Before starting my private practice, I spent more than ten years in hospital and emergency settings, working directly alongside medical teams and first responders. In addition to providing therapy throughout my career, that experience gives me a grounded understanding of the pressures, decisions, and emotional weight that come with high-stress environments.
My work is straightforward and practical. We focus on what’s happening in your life right now, identify what you need, and create a plan that feels manageable. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, burnout, anxiety, or major transitions, therapy with me is a steady place to sort things out without judgment or complexity.
Experienced therapy for people navigating demanding roles, complex stress, and the impact of showing up for others every day.
Care That Understands Your World
- Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- BA, University of Maine (2010)
- MSW, Boston University (2012)
- EMDR Trained — Personal Transformation Institute
- Certified Trauma Treatment Professional
- Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional
- Washington State Approved Clinical Supervisor
Credentials & Training:
I’m a licensed clinical social worker living in Bellingham with my partner and our two young children. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me running, mountain biking, or enjoying a slice of cake. I bring my full, genuine self into this work, creating a space that’s warm, human, and grounded.
Hi, I'm Vickery
I started Paper Birch Therapy after years of working in hospital and emergency settings, where I witnessed firsthand how much caregivers, first responders, and medical professionals hold. People often showed strength in the moment, then had nowhere to bring the aftermath.
I also saw how many parents and adults navigating major life transitions were doing the same, carrying stress, trauma, and responsibility without enough space to process any of it.
My work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a place where they can pause, sort through their experiences at a manageable pace, and feel understood without having to over-explain.
At its core, my work is about providing steady, practical support for people carrying a lot, often quietly.
Why I Do This Work
My work is grounded in clear communication, practical tools, and a calm, steady pace. I draw from both advanced clinical training and real-world experience to support clients in a way that feels manageable and collaborative.
I’m trained in EMDR through an EMDRIA-approved program and continue working toward full certification. I also have advanced training in perinatal mental health, supported by my own experiences with pregnancy and parenting.
A significant part of my background comes from working in emergency departments alongside healthcare workers and first responders. That work gave me a strong understanding of high-pressure environments, critical incidents, and the impact of vicarious trauma, insight that informs the way I support clients in similar roles today.
My Approach to Therapy
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with advanced certifications in trauma treatment, anxiety treatment, and clinical supervision.
Trauma-Focused Licensure
More than a decade supporting patients, families, and medical teams in hospital and emergency department settings.
Hospital-Based Background
Extensive experience working alongside healthcare workers and first responders, with specialized insight into vicarious trauma.
First Responder Insight
Advanced training in EMDR and perinatal mental health, informed by personal experience with pregnancy complications and early-infancy caregiving.
Perinatal & EMDR Training
sessions canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice — or missed appointments — will be billed at the full session fee.
Cancellation Policy
Under the No Surprises Act, you’re entitled to a Good Faith Estimate for the expected cost of your care. This will be provided during onboarding and is available upon request at any time.
Good Faith Estimate
This fee applies to all individual therapy appointments. Rates are reviewed annually and communicated in advance of any changes.
$200 per 53-minute session
FEEs & Policies
Not usually. Therapy with me is collaborative and client-led. We focus on what feels most relevant each session rather than following a strict agenda. If you ever want tools or practices between sessions, we can add them, but they’re always optional.
Do you give homework or use a structured, step-by-step plan?
I’m licensed in Washington State and provide therapy via telehealth only to clients who are physically located in Washington during sessions.
What is your service area?
As a solo practitioner I am not immediately available outside of sessions and am not a good fit for clients who are in need of crisis intervention. When I am out of the office I am focusing on refilling my own “cup” and may often be away from my phone/computer. If you are in need of more intensive services I’d be happy to provide resources and point you in the direction of crisis intervention services in your area!
Are you available if i need to talk in between sessions or if there is a crisis
Yes. I’m in-network with Aetna, Regence, Premera, LifeWise, First Choice, First Health, United Healthcare (UBH/UHC), UMR, and Optum.
I also accept out-of-network benefits if your plan allows. Full payment is due at the time of your session, and I’ll provide a superbill you can submit for potential reimbursement.
If you plan to use insurance, please check your specific coverage directly with your insurer.
Do you accept my insurance?
Frequently Asked Questions
You don’t have to sort everything out on your own. If you’re feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or simply ready for some steadier support, this is a good place to start.
A 15-minute consultation is an easy way to ask questions, learn about my approach, and see whether working together feels like the right fit.