
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you charge? For clients that choose to pay out of pocket, my initial session is $200 and each subsequent session is $150. The initial session requires some additional preparation and time after the session to complete the initial assessment and treatment plan, thus the reason for the higher charge.
Why would I want to choose to pay out of pocket when I have insurance? While using insurance benefits can be more cost effective, it also creates limitations. You can read more on this here.
How do I know if you are the right therapist for me? This is a great question! And a very important one. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most impactful sources for positive therapeutic outcomes, even more so than specific interventions or techniques. I encourage folks to use your intuition, ie does it 'feel' like a good fit. I believe there is a part of you that knows, and this is a good exercise to build your self trust! Additionally, if at any point in our process, if it doesn't feel like a good fit, I welcome a conversation on this, and I am happy to discuss any concerns and can help provide referrals. Its important to me that you feel comfortable saying so and ultimately work with someone who is a good fit. I am not 'everyone's' therapist.
How do you see clients? I am licensed in Arizona and Michigan as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). This allows me to see clients who are physically located in these states. My practice is completely virtual and I use a HIPPA compliant version of gmeet for sessions.
Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person? I really want in-person... Another great question!! In short, I would say it really depends on what you really want. I've been practicing virtually since 2020, and for the large majority of my clients it appears to be just as effective as in person. However there are times when a person just prefers to have the in-person experience and if this is you, its important to honor that wish. However if you are open to virtual therapy, it can also have its perks, no commute time to session, getting to have session from the comfort of your home, and furbabies can attend with you!
What insurance do you take? I currently accept United Healthcare and Aetna. There may be additional plans that are subsidiaries of these parent companies. I am paneled through a 3rd party platform called Alma. Should we choose to work together, Alma will complete an insurance verification that often can be completed in minutes, however at times it can take up to 2 days. I do not accept Medicare benefits at this time.
What is your therapeutic approach and background? I take an integrative approach, drawing from several therapeutic theories and techniques, however my overall lens is being aware of how trauma can impact an individual. This can vary greatly, from bullying, divorce, growing up with parents who just didn't know how to support you, poverty, and also more severe forms of trauma such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, and neglect. You can read more about my training and approach here.
How long do we work together and how often do we meet? If we are billing insurance, we meet as long as there is medical necessity. And if insurance is not involved, we can meet as long as its helpful and productive. My ultimate goal is for you to get to a point of feeling like "I am feeling great and I got this!" This can vary from weeks, to months, to years. Its not unusual to take breaks periodically, and to want to return if something else pops up. Generally sessions are once per week, and generally start to taper down once you are ready, however it can also depend on your preference.