Since 1995 I have counseled full time, in community agencies, living rooms, schools, and even the Oregon desert. Starting in mental health agencies, I quickly learned how to meet whoever walked through the door, to serve people facing a wide range of life’s challenges. I learned that there is something universal in our most private struggles, no matter how different we may seem, and that sharing our stories, brings healing and a chance for change.
My approach to therapy, and its length, will depend on your particular needs and goals. I believe that problems can be identified and solutions defined, in a straightforward and understandable manner. I view most problems as having multiple contributing causes (e.g. environmental, interpersonal, behavioral, physical). Therefore my first job is to listen carefully and fully to your experience. For people new to counseling, a simple moment of being truly heard and understood may bring up powerful feelings.
In the course of treatment, I will work with you to generate an individual plan - which you are free to modify - to help you achieve your goals. The more open, collaborative, and willing you are to invest time and effort between sessions, the faster you will get results. Your feedback will teach us how to continue our work effectively, emphasizing what is working for you and learning from what is not working.
Clearly, the outcome of any treatment depends significantly on your actions and your success cannot be guaranteed. If you become dissatisfied, you may discontinue therapy, or ask for a referral to another therapist at any time.
As a ‘general practitioner’ working with young and old, what I learn from my young clients often informs and benefits the adults I treat, and young clients gain from the work I do with parents and adults. Across the life span, my clients constantly surprise and fascinate me. I feel very fortunate to do this work and grateful to the people who share their courageous stories with me. No matter your situation, I will utilize my all of my experience and education to work with you, and will perform my services in a professionally competent manner.
Fees
My regular fee is $100 dollars per session hour or the contracted rate allowed under your insurance plan.
I bill insurance if coverage applies and you are only responsible for allowable amounts that insurance does not pay. This may include deductibles, partial reimbursement, and co-pays. Call your insurance customer service line to confirm your level of coverage.
For appointments not cancelled 24 hours in advance clients pay half of the regular fee. Or we can schedule you later in the week, assuming I have an opening in my schedule that works for both of us.
A sliding fee may be arranged. Do not let my fee prevent you from accessing help when you need it. Please bring up your financial concerns.
You may arrange One 30-minute Introduction to get to know me at no charge if you should choose not to continue. If you wish to begin therapy at the end of 30 minutes, we will simply continue the session and you will pay the regular fee for the hour.
Payment is due at the time of service, unless otherwise agreed in advance.
Am I good at what I do? Yes, definitely. Most of my clients conclude therapy feeling successful and more in control. Best case, they are no longer bothered at all by their original complaints. As incredible as I may or may not be, the process of therapy is as much about you and me, how well we work together. Clients who come to see me can take credit for the results themselves. Put another way, “How many therapists does it take to change a light bulb? Just one, but the light bulb has to really want to change.” When you really want to change, give me a call. We'll get right to work.
