Frequently Asked Questions

In your first session, we'll take time to get to know each other and explore what brought you to counseling. We'll discuss your goals, experiences, and begin creating a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs. This is also a great opportunity for you to get to know me and determine if we're a good fit. There's no pressure—just connection and the beginning of your therapeutic journey.

I work with adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. My areas of expertise include anxiety and stress, depression, life transitions, self-worth, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ concerns. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming, 420-friendly, and inclusive of all neurotypes and identities.

Yes, as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, I am qualified to provide mental health diagnoses. LPCs have completed extensive graduate-level training in psychological assessment, diagnostic criteria, and evidence-based treatment approaches. I can conduct comprehensive clinical assessments, utilize standardized diagnostic tools, and provide diagnoses according to the DSM-5-TR criteria. This diagnostic capability allows me to work with insurance companies, develop targeted treatment plans, and ensure you receive the most appropriate care for your specific mental health needs.

Standard therapy sessions are 55 minutes long. Extended sessions can be arranged depending on your specific needs and circumstances, which can be particularly helpful for complex issues or intensive therapeutic work.

Initially, I recommend meeting weekly to build rapport and maintain therapeutic momentum. Depending on your needs and scheduling availability, we can adjust to bi-weekly sessions as appropriate. Consistent appointments are important for making meaningful progress in your treatment.

Yes! Telehealth sessions are available for all Pennsylvania residents and are integrated with your client portal. A secure link will be sent to you that you simply click when it's time for your session to begin. Virtual sessions are great for convenience, inclement weather, or when you're at home with a sick child. Please note that not all insurance companies cover telehealth services, so it's best to check with your provider.

Yes! I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based therapy that's particularly effective for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other distressing life experiences. EMDR helps your brain process and integrate traumatic memories in a way that reduces their emotional impact. During EMDR sessions, you'll focus on specific memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which helps your brain's natural healing process. Many clients find EMDR to be a powerful tool for healing that can lead to significant relief in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy alone.

These are optional therapeutic tools that can help access your unconscious mind and promote deeper self-understanding. They're available for clients who are open to integrating introspective and symbolic work alongside traditional therapy approaches. Nothing is ever forced—these tools are only used with your full consent and interest.

I accept a variety of insurance plans and also offer self-pay options. Please visit my Pricing page for detailed information about accepted insurances and current rates. I recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm coverage and understand your specific benefits.

If I'm not in-network with your insurance, you may still have out-of-network benefits that allow you to pay out-of-pocket and receive reimbursement. I can help facilitate this process by providing the necessary documentation and submitting claims on your behalf when possible.

I require 48 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule appointments, which can be done through your client portal. Late cancellations may incur a fee unless due to an emergency. Consistent attendance is important for therapeutic progress.

Yes, therapy is confidential. Pennsylvania law protects the confidentiality of communication between clients and licensed mental health professionals. No information will be disclosed without your written consent. However, there are legal exceptions to confidentiality including: suspected child, dependent adult, or elder abuse; if you threaten serious harm to another person; or if you express intent to harm yourself. In such cases, I'm required to take appropriate protective action.

No, as an LPC, I cannot prescribe medications. For psychiatric medications, you would need to consult with a psychiatrist or your primary care physician. However, I can coordinate care with your medical providers and, with your consent, communicate with your prescribing doctor to ensure integrated treatment.

Yes! I can provide letters for both Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Gender Confirmation Surgery. I follow the standards set by The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The process involves a comprehensive evaluation session, after which I'll draft your letter and send it to you for approval before finalization.

At this time, I do not provide Emotional Support Animal letters as this requires specialized training I have not completed. However, I can provide referrals to qualified professionals who do offer this service.

Due to Pennsylvania licensing laws, I can only provide services to residents of states where I hold a license, or those able to travel to Pennsylvania for in-person sessions. I work with clients 14 years and older. I do not currently provide services for individuals with severe psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder), as these conditions require specialized psychiatric care.

The length of therapy varies greatly depending on your individual goals, concerns, and circumstances. Some clients find relief in a few months, while others benefit from longer-term work. We'll regularly review your progress and adjust our treatment approach as needed. You're always in control of your therapeutic journey.

Great question! The decision to end therapy is collaborative and based on your progress toward your goals. We'll regularly check in about how you're feeling and what you're hoping to achieve. Some signs it might be time to transition out of regular sessions include: feeling equipped with coping strategies, noticing significant improvement in your symptoms, achieving the goals we set together, or simply feeling ready to navigate life's challenges independently. We can always schedule a formal termination session to process your growth, celebrate your progress (celebratory certificate included!), and create a plan for maintaining your wellbeing. Remember, my door is always open if you need a tune-up session down the road!

If you're experiencing a mental health crisis outside of session hours, please contact emergency services (911), go to your nearest emergency room, or call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For non-urgent matters between sessions, you can reach out through your client portal, though response times may vary.