Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect from my first therapy session?

I will send all paperwork via my portal and it will need to be completed prior to your first session. This allows us to spend the entire first session focusing on your individual needs and expectations for therapy rather than completing paperwork.

How long are sessions?

Standard psychotherapy sessions last 50 minutes. This gives me necessary time to reset between clients.

How often will we need to meet?

New clients are seen on a weekly or biweekly basis, depending on your need and availability. Sessions can be moved to monthly after we have established a solid connection and progress has been made.

How long will I (or my child) be in therapy?

The duration of psychotherapy varies depending on the complexity of the issues you or your child are facing and your personal goals. Some individuals may find short-term therapy helpful, which can last a few weeks or months, while others may engage in longer-term therapy that spans several months or even years. We will work together to determine the most suitable approach.

How does payment work?

The cost of therapy depends on the insurance you have. I will check your insurance and inform you of the cost prior to the intake appointment. You may pay with cash, check, or credit card. You are responsible for ensuring full payment of services at the time of the appointment. A credit card will be kept on file to ensure prompt payment.

Will I be in session with my child?

No, the majority of the time your child will work one-on-one with me. I do ask that you wait in the lobby for the duration of your child’s appointment. Although you will not be present for your child’s sessions, part of the process does involve regularly scheduled parent consultations. Sometimes this will involve meeting at the beginning of your child’s session or doing a family session with your child. We will review your child’s progress and explore any concerns you have. For teens, parent meetings are less frequent unless requested. You are also welcome to schedule one-on-one sessions with me to discuss parenting issues without your child.

How does play therapy help a child? Are they really going to improve from “just playing” with you?

Just as adults come to therapy and talk about their feelings from week to week, children come and play out their feelings from week to week. Play is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based approach to helping children with their mental health challenges. While kids explore their concerns, the therapeutic relationship helps regulate their emotions, which permits the brain to make structural changes. These changes lead to better understanding and more adaptive behaviors.

It is about much more than just “having fun.” During sessions, a therapist observes a child's actions and choices throughout play to gain insights into that child’s experiences, behaviors, and overall emotional health. Play therapy helps therapists engage children in a way that feels comfortable so they can open up about their feelings. Toys and other play materials can serve as metaphors to help children communicate experiences and emotions in a nonverbal way. If you have any more questions about how play can help your child, please ask! I am passionate about play therapy and I’d be happy to answer any questions/concerns you have.

What happens if my child misses school for an appointment with you?

I can provide a school excuse note to excuse their absence. Most schools are understanding and supportive of the counseling process.

Do you offer telehealth?

I offer some phone/video sessions for adults, please inquire about my availability if you are interested.