FAQs

While starting therapy may feel like an important decision it can also be one that leaves you feeling anxious. You have signed up to talk with a stranger about your most vulnerable emotions and experiences--it may sound like a risk, but I think the rewards are worth it. You are worth that risk! 

To me, therapy is a conversation between you (the expert on you) and the therapist (the expert on change). Together, we discuss what feels problematic and explore what got you there. We look ahead and talk about how you want to feel, what you want your life to look like. Then, we work together to get you there. I see therapy occurring in two areas: you want to feel better in the present but we must also understand your past to make sustainable, long term change. 

A typical session with me starts with a check in, "How are you"? From there, you may have specific events, relationships, feelings, etc that you want to discuss. Or we may pick up a topic from our last session to dig into. Wherever the conversation may lead us, I want to make sure you are getting what you need. This is your time, your story, your decisions, your life. I tend to let patients direct the conversation for this reason. I'll share my feedback, questions, or ideas as they occur. 

I do not typically give "homework" to patients. I do not use worksheets. I believe that change comes from understanding, questioning, connecting, taking risks, being open and curious. I truly think I have the coolest job and feel honored by my patients' vulnerability and trust.

The first appointment (and in some instances a second or third) is primarily a chance for me to get to know you better. Typically, you will complete my intake forms online prior to this meeting, which I review to help shape our conversation. I often ask questions to clarify the information you have provided and I will be sure we have time for you to tell me in your own words what brings you to therapy. I try to keep the session conversational in nature and will invite you to ask any questions you may have about therapy or my services. My hope is that our first meeting(s) result in you feeling that I understand why you have started therapy and what your goal(s) may be. 

While a therapist may appear to have what you want on a website, meeting in person can give you a better sense of how we might work together. I encourage patients to come with an open mind and ask me questions. 

Sessions are scheduled on a weekly basis and last 55 minutes.

Yes, this is an integral part of the treatment process. Confidentiality means that I cannot share your personal health information with anyone without your written consent. There are instances where your information may be shared, such as billing your insurance, or speaking with another healthcare provider to coordinate treatment---both require completion of a written consent form. 

There are  instances when it may be necessary for me to release your information without your consent if I am concerned about your safety or the safety of others. My intention is to have a conversation with you if this is the case. These instances are detailed in my consent forms and privacy practices notice.

I am in network with BCBS PPO plans. I will collect your insurance information at our first session. I will bill BCBS directly.  I want to help patients understand questions about insurance coverage, billing, and what medical information is provided to BCBS so that you can make informed choices. You should know that I am required to provide insurance companies with a medical diagnosis. We can discuss any questions or concerns you may have. I recommend all patients check with their specific policy for coverage information.

I often work with patients with other insurance providers. You will be responsible for service fees in full. If you want to bill your insurance provider for my services, I will give you with an itemized bill (superbill) for you to submit. I do not provide billing services for out of network policies. I encourage you to check with your specific policy for out of network benefits. 

My fee for individual therapy services are $200 for the first appointment and $185/session. For couples/family services the fees are $225 for the first appointment and $210/session.

I typically bill on a monthly cycle, unless we have made other arrangements. You will receive a statement from me at the end of each month.

Contact me by email or phone. I make efforts to respond within 24 hours. Please note I typically  schedule a brief phone conversation to better understand your needs and answer any questions. This typically takes 5-10 minutes an is not considered an agreement to working together. Rather, it is an opportunity to assess if my skills can meet your needs.

I ask for at least 24 hours notification for rescheduling or cancelling a session. This allows me to see patients who are on my waitlist for an appointment. Late cancellations or late reschedules are charged the full fee. This fee cannot be billed to your insurance provider.