I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
How do I get set up on the patient portal?
If you are interested in becoming a patient, the first step is to contact me. I will then send you an email with an access link to the patient portal, where you can set up appointments, directly message me, and log-in for video sessions.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, I do not. If medication is something you would like to try, I will talk with your primary care physician or refer you to a psychiatrist for medication management. Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your/ your child’s specific needs.
What is the difference between therapy and coaching?
Therapy is what is used to treat a mental health disorder, whereas coaching is something I provide for people who don’t necessarily qualify for a disorder but still are in need of extra support and guidance. I will determine during our first 1-3 sessions whether I think you’re in need of more traditional therapy services, or coaching services. Additionally, I can only provide therapy to people who live in the states in which I am licensed. I am able to provide coaching services to people out of state since I am not treating a mental health diagnosis.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I can’t always get my teen to the office, or I’m a college student away at school, or I’m a young adult with a busy work schedule . Do you use Skype?
Yes, I use a HIPPA protected online tele-health video conferencing program that you can set up through the patient portal. I am happy to do video therapy with people who I think it will benefit. I cannot do virtual therapy with people who are out of state, as I am only licensed in the state of Oregon. However, if you are at a college/university within the state of Oregon, we can do video therapy. If you live out of state and are interested in coaching, feel free to contact me to discuss further.
How much do you charge? Do you take insurance?
I charge $200/45-50 minute session. Coaching fees can vary based on your needs and will be discussed during our first session. I don’t currently take insurance, but if you are a therapy client, I can provide you documentation that you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement. I strongly suggest you call your insurance company to determine if you have out-of-network benefits before contacting me. Coaching services cannot be submitted to insurance.