Frequently Asked Questions about
Therapy with Doors of hope
Do you provide in-person or online counseling?
All counseling sessions are conducted via a secure and easy-to-use telehealth platform. Established clients can also hold some sessions by telephone if needed. In-person counseling is not offered at this time.
Is online counseling right for me?
Although there are many advantages of online counseling it’s not right for everyone. Online counseling (teletherapy) works best for those with mild to moderate symptoms, who are comfortable using technology, and who have a quiet, private place to have their sessions. Teletherapy is not equipped to meet the needs of individuals who are suicidal or in active crisis.
Who do you work with?
I provide counseling for adults and teens who reside in Texas. My expertise is in anxiety and stress, self-esteem and confidence, life transitions, parenting, and relationships. I do not provide counseling for children under 13 or families.
What can I expect from therapy?
Being nervous before your first appointment this normal. Creating a list of questions for your therapist as well as thinking about your therapy goals (Therapeutics goals help you identify and prioritize the things you want to address in therapy) can help ease the anxiety you may feel going into your first session. Therapy is a journey that clients take along with their therapist. This journey is very personal and while I am here to help you along the way, you make your own decisions during this process. I do not have answers to all your concerns but I will always actively listen to your concerns and help you unpack your feelings through insightful questions. Your answers to these questions will help shape the direction of our work. I will never tell you what to do, at times I will offer opinions. And lastly, I will always respect you and your experiences.
Knowing if therapy is right for you can take some time and some self-reflection. You can talk to your therapist if you have any concerns about your reaction to therapy. It is important to be open with your therapist and give honest feedback on your experience so that your therapist is aware and can help make things right or even refer you to a different therapist who can give you the experience you are looking for.
What happens during the first session?
Generally, the initial session is spent discussing you, your history, and what brought you to therapy. We will spend time discussing your goals and what you would like to change. The initial session will allow us to see if we are a good therapeutic fit.
How long do appointments last?
Appointments are for 50 minutes. This is the standard length of a therapy session. If you are interested in a longer session (75 minutes) please contact me regarding availability and pricing.
How often will we meet?
I prefer to meet with new clients once a week. Weekly sessions will allow us to gain some momentum which will aid in meeting some of your goals. Once you feel progress has been consistently made, we can discuss meeting less frequently. However, the decision is yours and we can discuss your availability and scheduling needs during our initial session.
How much do you charge?
I charge $175 per 50-minute session.
All forms of payment are accepted via Stripe through the client portal. Payment is required at the beginning of your scheduled session. A card on file is required to schedule an appointment.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, I do accept insurance. I currently accept Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Oxford & Oscar Health.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require 24-hour notice of cancellation or payment for the full appointment time ($175) will be charged to the card on file. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. I understand that life happens and the unexpected can create last-minute changes. Communication is very important, please contact me immediately if you see you will not be able to meet your scheduled appointment.
What theoretical approach do you use?
I pull from a variety of theories and techniques. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques are often helpful for my clients.
Are there any issues or types of clients that you DON’T work with?
I only work with young adults (18+) and adults (no children under 18 or families). I do not conduct child custody evaluations nor do I provide custody recommendations. I also don’t offer treatment for eating disorders, psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, etc), or personality disorders. Due to state licensing laws, I can only provide therapy and counseling to individuals residing in Texas.
Do you prescribe medication?
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) I do not prescribe any medications. Psychotropic medication is prescribed by Psychiatrists/ MDs. I am familiar with medications but not able to give guidance or tell another practitioner what to prescribe to you. I often communicate with medication prescribers if you request me to do so in order to help them better help you.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and a therapist. Prior to your first session, you will be required to complete and sign certain documents. Those documents will consist of a written copy of my confidential disclosure agreement.
State law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:
-Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protective Services and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
-If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.