Telehealth appointments are available
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long and frequent are sessions?
Sessions typically last 45-50 minutes. The therapist and client will decide the frequency of sessions based on individual needs and circumstances. Typically they are once per week. As you progress towards your goals, you may decide to meet less frequently. When goals have been reached, many clients choose to come occasionally or as the need arises. Always feel free to discuss your preferences for frequency at any time.
What can I expect during the first session?
In your first session we will address your reasons for coming into treatment. Each person’s situation is unique, but often times topics covered include personal history, family history, prior mental health treatment, current stressors, goals, and expectations for therapy. You are encouraged to ask any questions you might have about therapy and to share your objectives, concerns, hopes, fears, etc. Typically any information that you provided on the intake packet will be discussed in further detail.
For counseling to be successful, you and your therapist must establish trust. It may take a few sessions for your therapist to get to know you, or for you to feel comfortable discussing personal information. Because counseling is dynamic and interactive, you should feel free to ask questions to help you connect with your therapist as you progress through the counseling experience together.
What is the cost of therapy?
The regular fee is $125 for the first session and $95 for each session thereafter. If you would like to use your insurance, please view payment options for more information.
What forms of payment do you accept?
You have the option to pay using personal checks, cash, credit and debit cards. You may be eligible to use employer sponsored HSA and Flex Spending cards. Please contact your provider for confirmation. All payments are due at the beginning of each session.
What is EAP?
EAP stands for Employee Assistance Program. These are employee sponsored benefits that will allow an individual to attend therapy at no cost whatsoever. Please inquire with your employer or health insurance company to determine if these benefits are available for you.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used in psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" as a means to address and change negative cognitions (thoughts) that a person has which are creating negative feelings and behaviors. The therapist will work with the client to identify these negative cognitions and challenge them to help the client understand if they are irrational in nature and how they are contributing to low self-esteem, fears, feelings of depression and anxiety, etc. Ultimately the goal is to replace faulty cognitions with positive ones, which improves the overall quality of mental health and can be a very freeing and empowering experience for the individual.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy for the treatment of trauma. The premise is that when we experience trauma, even on a smaller scale, our brain inappropriately stores negative emotions and beliefs. When triggered, we can continue to experience these negative feelings and beliefs, and they may be accompanied by unwanted behaviors or body sensations. The goal of EMDR therapy is to resolve these negative symptoms and leave you with new meaning, understanding, and perspective that will lead to healthier overall well-being.
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What if I need medication?
If therapist and client agree that medication such as an antidepressant might be helpful to the client, the counselor will provide referrals to several local psychiatrists so the client may choose whom they feel will be the best fit.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is one of the most important components in the therapist-client relationship. State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality with the exception of the situations listed below. In these situations, a therapist is legally required to contact the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
- Suspected abuse (both past and present) or neglect of children, adults, and elders.
- If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.
In certain circumstances you may want your therapist to share information with another party (physician, attorney, other health care provider, family member). By law, your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Please contact me by phone, text or email. You may also submit a request via the contact form.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
You have the option of printing out your intake forms and completing them prior to your arrival. Or you are free to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete the required intake information in our office. If you are using health insurance, please have your card with you.
What if I am running late to my session?
Life can be busy, and therefore we allow a 10 minute grace period. If you are late beyond the allotted grace period, you may not be able to be seen and you will be charged a missed appointment fee of $35.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my session?
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Please note that you will be charged the $35 missed appointment fee for late notice or a no-show.