FAQs

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  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. By using bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, taps, or tones), EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing for adaptive resolution.

    How does EMDR therapy affect the brain

    EMDR works by activating the brain’s natural healing processes, similar to what occurs during REM sleep. Traumatic memories often get "stuck" in the brain’s nervous system, causing ongoing distress. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories, integrating them in a healthier way so they no longer trigger strong emotional or physical reactions. Research shows that EMDR can lead to lasting changes in neural pathways, promoting emotional resilience and recovery.

    Is EMDR therapy right for me

    EMDR may be a good fit if:
    ✔ You’re struggling with memories that feel vivid or emotionally triggering.
    ✔ You’ve tried talk therapy but still feel stuck in negative thoughts or reactions.
    ✔ You experience anxiety, nightmares, or flashbacks related to past events.
    ✔ You want to process trauma without extensively discussing it.

    Not sure? We’ll discuss your needs in a consultation to determine if EMDR (or another approach) is the best path for you.

  • CCPT (Child-Centered Play Therapy) is a gentle, evidence-based approach that helps children express emotions and resolve challenges through play their natural language.

    How CCPT helps:

    • Builds Emotional Resilience – Kids learn to process feelings (anger, fear, sadness) in a safe space.

    • Reduces Problem Behaviors – Tantrums, defiance, or withdrawal often stem from unmet emotional needs. CCPT addresses the root cause.

    • Strengthens Parent-Child Bonds – Parents receive guidance to support their child’s emotional growth at home.

    • Works Without Pressure – Unlike direct questioning, play therapy lets kids communicate at their own pace.

    For Teens:
    While younger kids use play, teens may engage in creative therapies (art, sand tray, role-play) to explore identity, anxiety, or social struggles in a low-pressure way.

  • No, I do not accept insurance. I operate as a cash/self-pay practice, and here’s why this can be beneficial for you:

    1. Confidentiality & Privacy – Insurance companies require a mental health diagnosis and treatment details, which becomes part of your permanent medical record. Self-pay ensures complete privacy.

    2. No Diagnosis Required - Insurance mandates a mental health diagnosis for coverage, which may not accurately reflect your needs. Self-pay allows therapy to focus on growth, not labels.

    3. No Session Limits – Insurance often restricts the number or length of sessions. With self-pay, I tailor treatment to your pace, not an insurer’s rules.

    4. Faster Access to Care – No waiting for approvals, denials, or bureaucratic delays. You can start healing immediately.

    5. Personalized Treatment – Insurance companies may dictate the type of therapy allowed. Self-pay ensures we use the best methods for you, like EMDR, without restrictions.

    6. No Risk of Denied Claims – Some insurers deny coverage after sessions, leaving clients with unexpected bills. Self-pay avoids this stress.

    While I don’t work directly with insurance, I can provide a superbill (a detailed receipt) for possible out-of-network reimbursement if your plan allows it.

    Questions to ask your insurance about of network benefits

    1. Do I have out-of-network (OON) mental/behavioral health coverage?

      • If yes, what percentage of my session fee is reimbursed?

      • Is there a fixed "allowed amount" per session, or is it based on a percentage (e.g., 70% of the "reasonable & customary" rate)?

    2. What is my out-of-network deductible?

      • How much must I pay OON before reimbursement begins?

      • Does my deductible reset annually?

    3. How do I submit claims for reimbursement?

      • Do I need pre-authorization for therapy sessions?

      • What paperwork is required (e.g., superbill, therapist’s license #, diagnosis code)?

    4. Are there session limits or restrictions?

      • Is there a cap on the number of sessions covered per year?

      • Are certain therapy types (e.g., EMDR, play therapy) excluded?

    5. What is the timeline for reimbursement?

      • How long does it typically take to process claims?

      • Will I receive a check or direct deposit?

    6. Does my plan cover telehealth/virtual therapy sessions OON?

      • Are there different rules for in-person vs. virtual care?

    Cancelation Policy

    A 24 hours notice is required if you need to cancel and/or reschedule. Providing less than 24 hours notice or no showing an appointment results in responsibility for full session fee.

    Fee will be charged on the day of the missed appointment. 

  • Good Faith Estimate:

    You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost.​

    Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.

    ●    You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
    ●    Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
    ●    If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
    ●    Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.

    For more information on your right to a Good Faith Estimate visit https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises  or call 800-985-3059