Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect from my first therapy session?

Your first session is primarily an intake appointment where we'll get to know each other and understand what brings you to therapy. We'll discuss your current concerns, relevant history, and goals for treatment. Don't worry about preparing extensively - I'll guide you through the process with questions. It's completely normal to feel nervous, and we'll go at a pace that feels comfortable for you.The first session typically lasts 60-90 minutes and focuses on building rapport and understanding your needs,

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy can be beneficial for anyone facing life challenges, emotional difficulties, or seeking personal growth. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Common reasons people seek therapy include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, major life transitions, trauma, or simply wanting to understand themselves better. If you're questioning whether therapy might help, that curiosity itself is often a good indicator that it could be valuable.

What if I don't know what to talk about in therapy?

This is one of the most common concerns, and it's completely normal. You don't need to have a prepared agenda or know exactly what to discuss. We'll help guide our conversations, especially in the beginning. Sometimes the most meaningful sessions happen when we explore what's coming up for you in the moment. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we’re here to help you navigate what's most important to address.

How long does therapy typically take?

The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on your individual needs, goals, and the approach we use. Some people benefit from short-term therapy (8-16 sessions) for specific concerns, while others find longer-term therapy helpful for deeper exploration or complex issues. We'll regularly discuss your progress and adjust the timeline based on your needs. Many people find that even a few sessions can provide significant benefit. The short answer is: however many you want.

What if I don't connect with my therapist?

The therapeutic relationship is crucial for successful outcomes, and it's important that you feel comfortable with your therapist. If you don't feel a good fit, please let us know - these conversations can actually be valuable for the therapeutic process. We can provide referrals to other therapists in our own practice who might be a better match for your needs, which removes practical concerns about changing therapist. We can also provide referrals for therapists outside out clinic. Your well-being is the priority, and finding the right therapist is an important part of that process.

Do you accept insurance?

We accept most major insurance plans including Aetna, United Healthcare, Optum, Cigna. Our dedicated billing team verify your benefits before our first session and explain what portion you'll be responsible for paying. Keep in mind that using insurance requires us to provide a mental health diagnosis, which becomes part of your medical record. Some clients choose to pay privately to maintain complete privacy of their therapy records.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require 24 hours advance notice for cancellations or rescheduling for sessions with all out therapists. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice, or missed appointments, are subject to the full session fee. We understand that emergencies and unexpected circumstances arise, and I handle these situations with flexibility and compassion. Consistent attendance is important for therapeutic progress, so we'll work together to find a schedule that works for you.

Will my insurance company know what we discuss?

If you use insurance, we’re required to provide a mental health diagnosis and basic treatment information for billing purposes. However, the specific details of our conversations remain confidential. Your insurance company does not have access to my therapy notes or detailed information about what we discuss in sessions. Some clients choose to pay privately to maintain complete privacy from insurance companies.

How do you protect my information?

We use multiple safeguards to protect your information including secure, encrypted storage for all records, HIPAA-compliant technology for telehealth sessions, and strict security our virtual platforms. We undergo regular training on privacy protection and stay current with best practices for maintaining confidentiality in the digital age.