The FAQ Page
Frequently Asked Questions

I do not participate with any insurance companies, but if you have out-of-network coverage, you may qualify for possible reimbursement. In this case, I can provide you with the necessary paperwork to submit to your insurance provider. My decision not to accept insurance is rooted in my commitment to providing the best possible care for my clients. By opting for a private pay model, I can offer unique advantages that directly benefit you: 1. Personalized Treatment: Without insurance restrictions, I have the flexibility to tailor your therapy to your specific needs, allowing for more effective and individualized treatment plans. 2. Enhanced Privacy: By not involving insurance companies, I can maintain a higher level of privacy and confidentiality, ensuring that your personal information remains secure and protected. 3. Focus on Your Well-being: Without the administrative burdens of insurance, I can dedicate more time and attention to your care, resulting in longer session times, increased availability, and a greater focus on your needs and goals. 4. Pricing Transparency: My fees are based on the value I provide and my expertise, allowing me to set fair and transparent pricing that aligns with the quality of care you receive. By choosing not to accept insurance, I prioritize your best interests and ensure that your therapy experience is centered on your unique needs and goals. I believe that this approach allows me to provide you with the highest standard of care.

Individual therapy sessions, lasting 45-50 minutes, are available for $185. I understand that financial circumstances can vary, which is why I also offer sliding scale fees. If the standard fee is not feasible for you, we can determine a discounted rate that suits your situation.

Therapy can be beneficial for individuals facing various challenges, such as mental health concerns, relationship issues, or life transitions. It can also help anyone simply seeking personal growth, greater self-awareness, or a deeper connection to themselves and others. Therapy is a designated space for you to explore yourself and your world. If you're concerned that therapy feels indulgent or selfish, it's important to consider the ripple effect it can have on your life. The personal growth and development you experience in therapy will naturally extend to benefit the people around you and the work you engage in. By prioritizing your well-being and creating space for your needs, you are actually engaging in an act of service to both yourself and others. Being present with yourself allows you to show up more fully and authentically in your relationships and contributions, fostering a positive impact on those around you.

I understand the importance of finding the right match; it's important to find a therapist you feel comfortable and connected with. You can schedule an initial consultation or phone call to discuss your concerns and determine if it feels like a good fit. If we're already working together and uncertainty arises, I will support you in bringing that up with me. I welcome conversations about our relationship, my approach, and the therapy process because it's an opportunity to course-correct, deepen our work, or help you explore your next right move and alternative resources even if it means ending therapy together.

Therapy sessions typically involve open and confidential conversations about whatever problems or concerns you're having. It's ok to cry. It's also ok to laugh! All emotions are welcome. My intent is to listen attentively, provide support, and help you navigate your concerns. In a first session, I'll have a lot more questions typically because I want to build a foundation for us to work from. I'll ask about your childhood, significant events and relationships, your work and living situation, etc. Sometimes this intake process takes several sessions simply because 50 minutes isn't really enough to cover a person's total life experiences! My approach is to "go with the flow and keep the flow going" so to speak, and I rely on my intuition a good deal, which I try to share openly as an opportunity to clarify and build perspective. I may offer particular tools and homework when it seems appropriate or when you ask for it specifically. As therapy progresses, I may check in with you about how the process is going and revisit your purpose for therapy to ensure we're still on track. It's important to me that you feel able to talk about your feelings and experiences openly, even (and especially) when they pertain to me and our work together. There may be times we discuss our relationship as client and therapist because the "here and now" interactions in therapy can give you a window into your patterns that exist outside of therapy.

Typically sessions are scheduled on a weekly or biweekly basis. Consistency and regularity in attendance can contribute to better progress and outcomes. The duration of therapy can vary depending on individual needs and goals. It can range from a few sessions to several months or even longer. This is something that can be discussed and decided upon collaboratively.

