FAQs About Therapy 

Do you do diagnose?  Yes, this is part of the intake interview.  Insurance companies require a diagnostic assessment and diagnosis in order to reimburse services. During the first meeting,  I will gather history and we will talk about present concerns.  A diagnosis allows us to name the problem we are treating and can also guide interventions. 

Sometimes however, more extensive testing is required--for example, if we suspect ADHD or a learning disability, it can be helpful to get a psychological or neurological evaluation.  I can offer you referrals for this service.  

How long will I be in therapy?  As long as you need or want to.  Usually we will begin with weekly or biweekly sessions. I try to plug clients into a consistent day and time slot (like piano lessons) so you can plan life around this commitment.  

As things get better, we may decide to reduce the frequency of meetings or put therapy on hold.  Sometimes, therapy is short-term and is just a few sessions or a few months. I also have people on my caseload whom I’ve been seeing for years. Once we have established a relationship, I welcome you back at any time.  Sometimes, clients will call me years later, wanting to get back into therapy or to just come in for a booster session.

Do you coordinate with other providers?  Yes, with written consent, I can communicate with others as needed.  Sometimes, people want me to speak to their doctor or to consult with a school counselor or teacher.  Your privacy is protected under law, so I will not share any information about you or your family unless you want me to and I have consent to do so.

I’m a parent of a teenager.  Will I be involved in my child’s therapy? As a parent, you are the expert of your child, so I want to hear your perspective and any concerns you might have.  At the same time, your teen needs a safe place where they can talk freely and not worry that their private information will be shared behind their back.  At the beginning of therapy, we will discuss what your involvement may look like, how we might communicate together, and situations where I'm legally bound to break confidentiality (e.g. abuse).  I strive to develop a positive relationship with both kids and their parents.  

Do you prescribe medication? No, I may recommend medication treatment, but I do not prescribe.  If this is needed, we can talk about a referral to a psychiatrist or how to discuss this issue with your family doctor. 

What is your schedule and when do you meet with people?   I see clients on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.  My afternoon and evening sessions are highest in demand.  If you have flexibility in your schedule in regards to the time of day you can meet, I can often get you in within a week or two.  

What ages do you work with?   I currently work with kids as young as 11.  I also work with teens and young adults (e.g. people in their 20’s). With children younger than 11, it may be helpful to find a therapist who does play therapy.  

I don’t see my insurance listed.  Will you accept it? While I’m not in-network with a couple of insurance companies (e.g. Health Partners/Cigna and Ucare), we can still see each other.  Sometimes, clients have an insurance plan that provides out of network benefits.  Otherwise, we could look at an out of pocket plan or you could use your HSA to cover costs. 

I’m ready to give therapy a try.  What’s the next step?  First of all, good for you!  The fact that you’re ready to reach out suggests there is room for change and hope in your life.  The next step is to contact me by sending an email or filling out the inquiry form. When you do this, please share a little bit about yourself and/or the reasons why you’re seeking therapy.  I’ll be able to let you know if I have openings and if this seems like an appropriate referral.  Before we schedule an intake, I often like to connect briefly by phone so together, we can decide if this might be a good fit.