FAQs
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First things first, don't be nervous. We'll start with a free consultation to determine if therapy with me is a good fit.
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Therapy is a space where we work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences. It's confidential, nonjudgmental, and focused on helping you gain clarity, cope with life's challenges, and feel more like yourself.
People come to therapy for all kinds of reasons. Some are navigating a specific struggle; others just want to understand themselves better. There's no wrong reason to start.
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A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is a mental health professional trained to provide therapy for individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialized focus on relationships and family dynamics. Unlike other counseling degrees that may emphasize community systems, policy, or broader social issues, MFT programs prioritize clinical work and interpersonal connection. (All of these focuses are important in the field of mental health.)
My MFT program emphasized:
Comprehensive clinical training in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment
A deep understanding of interpersonal and systemic dynamics
A commitment to working with diverse, marginalized, and under-served populations
Core competencies in MFT knowledge, ethics, research, and cultural responsiveness
I specifically chose a program that aligned with my values, and prepared me to serve a wide range of clients with care alongside evidence-based research.
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Some clients come to sessions with notes and specific topics they want to discuss. Others aren’t sure what to say, they just know something feels off. Either way is completely okay. I’m here to guide the conversation, help identify what needs attention, and take the pressure off you.
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I’ve worked with some clients for several years and others for just a few months. On average, it takes about six months to a year for most clients to identify patterns, gain insight, and begin implementing meaningful change.
In our first session, we’ll set goals together and regularly revisit them to track progress. My goal is to support you in building the tools and confidence you need so that, eventually, you no longer need therapy.
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Each session starts with a brief check-in about how you've been feeling and what's come up since we last met. If we discussed any strategies or homework, we'll touch on how those went too.
From there, we focus on whatever feels most pressing that day. You'll do most of the talking while I listen, ask questions, and help guide the conversation toward your goals. Every session looks a little different depending on what you need.
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Yes! I often give homework because real change happens between sessions. I know life can be busy, so homework will look different week to week, and I always tailor it to what works for you. Sometimes it’s practicing a mantra or self affirmation, other times it might be writing a letter or having a conversation we’ve practiced in session. Follow through outside of therapy can be a powerful part of your growth.
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I provide teletherapy for clients across Illinois, Utah, and Washington.
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At this time, I offer therapy exclusively via secure video sessions through SimplePractice. You’ll receive a session link through your client portal on the day of your appointment. Teletherapy allows for flexibility and accessibility while maintaining your privacy and confidentiality.
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Teletherapy sessions are held over secure video through SimplePractice. All you need is a private space, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. Most clients find it just as effective as in-person therapy, and easier to fit into their schedule.
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Cash Pay Individual Therapy costs $150 per session, and Couples Therapy costs $160 per session.
In Network Insurance I am in network with BCBS PPO + Blue Choice PPO, if your plan includes mental health coverage. Co-pays or deductibles may apply, depending on your specific plan.
Out of Network Insurance If you have out-of-network mental health benefits, you will be charged the self-pay rate. You can submit superbills for potential reimbursement. I will provide the necessary documentation and am happy to communicate with your insurance if additional information is needed.
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Cash Pay Once we decide to work together, I will send you a link to your secure client portal. There, you'll complete intake paperwork and enter a credit or debit card on file. Your card will be charged the session fee at the time of each appointment.
Insurance If you have BCBS PPO or Blue Choice PPO and your plan includes mental health coverage, you’ll follow the same intake process as self-pay clients: completing paperwork and entering a card on file through the secure portal. You’ll be charged your co-pay (or co-insurance, if applicable) at the time of service. I will handle submitting claims to your insurance for the remaining balance. If your deductible has not been met, you may be responsible for a portion of the session fee until it is.
To figure out your co-pays and deductibles, I recommend calling the number on the back of your insurance card to verify your mental health coverage before we begin. Not sure what to ask? Use our complete list of insurance questions to guide your call.
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If you have BCBS PPO or Blue Choice PPO and your plan includes mental health coverage, you can use your insurance. You’ll complete the same intake process as self-pay clients: filling out paperwork and entering a card on file through the secure portal. You’ll be charged your co-pay (or co-insurance, if applicable) at the time of service, and I’ll submit claims to your insurance for the remaining balance.
Please note: You are ultimately responsible for the cost of sessions. If your insurance denies coverage or doesn’t pay for any reason, including unmet deductibles, plan limitations, or claim denials, you’ll be responsible for the full session fee.
To avoid surprises, I recommend calling the number on the back of your insurance card to verify your mental health coverage before we begin.
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You’ll need to check with your account, normally a diagnosis is required to pay for therapy. I am trained and qualified to diagnose, and if you meet the criteria, you may use your HSA card.
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You’re welcome to cancel or reschedule your appointment at any time, provided you give at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations, reschedules, or missed sessions with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged the full session fee (not just your co-pay or co-insurance). I understand that emergencies happen. Please reach out, and I’ll gladly waive the fee in those cases.
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At the start of therapy, we’ll set clear goals together so we both have a shared understanding of what we’re working toward. Our sessions will focus on these goals and the steps needed to reach them.
I value open communication and honest feedback. If something doesn’t feel helpful or you’re not seeing progress, we can explore different approaches or identify what might be getting in the way. Ultimately, if it seems that therapy with me isn’t the right fit, I’m happy to provide referrals to other therapists who may better suit your needs.
