Commonly Asked Questions
What do we do in therapy?
Do you provide therapy virtually or in person?
I currently only provide therapy virtually. Sessions can be done via tele-video or over the phone.
How long does therapy take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling 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 counseling in the first place.
Do the things I tell you stay private?
The session content and all relevant materials to the client’s treatment will be held confidential unless the client requests in writing to have all or portions of such content released to a specifically named person/persons. Limitations of such client held privilege of confidentiality exist and are itemized below:
If a client threatens or attempts to commit suicide or otherwise conducts him/her self in a manner in which there is a substantial risk of incurring serious bodily harm.
If a client threatens grave bodily harm or death to another person.
If the therapist has a reasonable suspicion that a client or other named victim is the perpetrator, observer of, or actual victim of physical, emotional or sexual abuse of children under the age of 18 years.
Suspicions as stated above in the case of an elderly person who may be subjected to these abuses.
Suspected neglect of the parties named in items #3 and # 4.
If a court of law issues a legitimate subpoena for information stated on the subpoena.
If a client is in therapy or being treated by order of a court of law, or if information is obtained for the purpose of rendering an expert’s report to an attorney.
What's the difference between talking to you vs a friend or family member?
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, counseling 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, and 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.
How much do you charge per session?
Individual Therapy – $80 – $100 per 50 – minute session
Couples Therapy – $100 – $120 per 50 – minute session
Do you accept Insurance?
Unfortunately, I do not accept insurance at this time, and I do not submit information to your insurance company. My services are considered “Out of Network” and you pay an agreed upon out-of-pocket rate per session.
Depending on your current health insurance provider or employee benefit plan, it is possible for services to be reimbursed. Please contact your provider to verify how your plan compensates you for psychotherapy services. I can provide an invoice/superbill upon request to provide to your insurance company.
I’d recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider:
Does my health insurance plan include out of network mental health benefits?
Does my health plan reimburse for out of network services?
How do I schedule a free 15-minute consultation?
Can you prescribe medication?
I do not prescribe medication. Medication is usually prescribed by a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, or possibly your primary care provider.
What is the difference between a therapist, psychologist, and psychiatrist?
Therapist
A therapist or counselor is an individual with a masters degree in a mental health discipline who is licensed to provide psychotherapy.
Psychologist
A psychologist can also be licensed as a therapist however, psychologists have completed a doctoral degree and additional trainings. Psychologist may also be trained to complete psychological testing and evaluations.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical provider who is licensed to prescribe medication for individuals with diagnosable mental health disorders.