Frequently Asked Questions

That's a great question! It's so important for you to feel comfortable with your therapist. Sometimes it takes a few different therapists before you find a therapist that feels like the best fit, and that's okay!

Many people find there is only one way to really know if a specific therapist is right for them, and that is to talk with the therapist on the phone and/or meet with them a few times for scheduled sessions. This can give you a chance to ask questions about their approach to therapy and gauge if you feel comfortable talking with them.

Because I understand that finding the right therapist can sometimes feel overwhelming and confusing, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. This can help you get a sense of whether my style and personality are right for you.

If we decide it’s not a good fit, I can help you figure out what you are looking for in a therapist and give you referrals for other therapists who may be a better match.

Every person and situation is unique, and the time invested in counseling is different for everyone. It will vary depending on several factors, such as:

• Your goals for therapy

• The origin and depth of your challenges

• The work you do in (and outside of) each therapy session

• The unique way your brain and body work

For some people, six months is enough to work through the effects of an acute stressor, such as a recent loss or life change. For others who want to work on more deeply rooted beliefs and patterns, the process may take longer. Since many of my clients are looking for more lasting changes, I usually see clients for a minimum of 12 months.

Whatever your situation is, I’m committed to helping you work towards your goals and will support you in determining for yourself when you’re ready to stop or take a break from therapy—which you can do at any time!

It’s true therapy is a both a time commitment and financial investment. I regularly hear from current and past clients that they got a lot out of it and it was definitely worth it!

Many people invest in their education, career, home, and physical health in hopes of improving their future success and quality of life. Therapy with a professional who is a good fit for your needs and goals is an equally important investment, and it has the potential to create long-term positive impacts for your future relationships, work, health, and even finances.

Some of the benefits my clients report experiencing from therapy are:

• Relief from prolonged suffering and emotional pain

• The ability to see and take advantage of new opportunities

• Greater self-confidence and trust in their abilities

• Deeper intimacy and connection in relationships, even ones they thought were permanently damaged by conflict and hurt

Sometimes we have friends who are willing to listen to our problems, and that’s wonderful. That kind of support system is so important. But there are times in our lives that call for professional support.

A therapist’s attention is devoted entirely to you on a reliable and ongoing basis. Although you will get to know a lot about your therapist’s supportive presence and personality, it’s much different from talking to a friend because therapy is an unequal relationship that is always balanced in favor of your needs.

Therapists also have specialized training, knowledge, and skills that enable them to do more than just listen sympathetically—they are trained in scientifically-validated therapeutic techniques that can help you get to the root of an issue, build new skills, uncover obstacles to change and growth, heal from painful experiences, and discover ways to reach your goals.

I don’t accept insurance. However, I’m happy to provide you with a form that you can submit to your insurance company for partial or full reimbursement using your out-of-network therapy benefits. That means you’re responsible for the fees at the time of our appointment, and depending on your plan, a certain percentage of that may be paid to you by your insurance company. Insurance providers typically reimburse 50-80% of session costs. Please contact your insurance company to determine the specifics of your insurance.

Some clients prefer to pay privately for therapy, instead of using their insurance, because:

• They want to make sure that their privacy is not compromised, and they know insurance companies require a psychiatric diagnosis and retain the right to access treatment plans.

• Their reasons for seeking therapy, such as exploration of life or career goals or working on relationship issues, do not rise to level of medical necessity required for a clinical diagnosis.

• They have a high deductible for mental health benefits, and their insurance would not cover much of the cost of their therapy.

• They want to have the freedom to choose any therapist that they feel comfortable with.

I accept all major credit cards as well as FSA and HSA cards. Payment is due at the time of your session and is automatically processed through my secure online practice portal.

My fees are similar to other counselors and therapists with similar experience and training. Please contact me to schedule a complimentary consultation session to hear more about my fees and approach.

A 48-hour notice of cancellation is required. Since your appointment time is reserved especially for you, I am unable to offer that time slot to another individual with less than 48 hours notice. You will be charged for the full session if you do not cancel at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled session start time.