What does a phone consultation look like?

Phone consultations are a great way to introduce ourselves to one another, talk about why you are seeking therapy, and discuss any questions you may have about the therapeutic process before getting started. Phone consultations give me a chance to learn more about what you are looking for and share a bit about my approach. These calls also allows us to discuss logistics such as scheduling, required paperwork, and payment. I like to start with a phone consultation prior to meeting for an initial session so that we can determine if I am a good match for your needs. Phone consultations are typically around 20-30 minutes long.

What can I expect in my first session?

In our first session together, we will spend some time getting to know one another. I will also go over the paperwork you signed and answer questions you may have about any policies, like confidentiality, for example. Ultimately, we will start where you want to start. Our first session can be a great time to talk more about what led you to counseling, share more about yourself and your background, and identify some goals that you have for your time in therapy. We will go at your pace, and you can share what you want to share. While I may ask questions or offer perspective, each session is your own. My focus will be to help you feel safe and comfortable and to begin building our relationship as therapist and client. By the end of the first session, my hope is that you feel more comfortable and motivated to begin this journey toward self-improvement and healing.

What is your approach to therapy?

My approach is centered on meeting clients where they are. With non-judgmental listening and unconditional positive regard, my goal each session is to help you feel comfortable, seen, and heard. I fully understand that it can take time to build trust with clients and that a positive and trustworthy therapeutic relationship can make a difference in a client’s experience and progress. My approach is humanistic and relational in nature, and I like to draw from different therapeutic orientations depending on what the client needs, including Person-Centered Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I lead with curiosity, striving to help clients understand their own thoughts, feelings, experiences, and needs. I may ask questions, offer perspective, provide psycho-education, share coping strategies or tools, but will ultimately follow your lead as the client and what you are needing.

Do you accept insurance?

I am currently accepting Aetna, United Healthcare, Optum, Oscar Health, Oxford, Cigna, BlueCross BlueShield of Texas, and Carelon Behavioral Health. If I do not accept your insurance, I can provide you with a monthly superbill for you to use to submit to insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement. I do recommend checking with your insurance to see what your out-of-network benefits are and if this is something you’d like to pursue. If you do submit claims, I cannot guarantee you will be reimbursed.

How does telehealth counseling work?

Telehealth is using a digital platform or electronic means to communicate with a client. Telehealth therapeutic services include, but are not limited to online consultation and treatment using interactive audio, video, and/or data communications. Telehealth services with me consist of virtual video sessions through a HIPAA approved site, secure for your protection. Telehealth therapy sessions can be just as affective as in-person sessions and include many benefits such as improved access and convenience for clients. Telehealth also allows therapeutic services to continue even in the midst of crisis, a public health emergency, or other extreme circumstances. While there are many benefits to telehealth therapy, there are risks to internet-based services, despite reasonable efforts on the part of the platform and/or the therapist. Some of these risks include that the transmission of private medical and personal information could be interrupted or accessed by unauthorized personnel, and that technical failures could allow for information and communication to be distorted or lost between therapist and client. Overall, telehealth therapy is an option clients have to engage in therapeutic services with me, and you may find you prefer this method depending on your life circumstances or busy schedule.