FAQ

Here are some answers to common questions about therapy in general and about my practice. Please call or email if you have other questions!

What happens in therapy?

What happens in therapy largely depends on your needs and preferences. Building a strong relationship with you and creating mutual trust and respect are my top priority. When you have a therapy session with me, you will be given the freedom to lead the discussion to the topics that matter most. My promise to you is to listen and understand you without judgment and to accept you just as you are. You may be offered worksheets, journaling, readings, meditations, or other "homework" outside of sessions to accelerate your progress. You may also be encouraged to explore changes to sleep, nutrition, exercise, or leisure activities to support your growth. 

What is online therapy and how is it different than in-person therapy?

Online therapy is also called telehealth, telemedicine, virtual therapy or other similar terms. I use a HIPAA-compliant platform through Simple Practice to video chat with you. In some cases, telehealth is not so different from regular therapy. The focus will be on supporting you and understanding your unique challenges and experiences. You will also enjoy the convenience of not having to drive to my office.

In other ways, telehealth can be challenging. Technology issues such as slow internet or power outages can make it challenging to communicate effectively. Telehealth can also make it more challenging to read facial expressions, tone, or body language like we do in person. Despite these challenges, I believe telehealth is a valuable resource to promote your mental health and wellness. We will do our best and will figure it out together.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential and is protected under HIPAA. I can only share your private information under limited circumstances which include the following:

1. You tell me you are planning to hurt/kill yourself or someone else.

2. I become aware that a child/elder/incompetent adult is being abused.

3. You sign a release of information form allowing me to communicate about your therapeutic process with someone.

4. A judge signs a court order instructing me to share private information. 

We will discuss confidentiality thoroughly during our first session. 

Do you take insurance?

Yes, I accept BlueCross BlueShield of NC, including the state health plan. 

What are your fees?

I charge $110 per session unless otherwise agreed upon.

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How long do sessions last?

A typical therapy session lasts 45-50 minutes. Sessions do not last a full hour to give me time to complete documentation for your file prior to meeting with my next client. 

Can addiction be treated effectively by telehealth?

Telehealth is relatively new and I have not reviewed all of the research on this question. My approach to treating addiction via telehealth is to do a thorough assessment of your situation before deciding how to proceed. If you are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of addiction or have recently completed something like detox or in-patient treatment, online counseling via may be enough to keep you on track with your recovery goals. If you are experiencing more severe addiction symptoms, a higher level of care may be needed. Please call me to discuss your specific situation.