Frequently Asked Questions
Starting Therapy
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek counseling because they feel overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or simply want support navigating life's challenges. If you're wondering whether therapy could help, that's often a good sign that it's worth exploring.
What can therapy help with?
I work with adults and couples experiencing concerns such as:
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Anxiety and chronic stress
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Perfectionism
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Relationship challenges
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Life transitions
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Depression
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Self-esteem concerns
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Communication difficulties
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Burnout
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Personal growth
If you're unsure whether your concerns are a good fit, feel free to reach out.
Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another. We'll discuss what brought you to therapy, what you'd like to accomplish, and any questions you have about the counseling process. There's no pressure to share everything at once—we'll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
What happens during the first therapy session?
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes! I offer a free consultation to help you determine whether we're a good fit before scheduling your first appointment.
During our conversation, you can ask questions about the therapy process, discuss what you're hoping to work on, learn more about my approach, and get answers about insurance, fees, or payment options. My goal is to help you feel informed and comfortable as you decide on your next step.
Whether you're considering individual therapy or couples counseling, I'm happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best path forward.
How long does therapy usually last?
Every person's journey is different. Some clients find short-term therapy meets their needs, while others benefit from longer-term support. Your goals, life circumstances, and preferences all influence the length of therapy.
How often should I come to therapy?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions to build momentum and establish progress. As you begin meeting your goals, sessions often become less frequent. Together, we'll decide on a schedule that fits your needs.
What areas of Maryland do you serve?
I provide virtual therapy throughout Maryland, including clients in Hagerstown, Frederick, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Rockville, North Bethesda, Columbia, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Fulton, Annapolis, Towson, Bel Air, and many surrounding communities.
Online Therapy
Do you offer online therapy?
Yes. I provide secure online therapy for adults and couples throughout Maryland. Whether you live in Hagerstown, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Rockville, Columbia, Ellicott City, Frederick, Annapolis, Towson, or another Maryland community, you can attend therapy from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Many of my clients appreciate being able to receive high-quality therapy without having to drive in I-270 traffic, taking excessive time away from work, or sitting in a waiting room.
Is online therapy a good choice for busy professionals?
Absolutely. Many of my clients have demanding careers, busy family schedules, or long commutes. Online therapy makes it easier to prioritize your mental health without adding more stress to your week.
Whether you're balancing a leadership role in Bethesda, commuting from Columbia, working in Rockville, or raising a family in Ellicott City, therapy can fit into your schedule more easily through secure virtual appointments.
Is online therapy effective?
Research has shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Many clients appreciate the convenience and flexibility of meeting from the comfort of home.
Insurance, Fees, and Payment Options
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, I am in-network with Blue Cross, Cigna, and United Healthcare for individual therapy. Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan and benefits, so I encourage you to contact your insurance company or reach out if you have questions about your coverage.
Couples counseling is different. Most insurance companies do not cover therapy when the primary focus is improving a relationship rather than treating a diagnosable mental health condition. Because of this, couples counseling is typically a self-pay service.
If you're unsure about your insurance benefits, fees, or which service is the best fit for your needs, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. We'll discuss what you're looking for, answer your questions about insurance and payment options, and help you determine the best next step for your situation.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
In many cases, yes. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) can often be used to pay for therapy services. Check with your plan administrator for details.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on the type of service you choose.
Individual Therapy
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Initial Evaluation: $180
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45-50 Minute Session: $125
Couples Counseling
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45-50 Minute Session: $180
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70 Minute Session: $225
If you plan to use insurance for individual therapy, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your specific plan and benefits.
If you're unsure which appointment type is right for you or have questions about fees, insurance, or payment options, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. I'm happy to answer your questions so you can decide on the best next step with confidence.
Couples Counseling
Do you provide couples counseling?
Yes. Couples counseling is one of my specialties.
Working with couples requires a unique set of skills beyond those used in individual therapy. While many therapists primarily work with individuals, effective couples counseling involves understanding relationship dynamics, communication patterns, conflict cycles, attachment, and the complex ways partners influence one another. That's why I have pursued specialized training and experience in helping couples strengthen their relationships.
Whether you're caught in the same arguments over and over, feeling more like roommates than partners, rebuilding trust after a betrayal, navigating a major life transition, or simply wanting to reconnect, I provide a supportive, balanced space where both partners feel heard and understood.
