FAQs
How long does each therapy session take?
Sessions typically last 50 minutes for a number of reasons, such as the hour being a convenient unit of time, you need to get back to your daily life, and I will need time to write notes and get ready for the next client. But those aren't the only reasons.
Talking about a big problem can bring up difficult emotions. Even though we will go on a deep (and sometimes dark) emotional journey, the time limit reminds you that we'll soon walk back out.
The time limit also encourages good use of time. It helps us get to the heart of what's troubling you. It allows us to get to the meaningful stuff, while having a reliable off switch so that you have control over how much will be discussed, and for how long.
Do you offer sliding scale rates?
Yes. However, it depends on session availability. As a mental health professional, I strive to provide a useful and honorable service to my clients—one that brings both peace and clarity. I don’t want to exclude anyone who’s willing to do the work simply because they can’t pay.
I got into mental health to help people, and the more people I can help, the better! I am uncomfortable with the idea that someone cannot get the help they so desperately want and need because it is too expensive. I believe that everyone should have access to proper mental health care.
What is your therapeutic approach?
My primary approach to therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The American Psychological Association states that CBT is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders and severe mental illness. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life.
CBT is based on several core principles, including:
Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.
CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns. These strategies might include:
Learning to recognize one's distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then to reevaluate them in light of reality.
Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others.
Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations.
Learning to develop a greater sense of confidence is one's own abilities.
CBT treatment also usually involves efforts to change behavioral patterns. These strategies might include:
Facing one's fears instead of avoiding them.
Using role playing to prepare for potentially problematic interactions with others.
Learning to calm one's mind and relax one's body.