Usually we schedule the first appointment by phone or e-mail.
We will go over what you would like to work on or change and the symptoms you may be struggling with, or what kind of personal growth you seek. I will get some historical information and we will then formulate a plan of action including therapies that will be helpful and comfortable for you. At that point together we will plan the frequency and tentatively the length of your treatment. Except for hypnosis to change a habit, such as smoking, it's hard to predict how long therapy may take until we've met a few times.
That’s a question that can’t be answered until we meet and discuss what you want to change in your life and how we can best get you to those changes, and can vary tremendously from person to person. A few things such as hypnosis to stop smoking usually require only one to two visits while other treatment areas may require a longer time.
In many cases your health insurance will cover therapy, but it’s wise to check ahead. I recommend that you call to find out if pre-authorization is needed and what reimbursement rate would apply.
I will provide you with needed documentation to submit claims, and you will submit the claims. It is usually a relatively easy process and I am committed to helping you receive reimbursement. You will submit claims directly to your insurance company, so you need not worry about your supervisor or anyone in your company being aware of any health conditions or claims unless you wish to tell them.
I am happy to provide you with my fee schedule at any time.
I accept cash or personal checks and expect payment at the time of service unless I have worked out a different arrangement with you.
Yes, absolutely. If we decide that it would be helpful for you to receive other or additional services, I have a number of professionals I trust and work with, and will make appropriate referrals for you.
Four out-of-every five Americans think that good mental health plays an important role in their overall health and well-being, but nearly half aren’t certain when to seek professional help. The best answer: the earlier the better. With counseling, 80 to 90 percent of people start to feel noticeably better within just a few weeks.
Here are some of the reasons people are likely to seek therapy:
My treatment specialties include:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sexual abuse, past and present trauma experiences, anxiety phobias, low self-esteem, codependency, grief, loss, depression, sexuality concerns, smoking cessation, management of emotional eating and sex therapy.