Is therapy right for me?

Therapy is a resource that is beneficial for everyone, particularly if you have a current issue that you would like to grow in, heal from, and/or deepen in your life. Experiencing change within the dyad lends to a more holistic, deeper, and arguably faster transformative process.

What does the therapy process look like?

Every single person is unique and although this is true, human beings are similar in the instinctual level - the way our bodies and brains adapt, process, and make meaning of our experiences. Each session will be determined by what you need specifically at the time of the session. It may be processing a work issue, relational issue, or an experience in between sessions, such as increased bout of depressive symptoms and anxiety. Or it could be continuing trauma work, begin EMDR protocol or be a Brainspot session. You will have the freedom to dictate what you need and desire out of each session.

What is your rate? Do you offer sliding scales?

I believe that every individual should have access to mental health support. I have set up a sliding scale rates to help alleviate cost for clients. Please inquire to see if you may qualify. My sliding scale is based on an individual’s annual gross income (if single) or combined gross income (if married).

How long are each session?

The current structure of sessions are 90-min long. However, if you decide to have shorter or longer sessions, we can decide together what is needed in order to best meet your personal goals. Pacing is an important part of the work! Therefore, staying within one’s ability to tolerate (window of tolerance) issues that may come up during transformative work is as crucial to growth and healing as the work itself. Together, we will continuously assess your unique window of tolerance, understanding that this changes each week as life happens.

How do I know if I'm stuck or need extra support?

I truly believe that within everyone lies the intuition to know when one is struggling and needs extra support. Ask yourself these questions below to increase self-awareness. If you answer yes to any or all the questions, it is may be time to invest in your self-growth and self-transformation.

• Am I exerting more energy into avoiding my problems (through distractions such as social media, shopping, sports, friendships, romantic relationships) rather than using my energy for true healing and change that comes from within?
• Am I experiencing increased hardships and challenges in my relationships (family, friends, co-workers) and don’t know what to do?
• If you have experienced childhood, adolescent, or any adult trauma, have I processed and healed from it or continue to participate in behaviors that are a direct result of the trauma?
• Do I sense that something is missing, hurting, or exhausting my mental and emotional self, but can’t identify what it is?
• Am I experiencing physical (somatic) aches and pains, but haven’t found a medical reason for it?

Is therapy confidential?

Absolutely! Your process and details of your life remain confidential. I use HIPPA compliant software that is secure and safe. However, there are limits to confidentiality which includes self or other harm, but don’t worry we will spend time discussing any concerns or questions regarding limitations of confidentiality.

Do you accept insurance?

Currently, I most Bluecross and Blueshield plans, which includes PEEHIP, FEP, Blue Advantage, and High Performance. I also accept some United Health Care Evernorth plans as well. It is your responsibility to make ensure your eligibility and benefits for either in-network or out-of-network coverage for your specific plan.

Is medication a good substitute for therapy or vice versa?

There are times where medication is necessary to achieve mental and emotional stabilization before therapy. Medication alone does not treat the inner wounds from experienced trauma or negative experiences that has been built up over life. Medication (if medication is necessary) alongside therapy is the ideal way to achieve lifelong change.

What is your discrimination policy?

I believe that all human beings have the right to tend to, be supported, and enhance their self-growth journey. Mental health is important for every single human being. I see all clients regardless of gender, sexual orientation, religion, beliefs, nationality, ethnicity, employment, social status, etc. First and foremost, for the freedom of my own personal spirit, I am committed to address and heal my own implicit or explicit biases. Second, for the health and well-being of individuals I serve, I also make a commitment to address and heal my own implicit or explicit bias. This is done through pursuing continued multicultural competency as a clinician and doing my own soul work.

What does a 15-minute consultation look like and how is it different than an intake session?

A 15-minute free consultation looks like a phone call or zoom (depending on your preference) to discuss any concerns, questions, and for me to make a quick assessment whether my experience and skills sets will match your unique needs. An intake session is a full 55-minute session where I gather information on history and present and past concerns. This session marks the beginning process of exploring the etiology (set causes) of your current issue and concerns. Intake sessions are used to help gather information that will inform treatment plan. Each consequent session will also be data gathering that will help direct our goals and treatment.