Frequently Asked Questions

Going to therapy for the first time can be scary, so take some time to go over some of these FAQs to get a bit more information before you get started.

  • Online counseling is changing the way that therapy is being conducted making it more convenient, private, and affordable to be able to reach out and get a helping hand.

    No more fighting traffic to make it to an appointment or having to sit through an hour session when you just need a quick professional opinion on a subject. Online counseling puts therapeutic services in the palm of your hand.

    Online counseling also provides you with the privacy you may desire, not having to visit an actual office. You can choose to casually message the therapist while strolling through the mall or sit in your car for a brief video session.

    Finally, online counseling is affordable!! We all like to save money and many traditional therapy sessions are not something the average person may be able to afford. By keeping cost low, you are able to seek professional help without having to rely on insurance to pay the tab thereby keeping the fact that you are in therapy private.

  • Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

  • Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual or couple. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. During our first session together, we will come up with a plan on how to address your particular situation.

    The online system is very simple to use. When you decide that you are interested in working with me you can schedule a free consultation here. After that, you will receive a prescreening form to the email provided to fill out before your schedule consultation. Prior to your appointment you will receive a link through Simple Practice to join the session. You do not need to be logged in to attend you session just click on the link to enter the waiting room.

  • Online counseling has been shown to be just as effective as traditional face to face counseling. However, online counseling is not for everyone.

    Online therapy is not for:

    • Actively suicidal individuals

    • Those thinking of harming others

    • Those currently experiencing psychosis (audio/visual hallucinations or delusion)

    • Those with severe substance abuse issues

    • Those in abusive relationships that may need immediate medical attention or law enforcement (there are exceptions to this, please ask if you are in this category)

    • Those currently in a crisis situation that may need immediate medical or law enforcement intervention.

  • The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

  • Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

  • Investing in your mental health through therapy is truly an invaluable gift to yourself. As someone who has been to therapy we get that the cost of therapy may sometimes seem daunting, but the benefits it brings are immeasurable. By embarking on this journey, you are choosing to prioritize your wellbeing and make meaningful strides towards living a more fulfilling life. Therapy provides a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. It equips you with crucial tools, insights, and coping mechanisms to navigate life's challenges with resilience and self-awareness. In making this investment, you are expressing a profound commitment to your personal growth and inner peace. Remember, you are deserving of the support, guidance, and healing that therapy can offer. That’s why we do not want cost to stop you from getting the help you deserve, ask us about our sliding scale options.

  • Payment is due at the time of service. I accept all major credit cards, Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA), and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) as payment.

    Our rates:

    *We offer limited sliding scale spots which can be inquired about during consultation.

  • We currently accept the following insurances:

    • Aetna

    • Cigna

    I’d recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider to help determine your benefits and reimbursement rates:

    • Does my health insurance plan include mental health benefits?

    • Do I have a deductible? If so, what is it and have I met it yet?

    • Does my plan limit how many sessions per calendar year I can have? If so, what is the limit?

    • Do I need written approval from my primary care physician in order for services to be covered?

    Reasons why most of my clients choose to not involve their insurance provider in their treatment. Here are some of the advantages:

    • You won’t have a diagnosis label permanently attached to your health record.

    • Your records are protected, which means all information about you, including very personal information, cannot be obtained by the insurance company.

    • Your care is not dictated by the insurance company, but by the collaborative efforts formed by my professional expertise and your personal preferences and goals.