Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and implement them to reduce the influence you face.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
While your friend or family may empathize and have limited means for solving your problems, a professional therapist has years of training in therapeutic modalities that have been proven to be effective in addressing a variety of problems and disorders. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way – teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others, “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better, you could start avoiding that person, so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life, thus losing or compromising that close relationship.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will differ depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say on a general FAQ page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them. The length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
Your active participation and dedication to the goals we create will be crucial to your success.
Do you accept insurance?
I do not deal directly with insurance companies, but my services are reimbursable for out-of-network benefits by most insurance plans. Some questions for your insurance company:
○ Do I have behavioral health benefits?
○ Is there a deductible? How much is it, and has it been met?
○ How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
○ What is the covered amount per therapy session with a licensed clinical psychologist?
○ Is approval required by my primary doctor?
If requested, I will gladly generate an invoice for you to file claims with your carrier.
Client Portal
On my Client Portal, you can register as a new client, create an appointment, change an appointment, and set up payments. The Client Portal is linked to my Practice Management software. As such, it will have a different look than the website. Below is a link of the portal in case you have any concerns. You can find a link to the Client Portal in the Menu Bar or in your email or text confirmation.
Visit Client Portal
Portal Communications
Emails will come from yourprovider@simplepractice.com. You may want to add this to your contacts to ensure you don’t miss any messages. Text messages likely will come from 888-309-9868.
Telehealth
What equipment do I need?
○ A computer (laptop or desktop) or smartphone. Newer devices (purchased in the last two years) will be better equipped to provide telehealth sessions.
○ An integrated or external microphone.
○ An integrated or external web camera.
○ An internet connection that is at least 10 Mbps. For optimal results, a reliable, high-speed internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 Mbps will minimize connection issues and provide the best quality.
For the best experience.
○ Test your internet connection speed. Use our built-in Internet Quality Check before each session.
○ Close other programs. To minimize disruption, close out all other programs running in the background.
○ Adjust your lighting. Small lighting tweaks can make a big impact. Avoid any backlight, and make sure your camera is at eye level.
To start the appointment.
○ Click on the link provided in your reminder.
○ Log in to the client portal and find your appointment link.