What will our sessions be like?

Virtual sessions are conducted using my secure Telehealth platform, SimplePractice. Once you fill out the initial client paperwork, you can make, change or cancel appointments online using the client portal

Sessions are usually scheduled weekly at first, and then can move to biweekly once appropriate. Individual sessions are generally 50 minutes or 1 hour for couple or family sessions. 24 hours before each appointment, you will receive a link that is unique to each appointment and can be texted or emailed to you based on your preference. You can connect to your sessions via any device that can download the app.  Many clients use cell phones, some prefer tablets or computers, it’s up to you

Most sessions will start with a review of your mood, a discussion of anything meaningful that has happened since the last session, and then we will work on your goals. Sessions are not about what I want for you or what your partner or parent wants for you to work on. Appointments are your time and about how you want to learn and grow.

Sessions can be as structured or as free flowing as you would like. If you prefer homework or worksheets, tell me. If you want to incorporate movement, deep breathing, or meditation, we can do that too. I’m happy to tailor your sessions to how you work best

I deeply value and respect my relationships with my clients and there is no hierarchy here. I also try not to take my self too seriously; you can expect that I will laugh with you and cry with you. I will celebrate your wins and curse your losses. I’m on your team, but I also know how to maintain boundaries.

How much do sessions cost?

Current Fees as of 1/1/25:

• Initial Session/1 Hour/$200
• Individual Sessions/50 minutes/$175
• Family Sessions/1 Hour/$185
• Half Sessions (if deemed appropriate by your clinician) 30 minutes/$87.5

All sessions are in US Dollars. Fees are due at the time of service unless otherwise arranged with the clinician. 

Why don’t you take insurance?

I am not “in network” with insurance companies for a number of reasons. Primarily, I do not align with the treatment model often required by commercial insurances. Many insurances have stringent requirements to authorize if, when, and for how long they will authorize therapy sessions. I trust that my clients know if and when they need support, and being an “out of network” provider allows you to be the boss of your treatment, rather than the insurance company.

Do I have to have a diagnosis?

The short answer: If you want to use your insurance, yes. If you pay out of pocket, not necessarily. Insurance companies require diagnoses for reimbursement purposes.

Will working with you affect my security or medical clearance?

It shouldn’t and in my experience has not *knocks on wood* affected any of my clients’ clearances. The world has come a long way in terms of normalizing people seeking mental health treatment, just like they would treat any other health condition (because mental health IS health) BUT there is still a long way to go.

If this is a concern of yours, let’s talk more in a consult session. 

Can therapy help me/my partner/my child?

Most likely, yes. That being said, I might not be the therapist for you. Therapy is deeply personal and requires connection and trust. If we work together and you feel like I am not the therapist for you, I take no offense and will happily provide referrals to someone else.

That being said— many people have experienced mental health treatment that has left an impression on them, whether positive or negative- remember that treatment providers and practices can vary greatly. Your experience will depend on many factors, stay open.

Can we work together?

We will get our best work done with minimal distractions. This means sessions will require a strong, reliable WiFi connection and a relatively quiet location where you feel like you can speak freely with few interruptions.

Sessions should not take place while driving or walking, and should not take place at your home or office if you do not feel like you can speak openly and honestly. If this is a concern, please speak more with me. I do lots of sessions with clients in parked cars.

Regarding Location:

Abroad, I can work with you in most countries, let’s talk more about where you live.

If you’re stateside, I am licensed in Maryland and Virginia. U.S Social Work Licensure Laws require you, the client, to be physically present in a state that I am licensed in at the time of the session. On a positive note,  the Social Work Compact just passed and should allow me to work with clients in most states very soon. Yay!

Do you work with this (insert your concern here)… ?

Probably, Just ask me!

My question isn’t answered here.

If you have any further doubts or questions, please let me know during our consult call or initial evaluation.

If you would like, you can schedule those appointments here.