Rest assured, your trust and confidentiality are of the utmost importance to me, and I am committed to creating a safe and secure space for our therapeutic work together. As a therapist, I am legally and ethically bound to keep everything you share with me confidential. Your privacy is paramount, and I will not disclose any information without your explicit consent unless certain exceptions arise where I am legally or ethically obligated to breach confidentiality. These exceptions typically include: 1. Harm to self or others: If a client expresses intent to harm themselves or others, the therapist may need to take action to prevent harm, which could involve disclosing information to appropriate authorities or individuals involved in the client's care. 2. Child or elder abuse: Therapists are mandated reporters, meaning they are required by law to report any suspected abuse or neglect of children, elders, or vulnerable individuals to the relevant authorities. 3. Court orders: In some cases, a court may subpoena a therapist's records or require the therapist to testify in court. While therapists strive to maintain confidentiality, they may be legally obligated to comply with such orders. 4. Supervision and consultation: Therapists may discuss cases with supervisors or colleagues for professional consultation and development purposes. However, client identities are typically kept confidential during these discussions.

Making an appointment with me is simple and convenient. To begin, you can use my online client portal to schedule both your complimentary 15-minute consultation and/or your initial intake session. To get started, visit the client portal on my website and select a time that works for you. If you have any trouble or need assistance, feel free to reach out to me directly, and I'll be happy to help. 1. Complimentary Consultation: If you have quick questions or want to discuss your therapy goals before committing, I offer an optional free 15-minute consultation. You can schedule this through the online client portal. It's a perfect opportunity to see if we're a good fit for each other. 2. Intake Session: To schedule your initial intake session where we begin our therapeutic journey together, simply use the portal. During this session, we'll discuss your personal history, reasons for seeking therapy, and goals for our work together. 3. Ongoing sessions: Once you're an established client, managing your sessions is easy using the online client portal. You can schedule your sessions anywhere from 24 hours to 3 months in advance, ensuring you can plan ahead to fit therapy into your busy schedule. Additionally, if you need to cancel or reschedule a session, you can do so with ease through the portal. Simply make changes at least 48 hours in advance to avoid any cancellation fees. This flexibility allows you to prioritize your well-being while respecting both your time and mine. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey to healing and growth!

Your time is valuable, and I strive to provide the best service possible to all my clients. To ensure efficient scheduling and accommodate the needs of all clients, I have implemented the following policy for canceling or rescheduling appointments: Cancellation or Rescheduling: Clients are kindly requested to provide at least 48 hours' notice for any cancellations or rescheduling requests. This allows me ample time to adjust my schedule and offer the appointment slot to another client in need of services. Late Cancellations and No-Shows: For cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice or in the case of no-shows, clients are charged the full session fee. This policy is in place to respect the time and commitment of both myself and other clients. I understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and exceptions may be made in certain situations. If you have extenuating circumstances, please don't hesitate to reach out to discuss your situation with me directly.

If you find yourself running late for an appointment, please don't hesitate to let me know as soon as possible. I completely understand that unexpected delays can happen. I will wait for up to 20 minutes past the scheduled start time. However, it's important to note that waiting longer than 20 minutes to start does not leave us enough time for a productive session, and beyond that point it will be considered a no-show.

Your feedback is invaluable to me as I strive to provide the best possible service to my clients. Whether you have positive feedback or constructive criticism, I welcome your input and am committed to continuously improving your experience. Providing Feedback: If you would like to share your experience or provide feedback, you can do so by reaching out to me directly in session, via email or client portal messager, or by phone. Your feedback helps me understand what's working well and where there may be opportunities for improvement, ensuring that I can better meet your needs and expectations. Handling Complaints: In the rare event that you have a complaint or concern, I encourage you to bring it to my attention as soon as possible. I take all complaints seriously and am dedicated to resolving them in a fair and timely manner. You can discuss your concerns with me directly, and I will work with you to find a satisfactory resolution. External Resources: If you believe that your complaint involves professional misconduct or if you prefer to seek assistance from an external source, you have the option to contact the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). They can provide you with information on how to file a complaint and address any questions or concerns you may have. You can visit their website at http://www.bhec.texas.gov or call 1-800-821-3205 for more information. Your satisfaction and well-being are my top priorities, and I am committed to addressing any feedback or concerns you may have with professionalism and care.

