individuals manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other conditions.
• Enhanced Focus and Cognitive Functioning: It can improve attention and executive functioning, particularly in individuals with ADHD or learning difficulties.
• Non-Invasive and Drug-Free: Neurofeedback provides an alternative or complement to medication for those who want to explore non-pharmacological treatments.
• Lasting Changes: Like other types of biofeedback, neurofeedback aims to create long-term improvements in brain function by encouraging the brain to “retrain” itself.

 In practice, Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy may especially use neurofeedback to support clients with autism, ADHD, or those who are neurodivergent, helping them gain better control over their cognitive and emotional regulation. Neurofeedback can also be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with traditional talk therapy or those who prefer brain-based approaches to treatment. Combining it with other therapeutic methods like EMDR allows for a more comprehensive approach to mental health and neurodevelopmental challenges. 

 Heart Rate Variability (HRV) biofeedback is a therapeutic technique that helps individuals regulate their physiological responses, particularly the balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) branches of the autonomic nervous system. HRV refers to the variation in time between heartbeats, and higher variability generally indicates better autonomic flexibility and stress resilience. This treatment can be scheduled separately or integrated into normal counseling appointments.

1. Measuring Heart Rate Variability: Sensors (such as ECG or photoplethysmogram sensors) are attached to the body to measure heart rate in real-time. HRV represents the subtle differences in time intervals between consecutive heartbeats. For example, when you're inhaling, your heart rate speeds up, and when you exhale, it slows down. This natural fluctuation can be measured and displayed through a computer or mobile device.
2. Feedback Loop: The real-time data from HRV monitoring is displayed in a visual or auditory form (e.g., a graph showing heart rate patterns). This feedback helps the individual learn how to consciously influence their heart rate variability through techniques like deep breathing, relaxation, or mindfulness.
3. Training for Coherence: The goal of HRV biofeedback is to help people achieve "heart coherence," a state where their heart rate variability is harmonized with their breathing, resulting in smooth, consistent heart rate patterns. This coherence reflects a well-regulated autonomic nervous system. Techniques often used in HRV biofeedback include:
   • Deep, diaphragmatic breathing: Slowing down the breath to 4–7 breaths per minute, synchronizing the heart rate with respiration.
   • Mindfulness and Relaxation: Focusing on calm thoughts, gratitude, or positive emotions while regulating breathing.
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• Stress and Anxiety Reduction: By teaching individuals how to consciously influence their HRV, biofeedback can improve emotional regulation and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Higher HRV is associated with a more resilient response to stress.
• Improved Autonomic Balance: It helps the body shift from the overactive fight-or-flight response to the rest-and-digest mode, enhancing overall health and well-being.
• Enhanced Focus and Mental Clarity: Increasing HRV through biofeedback improves cognitive functions, such as attention, problem-solving, and decision-making, particularly under stress.
• Better Emotional Regulation: Training the autonomic nervous system can help individuals manage emotions like anger, frustration, or fear more effectively.
• Cardiovascular Health: HRV biofeedback has been used to support cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure and improving heart function in individuals with heart-related issues.
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Given Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy's background in trauma, neurofeedback, and working with neurodivergent individuals, HRV biofeedback complements our therapeutic methods by providing clients with a powerful tool to self-regulate in moments of distress. It’s particularly useful for clients who struggle with stress management or emotional regulation, such as those with trauma histories or autonomic dysregulation. Paired with EMDR or neurofeedback, HRV biofeedback can deepen the work on building resilience and emotional balance in clients.

Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy is private pay only. Currently, we accept credit/debit, cash, and HSA funds. Soon, ESA funding will also be accepted. 

Once service is paid, Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy will provide you with a "superbill." This is a type of invoice for services that you may submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Typical reimbursement varies, but is commonly about 60-65% of your total paid. For specific details, reach out to your insurance provider about out-of-network reimbursement rates.

**Superbills cannot be provided for Medicaid (AHCCCS) or Medicare insurance holders**

At Sullivan Neurofeedback And Psychotherapy , we take your privacy seriously. Information shared in therapy sessions is confidential and will not be shared with anyone without your explicit written consent. Your full privacy rights will be discussed verbally and in writing before treatment begins.

