Therapeutic Approaches at Third Eye Counseling
I help trauma survivors move out of anxiety, overwhelm, and survival mode so they can feel grounded, connected, and in control of their lives.At Third Eye Counseling, therapy is both evidence-based and deeply human. Each approach is selected and adapted to meet you where you are — supporting emotional safety, insight, and lasting change. Healing is a collaborative process, and the methods we use are designed to foster resilience, self-trust, and personal growth.
Nichole Gulowsen, LCSW, CCS is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) through Evergreen Certifications and a certified TIR facilitator through Applied Metapsychology International (AMI), bringing both expertise and compassion to her work with clients.
Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR)
As a certified TIR facilitator through AMI, Nichole provides a structured, client-centered method for resolving the effects of trauma. TIR allows individuals to revisit and process distressing memories in a safe, controlled way, reducing emotional charge and restoring a sense of calm and empowerment. This method is particularly effective for trauma that continues to influence daily life, relationships, and self-perception.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns that influence emotions and behaviors. Through this process, clients gain tools to challenge self-criticism, manage anxiety, and respond to stress more effectively — supporting the goal of moving beyond anxiety and overwhelm toward steadier, more grounded living. Nichole draws on CBT strategies in her work, though she is not certified in CBT.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT is an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related symptoms, helping individuals re-evaluate unhelpful beliefs connected to their traumatic experiences. By identifying and challenging these patterns, clients can reduce guilt, shame, and stuck points that interfere with recovery. Nichole integrates elements of CPT into trauma work, though she is not certified in this modality.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT emphasizes mindful acceptance of thoughts and feelings while committing to actions aligned with your values. It helps foster resilience, emotional flexibility, and a greater sense of purpose — all supporting the journey out of anxiety and survival mode. Nichole integrates ACT techniques thoughtfully, though she is not formally certified in this modality.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Techniques
DBT techniques support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. When integrated thoughtfully, they help clients navigate overwhelming feelings safely and build confidence in their ability to respond rather than react. Nichole occasionally draws from DBT strategies to meet specific client needs, though she is not certified in DBT.
Narrative Therapy
Narrative Therapy explores the stories we tell about ourselves — the meanings we attach to our experiences and identities. By examining and re-authoring these narratives, clients can reclaim their voice, separate themselves from problems, and move toward preferred ways of living, reinforcing connection, self-trust, and groundedness. Nichole incorporates Narrative Therapy to help clients connect with strength, agency, and self-compassion.
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness invites awareness of the present moment — grounding the body, quieting the mind, and fostering compassion for oneself. These practices directly support moving out of anxiety and overwhelm by cultivating a sense of presence and control in daily life. Nichole incorporates mindfulness as part of a broader trauma-informed approach, though she is not certified in mindfulness-based programs.
Expressive Arts Techniques
For some experiences, words aren’t enough. Expressive arts techniques — such as drawing, writing, or movement — provide creative ways to explore and release emotion safely, particularly when working through trauma. These approaches help clients process emotions, reconnect with themselves, and integrate their healing in meaningful ways. Nichole uses these approaches to enhance processing and self-expression, while maintaining a safe, supportive therapeutic environment.
A Relational, Trauma-Informed Approach
At Third Eye Counseling, these methods are not used in isolation. Each session is shaped by a relational, compassionate philosophy, honoring both the science of healing and the human experience of trauma. Therapy is tailored to your unique needs, pace, and goals — weaving together evidence-based strategies and creative techniques to restore safety, reduce anxiety, and promote meaningful change, supporting the ultimate goal of moving beyond survival and into grounded, connected living.