Question 1

Is it even possible to deal with my depression and anxiety? Will I ever feel better?

Accepted Answer

It is possible! We tend to talk about terms like "recovery" and "relapse" in the context of substance use, but I use these terms in mental health counseling as well. It is possible to experience recovery from depression and anxiety. But recovery takes ongoing work, and doesn't mean that you will be completely healed to the point that it will never return. Relapse is a possibility with these things. Because we are human, we slip back into old patterns easily when under stress or duress. Being in recovery means noticing these slips and re-engaging in the work to move forward.

Question 2

What does therapy look like? Do I really have to lay on a couch?

Accepted Answer

No, you definitely don’t have to lay on a couch, but if you want to, you have the option. I’m also not the stereotypical therapist you see in memes that sit behind your head and takes notes while you talk about your mother or father. Therapy is a conversation, a relationship, a skills-training session, a time to vent, a time to heal, and many other things in between. I am here as a vehicle for healing and to help you unlock your resiliency and potential. You have all the answers you need inside you, and my job is to help you reach them and employ them.

Question 3

Do I have to tell you all my deep, dark secrets?"

Accepted Answer

No, you certainly get to choose what to share. Also, I recognize that it can be difficult to share things with a complete stranger. My hope is that you will feel more comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings as we build a relationship. But, you always get to decide and I’m not in the business of trying to dig through your psyche. I will ask questions that may tap into some of those thoughts for you.

Question 4

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule by using the button (or whatever you would call the appointment thing) on this website, or by giving me a call. You can also send me an email and request an appointment.

Question 5

How quickly can you get me in?

Accepted Answer

I try to respond to any requests for information or appointments within 24 hours. However, I do not have a 24-hour message service, so I am unable to respond to crisis situations. In the case of a crisis or emergency, please contact your local emergency room or call 911. As my case numbers increase and decrease, I have differing levels of availability. Please contact me directly for more information and a specific estimate of when services can begin.

Question 6

What do I do if I need to cancel my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Give me a call, send me a text, or shoot me an email. I prefer that cancellations come 24 hours prior to the session, when possible. However, I also understand that life happens and sometimes cancelling right before a session cannot be avoided. My policy is that sessions cancelled with less than 24-hours notice are documented, and after 2 such cancellations within a 30-day timeframe, the client will be discharged from services. Additionally, failure to attend the appointment without cancelling three times in a 60-day period will result in discharge from services. Ongoing cancellations will require a discussion about commitment to treatment prior to scheduling future sessions.

Question 7

Do you give homework?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a lot of times I will offer things to work on between sessions. However, you get to choose how much or how little you want to work on these suggested activities. They are meant to be helpful, not stressful, so take what is useful and leave the rest.

Question 8

Do you offer faith-based counseling services?

Accepted Answer

While I am open to anyone discussing their faith and/or religious practices, and I am encouraging of using faith in whatever works for each individual, I do not offer faith-based counseling at this time. As the practice expands, this may be something that is offered in the future.

Question 9

What does the first session look like?

Accepted Answer

Typically, the first session is a way to begin to get to know each other and for me to learn more about what you are looking for with counseling. I have several questions I will ask in order to get information about your basic history and current strengths and needs. I will also offer information about my practice and future sessions. If you would like to continue to future sessions, I will ask you to review and sign certain documents for my records and to outline expectations regarding your rights, HIPAA and confidentiality, payment or insurance information, and any additional policies that may affect your care.

Question 10

Can I eat and/or drink during sessions?

Accepted Answer

That is your choice. I understand that sometimes people have to schedule sessions during lunch breaks, and nutrition is so important for your mental health. Feel free to bring your lunch or a snack as well as a drink. I do ask that clients and staff do not consume any alcoholic beverages or any mood altering or psychedelic substances during sessions.

Question 11

What types of sessions fo you offer?

Accepted Answer

I currently offer only telehealth sessions, but will be opening up to in-person sessions soon.

Question 12

My last therapist seemed really judgmental. How do I know you won’t be that way, too?"

Accepted Answer

I’m sorry you had that experience, and I understand that this may make it more difficult for me to earn your trust. I try very hard not to judge others, because I know that I don’t walk in your shoes. Your decisions are yours, and I have no right to hold judgement over them. So, if you feel like I am being judgmental, I hope you will tell me so I can understand your experience and explain my intentions for wording or questions I ask. My goal is to understand your experience to the best of my ability, and to hold space for you to express yourself.