• (985) 493-9304

FAQs

Does Therapy Work?
YES! Most of the time time it does. Studies show that therapy is as effective as medication, and longer lasting. Whereas people develop resistance to medicine, it is not so with therapy. Skills developed in therapy are for a lifetime?
What's Counseling Like?
Typically, your first session is like a meet and greet. You tell us what’s going on with you. We listen carefully and jot down important notes. During your first session, we do take a history of life events and family health issues. But we don’t stay stuck in the past. In subsequent appointments, sometimes we do go back to heal old wounds, but we move to more modern, solution focused approaches to empower our clients to find wholeness and freedom in the present moment and beyond. For couples work, we help clients communicate more effectively, heal old wounds, and develop better skills for reducing conflict and increasing intimacy.
Are You Serving New Clients?
Indeed! I can typically schedule you for a therapy appointment within the week. Simply call me at 985-493-9304.
When Do You See Clients?

The THERAPIST sees clients every weekday, typically 8-5. However, alternative arrangements are sometimes made based on individual circumstances and availability.

 

The office STAFF is available and answering the phones during the following times:
Monday -8-5
Tuesday – 8-12
Wednesday – closed
Thursday – 8-5
Friday – 8-12

Do You Offer Evening or Weekend Appointments?

Typically I do not offer weekend sessions or evening appointments, and I have very limited late afternoon appointments on Mondays and Thursdays. 

Do You Accept Insurance?
I am not a preferred provider on any health care plan AT THIS TIME. However, insurance providers often do reimburse consumers for OUT-OF-NETWORK BEHAVIORAL HEALTH COVERAGE. Just call your insurance company to check it out. Our office DOES PROVIDE a completed claims form for you at time of service, so all you need to do is mail it to your insurance company for the reimbursement. The pro of this is that I am not bound to any bureaucratic decision making regarding the number of sessions nor the type of therapeutic modalities that are used. In addition, my time is spent nearly 100% with my clients because I am not spending valuable time on the phone with insurance companies to prove the need for the service. Health insurance companies largely deny claims for counseling to treat relationship problems, communication problems, or marital distress, regardless of the provider or need. Using insurance often requires an actual mental health diagnosis.
What is the Fee?
A simple phone call to the office can provide you with any specific additional information based on your individual needs.
How Do You Accept Payment?
I currently only accept checks and cash. I may accept credit cards in the future.
What's Your Cancellation Policy?
Life is unpredictable and everyone needs to cancel appointments occasionally. Please give me as much notice as you can when you need to cancel, as there are many people waiting for these services. Plus, your therapist’s time is valuable, as well. If you cancel with less than 24-hours notice, our policy is that you will be charged $50.
How Long Will This Take? Like How Many Sessions and How Often?

Although many therapeutic modalities are structured and use specific protocol, our therapists do not engage in a one-size-fits-all practice. Because we treat each client as a unique human being with a unique set of life circumstances, feelings, and needs, we cannot use a mathematical algorithm to predict exact frequency and longevity of your treatment. That being said, your therapist will make a professional recommendation based on your needs, and you will typically have the final decision regarding when your next visit will be. Exceptions include emergencies such as safety issues or if the patient is cognitively and mentally incapable of making a sound decision. You may decide to come once a week for as long as you need. Or you may decide that bi-weekly works better for you. As you begin to feel relief, you may wish to taper off and reduce the frequency of appointments. But some people do like to come regularly for “check-ups”, and that’s fine, too!

Can I See You as a Therapist if I'm Your Friend? And Why Didn't You Accept My Friend Request?
The social work code of ethics does not allow us to see close family members and friends. We do live in a smallish, rural area, so it is often unavoidable to be acquaintances among therapist and consumer. If I feel like the relationship is too close to serve you objectively or ethically, I am more than happy to help you find a professional referral to fit your needs. If your therapist sees you in public, she may smile or casually say “Hi”. But I am not trying to have a therapeutic conversation so that I can protect your privacy. If you wish to share with others about your therapeutic experience, that is your choice. The same applies to social networking. I have to protect your privacy and the professional nature of our relationship with you. Although I truly do care about you and your life, as a social worker, I am legally and ethically advised to avoid social networking contacts with clients.