Together, we'll identify the patterns that keep you stuck, improve communication, deepen understanding, and help you create a healthier, more connected relationship.
If you're wondering whether couples counseling is the right next step, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. We can discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and determine whether we're a good fit for your goals.
Will you take sides during couples therapy?
No. My role is to support the relationship—not to determine who is right or wrong. Together, we'll work to better understand each person's perspective and develop healthier ways of connecting.
Does insurance cover couples counseling?
Health insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of an individual's mental health condition. When therapy focuses on improving communication, strengthening a relationship, rebuilding trust, or resolving conflict between partners, insurance companies often do not consider those services medically necessary under the terms of most plans.
While there are situations in which insurance may apply to relationship-related concerns involving an individual's diagnosed mental health condition, many couples choose to pay privately so the focus can remain on helping their relationship rather than meeting insurance requirements.
About Therapy
Is everything we discuss confidential?
Yes. Creating a safe, trusting, and confidential space is one of the most important parts of the counseling process. What you share in therapy stays between us, allowing you to speak openly about your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and life experiences without fear of judgment.
Like all licensed mental health professionals, I am legally and ethically required to protect your privacy. There are a few limited exceptions to confidentiality required by law, such as situations involving an immediate risk of harm to yourself or someone else, suspected abuse or neglect of a child, vulnerable adult, or elder, or when records are released with your written authorization or by court order. We will review these exceptions together during your first appointment so you'll have a clear understanding of how confidentiality works.
Many people worry about opening up in therapy, especially if they've never talked with a counselor before. It's completely normal to feel that way. My goal is to create an environment where you feel respected, heard, and comfortable sharing at a pace that feels right for you.
If you have questions about confidentiality or privacy before scheduling your first appointment, I encourage you to schedule a free consultation. I'm happy to answer your questions so you can feel confident taking the next step.
What if I've never been to therapy before?
That's completely okay. Many clients feel nervous before their first appointment. My goal is to create a welcoming, supportive environment where you can feel comfortable asking questions and moving at your own pace.
How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important parts of the counseling process. Research consistently shows that a strong therapeutic relationship is one of the biggest predictors of successful therapy. You deserve to work with someone who makes you feel heard, respected, understood, and supported.
That's why I offer a free consultation. It's an opportunity for us to get to know one another, discuss what brings you to therapy, answer your questions about my approach, and talk through practical concerns like insurance, fees, or scheduling. Together, we can determine whether we're a good fit for your needs and goals.
If we decide to work together, we'll begin creating a personalized plan to help you move toward the life and relationships you want. And if I'm not the best fit for your situation, I'm happy to help point you in the right direction. My goal is for you to receive the support that's right for you, whether that's with me or another trusted professional.
Scheduling
How do I schedule an appointment?
The easiest way to get started is by contacting the office through the contact form or requesting a free consultation online. I'll guide you through the next steps and answer any questions you have.
What is your cancellation policy?
Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule, I ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice whenever possible.
Appointments that are canceled with less than 48 hours' notice, as well as missed appointments, are subject to a $50 cancellation fee. This policy helps ensure appointment times remain available for other clients who may be waiting for care.
I understand that unexpected emergencies and illnesses can happen. If an unforeseen circumstance arises, please contact me as soon as possible, and we'll discuss your situation.
If you have any questions about my cancellation policy or other office policies, I'm happy to answer them during your free consultation or before your first appointment.
You have the right to receive a "Good Faith Estimate" explaining how much your health care will cost.
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have certain types of health care coverage or who are not using certain types of health care coverage an estimate of their bill for health care items and services before those items or services are provided. • You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any health care items or services upon request or when scheduling such items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. • If you schedule a health care item or service at least 3 business days in advance, make sure your health care provider or facility gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing within 1 business day after scheduling. If you schedule a health care item or service at least 10 business days in advance, make sure your health care provider or facility gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing within 3 business days after scheduling. You can also ask any health care provider or facility for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. If you do, make sure the health care provider or facility gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing within 3 business days after you ask. • If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more for any provider or facility than your Good Faith Estimate from that provider or facility, you can dispute the bill.