What happens in a consultation call?

Consultations can be done either over the phone or through video chat, are free, and take around 15-20 minutes. During the call we will discuss why you are seeking services at this time, address any questions or concerns you might have, and discuss what you are looking for in therapy and your therapist. Finding the right therapist is incredibly important and if it feels like a good fit we will continue by scheduling our first session together. Remember, therapy is like getting your hair cut. If you don’t like how they cut your hair, find a different barber. Hang in there and remember the right therapist is out there for you.

What should I expect in the first session?

First sessions can vary from person to person and are tailored to your own needs, preferences, goals, values, and pathway to change. Some people start with concrete goals like reducing the impact depression has on their quality of life or ability to function, or to improve things like sleep, diet, exercise, or relationships. Others might be interested in getting information pertaining to diagnoses or to better understand the cause of mental health symptoms. Some people want to acquire concrete skills or techniques which is great too. Then there are people who are looking for a safe place to process things like stress, trauma, relationships, or responses to stress. Therapy can be a wonderful place to process things like shame, embarrassment, regret, and experiences that weigh on your mind. During our first meeting, I will also ask questions to gather a better understanding of who you are, your current experience, your overall goals and desires for therapy, any experiences you’ve had with therapy in the past, and to explore your motivation and barriers to change. Lastly, you will be provided a Good Faith Estimate approximating the total cost of services.

How long is each therapy session and how often do sessions occur?

Sessions are 50 minutes long and most people meet weekly. There is flexibility for how often sessions are held which we can discuss during the consultation call. For example, sessions can be held weekly, biweekly, or monthly depending on your need and preference. With this being said, I will advocate for individuals to meet more or less frequently depending on the nature of your visit.

How many times will we meet?

The number of times we meet depends on many factors and is determined like most things in therapy, on a case by case basis. As a psychologist, I want to be both effective and realistic in regards to the therapeutic process and speed in which therapy can move. I aim to keep goals achievable and rely on collaboration and feedback to get the best outcomes possible. While I aim to help people as quickly as possible, I want to acknowledge that mental hygiene and self-care is a life long process. As such, I advocate for developing autonomy and self-efficacy so that you can become your own therapist, while also not prematurely pushing people out of therapy. When you do start feeling better, successfully develop skills or techniques, or feel like you have gained wisdom, I will still be available for maintenance work even after ending services.

What are your fees?

My fee is $250 per session with a possible sliding scale fee that can be discussed on a case by case basis. I accept checks, cash, and both credit or debit cards as payment. I do not take health insurance at this time. Please check with your insurance provider for information about your mental health benefits prior to our first session. I am able to provide a Superbill for your insurance provider as documentation for out of network care.

What is your cancellation policy?

To cancel an appointment, I require clients to give at least 24 hours notice. Failure to provide cancellation within 24 hours will result in you being charged for the missed session. I am reasonably flexible in regards to unforeseen circumstances and hold the right to wave the cancellation fee on a case by case basis.