How long does therapy last?

While the length of therapy varies for every client, most people stay with me for about 8 months. Clients who come to therapy for transitional issues, such as a move or new phase of life, tend to be in therapy for a shorter time. Clients who come to therapy with chronic issues often need more time to work through these things.

How long does it take for therapy to start working?

Many clients find some relief after their first session. Afterall, taking the steps to find a therapist and showing up to your first appointment are often the hardest part. I like to give clients homework or intentions weekly in order to keep positive change flowing and ensure you feel the benefits of counseling as quickly as possible.

However, a fact about counseling that may not be well known is sometimes things get a little worse before they get better. If whatever brings you to counseling is something that has been avoided, minimized, or ignored for some time, bringing those things to the surface and facing them head on can be tough. I can tell you it is absolutely worth it. We will walk through it together and you will start to experience positive change over time.

What if therapy is not working?

Either you or I may determine something about the process of therapy is not helping in the way you desire. First, we will work to address whatever we identify as the issue in counseling. However, fit with a therapist is found to be the most impactful aspect of therapy. If I am not the best fit for you, I will provide you with referrals in order to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.

When is therapy finished?

The decision to end therapy is co-determined, meaning we both have a say-so. If you feel you have gained everything you need from therapy, we can discuss this and prepare for your graduation. If I feel you are ready, but maybe you don’t want to be ready or don’t feel ready, we can discuss this and address what you need to feel ready to graduate. 

Goodbyes are uncomfortable but necessary. Graduation (termination) sessions are an important part of therapy and a great practice for real life. Please be sure to schedule and attend your final session, so that we can celebrate the hard work you did or be sure that you have a smooth transition to your next provider.

What is your cancellation policy?

Consistent participation in counseling is necessary to receive full benefit. Please notify me at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled appointment to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Late cancellations and no-shows will be charged the full, self-pay fee ($155) for the session.

What if I need more OR less time?

While I do not offer crisis counseling, if you are experiencing an increase in symptoms, we can increase the frequency of our appointments as my schedule allows. For example, meeting twice per week for a short time or moving from bi-weekly appointments to weekly appointments. 

Counseling sessions with me occur one time per week to start. However, over time, we may move to bi-weekly sessions to assess if positive changes are sustained during longer periods between sessions. This is a good indication we are moving towards readiness for graduation.

What is your availability?

I offer appointments between 8 am – 3 pm, Monday-Friday. I do not offer evening or weekend appointments.

Where do you offer therapy services?

While I am local to Alpharetta, GA (the greater Atlanta area), I provide online (virtual) therapy throughout Georgia (license #LPC012956) and Virginia (license #0701007977).

So, I can do online (virtual) therapy anywhere?

Not quite. First, you need to by physically located in states in the which I am licensed (Georgia and Virginia) for your therapy session. Second, while online therapy is convenient to you and your schedule, confidentiality and privacy need to be prioritized. Please find a quiet, safe space, in your home or place of work. Some people choose to sit in their parked car outside of home, work, etc. if there are no quiet, private spaces. We want to create a calm, comfortable, private environment where you feel safe to share, even though we are in different locations. Have young kids? No problem. Let’s try to pick a time they are typically occupied, such as nap or quiet time.

I’m traveling or moving. What now?

I am a licensed therapist in Georgia and Virginia and serve clients in those states only. You must be physically located in the state in which I am licensed to participate in counseling. I cannot provide therapy if you are traveling outside of the state or no longer reside in Georgia or Virginia. 

I’m ready to start. What’s next?

Contact me to schedule your free, 15-minute consultation.