Frequently Asked Questions

  • This depends on our schedules and your level of need. Many clients choose to meet weekly in the beginning of treatment. Some clients switch to meeting every other week once they notice they are feeling better, they’re reaching therapy goals, they’ve learned new tools for coping, or they’ve deepened their insight. Others prefer to keep meeting weekly as a way of maintaining their progress. Either way, we will find the right schedule for both of us.

  • In the first few sessions (1-3):

    First, we will go over paperwork together. In the early weeks of therapy, you will tell your story, determine the goodness of fit between you and me, discuss goals and a treatment plan, and build rapport.

    All following sessions:

    This is when we can really dig into your short and long-term goals.

    In these sessions you will work toward gaining insights, learning skills, expressing emotions, and more, which will help you make progress and see lasting change. I can guide you, and you are responsible for engaging in the practice. I take a collaborative approach which includes sharing ideas and expectations of each other. These sessions are guided by what you bring in each visit and by your longer term therapy goals.

  • I believe everyone can benefit from therapy in some way. When emotions, thoughts, stressors, and relationships interfere with day-to-day life, it’s worth talking to someone neutral and non-judgmental. You don’t need to be in your darkest hour to go to therapy—in fact, many clients prefer to take a preventative approach to their mental health by starting therapy before they reach that point.

  • I am unable to accept insurance at this time. Clients can choose to pay for sessions via cash, check, or card. Additionally, some insurers provide out-of-network (OON) benefits. I can provide you with the necessary paperwork to get reimbursed by your insurer in this way—this is called a “superbill” and is typically given once a month. I highly recommend checking to see if you have OON coverage by using Mentaya, a helpful platform that will check whether you have coverage and will help you get reimbursed should you choose to use those benefits.

    If you decide to call your insurer to ask about out-of-network benefits, make sure to ask them these questions:

    • Does my plan have out-of-network benefits?

      • (If your plan does not, ask your employer if they offer a plan with out-of-network benefits, and when is the next enrollment period.)

    • Do I need a prior approval or a referral to begin working with an out-of-network provider?

    • What is my co-pay and/or co-insurance for out-of-network sessions?

    • What is my out-of-network deductible? Has it been met for this year?

    • Does my plan have an out-of-pocket maximum? If so, what is it?

    • Does my plan have a limit on how many sessions for individual therapy it covers in a year? If so, what is it?

  • In general, HIPAA protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and therapist. No information is disclosed or exchanged without prior written permission from you. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. I am a Mandated Reporter, which means I am required by law to file a police report in the following circumstances:

    • Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse.

    • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person.

    • If a client has intent and plans to attempt to take their own life.

    If you have more questions or concerns about the limits of confidentiality, please reach out.

  • I do not offer couples counseling at this time, but there may be times when it is appropriate for you to “invite” your partner (or parent, sibling, friend, etc.) into the therapy space for a specific reason. In the past, I’ve had clients do this when they want to show their loved one their progress or deliver an important piece of information with me there as a support.

  • My office is located in downtown Burlington, VT. It is a secure office with unique building codes for client access. The building is conveniently located along the 1, 11, and 7 bus lines. There is metered street parking on the surrounding streets and many nearby parking garages to choose from. Please note, unfortunately the building is not ADA accessible and there is one set of stairs to climb to get to my office.

    My hours:

    M: 10:00am - 4:00pm
    T: 10:00am - 4:00pm
    W: 10:00am - 4:00pm
    Th: 10:00am - 4:00pm

  • I require 24 hours notice for canceled sessions. Clients who cancel with less than 24 hours notice will be charged the full session fee ($160). I make occasional exceptions for sudden illness or emergencies--usually each client gets one "freebie". After a late cancellation, it may be appropriate to discuss adjusting our scheduled time.

    Charging for late cancellations is a part of keeping my therapy business sustainable. With more than 24 hours notice, I can usually offer the spot to another client.

  • Please reach out! I am happy to answer any questions you have about therapy and our potential work together. See my Contact page to get in touch with me.