Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How will I know if you're the right therapist for me?
A: The only real way to know is to have a session. Most people have a good sense after the first or second session whether we’re a good fit. You can also get a feel for my approach through my website or Psychology Today profile before reaching out. A good fit usually means you can be honest with me, feel heard, and leave sessions with some clarity or relief.

Q: Who do you work with?
A: I work with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I also work with veterans through the VA Community Care Network. Many of the people I see feel stuck, exhausted, or disconnected from themselves and want to find their footing again. I’m licensed in Ohio and also see clients in Georgia and Minnesota. I don’t provide therapy for children, couples counseling, or custody evaluations.

Q: Is online therapy right for me?
A: Before 2020, I wasn’t sure how well therapy would translate online. After doing it for years, I’ve found it works well for most of the people I see. Research shows online therapy can be as effective as in-person for many people, including for trauma work and EMDR. It’s also convenient and makes scheduling easier. Many clients find it easier to feel grounded in their own space, which can make deeper work feel more comfortable. If you’re not sure it’s the right fit, we can talk it through in your first session.

Q: Do you provide therapy in states other than Ohio?
A: Yes. I’m licensed in Ohio and authorized to provide online therapy in Georgia and Minnesota through the Counseling Compact. Sessions in those states are conducted virtually. Because my authorization there is through the Compact rather than a full state license, I’m not able to accept insurance, so Georgia and Minnesota clients are self-pay.

Q: Do you provide in-person or online therapy?
A: Most sessions are conducted virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. You’ll need a quiet private space, a device with a camera, and a stable internet connection. I send clear instructions before our first session to make logging in simple, and if we’re doing EMDR, I’ll send a separate link for those sessions. I also rent an office one day a week in the Dayton area for in-person sessions. Availability is limited, so please reach out if you’re interested and I’ll let you know what’s open.

Q: What happens during the first session?
A: The first session is a diagnostic assessment, and it’s your chance to tell me what’s going on and how I can help. We’ll talk about your goals for therapy, and I’ll let you know if I think we’re a good fit. If we decide to move forward together, we’ll make a plan. If not, I’ll do my best to point you in the right direction.

Q: How long are appointments and how often do we meet?
A: Sessions are 50 to 53 minutes. We typically meet weekly to start, especially if we’re using EMDR, and adjust as we go based on how things are working. If you’re interested in longer sessions, let me know in advance so we can talk about availability and pricing.

Q: How do I schedule a session?
A: You can schedule a session through my online booking system or by contacting me directly via email. I’ll respond promptly to help you find a time that works for you.

Q: How much do you charge and do you accept insurance?
A: I’m in-network with United Healthcare/Optum/UMR, Aetna, Medical Mutual, CareSource Medicaid, and VACCN, and I can only accept these plans as primary insurance. If I’m in-network with your plan, I’ll verify your benefits before your first session so you know what to expect. Self-pay rates are $175 for the initial diagnostic assessment and $130 for 50-minute sessions, due at the time of service. If your plan is out of network, I can provide a superbill for reimbursement, which requires a mental health diagnosis. You can find more detail on my fees and insurance page.

Q: Do you offer sliding scale or reduced fees?
A. My self-pay rate is $130 per 50-minute session, or $175 for the initial diagnostic assessment. If you’re paying out of pocket and cost is a concern, please reach out and we can talk about options. If you’re using insurance, your cost is set by your plan, so I’m not able to adjust the fee.

Q: What's your cancellation policy?
A: I require 24 hours’ notice for cancellations. If you cancel with less notice, you’ll be charged for the session. Emergencies happen and I understand that, but consistency matters for therapy to work.

Q: What approach do you use?
A: I don’t stick to just one. For trauma, I use EMDR as a primary tool. I also draw on mindfulness, CBT, motivational interviewing, and parts work, depending on what you need. You can read more about EMDR on my EMDR page.

Q: Do you prescribe medication?
A: No. I'm a therapist, not a medical doctor, so I don't prescribe medication. If medication seems like it might be helpful I can help you connect with someone who does. Many clients find therapy alone is enough, but if medication could be helpful, I’ll support you in finding a prescriber and integrating that with your work here.

Q: How private are online sessions?
A: All sessions are held on a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform, and your information is confidential. I do not share session details without your consent, except in cases required by law.

Q: Can I use therapy for work-related stress or burnout?
A: Yes, therapy can help with work-related stress, burnout, and feeling disconnected from yourself or your goals. We can explore ways to manage stress, set boundaries, and reconnect with your own needs.

Q: What if I’m nervous about starting therapy?
A: It’s common to feel nervous about starting therapy. In our first session, you can go at your own pace and share only what you’re ready to. You don’t need to have it all figured out before you start.

Q: How long does it take to see results in therapy?
A: Every person is different. Many clients notice some relief within a few weeks, while deeper change usually takes longer and more consistent work. We’ll check in on progress along the way, so you’re never left guessing whether it’s working.

Q: Do you work with clients who are in crisis?
A: I am not available for emergencies. If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. Veterans can call 988 and press 1.