Q: How will I know if you are the right therapist for me?
A: Good question! The only real way to know for sure is to have a session. I think most of the time people will have a good idea in the first session...maybe in two sessions...whether I am the right fit to help them. Sometimes you can get a good sense of someone through their website or on Psychology Today.
Q: Who do you work with?
A: I provide counseling for adults only who reside in Ohio. My expertise is in trauma, substance use, anxiety and depression. I do not provide counseling to children or couples and do not provide any recommendation for custody cases.
Q: Do you provide in person or online counseling?
A: All counseling sessions are conducted via a secure telehealth platform through Simple Practice. If we are using EMDR therapy, there is a similar secure telehealth platform through remoteemdr.com. I am not providing any in person counseling.
Q: Is online counseling right for me?
A: I will say that prior to COVID 19, I was not sure how teletherapy would work however, now that I am solely a telehealth provider, I see how wonderful this option is. It is convenient and offers more flexibility of schedule and is just as effective as in person therapy.
Q: What happens during the first session?
A: The initial session is a time for you tell me what's going on and how I can help. If you need/want a complete diagnostic assessment, we will complete that. We will also talk about your goals in counseling. At the end of this session, we will talk about whether or not we are a good fit and how we will proceed. This is very important as you need to find the right therapist for you!
Q: How long do appointments last and how often to sessions occur?
A: Appointments are 50 minutes, which is a standard counseling session. If you are interested in a longer session, please let me know in advance so that we can discuss availability and pricing. To start, it is best to meet weekly, especially if we are using EMDR therapy. However, we will touch base often on progress and how we feel things are going and adjust as needed.
Q: How much do you charge and do you accept insurance?
A: I charge $120 per 50-minute session. Payment will be collected at the time of service. I do accept some insurance. I am out of network for several providers but can provide a superbill for you to submit a claim for out of network reimbursement. If you do this, I will need to give you a mental health diagnosis, which would require a full diagnostic assessment, so keep that in mind. Please check out the investment page for more information.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: I require 24 hours' notice on cancellation or you will need to pay for the session. Certainly, there are emergencies that come up...I mean, life happens, right? But it is important that we are consistent with therapy.
Q: What theoretical approach do you use?
A: It's hard to find a therapist that only uses one therapy or technique. I use a few. For trauma work, EMDR is my first choice however, CBT is a close second. Motivational interviewing and client centered therapy will definitely show up in sessions.
Q: Do you prescribe medication?
A: I am not a medical doctor and do not provide medication.