what is therapy & what can i expect initially?

Therapy is a collaborative process of change that is as unique as the individuals involved. At this time, we only offer telehealth services via a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. This modality is not best suited for all individuals or all concerns; & the consultation appointment helps to determine whether telehealth is appropriate for the client. Individual therapy sessions typically last 45-50 minutes & occur weekly or biweekly. The majority of that time focuses on the concerns for which you sought out therapy, with remaining time spent checking in & planning next steps (e.g. scheduling, tasks between sessions, etc.). The first few sessions focus on: gathering a detailed personal history from the client; developing a treatment plan & goals; building rapport between client & clinician; & assessing “fit” or match between client & clinician to determine whether to continue working together. Feedback & asking questions is of the utmost importance because we want therapy to be time spent on you that is useful & productive. Some clients spend a long time in therapy exploring the impact(s) of their past & present on the future with emphasis on self-reflection. Other clients utilize short term therapy to address specific, straightforward, time-sensitive issues. We will work together to determine what is best to meet your needs. Regardless, therapy requires a commitment of multiple resources, including time.

what is the difference between therapy & coaching?

While therapy may integrate a client’s past, present, & future; coaching typically focuses on the present & making sustainable changes or developing sustainable habits that allow someone to reach stated goals. Only in therapy are clients diagnosed & treated for mental health concerns. Also confidentiality is only legally protected within a client-clinician therapy relationship. However, we vigorously protect the privacy & security of all clients’ personal information. Additionally, coaching tends to be shorter-term in nature, & without the primary or sole focus on individual emotional wellbeing as with therapy. Coaching often incorporates capacity-building; for example, to increase individual impact or influence within organizations & communities. To maintain clear ethical boundaries, the same client will not be accepted for therapy & coaching services simultaneously. Additional information is available on our Services page.

how does payment work?

Currently we do not contract directly with any insurance companies & are therefore considered out of network providers for most insurance companies. We will gladly provide a superbill; a document similar to an invoice that can be submitted to an insurance company for reimbursement. It is important for you to verify insurance coverage for out of network mental health services, as well as telehealth services. Clients are directly responsible for full payment at the time of service by credit card (debit & Flex Spending Account (FSA)/ Health Savings Account (HSA) cards also accepted). The benefits of this payment arrangement include that your insurance company would not be able to impose any limits on the type, frequency, or length of your treatment. Prior to your first session, we will provide you with a good faith estimate (GFE), as required by the No Surprises Act. We recognize that therapy is an expense, & encourage you to consider it an investment in yourself & your health.