Things I Need To Ask

Things I Need Ask

1.  Do you really enjoy working with teenagers?

The answer is a very loud and clear “YES!”    Teenagers are fun, have strong opinions and honest candor.   Each has a unique personality and personal dreams.   What’s not to love about that?!

2.   What experience have you had working with teenagers?

I have worked with teenagers in a variety of settings:  a former Youth Director on a church staff, inpatient substance abuse setting, outpatient therapy and in private practice.

3.  What about parents, are they involved at all?

Parents are a very important part of counseling, even if you are seeking counseling just for your teenager.    I will make every attempt to keep you informed of  the counseling process while also trying to maintain appropriate confidentiality with your teenager.   I may also recommend some family sessions.   My goal is to help your family together thrive through the teenage years, not just survive them.

4.  What payment options are available? Do you take insurance?

Checks and credit cards are accepted.  Currently, I do not file any insurance directly. If you have insurance, then I am happy to give you the information necessary for you file claims for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance carrier to regarding out of network benefits for counseling and Employee Assistance Program benefits.   In-network benefits from different insurance carriers may be available in the near future.

5.   How long will counseling last?

That really depends on your goals for counseling.   I’m available for as long as your family genuinely needs guidance, but I don’t believe in dragging out counseling and searching for more to discuss when you are satisfied with your progress and growth.    At the beginning of counseling, I will attempt to provide an estimation of the number of recommended sessions.  I take a solution-focused approach to therapy.  Simply, this means we will identify specific goals to be addressed in counseling and  work together attempting to reach them.   I believe in helping your family for as long as you feel the need.

6.  How often are the counseling sessions?

Great question!  At the beginning, we can meet weekly and then move to every other week.  Factors which may influence how often we meet usually depend on the nature of your family’s issues or concern, sense of urgency, motivation, schedule, and even your budget. I’m flexible about scheduling because I understand there are a number of factors that influence a client’s availability.

7.  Do you ever see children?

Unfortunately, I do not work with children younger than 12-13 years old.  Play therapy is an entirely different specialization, and young children deserve someone that is well trained in that specialty. I am happy to make referrals to counseling professionals that have the same passion for helping children that I have with teenagers.

8.  What are your office hours?

Because so many teenagers are involved in extracurricular activities, I am happy to schedule afternoon and early evening sessions.

9.   Now the question I have really been wanting to ask:  ”How much?”

Fees are $90/hr for a 60 minute session.  Why 60 minutes when the typical session is usually 50 minutes?  Simply, its easier for me to remember!   I prefer to use our time together listening and problem solving with your teenager than figuring out when 50 minutes has passed.   Just being honest.

10. Do you have any payment plans?

I realize that for many counseling is not an inexpensive endeavor, so I try to work with families in making it more accessible for them.   Half-hour sessions are available at $45.00.

11.   How do I get started?

I welcome the opportunity to talk with you!  Please feel free to contact me email or phone.