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How long does therapy take?
Short term therapy, 8-12 sessions up to 6 months, can be helpful for addressing problems that have emerged recently such as a life transition, a move, or a loss. A short term treatment plan can be ideal if you would like to gain coping skills and problem-solve.
I have found that a lengthier treatment experience (6+ months) is much more likely to produce lasting change. Why? Because it takes time and repeated efforts to rewrite internal dialogue and filters that may be decades old. Much of the distress (anxiety, depression, anger, etc.) we experience in the present moment stems from past experiences and the infrastructure those produced. My approach is respectful, and I take care as I assist you to adventure within and heal past hurts so they are truly resolved and no longer governing your life and maintaining unhelpful patterns.
What's the difference between licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) and psychologists, LPCs (licensed practicing counselors), and LMFTs (licensed marriage and family therapists)?
All of the above professionals receive clinical training and are licensed to practice counseling. A clinical social worker (LCSW) receives macro level training in addition to clinical education, and has the ability to work with individuals, families, organizations, communities, in hospitals and schools, and even in the legislative sector. The profession sets forth ethical standards which emphasize social justice.
LCSWs, LPCs, and LMFTs hold masters degrees. Psychologists hold PhDs. Following formal education in universities, we are all required to maintain our licenses through continuing education, and often work and train together.
Do you take insurance?
I am currently not an "in network" provider. Most people I work with fund their therapy out-of-pocket. There are a few options though.
I do accept payment with HSA/FSA cards which is a supplement to insurance benefits that many people have.
Another option is to speak with your insurance provider to see if your plan includes any "out of network" benefits for "outpatient office visits" with a "Licensed Clinical Social Worker". You will need to use those three terms when you speak with your insurance company. If you do have benefits, I will provide you with a receipt of service (also known as a "superbill"), and you will coordinate directly with your insurance company to claim your benefits.
What can I expect in my first session?
I work out of two locations that are relatively easy to navigate to using GPS. You can find those addresses here.
Please complete your paperwork prior to your session so we can make the most of your time while you are in the office. If you have any questions at all, feel free to bring those questions with you. We'll spend the first part of your session reviewing paperwork and questions.
Other than that, this is my first opportunity to get to know you, and for you to get comfortable with me. It's okay and completely normal to feel nervous, excited, or anything in between. I've got you. I'll guide you through this first appointment with questions and curiosities. It is my hope that you walk away from your first session with a little relief and a better sense of the kind of therapist that I am.
How does online therapy work?
I use a HIPAA-compliant version of Zoom which can be accessed from a web browser or cell phone. The experience is very similar to using Skype or Facetime. I require that you have access to a quiet, private, and stationary location (no driving!) that ideally has good internet access. This is to ensure your safety and the highest quality of care. I have found that online therapy is best suited for those who travel from time to time, have to make a move, or would like to attend sessions while sick or facing transportation hurdles. I recommend we meet in-person at least once if at all possible.