Frequently Asked Questions
The thought of scheduling a new client appointment and talking to a new person about personal situations can be difficult. This page is designed to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about therapy and my practice to hopefully put you at ease. If you have other questions that are not addressed on this page, please do not hesitate to contact me.
What is your therapeutic approach?
My theoretical approach to counseling is based on client-centered work, which implies that clients are able to process their own emotions and discover their own solutions while the counselor provides a safe and supportive environment in which to do this work that is free of judgment or criticism. Assisting clients to work through things on their own allows for the development of coping skills to deal not only with present issues, but also to utilize for future issues that may arise. Please see the Areas of Practice section for more information.
How long are sessions?
Initial evaluation sessions are 60 minutes, and subsequent sessions are generally 50-55 minutes in duration.
How much do sessions cost?
Counseling services are provided at a fee of $175 for the initial assessment session and $150 per subsequent session, or at my insurance provider contracted rate. I am an in-network provider for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. I will accept other insurance plans such as Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare as an out of network provider and will provide paperwork for you to submit for your out of network reimbursement. Cash, personal checks, and credit cards are acceptable methods of payment, and a receipt will be provided for all fees paid if requested. Payment is expected at the time each session is held. In circumstances of financial difficulty I may be willing to negotiate a fee adjustment or payment plan.
What are the limits to confidentiality?
Information shared during counseling sessions will remain confidential with the following exceptions which are based on legal and ethical standards: (1) when I believe or it is revealed that you intend to harm yourself or another person; (2) when I believe a child or elder person has been or will be abused or neglected; (3) when a subpoena or other court order is received directing the disclosure of information; (4) when the client signs a written release of information indicating informed consent of such release.