How soon can
I see you? Appointments are available as soon as the same week. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin! Contact me to schedule our initial phone consultation.
What is therapy?
Therapy is different for everyone. Your specific needs and the level of structure that you prefer in your treatment will greatly determine the nature of the sessions. Generally speaking, you can expect to discuss events going on in your life right now, and possibly events in the past that may still be influencing the present. We usually explore relationships with significant people in your life, thought and behavioral patterns, emotions, and of course, what you are hoping to change.
As with anything we participate in, the more you put into treatment, the more you will get out of it. Sometimes opening up causes people to become very emotional, and sometimes individuals prefer to say very little. Sometimes movement is slow, and other times people are ready to make changes now. As a social worker and counselor, I am always thinking of ways in which the community affects people’s lives, and a primary goal for us will be to explore ways in which you can find support outside of the therapy room.
People often believe that the only time they should seek therapy is when they are experiencing a major life crisis or transition, but that is not always the case. Counseling can be helpful for anyone who is looking to break habits or negative thought patterns, is looking to enhance the relationships in their life, or simply feels like they would like to speak with someone who will listen non-judgmentally. Therapy is here to help you build a more thoughtful, satisfying life.
Do I need therapy?
How often/long will we meet?
Individual appointments are 50 minutes long, and typically occur once a week. Each client is different, so some people prefer to meet more or less often than that depending on their current needs. We will work together to determine what is right for you.
Medications often play a fundamental role in improving people’s mental health. Many different things can affect our neurochemistry, from what we eat, to what's going on in our environments, to how much exercise we get, to how strong our friendships are, and, last but not least - or own thoughts and behavioral patterns. Therefore, many mental health practitioners recommend individuals seek supplemental therapy if they are also on medication. I am not a medical doctor, so I do not prescribe medication, but I can work with you to find the appropriate referral for a psychiatrist if necessary.
Do you prescribe medication?
I, and most other therapists, offer free consultations to help develop a first impression. During our initial consultation, I work to get to know you and what you're really experiencing and tell you a bit about myself as well. If you proceed with visits, you will know you've found a good fit when you feel safe, welcomed and listened to, and also challenged to be the best you.
How do I find the right therapist?
I am an out of network provider, which means that I do not accept insurance, but at the end of each month I can provide you with a Superbill that you can submit directly to your insurance company. Please see my Fees + Insurance page to learn more about using Mentaya, which is a service that will submit your Superbills for you. I recommend contacting your insurance provider ahead of time in order to find out what your coverage is for out-of-network counseling services.
Will you take my insurance?
For immediate help in the event of a psychiatric emergency call 911. For other 24 hour crisis services, please visit my More Resources page.
What if it's an emergency?