Getting started

Three steps, from the first call to the first session. Fees, insurance and video sessions are below.

A white cup of tea on a wooden stool beside an armchair draped with a chunky knit blanket.

If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988, or chat at chat.988lifeline.org, to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential and open 24/7. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. 988 Lifeline: call 988 text 988

How to start

  1. Call or leave a message

    Call (352) 555-0147. If I am in session, leave your name, your number and a good time to call back.

  2. A 15 minute phone call

    We talk about what brings you in, my fees and my openings. If I am not the right fit, I suggest other places.

  3. Meet for 50 minutes

    We meet for 50 minutes, in the office or by video. You fill in the intake forms online beforehand.

A soft armchair and a sofa with a folded throw beside a tall window in a small therapy room

The first session

The first session is a conversation. I ask about what brings you in, your health, your sleep, the people around you, and what you hope will change. You decide how much to share. Near the end we talk about whether to keep meeting.

If you meet me in the office, arrive five minutes early. The door is on the side porch, and the waiting room is yours alone.

Video sessions

Video sessions for clients who are physically in FL.

Video sessions run in your web browser, with nothing to install. You need to be physically in Florida for each session, because my license is a Florida license. Find a private room where no one can overhear you; a parked car works too.

Insurance and fees

I am out of network with insurance plans. After each session I can give you a superbill, a receipt with the codes your plan asks for, so you can request out-of-network reimbursement. Call your plan first and ask what it pays.

The first session is $160. Later sessions are $140 for 50 minutes. I keep a few sliding scale spots open; ask about them on the phone call. If you pay on your own, I send you a Good Faith Estimate in writing before the first session.

Payment

We accept credit and debit cards, HSA and FSA cards.

Questions before you start

What does a session cost?

The first session is $160. Later sessions are $140 for 50 minutes. I keep a few sliding scale spots open; ask about them on the phone call.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

If you pay for counseling yourself, you usually have the right to a written estimate of expected charges when you schedule at least 3 business days ahead or ask for one. I send it before the first session. Read what CMS says about Good Faith Estimates

What if I need to cancel?

Please cancel at least 24 hours ahead. A late cancellation is charged the full fee, except in an emergency.