While I do not offer emergency support services, I am here to support you during our scheduled sessions and can provide resources and referrals to assist you in accessing the help you need during times of crisis. In the event of an emergency or crisis outside of session hours, please prioritize your immediate safety and well-being by taking the following steps: 1. Contact Emergency Services: If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or your local emergency services number for immediate assistance. 2. Reach Out to Emergency Hotlines: If you need urgent support or assistance with mental health concerns, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. These trained professionals can provide immediate support and connect you with resources in your area. 3. Inform Me During Our Next Session: Please let me know about any emergency situations or crises you've experienced during our next scheduled session. This information can help us address any ongoing concerns and ensure you receive appropriate support moving forward.

As a client, your active participation and commitment to the therapeutic process are key to achieving your goals and maximizing the benefits of therapy. Here are some expectations to keep in mind: 1. Openness and Honesty: Be open and honest with your therapist about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This creates a safe and trusting environment for meaningful exploration and growth. 2. Consistency: Attend your scheduled therapy sessions regularly and on time. Consistency allows for continuity in our work together and maximizes the effectiveness of therapy. 3. Engagement: Engage actively in the therapy process by participating in discussions, completing assigned tasks or exercises, and reflecting on your progress between sessions. 4. Feedback: Provide feedback to your therapist about what is working well and what could be improved. Your input helps tailor the therapy to better meet your needs and preferences. 5. Commitment to Change: Be willing to explore new perspectives, challenge old patterns, and take steps towards positive change. Therapy requires effort and commitment, both during sessions and in implementing strategies outside of therapy.

- Insight: I will offer insights into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to help you gain deeper understanding and self-awareness. - Alternative perspectives: I'll provide alternative viewpoints to help you broaden your understanding and consider different approaches to your challenges. - Collaboration: Together, we'll work collaboratively to set goals, develop strategies, and navigate your therapeutic journey. - Transparency & openness: I'll be transparent and open in our interactions, fostering a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. - Dependability: You can rely on me to be consistent and dependable in our sessions and in my commitment to your well-being. - Flexibility: I will adapt to your needs and preferences, offering flexibility in session scheduling and therapeutic approaches. - Boundaries: I will maintain clear and healthy boundaries to ensure the safety and effectiveness of our therapeutic relationship. - Acceptance: I will provide a nonjudgmental and accepting space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism.

To get the most out of therapy and maximize its benefits, consider the following tips: 1. Set Clear Goals: Clarify what you hope to achieve through therapy and communicate these goals to your therapist. Having clear objectives helps guide our work together and provides a roadmap for progress. 2. Be Open-Minded: Approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to explore new ideas, perspectives, and strategies for coping and growth. 3. Practice Self-Reflection: Take time between sessions to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Journaling or mindfulness exercises can help deepen self-awareness and insight. 4. Apply What You Learn: Practice implementing the skills and strategies discussed in therapy into your daily life. Experiment with new behaviors, coping mechanisms, and communication styles to see what works best for you. 5. Be Patient: Remember that therapy is a process, and change takes time. Be patient with yourself and trust in the therapeutic journey, even during moments of challenge or frustration. 6. Communicate with Your Therapist: Don't hesitate to communicate openly with your therapist about your progress, concerns, or any barriers you may be facing. Your therapist is here to support you every step of the way. By actively engaging in the therapy process, setting goals, and applying what you learn, you can create meaningful change and achieve greater well-being and fulfillment in your life.

I am honored to accompany individuals on their journey toward healing, self-discovery, and personal transformation. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC #66932), I bring a wealth of education, training, and practical experience to my practice. Here is a summary of my credentials and experience: Specialization: My clinical practice primarily focuses on working with adult individual clients dealing with anxiety, depression, mood instability, and complex trauma issues. I am dedicated to providing specialized care tailored to the unique needs of each client, utilizing evidence-based practices to promote healing and growth. Education: I hold a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University. Additionally, I completed my undergraduate studies at Stephen F. Austin State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology & Sociology. Licensing: As a licensed professional counselor in Texas, I am authorized to practice counseling in my jurisdiction, ensuring that I adhere to the highest ethical standards and possess the necessary qualifications to provide quality care to my clients. Continuing Education: It's important to note that every licensed professional counselor is required to receive 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their license. I consistently engage in ongoing education and training to stay current with the latest developments in the field and enhance my skills to better serve my clients. Specialized Training: -I have received professional training in Schema Therapy (ST), a therapeutic approach that focuses on addressing deeply ingrained patterns or schemas contributing to emotional distress and interpersonal difficulties. -I have completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program, and I am an experienced facilitator of yoga-informed therapy groups. This background allows me to incorporate holistic approaches to mental health and well-being into my practice. Clinical Experience: My professional journey includes serving as the lead therapist in an intensive outpatient program (IOP), where I specialized in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques and strategies. Additionally, I have extensive experience providing individual and group therapy within acute care psychiatric inpatient settings.

