Frequently Asked Questions

Psychotherapy helps individuals understand and heal from their stories; the unwanted past experiences used to define them, the survival defenses that helped protect them, and the unhealthy dialogue/perceptions that keep their story alive are often addressed in psychotherapy. The more an individual is aware of their unhealthy thoughts, feelings, motives, and behaviors, the more they are likely to change them. The various treatment approaches utilized in psychotherapy depends on the experience, skill-set, and specialized training of the therapist. I utilize therapy models that are Evidence Based and/or supported by the current Brain Science.

While self-help books play an important role in the journey of healing, they do not provide you with the therapeutic relationship that a psychotherapist can provide you. As your therapist, I will be attuned to your process with the utmost respect and provide you with the support and psychoeducation needed to help you heal. You will be provided a safe, secure, confidential, and warming environment.

It is not uncommon for people to feel nervous or insecure before their first appointment due to wondering what the therapist will ask them or what they should tell the therapist. At our first session we will complete a standard assessment, that is where I am asking you basic questions about your life and childhood. These questions are important to ask because it gives me a clearer understanding of what your journey in life has been thus far. In addition, you will be asked to share what brought you in for services and what you hope to gain from services, which then becomes your treatment goals. I will also share with you the various treatment methods that could be helpful, and then you can decide what might work best for you.

Absolutely, currently in the mental/behavioral health field, we know more about trauma and how it impacts our brain and body than we have in the past. I use brain-body based therapies that are supported by the current Brain Science. I have been honored to witness permanent healing from many who have been impacted by trauma or have struggled to manage the PTSD symptoms.

There seems to be a sense of relief when you make that commitment to address old stories or issues that have caused problems in your life. However, most people don’t feel immediately healed. That’s because healing is a process, chances are you have been carrying this stuff with you for some time. It also involves you being actively involved in your healing process both in and outside of sessions.

I accept insurance, but only the insurance that I am contracted with. At times other insurances will cover a percentage of the services rendered. It is your responsibility to contact your insurance company to see whether you are covered, what your deductible is and copayment, if any. Many insurance companies also require pre-authorization before the first visit.

Yes, some people choose to pay by cash, check, credit, or debt due to having concerns with privacy. They often prefer that their place of employment is not aware of a mental health diagnosis that must be given to justify services and file an insurance claim. However, should you choose to utilize your insurance coverage only the most essential information will be released to attain payment. Your rights to confidentiality will be explained at our first session.