FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Think about it like we are getting to know one another. During our first session, we will discuss your goals for treatment, explore what has brought you to seek therapy now, and we will review any pertinent history. Sometimes history-taking may expand to the first and second session. We can alter your goals for treatment at any time throughout the therapy process. We will also review policies and procedures related to the therapy process. 

Talk therapy isn't "just talking." Therapy promotes neuroplasticity, creating change within the brain by building and strengthening neural connections. Other benefits of therapy may include improvement in overall mood, insight, relationships, and physical health. 

Session time may vary, however, the standard session length is 1 hour. 

Depending upon your goals and our treatment approach, you may benefit by implementing and practicing techniques and skills learned in therapy sessions outside of our time together. Homework is never mandatory but may be suggested to enhance skills or provide more time to practice certain techniques. 

To me, therapy is a collaborative process. I deeply value the therapeutic partnership created between the therapist and client. We likely will discuss your progress throughout the therapy process and periodically assess the frequency of sessions. I welcome and encourage all clients to share their thoughts and feelings related to growth throughout therapy and their feelings about ending treatment. 

Depending upon your individual needs, I may be able to offer services that would satisfy court-ordered treatment. We can discuss this further during your complimentary phone consultation. Please note that letters prepared for court purposes may result in an additional fee. This will be discussed with you before the letter is provided.

Yes, as a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) I have been trained in providing clients with accurate and appropriate diagnoses. Diagnosis is determined through a number of methods including: reviewing a client's history, gathering subjective information, obtaining collateral information, administering diagnostic scales, considering clinical observations related to symptoms, mood, behavior, and relationships, and consulting the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM).

I do not prescribe medication. However, I may offer to consult your physician and to discuss treatment and observations to provide your prescriber with a more comprehensive picture of your symptoms. I first discuss with clients whether this is something they are interested in. I will not discuss treatment with your provider without your permission unless it is an emergency situation. We will review what qualifies as an emergency situation during our first session.

I do not offer psychological testing for ADHD.

Several studies suggest that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for treating a range of conditions, including depression and anxiety. Some clients prefer teletherapy for its convenience, whereas other clients prefer the atmosphere of in-person sessions.