Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
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Therapy is for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, improve their emotional well-being, or make positive changes in their life. It can benefit people experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, or life transitions, as well as those simply seeking personal growth or greater self-awareness. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while developing healthier ways to cope and connect.
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My therapeutic approach is personalized and eclectic, drawing from evidence-based modalities including:
Person-Centered (PCT/Rogerian)
I use PCT to cultivate a genuine, supportive, and compassionate relationship where you are viewed as the expert on your own life. Using this framework helps me guide you in accessing your own capacity to build self-awareness, identify your strengths, and develop confidence in your ability to grow and navigate life's challenges.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
I often use CBT to help you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. Together, we'll identify unhelpful patterns and negative self-talk to develop healthier ways of thinking and coping.
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
I may use ACT to help you make room for difficult emotions without getting stuck or letting them control your choices. Instead, we'll shift the focus to taking meaningful actions that align with your values and goals.
Psychodynamic/Insight-Oriented
I like incorporating psychodynamic therapy to help you explore how past experiences, early relationships, and underlying patterns may be influencing how you feel and act today. Uncovering these dynamics gives you the insight to break old cycles and move forward intentionally.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
I may use DBT if you want a structured, skills-based approach to managing intense emotions and improving your relationships. This framework provides you with a tangible, everyday toolkit to steady yourself through life's challenges.
Psychoeducation
I believe that knowledge is power! Understanding yourself is a powerful part of the healing process. Pyschoeducation can help us make sense of your experiences, reduce self-blame, and build confidence in your ability to move forward.
This flexible approach allows me to tailor interventions to what resonates with you, and your unique needs, values, and goals. Regardless, we’ll build practical tools, deepen self-understanding, and work toward meaningful, lasting change in a way that feels supportive and tailored to you.
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I work best with clients who are seeking both insight and change. Many are ready for growth but unsure how to move forward or break difficult cycles. I especially enjoy working with clients who are curious about themselves, open to reflection, and ready to take meaningful steps toward their goals.
If you’re looking for a therapist who will meet you where you are, take time to understand your experience, and walk alongside you as things start to shift, we may be a great fit.
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To get started, you will need a private, quiet space with a reliable internet connection and a device with video and audio capabilities, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. You will also need to complete intake and consent forms, and provide basic information about your contact info, insurance/EAP benefits (if applicable), electronic payment method, and any relevant medical or mental health history. Once these steps are completed, we can schedule your first session!
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Yes, your privacy is protected. All sessions are confidential except in cases required by law:
I must report any evidence or strong suspicion of child abuse, neglect, or abuse of elderly or disabled individuals.
If a client poses a serious risk of harming themselves, I may need to notify family or authorities to ensure safety.
If a client poses a serious risk of harming someone else, I may need to notify the potential victim, contact police, or seek hospitalization.
In all cases, I will discuss actions with you as fully as possible and limit disclosure to what is necessary.
Confidentiality Concerning Insurance:
If you use your health insurance to pay for treatment, insurance companies require some information about our therapy for the purpose of securing reimbursement for services. This may include periodic audits of my records by the insurance company or the behavioral contract organization. To continue treatment, insurance companies often require a treatment plan and a diagnosis. However, it is against the law for insurers to release information about our visits.
Confidentiality Concerning Minors:
When working with adolescents, parents have the right to receive information about their child’s treatment and overall progress. Maintaining trust between your child and their therapist is essential, so I generally do not share the specifics of individual sessions. This approach helps your child feel safe and open in therapy. However, you are encouraged to ask questions, discuss your child’s treatment goals, and stay informed about their progress.
Confidentiality Concerning Court:
It is my experience that a therapist's appearance in court often damages the therapist-client relationship, and it is my ethical duty to make every reasonable effort to promote the best interests of my clients. However, my records are always subject to being subpoenaed by the courts.
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Whether this is your first time in therapy or you’re coming back after a break, we’ll start right where you are. While my therapy style is generally more relaxed and designed to feel like a conversation, I recognize it can be uncomfortable opening up about intimate parts of your life with someone you've just met! That’s completely expected, and it is normal to feel uncertain or nervous about the process. Many people experience similar feelings before their first session.
Our first meeting is all about creating safety and connection. We’ll review your intake forms and talk about what brings you to therapy, what you’ve been carrying, and your goals for our time together. To gain a better understanding, I'll ask about your background, relationships, and current stressors. It can feel a bit structured at first, but your story gives us the foundation we need to map out our sessions moving forward. You don't need to have everything figured out, and I'll never expect you to share more than you are comfortable with.
Therapy is a collaborative experience that we will navigate together, but ultimately it is your journey, and you are in charge of your own choices. Thank you in advance for trusting me, and I honor your vulnerability by creating a space where every part of your experience is welcome.
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Sessions will typically last around 1 hour. The length of therapy varies depending on your goals, needs, and progress. Some clients benefit from short-term work over a few months, while others may continue for a year or longer. We will regularly assess your progress together to determine the appropriate duration of treatment.
Weekly sessions are strongly recommended for the first three months and can be reassessed afterward. Starting with less frequent sessions can limit the effectiveness of therapy and reduce the likelihood of achieving your goals. Please let me know if you are seeking shorter, brief therapy (3-6 sessions).
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Results vary depending on your personal goals, but many people notice fewer (or less intense) symptoms, greater self-understanding, and improved emotional regulation. Therapy isn’t a quick fix, and works best when you actively engage both during sessions and in your daily life. Real change requires effort, practice, and commitment.
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All sessions are conducted online through secure telehealth (video) and are available only to clients located in Georgia. You can attend from any private, quiet space with a reliable internet connection.
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While online counseling offers several benefits, such as convenience, effectiveness, and protection from illnesses like COVID-19, it may not be suitable for everyone. Telehealth tends to be most appropriate for individuals experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, rather than those in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. It is best suited for clients who feel comfortable using technology and have access to a quiet, private space for their sessions.
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No, I am not a medical doctor and do not prescribe medications. Some clients find medication helpful, while many make progress in therapy without it. If you are interested in a medication evaluation, you can contact your primary care physician or a psychiatry professional. If you’re a current client and need help with finding a prescriber, please let me know.
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I currently provide counseling to individuals aged 18 and older who reside in Georgia. I do not provide counseling for families or for couples.
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, veterans, and individuals with disabilities across inpatient, outpatient, residential, school, college, and vocational rehabilitation settings. These varied experiences have reinforced my belief that healing is a unique process for each person.
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I work exclusively with individuals aged 18 and older and do not provide services for families or couples.
I do not conduct child custody evaluations or make custody recommendations.
I also do not provide treatment for eating disorders, psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder), or personality disorders.
In accordance with state licensing laws, I can only provide therapy and counseling to individuals residing in Georgia.
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If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to answer your questions and help you figure out if therapy with me is the right fit. Most people have a good sense of whether I am the right professional to help them within the first two to three sessions.