FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’ve done a lot of therapy or are starting for the first time, you likely have many questions as you try to find the best therapist for YOU. Below are some of the most common questions I hear. 

What can I expect from the first appointment?

In the first couple of meetings, I hear your story of what’s bringing you to therapy, ask questions to get a picture of your life history, and help you clarify your goals. You also get a sense of what it’s like to talk with me and ask questions you may have about the therapy process. We clarify how we want to start our work and what to focus on first. Since each person is different, I customize therapy based on your needs and goals. 

I do in-person therapy in Raleigh and telehealth sessions across NC and Maine. I see clients in person on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons at Current Wellness in downtown Raleigh. The address is 219 S. East Street. 

I recommend meeting weekly for best results. We decide together after few sessions whether therapy will be short term or longer term. It takes time to get to know you and build trust. 

The length of therapy depends on the nature of the problem, how long it’s been going on, and your willingness to try new behaviors outside of sessions. I usually suggest committing to weekly therapy for about three months. We can then reevaluate your progress in meeting your goals. 

I charge $155 for 50-55 minute therapy sessions. I accept payment at the time of service by credit card, check and Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account cards.

I am a private pay therapist, meaning I am out of network with all insurance companies. You still may be able to use your insurance to reimburse a percentage of the cost of our sessions. Many people have out-of-network therapy benefits, which often reimburse 40-60 percent of therapy costs. 

Please check with your insurance provider to find out about your out-of-network mental health benefits before scheduling an appointment. 

I will send you monthly receipts to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. You will be responsible for paying me the $155 session charge at the end of each session.

Not all therapists are the same. Do you seek the best or the cheapest? Fit with a therapist is the most important element in successful psychotherapy, so I encourage you to take the time to find someone with the experience, training and personality that feels right to you. 

The reality of our mental health system today is that most therapists who accept insurance are younger and newer to the profession. This is because insurance companies pay all therapists the same amount, regardless of experience. Because of this, many experienced therapists such as myself make the decision to go out of network in order to be fairly compensated for our years of training and experience. 

What sets me apart:

  • I’m a trauma specialist who helps people with attachment issues get relief from anxiety and depression, improve self-esteem, and have healthy relationships;
  • I’m a certified EMDR specialist, not just a therapist who completed basic EMDR training.
  • I’m engaged in advanced training in EMDR therapy to help people with complex trauma from childhood abuse and dysfunctional families;
  • I work with you from the start to set clear, achievable goals so therapy is focused rather than indefinite; 
  • I have life experience with the issues I treat and years of my own therapy. I walk the walk, not just talk the talk;
  • I have interest, training and experience in working with racial, ethnic, gender and sexual minorities;
  • I am knowledgeable about trauma from church and spiritual abuse;
  • I have experience with Christianity, meditation, spirituality and religion from many traditions. I am happy to integrate faith and spiritual practice into therapy if you wish. I leave this up to you. 

Definitely. I am part of the LGBTQ+ community – ask me if you’d like to hear more. I understand that LGBTQ+ encompasses a wide umbrella and actively work to understand your unique experience. I continue to learn about how to best offer sensitive and affirming care to LGBTQ+ folks. 

Yes. I offer late afternoon and early evening hours on Monday through Thursday.

I offer in-person sessions in Raleigh and telehealth sessions across NC and Maine. I see clients in person on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons/early evenings at Current Wellness in downtown Raleigh. The address is 219 S. East Street. Parking is available in a lot in front of the building. 

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