Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling in Charlotte, NC
Who knew when you started googling find a therapist near me that you’d find so many options, and be left with so many questions? I’m here to help!
How long do counseling sessions typically last?
Therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes, however some people prefer 90 minute sessions, which I am happy to do. I also offer therapy intensives, which last anywhere from three to five hours, over the course of one to three days.
What happens during the first counseling session?
Our first session will briefly go over paperwork and any questions you have about logistics. From there, we will begin talking about what brought you in for counseling and work on setting goals for our time together.
How do I know if I really need counseling?
Some reasons people look for therapy are feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, feelings of depression, or difficulty adjusting to life’s changes. Some people come in for counseling because they have (or think they have) OCD. Others seek out therapy because they suspect they are autistic or ADHD (or just found out), and want help figuring out how to work with their brain. Experiencing trauma also brings many people to therapy. And finally, some people just want the extra outside support that a counselor can give.
How often will I need to come to counseling?
Typically, it’s best to start weekly (unless you are participating in a therapy intensive). This gives you a chance to really get comfortable with you therapist, and allows your therapist to learn enough about you to start making changes. I find that people who attend therapy regularly to begin with see the quickest movement toward their goals.
How long will I need to come to counseling?
That really depends on what you are coming to therapy for, and how much work you are putting in outside of weekly sessions. For example, clients looking for OCD treatment, especially I-CBT, often come for roughly 20 sessions. Autistic and ADHD adults looking to unmask and learn to work with their brains can sometimes meet their goals in 12-16 sessions, while some prefer additional, ongoing support. Ultimately, how long you are in therapy is an ongoing conversation between you and your therapist.
How much do sessions cost?
Traditional 50 minute therapy sessions cost $160. I also offer extended, 90 minute sessions for $240. The pricing for therapy intensives is slightly different, due to the additional time spent outside of session. You can find pricing information for therapy intensives here.
Are sessions covered by my insurance?
At this time, I am out of network with all insurance companies.
How do I seek reimbursement from my insurance company?
If you have out of network benefits through your insurance, I can provide you with a superbill, which is a form you submit to your insurance company and, depending on what your plan allows, they will reimburse you. You can check your benefits by logging in to your insurance portal, or calling the number on the back of your card, and asking if you have out of network benefits for outpatient mental health. Read more about using out-of-network benefits here.
Why doesn’t my therapist take insurance?
There are many reasons I do not accept insurance. One of the main ones is that insurance plans dictate care. When using insurance, your insurance company can say how long counseling sessions can last, how long you are in counseling for, and what specific techniques we can use. Insurance also requires me to provide you with a diagnosis. While there is no shame in any mental health diagnosis, some people prefer not to have their diagnosis anywhere “official.” Insurance also doesn’t allow for therapy intensives or extended sessions, which many of my clients find helpful.
Please note- if you need a superbill for out of network benefits, you have to have a diagnosis in order for your insurance to reimburse you.
Do you have evening and weekend appointments available?
The majority of my weekly, traditional therapy sessions are during the day, however I offer therapy intensives, autism evaluations, and ADHD evaluations during evenings and weekends.
Where do sessions take place?
All sessions take place online, through my secure Zoom link. You can attend session from your home, from work, or even outside at a park! The only location requirement is that you are in either North Carolina or South Carolina at the time of our session, and you are not in a moving car.
What do I need for online counseling sessions?
All you need is as computer, tablet, or smartphone with reliable internet access!
Who do you work with?
I work with adults located in North Carolina or South Carolina, who are late-diagnosed (or suspected) autistic or ADHD, people with OCD, clients struggling with anxiety, or people who have experienced a trauma and are looking for intensive therapy. I also provide autism and ADHD evaluations for adults who don’t need on-going therapy.
What if counseling isn’t working?
While it doesn’t happen often, there are times that counseling isn’t helpful. This is why we regularly discuss your progress to make sure you are making progress toward your goals. Sometimes you may need a referral for a medication evaluation, and sometimes you may need to work with someone who is a better fit for you. My goal is always for you to get the help that you need; if you feel like you are not making progress we would discuss next steps together to make sure you are in the right place.
How do I get started with counseling?
It can feel like a big step to call a counselor, so I make it easy. All you need to do is click here to schedule a free consult. We will spend 15 minutes on Zoom and I’ll let you know how I can help. And if I’m not the right person for you, I’ll do my best to get you to them.