How do I know if I really need counseling? 

This is a great question about counseling and everyone is a little different.  Most clients who seek me have recently experienced some sort of life event or transition, and they are noticing old vulnerabilities resurfacing.  This can make them feel “stuck” in fear and anxiety, and they identify that they need some help sorting things out.   

What happens during the first counseling session? 

Prior to your first counseling session, you will have completed some intake questionnaires to give me a little bit of an idea of what you want to work on.  During the first session, we will get to know one another.  I will ask you questions about yourself, and there will be time for you to address your concerns.  Often, I will lay the groundwork to begin thinking about things for next session. 

How long do counseling sessions typically last? 

Counseling sessions are typically 50 minutes long.  This gives me just a couple of minutes to prepare for my next session after you.  If you would benefit from longer sessions or greater frequency, that is something we can discuss when planning your care.

How often will I need to come to counseling? 

I typically recommend that we work together on a weekly basis for the best outcomes.  However, frequency of counseling sessions is based on your needs and what is working for you, so this is something that we will plan collaboratively.

How long will I need to come to counseling? 

This is hard to answer because everyone is different in how long counseling takes for them to have the outcomes they are seeking.  I have clients who feel they get the support and tools they need within a few months, and others whose processing and healing may take months or years.  The important thing is that this is your journey, and we work together to determine what you need in the moment.   

How often will I need to come to counseling? 

I typically recommend that we work together on a weekly basis for the best outcomes.  However, frequency of counseling sessions is based on your needs and what is working for you, so this is something that we will plan collaboratively.

What is the investment for counseling with you? 

Private pay 50 minute sessions cost $120/hour, and $145/hour for 90 minute sessions.

Are counseling sessions covered by my insurance?

Possibly.  I am credentialed with several insurances through Headway in the state of North Carolina, and Colorado.  If you want to use your insurance for therapy, I can help you get set up for billing through the appropriate organization.  They will require you to have a credit card on file for copays and deductibles per your insurance plan.  It is important that you stay informed of what your insurance does and does not cover, and I encourage you to find out what your out of pocket costs will be for therapy before starting. 

How do I seek reimbursement from my insurance company? 

If I am an out of network provider for your PPO, I can provide you a Superbill on a monthly basis that includes dates of service and the amount paid.  Please note that a diagnosis must be included on the Superbill.  You can submit this form to your insurance company for reimbursement at their rate. For example, you may pay me $120 for a session, but you may only be reimbursed $75 depending on your plan. 

Where do counseling sessions take place? 

I am happy to offer in person and virtual sessions at my new location in downtown Waynesville, NC. I see clients from all over the region including Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain, Buncombe and Henderson counties.  

Is virtual counseling an option?

I am a LCSW and provide virtual therapy in both North Carolina and Colorado.  To do virtual therapy, you are required to have a personal computer or tablet with strong internet service, and you must be knowledgeable about how your camera and microphone work. It is strongly advised that you have a space set up for privacy and comfort where you will not be interrupted.  I also highly recommend ear buds of some sort to reduce echoing.  You will receive electronic reminders before session that will include the HIPPA compliant platform link for us to have our session with just a click of a button.