How does therapy work? What can I expect?

Therapy is not something that is done to you. It is a collaborative process that we build together. The work is most effective when you are open, curious, and willing to share what is truly on your mind, even when it feels messy or uncomfortable. That honesty is what drives meaningful change.

Many clients start out hoping for quick results, but real transformation takes time. My clients who commit to the process experience profound shifts in how they think, feel, and relate to others. Over time, therapy can lead to deep, lasting change that touches every part of your life.

What is a first therapy session like?

The first session is all about getting to know you! I’ll ask a variety of questions to get a sense of what’s bringing you to therapy, what your goals are, and what your life looks like right now. We’ll talk about your history, important relationships, daily stressors, and any patterns you’ve noticed in your thoughts or emotions.

While the session may feel a little more structured and assessment-focused than future sessions, there’s no pressure to have everything figured out. This is a space to start making sense of things together.

It’s also a chance for you to get a feel for how I work, ask any questions you have, and begin building a connection. My goal is for you to leave the first session feeling heard, supported, and a little more grounded in the process ahead.

Why do I need to go to therapy when I can talk to a friend or family member?

Friends and family naturally want to protect you from pain, so they are quick to deny reality, offer unhelpful advice, or encourage comfort over change. Therapy is different. Drawing on my professional expertise, I help you look beneath the surface, notice what’s driving your reactions, gain new perspectives, and learn to listen to yourself. Unlike a friend, my role isn’t to give quick reassurance or soothe you in the moment, but to help you understand yourself more deeply and create lasting growth.

What is your rate?

Therapy is an important investment of both time and money. It delivers real ROI. My rate for new clients is $180 for a 50-minute session. I accept debit and credit cards, as well as FSA and HSA payments. Your mental health impacts every part of your life, from your career and relationships to how you experience each day. Prioritizing your wellbeing isn’t just self-care; it creates the clarity and emotional balance you need to thrive personally and professionally.

Do you accept insurance?

I do not accept insurance and am considered an out-of-network provider. However, I can provide you with a receipt (superbill) to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Many of my clients are able to receive 40–80% back, depending on their out-of-network benefits.

To better understand your coverage, call the customer service number on your insurance card (look for one related to mental or behavioral health) and ask:

• What are my out-of-network mental health benefits?

• What percentage of each therapy session is reimbursed?

• Do I need to meet a deductible first, and if so, how much is remaining?

How long will we meet for?

This varies based on your goals and needs. Some clients come for just a few months to work through specific challenges, while most engage in longer-term therapy over the course of several years.

I primarily practice psychodynamic therapy, which means I focus on helping clients gain deeper insight into patterns, emotions, and relationships. While it is important to me to incorporate practical strategies and concrete tools into our work together, I don’t believe in quick fixes for longstanding issues. Lasting growth takes time, and we'll work together to find a rhythm that supports both your goals and emotional process.

How often will we meet?

I typically recommend weekly therapy sessions, especially at the start of our work together. Meeting consistently helps us build a strong foundation and allows for deeper, more meaningful exploration of what’s bringing you to therapy.

Weekly sessions give us the space to go beyond just updates or surface-level conversations. Instead of simply recapping highs and lows, we’re able to notice patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and relationships as they unfold. This kind of insight takes time and regular attention.

Therapy is most effective when we can stay close to the emotional material we’re working through. Weekly meetings help us maintain momentum, strengthen our connection, and give us the continuity needed to shift longstanding patterns and explore the deeper layers of your experience.

Will therapy fix my problems?

If you’re looking for a quick fix, I welcome you to use Google or ChatGPT. Therapy with me is a long-term process of exploration and healing. While we will work together to alleviate immediate stress or symptoms, our work goes far beyond surface-level advice. Together, we’ll build lasting insight, skills, and emotional resilience tailored specifically to you.

What ages do you see?

I am currently accepting clients ages 12 and up but will see clients younger than 12 on a case-by-case basis after speaking with parents and seeing if it would be a good fit.

Do you engage in any professional supervision or consultation?

YES, I am dedicated to ongoing learning, and I receive clinical supervision from Allie Sanford, LCSW. I also regularly attend continuing education courses and engage in professional consultation to ensure that you receive the gold standard of care.