What is therapy?

Therapy, also known as counseling or psychotherapy, is a collaborative process between a trained therapist and a client, aimed at improving mental health and well-being. It involves exploring thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

Therapy can address a wide range of issues, including but not limited to:

1. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety

2. Life transitions and adjustments.

3. Motherhood, fatherhood, pregnancy, or fertility concerns.

4. Relationship problems.

5. Self-esteem and self-confidence.

6. Grief and loss.

7. Stress management.

8. Personal growth and development.

9. Trauma and PTSD.

Therapists utilize various therapeutic approaches and techniques tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the client(s). These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and more.

Overall, therapy provides a confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, gain insight into their behaviors and patterns, learn coping strategies, and work towards positive changes in their lives.

Do you accept insurance?

We do not bill insurance because we believe that you should dictate how you handle your mental health. Insurance companies mandate a diagnosis, oversee your health records and may limit your number of therapy sessions regardless of what you are going through.

​We do accept payment in the forms of cash or card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) as well as some HSA and FSA benefits. 

**Finances should not affect your ability to get the help you need; therefore, I do offer a limited number of discounted sessions. Please contact me for availability. 

Are your sessions in person or virtual?

Currently, all sessions are held virtually.

What do I need to do before my first therapy session?

1. All paperwork must be completed before your appointment.

2. Your session fee must be paid at least 24 hours before your session.

   Both tasks are completed in the client portal.

What should I expect from my first therapy session?

Your first therapy session, also known as an intake session, is an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other and begin building a therapeutic relationship. Here's what you can generally expect:

1. Introduction: Your therapist will greet you and provide an overview of the session structure and confidentiality policies.

2. Assessment: Your therapist will likely ask you questions about your reasons for seeking therapy, your current symptoms or concerns, relevant personal history, and your goals for therapy. This information helps the therapist understand your unique situation and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

3. Discussion: You'll have the chance to talk about what's been going on in your life, any challenges you're facing, and how you're feeling. Your therapist may ask open-ended questions to encourage exploration and understanding.

4. Collaboration: Therapy is a collaborative process, so your therapist may ask for your input on what you hope to achieve in therapy and what approaches or techniques you're comfortable with.

5. Questions and Clarifications: Feel free to ask any questions you have about the therapy process, your therapist's approach, or anything else that's on your mind.

6. Next Steps: Towards the end of the session, your therapist may provide some initial insights or feedback, discuss potential treatment frequency, and schedule your next appointment if you decide to continue therapy.

Remember that the first session is primarily about building rapport and gathering information, so try to be open and honest with your therapist. It's normal to feel nervous or unsure at first, but your therapist is there to support you every step of the way.

Do I need to schedule a consultation?

Phone consultations are optional, but many clients find them beneficial. These consultations are brief (15 minutes) and provide you with the opportunity to:

1. Provide a brief overview of your current situation.

2. Connect directly with me to see if there's a good therapeutic fit.

3. Ask any questions you may have and determine if you'd like to proceed.

Following the phone consultation, if it seems appropriate to move forward for both parties, we'll work together to schedule your first session as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you decide you do not desire a consultation, feel free to email andrea@therapywithandrea.com to skip this step and schedule your first session.

Who do you work with?

I primarily work with adults who are actively involved in or interested in starting their journey of self-development and personal mastery with a focus on healing, peace, wholeness, and empowerment.

While I serve a diverse range of clients, I specialize lies in catering to established and emerging working professionals. This includes individuals such as leaders, entrepreneurs, business professionals, educators, career climbers, artists, and creatives. Please note that I do not currently offer services for adolescents or teens.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential. Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the counseling relationship and is protected by law and professional ethics. This means that the information you share with your therapist is kept private and will not be disclosed to anyone without your consent, except in certain legal or ethical situations where there may be concerns about harm to yourself or others.

How long will therapy continue?

The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on individual needs, goals, and progress. Some people may find relief and achieve their goals in a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term therapy lasting several months or even years. Ultimately, the decision to end therapy is typically a collaborative one between you and your therapist, based on your goals, progress, and satisfaction with the therapeutic process. It's important to communicate openly with your therapist about your needs and preferences regarding the duration of therapy.

How often will I meet with my counselor?

The frequency of counseling sessions varies depending on several factors, including your individual needs, budget, goals, and the recommendation of your therapist. Typically, sessions occur on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.