Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I “need” therapy?
Anyone can benefit from the introspective nature of therapy. I believe it’s fundamentally important for all of us to connect with ourselves through mindfulness and meditation. A lot of times in life, we’ve very outwardly focused -- worried about the opinions of others, stressed about work. Therapy can be a time to have a conversation with yourself -- to check in on your own feelings.
Therapy can also be especially beneficial to those suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, or sexual repression. I’m trained, certified and have many years of experience providing treatment for these issues; sometimes acupuncture can be utilized as an adjunct form of treatment to support traditional therapy modalities.
If you were curious enough to come to this page, I invite you to meet me for a consultation!
How long are typical therapy sessions?
Individual sessions are 50 minutes and couples' sessions are approximately 60 minutes in length. Longer duration therapy sessions can also be negotiated.
How often are you available to meet?
Generally, I meet with clients once a week. If needed, more frequent therapy sessions can be arranged.
How can I be sure my personal information and history will be kept private?
I am bound by the Michigan Mental Health Code (law), by my Michigan Social Work License and by the federal Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to maintain confidentiality of all therapy conversations and your mental health records. Confidentiality can only be broken under very rare and extreme circumstances which will be discussed with you at your first treatment session.
Additionally, my office is arranged for your safety and to optimize your privacy.
What is parking like at your office(s)?
There is free and ample street parking available in front of and behind both of my offices. Parking at the back of my office building affords some additional privacy for you.
What if I need to cancel an appointment, will I still have to pay?
One week notice prior to any scheduled appointment must be given to cancel any previously scheduled appointment or you will be charged a service fee.
Can my parent or significant other come to therapy with me?
Yes! In fact, for your first treatment session, if you are younger than 18 years of age, a parent or guardian is required to attend your first treatment session with you.
If you are 18 years of age or older and would like another person to attend the treatment session with you, I simply ask that you inform me prior to your scheduled treatment session.
At points during therapy, it may even be recommended to you that others be involved in your treatment; we will discuss this accordingly before a combined treatment session with others.
Can I bring food or water to your office?
Yes, you may bring food or water with you to your treatment session. Additionally, I provide water, tea and coffee as well as small snacks in my waiting room.
Can I bring my pet?
You may bring your pet with you to treatment sessions, just be sure to have your pet leashed or otherwise contained. Make sure to discuss this matter with me prior to your scheduled treatment session.
How much will this cost?
Services range from $200.00 to $500.00 depending on the type service requested. Specifics will be discussed when we arrange your appointment.
Currently, I am a provider for Blue Cross/Blue Shield (BCBS), Medicare, and ASR insurances. I bill these insurance providers directly for your convenience.
For others who might have different insurance coverage, I provide you with a receipt (called a “Superbill”) that you can submit to your insurance company for any reimbursement you may be expecting. The billing receipt provided to you will include necessary diagnostic and procedural codes for submission. Some clients can reclaim all or some of their expenditures for treatment through their insurance depending on their individual insurance plans.
Feel free to ask me if you have any questions about this process.
What if I can’t reach you in an emergency?
In an emergency, it is recommended that you proceed to your local hospital emergency room for a mental health assessment. You may also call 911.
What are some additional resources for anxiety or depression online? Do you have any recommended reading, or tools I should utilize outside of therapy to improve myself?
Please visit my Resources page!
What are the age ranges with whom you work?
I work with adults and older adults. I work with individuals and couples.
Do you provide video online therapy?
Yes! I use a FREE and private (encrypted) video conferencing platform that you can easily upload and utilize for online therapy. Video or online therapy is not usually covered by commercial insurance, but I will provide to you an invoice containing all the information you would need to submit to your insurance company for any reimbursement you may have available to you with your particular insurance plan*.
*Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, video and online therapy is likely covered by commercial insurance. Contact your insurance provider for details.
