Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need counseling?

I see a wide range of people in my counseling practice, from those experiencing extremely difficult life situations and overwhelming emotion, to people who feel they are stagnating and hoping for more fulfillment and joy in their lives. Therapy is a way to address urgent circumstances or it can be preventative. If there is something you can't stop thinking or worrying about, therapy can help.

Issues addressed include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, couple and communication problems, sex, intimacy, finding a partner / dating, codependency, family and parenting struggles, trauma, childhood abuse, grief and loss, coping with illness and pain, guilt or regret, confidence and self esteem, stress management, focus, procrastination, career / work stress and personal growth.

How long does counseling last?

It is helpful to make a commitment to yourself and the counseling process of at least 8-10 sessions. During the first two therapy sessions a thorough assessment is completed, goals are identified and jointly we create a treatment plan that fits your needs. With any counseling situation, it is ultimately up to the client as to how long he or she wants to engage in treatment. Each situation is unique and it is part of my job to help you determine how many therapy sessions may be needed to reach your desired goals.

What can I expect from counseling?

Successful counseling depends on identifying specific goals, a regular check on our progress, and your courage and commitment. I aim to provide the highest level of care, including all of my experience and expertise, to each therapeutic session.

What is Simple Practice and how do I use it?

Simple Practice is a HIPPA compliant client portal. If we decide to work together, your Simple Practice portal will allow you to view upcoming appointments, request new appointments, complete paperwork, pay bills, and message me securely. Review the Simple Practice Complete Guide to the Client Portal to learn more.

How do I use Telehealth?

You'll be sent an email link for video appointments just prior to our sessions. Click on the link at the scheduled time. You can also access your Telehealth appointment by logging into your Simple Practice Portal, or using the Telehealth by SimplePractice app. (This must be downloaded beforehand and is free in the app store.) You can use the camera and audio on your computer or mobile device.

If technology fails, as it occassioanly does, and we are not able to connect via video or get disconnected part way through our session, I will call you on the number you provided in your contact info.

What is a Marriage and Family Therapist?

A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is a licensed counselor who specializes in working with individuals and has the added training and experience of working with couples and families. I am trained to have a systemic perspective that encompasses the dynamics between people in addition to the internal workings of one person. In couples and individual work this approach can be helpful and empowering.

What is EMDR therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a method of psychotherapy that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. To date, EMDR has helped an estimated two million plus people of all ages to relieve many types of psychological stress (depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, etc.) If you are interested in this type of therapy, please ask me about it or visit emdria.org.