FAQS
Comprehensive Answers (mostly)
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect in the first session? During the first few sessions, we will go over the paperwork (completed prior to session), discuss what brings you in, and start to establish goals for therapy.
How long does therapy last? Honestly, that depends. Early on, you and I will develop goals (this will be our roadmap as we move forward) and you decide when you feel like you have met them. However, sometimes as you are working towards your goals, you may discover that you don’t really want that goal for yourself (maybe you’ve just been trying to be who others want you to be) or that it’s not the right time (other things in life have to take priority or you just aren’t ready to let go of that part of your life yet) and will decide that therapy is done without reaching your goal. That’s okay. Even though you did not reach your goal you learned a little more about what you want (or don’t want) for yourself and that is valuable.
What is the benefit of paying out of pocket? In order for your insurance to cover therapy services, you have to be diagnosed with something. You might not be comfortable with a mental health diagnosis being a part of your medical history or you might just want someone to bounce ideas off of but don’t feel like you want a “disorder.” Also, if you are looking to come in for couples therapy, many insurance companies won’t pay for couples therapy, so one of you will have to be the identified “client” and receive a diagnosis that fits for why you are seeking therapy. This can sometimes exaggerate the conflict that is already bringing you in for therapy, because now your partner feels like there is “professional proof” that you are causing all of the problems in the relationship (However, I see the “client” as the relationship, not just your or your partner.)
Do you offer skiding scale rates? I do provide a Sliding-Fee Scale. Please Email me for more information.
Do you take my insurance? I am in network with many providers in Washington State. your can find the list of them on the insurance and fees section.
Do you offer support for specific mental health conditions?
How do I book an appointment?
Can I get help in a crisis?
How do I know if therapy is right for me? Therapy might be a good fit for you if you're struggling with your emotions, facing relationship challenges, dealing with life transitions, seeking personal growth, or feeling stuck. It's a personal decision, so consider your needs and goals. If you're unsure, you can always schedule a consultation with a therapist to discuss your concerns and see if therapy feels right for you.
Can you prescribe medication?
What is your role as a therapist? I see my role as a support, coach, and process consultant. If it was so easy to do things differently or think about things from a different perspective, you probably wouldn’t be looking for a therapist. Once you define your goals, I will help you get there and sometimes that means pointing out that you are trying to keep yourself in your comfort zone. Something that you and I will explore early on is the pattern you currently go through and how that is keeping you from your goal. We will brainstorm a new pattern to see if that helps you reach your goal and my job will be to point out when you are sneaking back into the old pattern rather than trying the new one. This often leads to valuable conversations about why you are staying inside your comfort zone and what you can do about it.
Is therapy confidential? Certainly! Here's a concise response: --- Yes, therapy is typically confidential. Therapists are bound by strict confidentiality guidelines, meaning they cannot disclose what is discussed in sessions to anyone without your consent, except in specific legal circumstances such as if there's a risk of harm to yourself or others. Your privacy and trust are paramount in therapy.
What is available in the members section?
Can you prescribe medication?
Do you offer online therapy or teletherapy?
if you have a question, ask it here! It might make the FAQ
