FAQs
Q: How does therapy work?
Therapy helps clients better understand their “stories”; the experiences that shaped them, the defenses that have helped protect them, and the patterns or habits that are now preventing them from living a satisfying life. Going to a therapist encourages dialogue that often clears things up for the client. Through therapy, the client finds healthy ways to replace the dysfunctional patterns that have caused them and their loved one’s heartache.
Q: What happens during the first session?
A: The initial session is the time for you to start to share your story, talk about your goals and what you would like to change. Another important aspect of the first session is deciding if we are a good fit. Do I seem like someone you can trust? We are establishing a relationship that will become the foundation for working together.
Q: How long do appointments last?
A: Appointments are 50 minutes. This is the standard length of a counseling session.
Q: Do you provide in-person or online counseling?
A: I provide both in-person and online therapy. My office is located in Chillicothe Ohio. All online counseling sessions are conducted via a secure and easy-to-use telehealth platform.
Q: What can I expect from therapy?
A: Once you have decided to see a therapist, you still might be apprehensive about the process. Many people feel nervous before their first appointment. Therapy is a shared journey, a shared process. And, although you and I will travel together, it is ultimately your journey, and you will make your own decisions. I do not have answers to all your concerns, but I do have the ability to listen carefully and will ask thoughtful questions. Your answers to these questions will help shape the direction of our work. You can expect to be respected. You can expect that I will offer opinions and suggestions from time to time but I will not tell you what to do.
Q: Do you prescribe medication?
A: No, I am not a medical doctor. Many of my patients find medication is helpful, but many of them also progress well in therapy without medication. If you want to be evaluated for psychiatric medication, either contact your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. If you are already taking medication, I can coordinate care with your doctor.
Q: What theoretical approach do you use?
A: I pull from a variety of theories and techniques. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy are often helpful for my clients.
.Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: I do accept most insurance company’s payments Please contact me to see if your insurance is currently accepted by my office. If you have a PPO-type plan and want to submit a claim for out-of-network reimbursement, I can give you a receipt for you to submit to your insurance to help facilitate any reimbursement you may be entitled to. Please note that submitting an insurance claim means I will need to give you a mental health diagnosis.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: I require 24 hours’ notice of cancellation or you will need to pay for the appointment. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. It’s important that we meet consistently in order to make progress.
Q: Are there any issues or types of clients that you DON’T work with?
A: I work exclusively with ages 16 and above as well as adults. I do not conduct child custody evaluations, nor do I provide custody recommendations. Also, I do not provide treatment for psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, etc.), or personality disorders. Due to state licensing laws, I can only provide therapy and counseling to individuals residing in Ohio.