Question 1

How do I know if counseling is right for me?

Accepted Answer

I am a firm believer that everyone can benefit from counseling! Whether you're experiencing anxiety or depression, have experienced a trauma, struggle in relationships, or are just dealing with the general life stressors life throws at us, counseling provides a space for you to discuss these concerns in a judgement-free zone and learn strategies to improve your overall well-being. There is no such thing as your struggles being "bad enough" to benefit from counseling. If you are looking to develop a better understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, or come up with a game plan for a specific difficulty, counseling is right for you.

Question 2

How do I know if we'd be a good fit?

Accepted Answer

A strong counseling relationship matters, and not every provider is the right match for every client. My style is direct, honest, and a bit more casual than some others. I don’t just sit back and nod. I will gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) call you out when I see patterns that might be holding you back. I believe growth often comes from clarity and accountability, and I aim to create a space where we can be real with each other. For many people, this approach feels refreshing, supportive, and productive. If you’re looking for someone who will challenge you, be straightforward, and have real conversations (not just clinical ones), we may work really well together. That said, this style isn’t for everyone. If you prefer a more formal, reserved, or purely reflective approach- or if being directly challenged feels uncomfortable or unhelpful- you might feel better supported by a therapist with a different style. And that’s completely okay. The most important thing is finding someone who helps you feel safe, understood, and able to grow. An inital intake sessions helps give a better opportunity for us to get a feel for each other, talk through what you’re looking for, and decide together whether it feels like a good fit moving forward. If you determine I'm not a good fit, or if I believe another provider may be better equipped to help your presenting concerns, I'm always happy to provide referrals.

Question 3

What happens during the first session?

Accepted Answer

Your intake session is our first meeting and a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll spend time talking about what brought you in, what you’re hoping to get out of counseling, and any current challenges you’re dealing with. I’ll also ask some background questions about your mental health history, relationships, work or school, and other areas of your life that help me understand the bigger picture. This might include questions about past therapy, medical history, or major life events. You can share at your own pace- there’s no pressure to tell everything all at once. Just as importantly, this session is a chance for you to get a feel for me (my style, personality, approach, etc.) and decide whether it feels like a good fit for you. Finding the right provider matters, and you’re encouraged to pay attention to how comfortable and understood you feel. By the end of the session, we’ll start to get a sense of your goals and whether working together feels like a good fit. If it does, we’ll talk about next steps and what ongoing sessions might look like.

Question 4

How long are sessions and how often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50-minutes. Frequency depends on your needs and goals, but many clients start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions and adjust over time. The overall duration of counseling varies depending on your goals and needs. Some clients come for a short period to work through a specific issue, while others prefer longer-term support.

Question 5

Is what we talk about confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes- what you share in counseling is confidential. Your privacy is an important part of creating a space where you can speak openly and honestly. That said, there are a few legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality. I may be required to break confidentiality if there is a concern about safety, such as if you are at risk of seriously harming yourself or someone else, or in situations involving abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or dependent adult. In these cases, the goal is to protect you and others from harm. Sometimes clients also choose to sign a release of information, which allows me to coordinate care or share information with other providers (such as a doctor). This is always your choice, and we would talk through it together first. For minors, confidentiality works a little differently. Parents or legal guardians typically have the right to access certain information about their child’s treatment. At the same time, I aim to create a space where minors can still feel comfortable being open. We’ll talk through what information may be shared and what can remain private so everyone has clear expectations from the start. If you ever have questions about confidentiality or how your information is handled, you’re always welcome to ask. I want you to feel clear, informed, and comfortable with the process.

Question 6

How much does counseling cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of counseling can vary depending on whether you’re using insurance or paying out of pocket. If you plan to use insurance, your cost will depend on your specific plan. Insurance companies set “contracted rates” with providers, which means the total cost of a session is predetermined, but what you pay is based on your benefits. This may include a deductible (the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance starts contributing), a co-pay (a flat fee per session), or co-insurance (a percentage of the session cost). Because every plan is different, it’s important to contact your insurance company ahead of time so you understand your coverage, what your out-of-pocket costs will be, and whether there are any limits on services. If you’re paying out of pocket (self-pay), you’ll be responsible for the full session fee. I can provide a Good Faith Estimate, which outlines the expected cost of services based on your needs. This is required under federal law and helps you plan financially by giving you a clear picture of what to expect. If you have questions about cost, insurance, or payment options, I’m always happy to help you navigate the process so there are no surprises.

Question 7

Are there concerns you don't work with?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While I work with a range of concerns, there are some areas that are outside the scope of my practice. I do not provide counseling for children under the age of 13. I also may not be the best fit for individuals who are experiencing symptoms or behaviors that would be better supported in a higher level of care, such as intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, or inpatient treatment. This can include situations where safety, stability, or more structured support is needed. In addition, I do not specialize in treating eating disorders or autism spectrum disorders. These areas often benefit from providers with specific training and resources to offer the most effective support. Overall, my goal is to make sure you receive the care that best fits your needs. If it seems like I’m not the right provider for what you’re looking for, I’m happy to help guide you toward appropriate referrals whenever possible.

Question 8

Do you offer online sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Online counseling, also known as telehealth, has become increasingly popular since COVID-19. Telehealth sessions are conducted using a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, allowing us to meet virtually from wherever you are. It works a lot like a video call, but with added privacy protections to keep your information safe. This can be a convenient option if you have a busy schedule, limited access to transportation, or simply prefer the comfort of your own space. Many people find it just as effective as in-person counseling. To get the most out of telehealth sessions, it’s helpful to have a reliable internet connection, a private and quiet space, and a device with a camera and microphone.

Of note: At the time of your session, you must be physically located in a state where I am licensed to provide services. At this time, I am currently licensed in Nebraska, Missouri, Iowa, Colorado, and Utah.

Question 9

Therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, life coaches... What's the difference?

Accepted Answer

Therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and life coaches all help people in different ways, but their training and roles are pretty different. “Therapist” is a general term for licensed mental health professionals (like counselors or clinical social workers) who are trained and legally allowed to provide therapy. Typically, therapists have a minimum of a Master's degree.

Psychologists are also licensed and have advanced doctoral training. Some psychologists also provide therapy services, but they primarily conduct evaluations and assessments to provide diagnostic clarity for mental health concerns.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors, so they have gone to med school. While some psychiatrists provide therapy services as well, their primary role is typically to prescribe medication for mental health concerns.

Life coaches focus on goal-setting, motivation, and personal growth (factors often included in therapy), but they cannot diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Life coaches aren't licensed or regulated, so there is no standard for training or oversight, as there is with licensed professionals.

Question 10

What if I still have questions?

Accepted Answer

That’s completely okay! Starting counseling can feel like a big step, and it’s normal to want more information first. Feel free to reach out, and I'd be happy to help you figure out next steps.

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