Frequently Asked Questions

This page is here to answer common logistical and process-related questions that often come up before starting therapy. It’s meant to offer clarity and orientation, especially if uncertainty or anxiety is part of the process for you.

What happens after I reach out?

After you reach out, you’ll receive information about availability, scheduling, and next steps. If we move forward, you’ll be sent intake paperwork to complete online at your own pace before the first session.

You don’t need to prepare anything beyond that. The first appointment is focused on getting oriented rather than diving into everything at once.

What can I expect from therapy?

Typically, therapy is a process that unfolds over time rather than something that needs to be “figured out” right away. Sessions are a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of what’s shaping your current experiences.

Early sessions tend to focus on getting oriented—understanding what brought you in, what feels important to name, and how therapy might be most supportive for you. Over time, the work may involve noticing patterns, exploring emotions, and building awareness in ways that feel manageable and collaborative.

It’s also common to come to therapy for a specific concern. In those cases, sessions may be more solution-focused and oriented toward clearer goals.

What does the first session look like?

The first session is primarily about getting grounded and oriented. We’ll talk about what brought you to therapy, review logistics, and make space for questions so you have a clearer sense of what to expect moving forward.

You don’t need to arrive with a plan or a clear narrative. It’s okay if your thoughts feel scattered, incomplete, or hard to put into words.

Do I need to prepare for the first session?

No special preparation is required. You don’t need to organize your thoughts, decide what to focus on, or know exactly what you want to say.

It’s common to feel nervous, unsure, or uncertain at the beginning. Part of therapy is figuring out where to start together.

What if I feel anxious, overwhelmed, or shut down during a session?

That experience is more common than people realize, especially early on. If anxiety shows up, we can slow the pace, pause, or shift focus.

You are not expected to push through discomfort or manage it on your own during a session. Therapy is a space where those reactions can be noticed and worked with, rather than avoided or forced past.

What if I don’t know how to answer a question?

“I’m not sure” is a valid response in therapy. Silence, taking time to think, or needing help finding words are all welcome.

Therapy is not a test or an interview. There is no expectation to explain yourself clearly or quickly.

How structured are sessions?

Sessions have a consistent time and framework, but the content itself is flexible. Some sessions may focus on something specific, while others may feel more open or reflective.

We’ll check in over time about what feels helpful so the structure supports you rather than adds pressure.

How long are sessions, and how often do we meet?

Sessions are typically 55 minutes. Frequency is individualized and based on your needs, goals, and circumstances. Commonly, people begin with weekly or biweekly sessions, with adjustments over time.

This can be revisited as therapy progresses.

What if therapy doesn’t feel helpful right away?

It’s common for therapy to feel unfamiliar or unclear at first. Early sessions are often about understanding what you need rather than producing immediate change.

We’ll check in about how therapy is feeling and adjust as needed. Therapy is a collaborative process, not something you’re expected to evaluate or manage on your own.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Life happens, and scheduling needs can change. If you need to cancel or reschedule, you can do so according to the cancellation policy discussed at the start of therapy.

We’ll review this together so expectations are clear.

Who do you work with?

I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking greater understanding, emotional support, or a thoughtful space to work through challenges.

Some people come to therapy with a clear concern in mind. Others come in knowing something doesn’t feel quite right and wanting help making sense of that. Both are welcome here.

Do you accept insurance?

I am paneled with many insurance plans, though coverage varies by provider and individual plan. If you plan to use insurance, it’s helpful to understand your specific benefits, including copays, deductibles, and any session limits.

I’m happy to provide information that can help you determine whether therapy with me feels like a good fit given your coverage.

What is the cost of therapy?

Session fees are discussed openly and transparently based on how services are paid. If you are not using insurance, the fee is $150 per session.

When insurance is used, your plan determines the session cost, which we can review together once benefit information is available. Therapy involves an investment of time, energy, and financial resources, and it’s reasonable to consider whether that feels sustainable or aligned for you.

If cost is a concern, we can talk through expectations so you can make an informed decision.

How do I get started?

If you’re interested in beginning therapy, you can explore individual therapy or reach out directly with questions. After reaching out, you will receive information about availability, scheduling, and next steps, including intake paperwork that can be completed online at your own pace.

A note about uncertainty

It’s okay if reading through these questions doesn’t answer everything. Many people begin therapy without feeling fully certain—only aware that something feels hard, unsettled, or out of alignment.

You’re welcome to take your time, revisit this page, or reach out with questions. Getting started doesn’t require confidence—only enough readiness to begin a conversation.