What is counseling? How do I know it is the right approach for me?

Psychiatry, social workers, therapy, counseling… it can all be confusing!

As an Licensed Professional Counselor, I align with the American Counseling Association (ACA)’s working definition of counseling. The ACA defines counseling as a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. Professional counselors help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. Counseling is a collaborative effort between the counselor and client.

To learn more about Professional Counseling, please go to:

• counseling.org

• https://www.counseling.org/aca-community/learn-about-counseling/what-is-counseling

I hear people talk about a “good fit” with their counselor. What does that mean?

Each counselor will have their own areas of expertise, approaches, and ways of being. Because of the variety of approaches, it is important to find a good ‘fit’ between counselor and client. 

“Fit” can refer to a variety of things. For me, it refers to how we connect: does my use of theory and approach connect with what you are looking for, do we have similar expectations of what counseling is and is not, are we able to navigate conflict and connection in a way that supports your growth and goals, do we use humor congruently?

Please know, this list of ‘fit’ is not extensive, but hopefully provides an overview of what ‘fit’ means to me!

How do I set up services?

Please use the contact form and include your name, email, phone number, and reason for seeking services. I do my best to respond to inquires in 72 hours. Before confirming I can provide services, we will set up an initial phone consultation (up to 30 minutes), which is free of charge. While I will be asking you a variety of questions, this is also a great time to ask questions me about my approach, experience, and expectations.

We are interested in couples or family counseling. How do we set up services?

If you are interested in couples or family counseling, please have both/all adults fill out a contact form on the Connect page. Each adult will be contacted separately so we can briefly get to know each other and to see if couples or family counseling could be a good fit! This is also a time for each person to express concerns or to ask questions and gather more information. 

Why do we set up a phone consultation?

During out initial required phone consultation, I will ask questions related to what you’re hoping to get out of counseling, discuss schedule availability, fees, and policies. It is a time for us to briefly get to know each other to see if it will be a good fit! This is also a time for you to ask questions and gather more information. Please note, setting up a phone consultation does not guarantee I can provide services.

How do you accept payment?

I accept cash, personal checks, and most credit cards. Clients are required to have a credit card kept on file.

Do you accept forms of insurance?

Beginning April 2023, I am credentialed with Pacific Source (commercial).

For those not insured by Pacific Source, I can provide you with an invoice and superbill so that you can then submit it to your insurance company. You are responsible for submitting the invoice to your insurance. I encourage you to check with your insurance plan to determine your out-of-network benefits. 

How many sessions will we meet?

The number of sessions we agree to will be an ongoing conversation. Should we agree to meet beyond the initial consultation session, I hope to work with you until what initially brought you and your loved one(s) into counseling is resolved or you feel you and your loved one(s) are empowered and capable to manage the concerns on your own.