Question 1

What is therapy?

Accepted Answer

At its core, therapy is the meeting of two experts coming together for the purpose of healing: -me, the expert in clinical information -you, the expert in your inner experienceIt is a support, adaptable space informed by your goals and needs. Some come to therapy to work though deep, old, and painful experiences. Some are more focused on targeted changes in the present. Others are planning steps for their desired future. Whatever the goal, therapy is designed to meet you where you are right now. Some reasons people choose to start therapy are: -Feeling stuck in patterns you understand but can’t change-Increased anxiety, irritability, or low mood-Relationship conflict that keeps repeating-A major transition (move, marriage, loss, career shift)-Feeling disconnected from yourself or other-Wanting more clarity, depth, or direction

Question 2

How do I know if a therapist is a good fit?

Accepted Answer

While there are many unknowns in the therapeutic space, one thing that’s been made clear over and over again in research and individual experience is that the quality of relationship between the therapist and the client is one of the single-most determiners of outcomes. You cannot do vulnerable work with someone who does not feel like a good fit. And someone can be a very good therapist without being the right fit for your. In other words, trust your gut!

This is why I offer free consultation calls; 15 minutes can tell you a lot. If this feels like a good fit, amazing. If this doesn’t feel like a good fit, also amazing. I’d be honored to help you along your journey by sending you some referrals.

Question 3

Why private pay, and do you work with insurance?

Accepted Answer

Our private pay model allows us the flexibility to structure sessions around specific client needs and limitations, to protect the privacy of each of our clients without concern of insurance overreach, and to provide the highest quality of care with cutting-edge training, specializations, and therapists protected from burn-out. It also means you do not need to have a diagnosis on file to receive support.

While we do not work directly with insurance, we do seek to be insurance friendly. If your insurance allows for out of network providers, you can submit a superbill for reimbursement, which we’re happy to provide.

Question 4

What is EMDR?

Accepted Answer

EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. It is an evidence-based treatment to help alleviate symptoms of trauma, anxiety and many other mental health struggles. During EMDR therapy, the client attends to emotionally disturbing material in brief sequential doses while simultaneously focusing on an external bi-lateral stimulus that mimic the brain’s natural information processing structures. EMDR is one of the most researched techniques for trauma and is proven to be extremely effective.

You do not have to do EMDR in order to work with me. It is one of many avenues available in therapy.

Question 5

I don't have trauma or want EMDR. Can I still work with you?

Accepted Answer

Short answer - yes! Longer answer - therapy is always tailored to the needs, wants, and goals of each client. While I do specialize in complex trauma, I work with a wide variety of clients. Best way to explore if this is a good fit is to schedule a free, 15 minute consultation call so we can talk about what you're looking for.

Question 6

Do you provide in person services?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have an in person office in the heart of Falls Church City, 15 minutes from Tysons Corner, Arlington, and McLean. If you're in Northern Virginia, this could be a great option for you. We also provide telehealth sessions for individuals in Virginia, Maryland, and Ohio through a secure, private videoconferencing service, which you can take from anywhere you feel comfortable. Your home, office, even in the parking lot in your car after work.

Question 7

What should I expect from a consultation call?

Accepted Answer

This is an inform, no-risk opportunity for you to feel out our potential working relationship. I’ll share a bit about my practice and approach. I’ll ask you to describe to me what you have been experiencing and what has you considering therapy now. If you’ve had past experience in therapy, I may ask about what’s been helpful and not helpful. And of course, there will be time to answer any questions that you might have.

Question 8

I already have a supervisor. Would I still benefit from supervision with you?

Accepted Answer

I see the goal of supervision as three-fold:

(1) protection of you and your clients
(2) meeting required steps toward independent licensure 
(3) deepening your professional and personal development.

While you may have an administrative supervisor at your site that ensures insurance and documental compliance, you may also be looking for a clinical supervisor who cultivates intentional space for your inner work and how that shows up in your work with clients.

I change a flat fee of $500 per month for 2 hours of one-on-one supervision every two weeks. No additional charge for emergent calls or consultations.

Frequently asked questions