Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about what it's like to work together?
I want you to feel comfortable choosing me as your therapist.
If you don't see your questions answered, reach out 24/7/365.
If you don't see your questions answered, reach out 24/7/365.
General Questions
Do you offer a complimentary phone consultation so I can talk to you before scheduling an appointment?
Upon request, I would be happy to schedule a 15 minute exploratory call with you to see if we're a good fit therapeutically to work together. Send me a message and I will respond by email within 24 hours.
How long do I need to be in therapy?
In our first session, we will discuss how often we should meet. That frequency may change over time. In the beginning, I recommend weekly sessions. Of course, if you would like to meet more often than once a week, let me know.
Studies show that long-term treatment has the highest success rate. To get the most out of your therapy, I strong recommend we meet for a minimum of 6-months.
Frequency will be decided collaboratively based on your progress, goals, and your state of mind. My goal as a therapist is to graduate clients out of therapy as needed, when they are ready. And clients can always come back for tune-ups as needed.
Studies show that long-term treatment has the highest success rate. To get the most out of your therapy, I strong recommend we meet for a minimum of 6-months.
Frequency will be decided collaboratively based on your progress, goals, and your state of mind. My goal as a therapist is to graduate clients out of therapy as needed, when they are ready. And clients can always come back for tune-ups as needed.
I have a loved one who needs therapy. Will you call them and talk them into it?
I applaud you for caring enough to come here seeking help for someone you love. That takes enormous love and commitment, and I recognize your care and concern. Calling someone who has not contacted me about therapy for the purpose of talking them into it would be considered solicitation, which is discouraged by the professional ethics codes that guide my conduct as a mental health professional.
One way I can support your efforts is to encourage you to pass along my website link, my email, and my phone number so your loved one can reach out and ask any questions they may have. Another way I can support you is to suggest you consider therapy for yourself to help you navigate the complex emotions and frustrations you may be experiencing if your loved one chooses not to pursue therapy at this time.
Please be aware that if your loved one does contact me as a result of your legwork, I will not be able to tell you so unless they have signed a release for me to speak with you. This is a requirement by law regarding confidentiality.
One way I can support your efforts is to encourage you to pass along my website link, my email, and my phone number so your loved one can reach out and ask any questions they may have. Another way I can support you is to suggest you consider therapy for yourself to help you navigate the complex emotions and frustrations you may be experiencing if your loved one chooses not to pursue therapy at this time.
Please be aware that if your loved one does contact me as a result of your legwork, I will not be able to tell you so unless they have signed a release for me to speak with you. This is a requirement by law regarding confidentiality.
I've never talked to anyone before and I'm used to handling things on my own.
Aren't people who to go to therapy weak?
Not at all. Everyone needs some help now and then. You already have some strengths that you have used before, that for whatever reason is not working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your internal resources. In our work together, I'll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
Communication Questions
Can I call you anytime?
I answer calls by appointment only - no exceptions. You are free to leave a voicemail on my business phone at any hour, 24/7/365. My business voicemail is HIPAA-compliant. All voicemails will be saved and stored securely. I will respond by email or text messaging, so be sure to leave your email address and phone number.
How quickly can I expect a response from you?
I will respond to your messages within 24 hours. If you have not heard from me within 24 hours, and there is nothing in your spam folder, please try again or send me another message through an alternate communication channel. In general, I will respond throughout the day when I can. Please understand that if I am in session with other clients or otherwise engaged, I may not be able to respond immediately.
Appointment Questions
What can I expect during my first appointment?
Our first session will last for 120 minutes and will take place in person or via video conferencing.
|
We will have several goals:
|
|
What hours do you work?
In-office Sessions
8:00am-7:00pm EST, six days/week, with the last session starting no later than 6pm EST.
Phone Therapy Sessions
8:00am-8:00pm ET, six days/week, with the last phone session starting no later than 8pm EST.
Do you offer weekend or evening appointments?
Yes to both. Please refer to the above FAQ about my hours.
Please note, my schedule tends to book up 1-2 weeks in advance, so please keep that in mind if you have a specific time preference.
Please note, my schedule tends to book up 1-2 weeks in advance, so please keep that in mind if you have a specific time preference.
How long is a therapy session?
Sessions are typically booked for one hour. One hour means 60 minutes - not 45-50 minutes. If you would like to use less time, that is up to you, but you are charged based on what you booked.
How often is therapy recommended?
Most clients prefer weekly sessions at first to build trust, momentum, and continuity.
Will you remind me about my appointments?
I will send appointment reminders, but you are responsible for keeping the appointments you schedule. Reminders will come via email and text, at approximately 48 hours and 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointments.
What if I cannot make my scheduled appointment?
Please familiarize yourself with my appointments and cancellations procedures. You can find this information under the tab of this section at the top of my website.