What can I expect from the first session?

First sessions are primarily focused on reviewing the core reason for meeting and generating alignment of vision as we look forward to working together. How this looks varies widely, as everyone's needs are unique.

My goal is to end our first meeting with a shared understanding of why we are meeting, clarity on what progress will look like for you, and a beginning action plan. You can expect to leave with a small challenge or homework to help build momentum toward your goals.

How do I find the right counselor/therapist?

You’re already doing one of the best things — reading about your options! It’s important to understand your needs and find someone who feels like a good match.

Feeling connection, safety, support, and understanding are key factors that help meaningful work happen. If you don’t feel that connection, it’s always worth bringing it up with your therapist. A good therapist will want honest conversations about the relationship.

Sometimes you just know when you find the right fit — and if it doesn't feel right, it’s okay to keep looking. Growth starts with feeling safe enough to be honest.

I’ve had bad experiences with counseling/therapy. Why would this be any different?

It’s heartbreaking how many people report difficult or disappointing experiences. It can take a lot of bravery to try again — and I honor that.

The truth is, therapy is a human relationship — and not every approach, style, or person is the right match for every client. I take that seriously.

Here’s what I can promise you:

• I bring genuine curiosity, respect, and care to understanding your story.

• I stay actively engaged — you're never left doing all the work alone.

• I prioritize creating a safe, supportive environment where you can be honest — even about feeling unsure, frustrated, or skeptical.

• I see therapy as a collaboration. We’re working together, not me telling you how to live your life.

While no therapist is perfect, I am committed to being consistent, honest, and accountable — and to adjusting if something isn’t working for you.
If you’re willing to give the process another shot, I’ll meet you with full attention and care..

Someone I care about needs help but won’t reach out.

This is tough — especially when the conversation feels stuck.
Often, the best thing you can do is seek support for yourself.

We can't control someone else's choices — but we can control our own boundaries, expectations, and healing.

Focus on taking action steps for yourself. Be the example of growth.
Helping may mean empowering someone to take their own steps toward change, not taking those steps for them.

How long is each session?

Individual sessions are a standard "therapeutic hour" — 53 to 60 minutes.
Sessions involving more than one person (e.g., couples counseling) are typically scheduled for minimum 75 minutes .

How often do we meet?

Frequency depends on context, needs, capacity, and resources. Most clients meet anywhere from weekly to monthly.

Meeting more often can build momentum and skills quickly. Meeting less often can create more space for practicing between sessions. We'll find a rhythm that fits your goals.

How long do we work together overall?

That's entirely up to you!
Many factors influence the timeline: your original goals, how those goals evolve, the work done between sessions, and how consistently we meet.

A specific goal — like "reduce or eliminate panic attacks" or "establish new boundaries with my in-laws" — will create a very different process and timeline than broader, more layered goals like "learn what truly brings me joy and build a life that reflects this."

Do you accept insurance?

I accept BCBS insurance for individual counseling sessions.

What are your rates?

• Individual sessions: $150 per session

• Sessions with two or more participants (e.g., couples, family therapy, team workshops): $250 per session, pending length.

What happens if I miss my session?

Time that is scheduled is reserved for you. I ask for at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule to avoid a charge.

I understand life happens — if you communicate with me, I’ll do my best to be flexible.

In-person or virtual sessions? Which should I choose?

Both options have strengths. In-person sessions often feel more emotionally connected. Virtual sessions offer greater flexibility, making it easier to fit sessions into a busy life.

Couples counseling, family therapy, team workshops, and group activities are expected to begin with in-person sessions to build a strong foundation.

What is your approach to therapy and counseling?

I’m an active, engaged professional who brings energy and enthusiasm to every session.
I view my role as helping you build your toolkit. Ultimately, you're the one creating change through what you practice between sessions and what you bring back.

My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
We'll use this framework — along with verbal processing, in-session practices tailored to you, and individualized homework — to create real movement toward your goals.

I often compare therapy to fitness: working out once a week is helpful, but lasting results come from what you do between sessions.
Even just a few minutes a day reinforcing what we work on can create powerful momentum for change.

Why can’t I find your social media?

For better or worse, I don’t have any!
I left Facebook before graduating college and never started an Instagram or Twitter. Over the years, I tried a few platforms here and there, but I haven’t maintained a social media presence in a long time.

In my early twenties, I spent a lot of time exploring eastern philosophy and mindfulness practices after a class on Buddhism. That exploration led me to reflect seriously on how social media was impacting my mindset. I realized it was quietly shaping my outlook in ways I didn’t like — fueling judgment toward myself and others, distorting my internal narrative, and making it harder to stay grounded in what actually mattered.

I didn’t know it at the time, but stepping away has been one of the best personal decisions I’ve made. It helps me stay more present, more intentional, and more connected — with myself, with others, and with the work I do.