Frequently Asked Questions
I have had negative experiences with counseling in the past. Why should I try again?
Research shows that the two most important factors that predict the effectiveness of therapy are working with a counselor who makes you feel safe and seen, and focusing on root causes instead of surface symptoms. If my website resonates with you, that’s a good sign that I’ll be a good fit for you. Successful counseling is life changing! Don’t stop trying until you succeed .
Do I need to know exactly what I want to work on?
No. Many people come to therapy feeling confused, numb, or unsure what they want—only knowing that something isn’t working anymore. Part of the work is discovering that together.
What if I don’t have time for therapy?
Investing in yourself — carving out time and space to really understand yourself and change the things about your life that get in the way of being integrated and joyful — is one of the most critical choices you can make. I believe that counseling is one of the most productive and impactful uses of your time. You’re worth it. For a a look at how therapy can impact your life, click here.
What if therapy feels too expensive?
It’s true that counseling involves a financial investment. I work hard to ensure that the value and benefit you receive from our work together far outweighs the cost. You can customize session frequency to balance your goals and financial needs, and use your HSA to pay for services. If your insurance company covers out-of-network benefits I will provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurer for reimbursement. See my Payment page for more information.
My childhood wasn’t “that bad.” Is therapy still appropriate?
Yes. Many of my clients didn’t experience overt abuse but grew up emotionally unsupported, unseen, or overly responsible. Emotional neglect and relational trauma are defined as much by what didn’t happen as by what did.
Is this therapy focused on coping skills or deeper work?
While coping tools can be helpful, my primary focus is deeper relational and trauma-informed work—understanding why patterns formed and how to change them in a way that feels safe and sustainable.
I’m high-functioning. Does that mean therapy isn’t for me?
Not at all. Most of my clients are capable, insightful, and successful by external measures. Therapy becomes necessary when functioning comes at the cost of exhaustion, resentment, or disconnection from yourself.
What are your qualifications?
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Michigan University and am licensed as an LPC in Michigan (Licensed Professional Counselor) and an LPCC in Ohio (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor). I am an EMDRIA-approved EMDR-trained clinician, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I also earned a BA in Economics from the University of Michigan, was a stay-at-home mom, struggled to pick a career path, went through a painful divorce, and battled and overcame many of the same issues my clients face.
How will I know if you’re the right fit?
I have found, after working with hundreds of individuals and couples, that people who feel alignment or resonance with my message do find me a good fit. A free consultation (or intro call) is a chance to get a felt sense of whether my pace, presence, and approach feel supportive. Fit matters, and there’s no pressure to decide immediately.
What happens during an intro call?
During this virtual meeting of up to 30 minutes we will discuss fees and payment, scheduling, my approach, and anything else that is important to you. At the end of the call, if we both feel we are a good fit, we will move forward.
(Please note that I am licensed in Michigan and Ohio and, therefore, am only able to work with clients who live in those states)
Is there a long wait for an appointment?
No. I prioritize offering unparalleled responsiveness and personal service. This means careful attention to your needs and respectful consideration of your time. You’ll find I respond quickly to every client message and am easy to work with. I also offer a convenient Client Portal that allows you to schedule or cancel appointments, view your payment information, and download billing documents any time.
I have no office staff — you will always be communicating directly with me. I am committed to providing a high-quality experience to make managing your therapy uncomplicated, personalized, time-saving, and convenient.
