Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that you use a neuroscience informed approach to trauma?
A neuroscience informed therapist understands how the brain and nervous system are involved in emotional experiences, stress, and recovery. This approach focuses on how past experiences are stored in the brain and how they continue to influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
What is the difference between talking to you about my problems versus one of my friends?
A psychologist will keep what you say confidential. They have no personal stake in the decisions you make. They are not going to try and influence you one way or another. We also don’t split the time with your issues and mine. The therapeutic hour is 100% focused on you, your goals, and your life. Psychologists are non-judgmental. We work with you on the process of self-discovery and understanding in a non-judgmental way using knowledge from our life, training, and experience.
If I get testing done and I have a diagnosis, what does that do for me?
There are many reasons an individual may want a formal diagnosis. A diagnosis can protect an individual legally such as with accommodations and support at school.. You may be struggling to meet demands in your workplace and would like additional resources to better perform. Some individuals also are looking to be tested to know what their diagnosis is in order to seek better individualized care. Knowing you have a diagnosis means you can begin to use nonjudgmental self understanding which can dramatically change the relationship you have with yourself and others. In addition, some states and physicians require a complete psychological evaluation in order to be prescribed medication.
What does "neuro-affirming testing" mean?
It means that I take into account the unique needs that people who identify as neurodivergent need. Testing can be a long process and I understand the complexities involved in order to get an accurate diagnosis. However, being neurodivergent might make testing more difficult, especially with a psychologist who doesn't affirm these unique needs. Every step of the way I recognize these needs and help prepare my reports and approach to make this process as validating as possible.
People in my life say I can't have Autism because I make eye contact, have friends, socialize, have a family, etc. Is it still possible I do?
Yes, absolutely. There are many ways that people present with Autism and in specific, males and females are socialized differently in society, we can this non-stereotypical autism. We know that people are often missed or misdiagnosed with less obvious presentations, including females and non-binary individuals. If you are high masking/camouflaging, it can be very easy to miss the Autism diagnosis.
What does ADHD and Autism testing entail?
Testing takes place in 4 separate steps.
(1) The initial appointment is a time I collect more information and history taking.
(2) The second and potentially third appointments are when we will do the actual testing.
(3) I will review all the data from the testing appointment and send out any additional testing for you or family/friends to complete.
(4) The last appointment I will give feedback on the results. This typically takes about 1 hour. If you have more questions or would like further sessions to review results this can be scheduled. You will be given a full comprehensive diagnostic report.
How do I know you're the right provider for me?
Great question! I recommend you do “phone interviews” with several therapists to try and make sure you find one that you feel listens to you, understands your particular problem, and feels like they really connect with you. These phone consultations also ensure from my perspective that I can help you with my particular expertise and experience.
Can I work with you long term for my trauma/anxiety/neurodivergence?
I specialize in shorter therapy that focuses on goals that you set. Once you have completed those goals, our work will end. However, if you would like to continue working with a provider long term, I can help you find a referral for the right fit.
Do you provide testing and therapy online?
Yes. I use a HIPAA compliant and secure telehealth video conferencing platform to conduct sessions. They are similar to in office sessions but you can do them in your home or when away. Many clients find this more convenient due to transportation issues, childcare, work schedules, travel, etc.
Do you treat children?
No, I do not. I see adults age 18 and over.
How much is your fee per session?
My full session fee is $200 per session.
What is the difference between a marriage and family therapy, counselor, psychiatrist, and psychologist?
An MFT (marriage and family therapist), therapist, and counselor are all master level practitioners. That means beyond a bachelors degree they have at least 2 additional years of school. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. A psychologist is a doctoral level practitioner. This means that they have at least 4 years beyond a bachelors degree and have been trained to treat a wide variety of mental illnesses and perform psychological tests. To be a licensed psychologist one needs to have a PhD or PysD (doctoral degree), 3,000 hours of supervision, pass 2 state board exams, and continue to take courses each year on continuing education in the field.