Frequently asked questions.

How do we get started?

After you send me a first message, I’ll respond to you within three business days. If I’m likely not going to be a good fit for you, I’ll do my best to refer you to someone who is. If I have openings, I usually can schedule a first appointment within a couple of weeks. All my appointments are 50 minutes long, and happen through SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant platform that allows me to hold secure video appointments and share documents with clients. As you get ready for your appointment time, make sure you’re in a pIace that feels comfortable and private, and where you know you won’t be interrupted. I’ve met with clients from their homes, private meeting rooms at their workplaces or schools, and sometimes their cars. If you’ll be taking the appointment on your phone, it’s a good idea to give yourself a few extra minutes ahead of time to download the SimplePractice Telehealth app.

In our first appointment, I’ll lead us in in a conversation about your reasons for coming to therapy, your hopes for what you’d like to do in this space, and start exploring your most relevant personal history. I’ll discuss my practice policies, confidentiality, and do my best to answer any questions you bring. The first few meetings we have may feel like a “get to know you” experience. This is normal, and helps create a sense of trust and safety as we begin a therapeutic relationship that will support your personal growth and healing. It’s vitally important for you to feel comfortable with me as your therapist so you feel able to bring any topic, and all parts of yourself, to session as your journey unfolds.

Do I have to be in crisis to come to therapy?

Absolutely not! Sometimes people do put off seeking therapy until they are in crisis, but it’s by no means a requirement. Seeking support before you reach that level of difficulty just means you get to start healing, exploring, growing from a different place. Therapy is for happy people as well, really anyone who wants to invest in their mental health and wellbeing. Any reason that brings you to therapy is truly a good reason, because it means some part of you is ready to heal, stretch, move, become more powerful and more you.

What happens in therapy?

Every therapy experience is unique. I am here as your supportive and empathetic companion. I am here to stay curious and hold safe and judgement-free space as you explore who you are and what you need. I will listen, offer insights and reframes, compassion and reflection. Some days you may arrive to session knowing exactly what you want to focus on, and some days you may have no idea what to say. Both are okay, and some of the most profound insights can come when you don’t have a specific topic at hand. When you reflect back on your therapeutic work, you may remember specific moments or insights when everything shifted or came into focus, while other changes may feel more incremental or mysterious.