I’ve never been to therapy. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

How many times a month do I need to attend sessions?

It depends on your situation and what your goals are. In most situations, every week or every other week will be most helpful. People who have been in therapy and worked on issues for a while may want to do once-a-month (or less frequent) booster sessions to review tools and skills. We can work together to find what works best for you.

As a person under 18, can I trust you to keep everything I say confidential or will you share it with my parents?

In Texas, if you are under 18 and you have not been married or emancipated, you are a minor and you have to have the consent of your parent (or another authorized adult) to seek therapy in most cases. We will meet together with your parent or guardian and work out boundaries around the information that you share in therapy.  

My partner and I are having significant problems in our relationship. Are you going to tell us to get divorced/break up?

No. My role is to help you meet your relationship and therapy goals. People go through all kinds of hardships and difficulties at different points in their lives and marriages. I will meet you where you are and work with you to accomplish what you want to accomplish without judgment about what you “should” do.

What does it mean that you have a supervisor and how will that affect my experience in therapy with you? Will someone be listening to our sessions?

After graduating, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) have to complete 3000 hours of training under the supervision of a licensed LPC-S to earn full licensure . This means I may review our work together with my supervisor, Mark Cagle LPC-S (71799), to be sure I am doing all I can to provide you with the highest quality of care, but your identifying information is kept confidential. Our sessions are always private.

Do you accept my insurance?

I do not accept any insurance plans at this time and am private pay only. If you have a health insurance policy, it may provide some coverage for mental health treatment. You will need to contact your insurance carrier and determine what mental health services are covered. Upon your request, I can provide a special receipt, known as a Superbill, which you may submit to your insurance carrier for possible reimbursement. Please note, that this does require a diagnosis in order to be compensable. Some insurance companies may also deny claims for services provided by an LPC-Associate.

To check your out-of-network insurance benefits, we recommend that clients contact their insurer at the number listed on the back of their insurance card to ask the following questions: 1. Does my plan include out-of-network benefits for mental health/behavioral healthcare? 2. Do these benefits cover counseling sessions with an LPC-Associate? 3. What percentage of the allowed amount does my plan pay? 4. Do I have an insurance deductible that I would have to pay before my out-of-network benefits are provided?

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.