Starting counseling can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first experience working with a counselor. You may be wondering what to expect, what counseling is like, or whether counseling is right for you. My job as a counselor is to guide you through the process and help make your experience as comfortable as possible. Below are answers to some of the questions I am asked most often:
Your first appointment typically lasts about 90 minutes. During that time, we will review intake paperwork, informed consent, confidentiality, office policies, and payment information. We will also spend time discussing what brought you to counseling, your concerns, your goals, and how I may be able to help. Most follow-up sessions last approximately 45–60 minutes.
Yes. Counseling sessions are confidential. There are a few exceptions required by law, including signed releases of information, suspected child abuse or neglect, suspected abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult, risk of serious self-harm, or a credible threat of serious harm toward another person.
Protecting your privacy is important to me. In addition to maintaining confidentiality, I intentionally schedule 30 minutes between appointments. This helps reduce the likelihood of clients crossing paths and allows me time to prepare for each session and complete necessary documentation.
As a solo practitioner, I strive to provide a private, comfortable environment where clients feel safe discussing personal concerns.
I provide counseling services for adults in a supportive, confidential environment. Services currently include:
If you are unsure whether your concern is a good fit for counseling, please feel free to contact me and ask.
You do not have to be in crisis to benefit from counseling. Many people seek counseling to improve relationships, manage stress, navigate life transitions, explore a career change, develop coping skills, or gain support during a difficult season.
Counseling can also be helpful when you simply feel stuck and want a safe place to process your thoughts and explore your options.
That's okay. Many clients are unsure where to begin. My job is to help guide the conversation and identify what is most important to you. You don't need to have everything figured out before you come to counseling.
No. Counseling is not about someone telling you how to live your life.
My role is to help you explore options, identify strengths, gain insight, and make decisions that fit your values and goals. I may offer tools, strategies, and different perspectives to consider, but ultimately you are the expert on your life.
My job is to provide support and tools that will help you as you decide how to chart your new course.
The answer depends on your goals and needs. Some clients attend weekly, while others prefer every other week or monthly appointments. We will discuss a schedule that works best for you.
The length of counseling varies from person to person and depends on your goals, concerns, and progress. My goal is not to keep you in counseling forever. My goal is to help you gain the insight, skills, and support you need to move forward with confidence.
At this time, I do not accept insurance. However, I can provide an itemized receipt (superbill) that you may submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. You may also use HSA or FSA funds if your plan allows mental health services.
Payment is due at the time of service. I accept cash, check, credit cards, debit cards, HSA cards, and FSA cards. Because electronic payments include processing fees, cash or check is preferred when possible.
Life happens, and I understand that schedules sometimes change. Please provide at least 24 hours notice when possible. Each client is allowed one late cancellation due to illness or emergency. After that, appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, as well as no-show appointments, may be subject to a $50 cancellation fee.