Extended therapy sessions for deeper, more focused work

For some people, weekly therapy can feel fragmented — just as something important begins to emerge, the session ends.

Upriver Wellness — Therapy Intensives

Extended therapy sessions for deeper, more focused work

For some people, weekly therapy can feel fragmented — just as something important begins to emerge, the session ends. There isn't always enough time to slow down, build momentum, or stay with what's arising long enough for it to shift.

Intensives create more space. More space to build safety. More space to work with the patterns, memories, or internal conflicts that need sustained attention without rushing your nervous system.

Using EMDR, parts work, attachment-focused therapy, and somatic approaches, intensives allow us to stay with the work long enough for something meaningful to move — without forcing a timeline on your system.

For many people with complex trauma, the most important part of deep work isn't intensity — it's having enough space to stay connected to yourself while difficult material emerges.
Who this may help

What intensives may help with

Relationship or attachment patterns that feel stuck
Complex trauma or developmental trauma
Internal conflict between protective parts
Chronic overfunctioning, shutdown, or emotional overwhelm
A specific relational rupture, betrayal, or transition
Feeling like weekly therapy isn't providing enough continuity
Returning to therapy after a long pause and wanting to re-engage more deeply

When intensives may not be the right fit

People currently in acute crisis
Those needing a higher level of care
Individuals without enough internal or external support for deeper processing
Clients seeking rapid trauma processing without a stabilization foundation

We determine together whether this format feels supportive and appropriate — there's no pressure either way.

Two formats

Choosing the right kind of intensive

Option 1

EMDR-Focused Intensives

More target-oriented and memory-processing centered. Best suited for clients who already have a foundation of stability and want to move through specific stuck material more efficiently.

Single-event trauma or specific stuck memories
Identifiable triggers tied to past experiences
Prior EMDR experience with established resources
Already stable — ready to process more directly
What to expect

What intensives look like

Intensives are extended individual therapy sessions — not workshops or group retreats. Everything is centered entirely around your nervous system, history, and goals.

3 hrs

Half-day intensive

4–5 hrs

Extended intensive

Full day

Full-day intensive

Some intensives involve focused EMDR processing. Others are slower and more relational — building safety, understanding protective patterns, mapping parts, or working through attachment wounds with more spaciousness than weekly therapy allows.

There is always room for grounding, pacing, breaks, and adjustment along the way. The format serves the work, not the other way around.

My approach to intensive work

I don't believe healing happens by overwhelming the nervous system. More time doesn't mean more pressure — it means more room to go slowly, to notice what's happening in real time, and to stay connected to yourself as difficult material emerges.

"Intensives are paced collaboratively and carefully. We work with your system, not against it."

Humor, rest, reflection, and moments of genuine relief are part of the process too. Not every hour needs to be heavy — sometimes the most important thing that happens in an intensive is a moment of unexpected ease.

Practical details

Logistics

Location

In-person in Portland, OR (801 NE Alberta St). Video intensives available for clients throughout Oregon and Washington.

Who can book

Available to existing clients and new clients following an initial consultation to assess fit and readiness.

Scheduling

Customized scheduling based on your needs and availability. Discussed during consultation.

Fees & insurance

Extended-format sessions may not be covered by insurance. Private pay details discussed during consultation. See fees page →

Curious whether an intensive is right for you?

A free 15-minute consultation is the best place to start — we can talk through what you're working on and whether this format makes sense.

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Contact

Whether you have a question, an idea, or just want to say hello, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help.