FAQs
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all! People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Please note that confidentiality is key in therapy, but there are a few situations where I must break confidentiality to ensure your safety, or the safety of those around you. Some of those situations include:
>>If I have reason to believe you may seriously harm yourself, or if you tell me you have intentions to harm yourself
>>If I have reason to believe you may seriously harm someone else, or if you tell me you have intentions to harm someone else
>>If you inform me of a child or vulnerable adult who is being abused or neglected
In any of the above situations, all bets are off and I have to talk.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. All intake sessions include a thorough review of your intake paperwork. From there, I will devise a customized individualized treatment plan with measurable and objective goals which I will review with you. I will also reach out to any other professionals with whom you are working, with your consent, to coordinate care. We will collaborate to promote your progress and growth.
Do you offer in-person therapy sessions?
I am not offering in-person services at this time. My services are 100% online to support individuals all across the states of Florida, Utah, Vermont, South Carolina, and Delaware.
How long will it take?
Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your initiative to follow through with sessions and strategies, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place. The severity of your symptoms and whether you are wanting to solve a single issue or work on deeper problems are variables as well. Some people are in therapy for a very brief time, like 3-8 sessions. Others see me for months – and sometimes longer. Each person and situation is completely different and sometimes it takes several sessions of working together to reach a level of comfort so that we can discuss sensitive topics. I like to say, “As quick as possible but as long as necessary!”
Will I be provided with a “Good Faith Estimate” if I am using private pay for my sessions?
Yes. You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, healthcare providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your healthcare provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your healthcare provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are motivated and committed to getting the most out of your sessions! I find that clients who come to therapy ready to work and understand that I am not able to magically make their problems disappear are most successful. People often think that therapy is simply talking about your problems to a therapist; in reality, more is involved. Therapy involves exploring feelings within a safe and confidential relationship and setting, psychological education, between session tasks, making changes, learning and implementing coping strategies, and building awareness of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Therapy is a process, and it does require some effort. The work can be life-altering and it results in a greater sense of awareness, accomplishment, and overall wellness. Your regular attendance, active participation, and dedication will go a long way and be crucial to your progress.
I think I’m ready. How do I get started?
I’m so glad that you are taking this important initial step! I offer free 15-minute online consultations on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, and have available slots between 10:30am-11:00am. Please click on the contact button below to request a free consultation. You will be directed to my Simple Practice scheduling system and will be provided with a consultation questionnaire to complete. Everything is conveniently completed online, so we won’t have to play an annoying game of phone tag back and forth with each other and I won’t be hounding you for paperwork, either. Easy-peasy. I look forward to connecting with you!