No, while you are welcome to sign up for both therapy and neurofeedback if you would like, you are not obligated to do both. Many people choose only one or the other. Schedule an intake by calling or texting 480-788-5118 and all options will be discussed as desired. 

Yes, Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy is a licensed and approved supervised private practice in accordance with A.A.C. R4-6-211, which states a master’s level LAC licensee may provide behavioral health services in a practice that they own and manage with Board-approved clinical supervision.

Yes, Sullivan Neurofeedback And Psychotherapy  is a LGBTQIA+ friendly practice. We provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations.

Our fees for intake and psychotherapy appointments are $175.00 per session. Sessions are 50 mins in length, although many times take a full hour. Other session lengths (90 min, etc) are also available.

The federal No Surprises Act exists to prevent surprise medical bills and to protect a client/patient's right to a fair estimate. In accordance with this, a Good Faith Estimate notice is provided to you at the before services begin. 

At Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and respectful environment for all clients, employees, and stakeholders. Our practice values diversity and recognizes the importance of cultural competence in delivering high-quality mental health and neurofeedback services. We believe that every individual, regardless of background, deserves access to compassionate, culturally sensitive care.

Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy strictly prohibits discrimination, harassment, and unequal treatment of any kind. We ensure that all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully without regard to:

• Race, color, or ethnicity
• National origin or ancestry
• Religion, belief system, or spiritual practice
• Sex, gender identity, or gender expression
• Sexual orientation
• Age
• Disability (physical, mental, or developmental)
• Marital status, familial status, or pregnancy
• Genetic information
• Military status, veteran status, or citizenship status
• Socioeconomic status

We are dedicated to providing an environment free of harassment, bias, and discrimination for all clients and staff members.

At Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy, cultural competence is at the core of our therapeutic approach. We recognize that cultural differences play a critical role in the mental health and well-being of our clients, and we are committed to the following:

• Cultural Awareness: All staff are trained to understand and respect the diverse cultural, racial, ethnic, and social backgrounds of our clients. This includes acknowledging personal biases and actively working to mitigate them.
• Ongoing Education: We provide continuous education and training for our staff on issues related to cultural competence, including race, ethnicity, neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ identities, disability, trauma, and more. This ensures that our team remains informed and responsive to the evolving needs of our diverse clientele.
• Client-Centered Care: We tailor our therapeutic and neurofeedback services to meet the unique cultural, social, and emotional needs of each client. We understand that cultural factors such as family dynamics, religious beliefs, and community norms may affect how clients experience mental health and healing.
• Language Access: To ensure that language is not a barrier to receiving care, Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy provides interpretation services and offers resources in multiple languages when necessary.

• Equitable Service Delivery: We are committed to providing equal access to our services for individuals of all backgrounds. This includes adapting our therapeutic approaches to accommodate diverse cultural perspectives and ensuring that our clients’ unique needs are met with dignity and respect.
• Inclusive Workplace Environment: Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace. We actively seek to promote diversity in our hiring practices and foster an environment where all employees feel valued, heard, and empowered to grow.
• Client Involvement: We encourage client participation in decisions regarding their care, respecting their cultural preferences, values, and needs. We work collaboratively with clients to ensure that their cultural and personal identities are honored throughout the therapeutic process.

Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward discrimination, harassment, or any form of mistreatment. All employees, clients, and stakeholders are encouraged to report any concerns or violations without fear of retaliation. All complaints will be handled with confidentiality, sensitivity, and urgency.

If an individual experiences or witnesses discrimination, they may report it directly to the management team. Any breach of this policy will result in prompt investigation and appropriate corrective action, up to and including termination of employment or cessation of services, as applicable.

• Regular Evaluation: Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy is committed to regularly reviewing and updating our policies and practices to ensure they align with the highest standards of non-discrimination and cultural competence. We will continually assess our organizational culture, service delivery, and workplace environment to promote inclusion and equity.
• Responsibility: The responsibility for upholding and enforcing this policy rests with all employees, but leadership at Sullivan Neurofeedback and Psychotherapy will actively ensure that the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in every aspect of our operations.

This policy reflects our dedication to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for healing and growth, both for our clients and staff. We recognize that diversity enriches our practice and enhances our ability to provide the best possible care to all who seek our services.