I’ve never been to therapy before. What can I expect?

Therapy is as individual as you are. We’ll tailor your sessions based on your needs, goals, and preferences. We’ll also adjust them as we go and learn more about what you need. Expect casual, friendly conversations where you’ll do most of the talking. I’ll ask guiding questions or make statements that reflect what you say. The first sessions will be more information gathering and getting to know one another. As we go on this journey, we’ll also include practices and tools (modalities) to help you outside of your sessions as well.

How long is each session?

Individual sessions are 60 minutes long. Couples sessions are 90 minutes. Both session types include time to review next steps and schedule a follow-up session, if necessary.

What type of counseling do you offer?

I offer a range of counseling “topics” based on your specific needs. Please see the Services page for information on the types of counseling I offer and brief descriptions of each.

How often will I be in therapy?

The frequency of your sessions will be based on your goals and the rhythm you and I find works best. Keep in mind, the frequency of sessions may vary during your time in therapy. I start most of my clients with weekly sessions for the first two to three weeks. We may then move to every-other-week or to meeting once a month, depending on the situation.

How long will I be in therapy?

The length of therapy you need depends on a lot of factors: the goals you want to address, the issues that brought you to therapy, your commitment to “homework,” and more. Some clients only need to see me for a few months. Others have established therapy relationships that are longer than a year. This will be an ongoing conversation you and I will have while we’re working together.

Where will my sessions take place?

I am available to meet in-person at my office at Northbrook Church. I offer tele-health sessions for those who are not able (or do not wish) to meet at the church.

Are my sessions confidential?

Yes. The information we discuss in the context of your sessions is private and confidential unless:

• Suspected child, dependent, or elder abuse

• Disclosure of use/possession of child pornography

• Threatening serious bodily harm to another person or persons

In these cases, I am required by law to report to appropriate authorities immediately and the intended victim, if applicable.

If you intend to harm yourself, I will make every effort I can to enlist your cooperation to ensure your safety. If you are unable/unwilling to cooperate, I will take further measures without your permission that are provided to me by law to ensure your safety.

Do I have to be a Christian to use you as a counselor?

You do not have to be a Christian to use me as your counselor/mental health therapist. While my Christian faith influences my practice, my ultimate goal is to provide a safe space for my clients to work through their issues and start their healing journey.

Do you prescribe medication?

Licensed mental health professionals cannot prescribe medication to clients or manage your prescribed medications. I can, however, collaborate with your primary care or other physicians who can prescribe medication. I may be able to refer you to other providers in the community, like psychiatrists, who can prescribe medication, if they deem it necessary. (Please note: I cannot guarantee a referral at this time.)

Do you take insurance?

Unfortunately, I do not accept insurance. Please see the Rates section for information on session pricing and what you can do if you feel mental health therapy is out of reach financially.

Do I have to use electronic forms? Why can’t I use paper forms?

To maintain the highest standards of patient confidentiality, all client records are stored electronically. This includes the intake forms you complete when beginning your therapy with me. This practice uses TherapyNotes, which is a HIPAA-compliant software. Please see Practice Policies for more information.