Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect in therapy?
As we are all unique individuals, how we address your challenges will be personally tailored to meet your specific needs. While I have a strong set of effective tools in my repertoire, there is no one-size fits all when it comes to the human psyche.
We will spend the first few sessions getting to know each other by discussing your history as well as making sure this therapeutic relationship will be a good fit for both of us. We will identify your goals and build a tentative treatment outline to address them. You can expect that some sessions will include homework.
Depending upon the level of urgency in your situation, I prefer to work weekly with new clients for a month or two to establish some productive momentum. After that, depending upon progress made and your therapeutic goals, we can consider pacing out appointments to fit your budget and lifestyle.
Why online psychotherapy?
Living in the Seattle area, I have experienced traffic becoming an increasingly time-consuming part of everyone’s day. Expectations at work are higher than ever. Juggling career, family, relationships and self-care needs can leave us running flat out. Taking the time to see a therapist can feel impossible especially when there might be a 30-60 minute commute at either end of the session. When your time is at a premium, online therapy can be an effective option.
Online psychotherapy can also be ideal in situations where it is difficult to leave home due to illness or disability. I have been working with this format for the last seven years and find it to be an excellent solution for people with a variety of needs.
How is my personal information protected?
Tele-health is ever more popular in the healthcare environment. Government regulations (Health Information Privacy Protection Act - HIPPA) require a high degree of security. I use an encrypted HIPPA approved, face to face platform for our sessions. It is similar to Skype, but more secure. My email is also encrypted, but please note that any text messages you send to my cell phone are not secure. Use your best judgment in this area. I generally find text messages to be helpful for brief communications such as appointment changes or if you’re running late. Be careful not to disclose any private information via text.
Does online therapy work for everyone?
Unfortunately the answer is no. There are some who may need a more intensive or frequent approach. However, if you are motivated for change and even a little bit tech savvy, chances are this could be a good fit for you. I am available for a free 15 minute consultation to explore whether this method of care is appropriate for the concerns you are facing.
Do you take insurance?
If you live in the state of Washington, I am on many insurance plans as a preferred provider. If you wish to use insurance, I will ask you to email me a picture of your insurance card and my billing staff will determine your benefits. Unfortunately, if you live outside of the state insurance benefits probably will not be available but please check with your plan to be sure.
What is your fee?
I charge $150 USD per 60-minute hour. In certain financial circumstances, I may be willing to adjust my fee. This will be addressed on a case by case basis. There will always be a $50 charge for last minute (less than 24 hours) cancellations unless you are able to reschedule your appointment in the same week. This is non-negotiable and this fee is not covered by insurance.
For those clients not using insurance, you will be required to pay in full for each session at the time of service. I accept all major payment options including HSA cards.
Do you have testimonials I can read?
No. Asking clients to post testimonials online about our work together is an ethical violation of the therapeutic relationship and against Washington State codes of conduct.
I would like to learn more. What’s my next step?
Go to the contact page to request a free 15-minute consultation or to set up your first session. If you have other questions, please contact me via phone or email. I look forward to hearing from you!