Recognizing that each individual is unique, I tailor my approach by integrating various theoretical frameworks, including existential humanism, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Schema Therapy. This eclectic approach allows me to adapt my methods to suit your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that our therapy sessions are both effective and meaningful. My practice prioritizes building a strong therapist-client alliance in a safe, empathetic environment. I offer compassionate guidance that empowers self-reflection and meaningful steps toward growth and healing. You're supported through the complexities of your journey, whether exploring existential questions, developing coping skills, or addressing deep-seated patterns, with a focus on your individual strengths and growth.

Preparing for teletherapy or online therapy involves several steps to ensure a smooth and effective session. Here's how you can prepare: 1. Technical setup: Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a device (such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone) with a webcam and microphone. Test your equipment beforehand to ensure everything is working properly. 2. Choose a private and quiet space: Select a quiet and private location for your therapy session where you won't be interrupted or overheard. Consider using headphones to maintain confidentiality and minimize distractions. 3. Reduce distractions: Turn off notifications on your electronic devices and minimize distractions in your environment. Close unnecessary tabs or applications on your computer to maintain focus during the session. 4. Comfortable seating: Sit in a comfortable chair with good posture during the session. Ensure that your face is well-lit and visible to the therapist through the webcam. 5. Set up your space: Arrange your surroundings to create a comfortable and conducive atmosphere for therapy. You may want to have a glass of water nearby and any materials (such as notebooks or pens) you might need during the session. 6. Test the platform: Familiarize yourself with the teletherapy platform or software your therapist uses. Test the audio and video settings, and practice navigating the interface if it's your first time using it. 7. Joining a session: As part of our teletherapy process, you will receive a link for the session via text message approximately 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. This link will allow you to easily join the session through the SimplePractice platform. 9. Appointment reminders: You have the option to set up appt reminders in your client portal for email and/or text notifications that you will receive 72 hours ahead of your session to help you remember your appointment.

Deciding to end therapy is a personal decision and can vary from person to person. Some common signs that therapy may no longer be necessary or beneficial include: - Achieving your therapy goals: If you've accomplished the goals you initially set out to address in therapy and feel satisfied with your progress, it may be a sign that you're ready to end therapy. - Feeling consistently stable and supported: If you're feeling stable in managing your emotions, coping with stressors, and navigating life's challenges without the need for ongoing therapy support, it may be an indication that you're ready to conclude therapy. - Feeling a sense of closure: You may sense a natural conclusion to the therapeutic process, feeling that you've gained the insights, tools, and skills you need to continue your journey independently. - Open communication with your therapist: I encourage you to discuss your thoughts and feelings about ending therapy openly. I can provide guidance and support in navigating this decision, helping you determine if it's the right time to conclude therapy or if further sessions would be beneficial. Ending therapy is a collaborative process that we work together to achieve. Here's a general outline of what to expect: 1. Discussion of readiness: We discuss your thoughts and feelings about ending therapy, explore your reasons for wanting to end therapy, and assess your readiness for this transition. 2. Reviewing progress: We reflect on the progress you've made in therapy and discuss any remaining goals or concerns you may have. 3. Planning for closure: We can create a plan for ending therapy, which may include setting a specific end date or gradually tapering off sessions. 4. Exploring emotions: Ending therapy can evoke a range of emotions, including sadness, relief, or anxiety, and we can navigate these feelings together. 5. Final session: Your last therapy session will focus on summarizing your therapeutic journey, celebrating your accomplishments, and discussing any final thoughts or concerns. 6. Follow-up plan: We might develop a follow-up plan, such as scheduling periodic check-ins or identifying additional resources for ongoing support if needed. If you ever feel uncertain about ending therapy or wish to resume sessions in the future, you can always discuss your options with me!