Frequently Asked Questions
It's completely normal to have questions about therapy. Taking the first step can feel big, and you deserve to have all the information you need. Here are answers to some common concerns.
How do I get started?
You can start by requesting an appointment through this website or by contacting me directly via phone or email. We can schedule a brief, free consultation to make sure I'm the right fit for you. If so, we'll schedule your first full session (often called an "intake"), where we'll explore your history and goals in more detail.
What is therapy with you really like?
Our first session is about getting to know you and what brought you here. My style is collaborative, supportive, and direct. I'll listen, ask questions, and support you, but I'll also challenge you to see new perspectives. My goal is for you to leave that first session feeling understood and with a sense of hope. From there, we'll build a plan together.
I'm used to handling things on my own. Isn't going to therapy a sign of weakness?
Not at all. In my experience, it's the opposite. Reaching out is a sign of courage. It shows you're ready to stop just "pushing through" and take real action to change your life. Everyone needs support at times. My job is to help you identify the strengths you already have and build new tools to overcome the challenges you're facing.
What's the difference between talking to you and talking to a friend?
Talking to a friend is a wonderful source of support, but therapy is different. As a trained therapist, I can help you see patterns you might be missing, teach you proven skills (like CBT or MEMI), and challenge you in a way a friend can't. It's also a 100% confidential and objective space focused entirely on you and your goals, without you having to worry about judgment or burdening someone you care about.
What about medication? Shouldn't I just take a pill?
Medication can be a very helpful tool, especially for managing severe symptoms of depression or anxiety, and it often works best when combined with therapy. However, a pill is designed to manage symptoms, while therapy is designed to help you solve the root problems. My goal is to help you build long-term coping skills and insights so you can feel better and more in control.
I'm not sure about telehealth. Is it as effective as in-person?
It's normal to be hesitant, but yes, telehealth is highly effective. Research shows that for most issues, it's just as effective as in-person therapy. It's secure, convenient, and allows you to have your session from a space where you already feel safe and comfortable. I find that clients adapt very quickly and the connection is just as strong.
Do you take insurance?
Yes, I am in-network with the following plans:
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
Carelon Behavioral Health
Cigna
Oscar (Optum)
Oxford (Optum)
Quest Behavioral Health
United Healthcare (Optum)
For all other insurance plans, I am an out-of-network (OON) provider. This means you are responsible for the session fee at the time of our appointment.
I can then provide you with a monthly "superbill" (a detailed receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. I recommend calling your provider first to ask about your "out-of-network benefits for mental health" to see what your plan covers.
How much does a session cost?
My standard out-of-pocket (private pay) fee is $150 per session.
If you have one of the insurance plans I am in-network with, your specific cost (such as a co-pay or co-insurance) will be determined by your plan's benefits.
I am happy to help verify your benefits prior to our first session so you know what to expect. Payment is due at the time of our session.
Is what I say really confidential?
Yes, absolutely. Confidentiality is the foundation of therapy. What you share in our session stays between us. The only exceptions are rare, specific situations required by law, such as if you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, or if I learn of child or elder abuse. We will talk about this in detail during our first session.
How long will therapy take?
This is a fair question, and the answer is unique to you. Some clients come for a few months to work on a specific goal (like with CBT or MEMI), while others benefit from longer-term support.
My goal is not to keep you in therapy forever. We will regularly check in on your progress to make sure our sessions are helpful and that you're moving toward the life you want.
How can I get the most out of therapy?
I'm glad you asked. Your active participation is key. The clients who see the most progress are the ones who are open and honest in session and who are willing to think about and apply what we discuss during the week. Therapy isn't just the 50 minutes we're in session; the real change happens when you take these new tools and insights into your daily life.