This week we invite you to learn more about Julie Jensen, a Marriage and Family Therapist at HEART Counseling who brings her education combined with life experience to trauma therapy.

Meet Julie Jensen a Marriage and Family Therapist

I’ve always been that person. The one that people tend to share things with that they don’t normally share. Whether I’m at a party, the grocery store or a baseball game, they seem to find me. I’ve wondered what it is that people see or feel that creates that ease. 

I think I can attribute this to two things. One, it’s obvious that I love people. I love learning who they are, what they’ve experienced and what makes them unique. I’ll compliment your shirt while passing you on the trail, ask you what your dog’s name is and have a very loud laugh that is hard to miss. 

Second, I’ve realized that folks can see that I’ve been through some things myself. I’ve experienced significant childhood trauma, grief and loss and some really tough years as an adult. And while I’m not interested in sharing those details publically, I can absolutely say that those times in my own life have brought me to where I am now. Oh, and I have a few tattoos. People tend to notice those. 

Over time I know that each and every one of us have very different lives with very different experiences, even if some of us have been through similar things. What has worked for me may not work for you. And so, we figure things out together. The client and I. And because I’ve seen a thing or two in my lifetime, I’m not easily scared away by what folks share. I hold those moments sacred and consider it an honor to be trusted with their stories. 

Trauma Therapy with Julie

I see grief and loss, children who are not typical, families formed through adoption, watching children grow into adulthood (maybe not the way we expected) and couples that have hit a roadblock. Those from the LGBTQIA+ community and those who realized they aren’t sure how they got to where they are in midlife. Many are figuring out life transitions and how their past and future will meet. Many are feeling lingering effects from the pandemic and the current global and political issues that we face. During these times, finding support, new strategies and tools can be helpful.

I find immense healing in being outdoors and using my training as a yoga instructor personally and with clients. Getting fresh air and some movement doesn’t solve all of our problems, but it certainly can soothe our nervous system which in turn, can make life a little bit easier. When I’m not outdoors I’m often on the couch with my dogs and cats because I also think our pets can be invaluable to bringing peace and joy to our lives.

I tend to lean toward experiential talk therapy, CBT, EFT and polyvagal theory all within a trauma-informed lens. I am also using EMDR more and more. It all just depends on what the client needs. We can figure it out together because we don’t have to do this alone.