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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?
In your first session, we will briefly review paperwork and I can answer initial questions. I try to save as much time as I can for us to dialogue about what's bringing you to therapy. This will feel conversational to you, and I'll be weaving my questions in as we go. Within the first few appointments, I am building an understanding of your history (mental health, developmental, and otherwise), your family of origin, your support system and relationships, your hopes and goals, your strengths, and identifying if there are any constraints that might be relevant to our work such as time limitations.
How does online therapy work?
I use a HIPAA-compliant version of Zoom which can be accessed from a web browser or cell phone. I will send that link to you before your first appointment. 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 am very comfortable and practiced providing therapy in the virtual format since the pandemic. I appreciate that the virtual meeting space can make therapy more accessible, and have found that the quality of therapy I provide virtually is as high as the therapy I provide in person.