frequently asked questions
What is the first step towards getting started?
I always offer a free, initial 20 minute consultation call to explore if we could be a good fit working together. This gives us a chance to talk briefly about what you’re looking for in therapy and gives me a better sense of your therapeutic needs. You’ll also have time to ask me any questions you have about my approach and how I work.
If after the initial consultation we both feel like we’d like to move forward, we’ll talk logistics and schedule our first appointment.
What will the first session be like?
In our first session, I’ll welcome you to my office space (or if we’re meeting virtually, help you orient to our virtual space!). We’ll spend most, if not all, of the session going over your history, more deeply exploring your intentions for therapy, and beginning to carve out some goals and ideas about where to go next.
It’s so normal to be nervous for a first session! Please bring anything you need to be comfortable. I do my best to keep my office a cozy, sensory-friendly space, fully stocked with tea, pillows, and other comfort items!
How long are sessions and how often will we meet?
Sessions are 55 minutes. In our first session, we’ll talk together about session frequency and find what feels best. I typically recommend beginning therapy on a weekly basis because I find that this helps us get to know each other and build some momentum. From there, people often choose to reduce frequency to every-other-week or monthly sessions.
How much will therapy cost?
My private-pay rate is $150 per session.
I accept the following insurance plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Health, and Cigna. Every insurance plan is different, but many have mental health benefits that help lower the cost of therapy. See my fees page to learn more about verifying insurance benefits.
What does “somatic therapy” mean?
Somatic therapy is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between the mind and the body. It involves using body awareness and physical sensations as a way to process emotions, trauma, and stress. In somatic work, I may guide you to pay attention to physical sensations in your body, as these can provide valuable insights into emotional experiences that may be stored in the body. This might involve movement, experiential exercises, and breathwork. I also consider education to be an important component of somatic therapy. I love teaching people about their nervous systems and really helping them learn the language of their bodies.
While somatics are a core component of my approach, I still deeply value words and language and find them to be a inextricable part of the therapeutic process. I meet clients where they are with their comfort levels with body-focused work and understand that it looks different for everyone.
What is your cancellation policy?
With the exception of illness and emergencies, I ask for 24 hours notice if you need to cancel an appointment. I charge a $75 cancellation fee for cancellations made without 24 hours notice.
Do you provide virtual therapy?
Yes! I am able to provide both in-person and virtual appointments. I provide virtual sessions using a secure, confidential Telehealth platform and am able to meet with people anywhere in the state of North Carolina.