Confidentiality & Privacy

Is therapy confidential?

Yes. Everything you share is confidential within legal and ethical limits. I'm bound by HIPAA and state mental health privacy laws.

The only times I'm required to break confidentiality:

• You're at risk of harming yourself or others

• There's suspected child abuse or abuse of a vulnerable adult

• A court orders records (extremely rare)

Otherwise, what you say stays between us. I don't share with your employer, family, friends, or anyone—unless you give permission.

Will you contact my employer/department/insurance?

No. I don't report to anyone. Your employer won't know you're in therapy. I don't send reports to insurance other than the claim for services.

Exception: If you're a first responder seeking EAP through your department, I'll let you know that I'm not affiliated with EAP and won't report back.

What if I have a court case or legal issue?

If therapy information is subpoenaed by a court, I'm legally required to provide records. We can discuss this if it comes up. For now: come honestly, work toward your goals, and know that what you share is protected unless the law requires otherwise.

How do you keep my information secure?

• Sessions are on HIPAA-compliant platform (encrypted, secure)

• Client records are kept digitally with password protection

• I don't use public WiFi to access records

• Records are stored securely for minimum legally required time, then deleted

• I don't save session recordings without permission

Questions About Therapy Itself

What if I'm not sure therapy is right for me?

Come for one session. If therapy isn't helpful, I'll tell you. But most people find value in talking to someone trained to listen deeply and offer perspective. One conversation often clarifies whether it's worth continuing.

What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?

This happens. Maybe the therapist didn't fit. Maybe the approach wasn't right. Maybe you weren't ready. Different therapists have different styles—I'm structured, practical, and results-focused. You might find this works better.

Will you tell me what to do?

I'll offer perspective, insight, and strategic guidance. I won't tell you "leave your partner" or "quit your job." Those are your decisions. But I'll help you think them through clearly and make the choice that's right for you.

What if I disagree with you?

Good. Disagree. Challenge me. If something doesn't land, speak up. Therapy is collaborative. If you think a different approach would work better, let's adjust.

How long will I need therapy?

It depends on what you're working on and how quickly you apply insights to real life. Some people come for 4-6 sessions to get through a rough patch. Others stay 3-6 months to address deeper patterns. We check in regularly about progress and adjust as needed.

What if I can't afford ongoing therapy?

We can space sessions out (biweekly instead of weekly). We can focus on getting you tools you can use independently. We can explore sliding-scale options. Or we can wrap up once you have what you need. Your progress matters more than making money off you.

Session-Specific Questions

What should I wear?

Whatever makes you comfortable. You're on video from the waist up (usually). Wear what you'd normally wear. This is about you being yourself, not performing.

Can I take notes during the session?

Absolutely. Some clients record insights they want to remember. Others prefer to just listen. Do whatever helps you.

What if I get emotional?

That's what therapy is for. Crying is normal. Anger, frustration, grief—all normal. You're in a safe space to feel and process. I won't judge you. Bring tissues if you need them.

Can I reschedule if something comes up?

Yes. Life happens. We can reschedule with 24 hours notice. Just let me know as soon as you know.

What if I need to miss a session?

Let me know ASAP if you can't make it. Cancellations with 24+ hours notice aren’t charged. Last-minute cancellations (less than 24 hours) are charged as a session fee. No-shows are charged as a session fee.

Can I text you between sessions?

I don't offer text support between sessions. But if something urgent comes up, you can call the emergency number I'll provide. For non-emergencies, we handle things in session.

First Responder-Specific Questions

Is this affiliated with my department/EAP?

No. I'm a completely independent, private therapist. Not affiliated with any police, fire, or emergency management agency. Your department won't know you're here.

What's the difference between this and EAP?

EAP (Employee Assistance Programs) usually offers 3-6 sessions max and is tied to your employer. I offer ongoing support as long as you need it, complete confidentiality from your department, and specialization in first responder mental health.

What if I'm concerned about confidentiality?

Your information is completely protected. I won't contact your department, employer, or anyone. The only exception is if you're at imminent risk of harming yourself or others—then I'm legally required to notify emergency services.

What if something I share could affect my job?

Therapy is confidential. Unless you tell me you're going to do something illegal or unsafe at work, what you say is protected. I can't be required to report your therapy content to your employer.

Scheduling & Logistics

What hours do you offer?

• Tuesday: 9am - 6pm

• Wednesday: 9am - 4pm

• Thursday: 9am - 6pm

• Friday: 8am - 12pm

I offer flexibility around shift work and irregular schedules. If these times don't work, ask—I'll try to accommodate.

How far in advance do I need to book?

New clients: 1-2 weeks typically for first appointment, depending on current availability. Existing clients: usually can book 2-4 weeks out.

What's your cancellation policy again?

• 24+ hours notice: No charge

• Less than 24 hours: Session fee charged

• No-show: Session fee charged

Insurance & Payment Questions

Do I pay you or my insurance?

For out of network benefits, you pay me. I send you a receipt. You submit to your insurance for reimbursement (if out-of-network). Insurance may reimburse you 50-80% depending on your plan.

If I accept your insurance plan, your co-pay or deductible will be charged at the time of the session and you won’t have to do anything else! Not sure if you have a deductible or out of pocket costs to meet? Call your provider and ask for an EOB (Explanation of Benefits)

What if my insurance denies the claim?

That's between you and your insurance. I'll provide the documentation you need to appeal. Insurance denials are usually about technicalities, not your actual coverage—most appeals succeed.

Can I use my HSA/FSA to pay?

Yes. Both HSA and FSA cards work for therapy. You'll get a receipt you can submit for reimbursement.

What if I want to pay out-of-pocket instead of using insurance?

You can. Many clients do this for privacy or simplicity. Just let me know, and we'll skip the insurance documentation process.

Do you offer payment plans?

For ongoing therapy, we can discuss payment arrangements if cost is a barrier. Sliding scale or monthly payment plans are possible.

Couples-Specific Questions

What if my partner doesn't want to come?

Start with individual therapy. Often, when one partner shifts, the other becomes more willing. I'll help you navigate that conversation. Couples therapy works best when both people are motivated, but we can start where you are.

Do you see us together or separately?

Both. I typically start with joint sessions to understand your dynamic, then alternate between joint and individual sessions so I understand each person's perspective while addressing the relationship as a whole.

What if one of us isn't being honest?

I'll notice. If I sense deception that's affecting the work, I'll bring it up. Sometimes couples come to therapy while hiding major things—affairs, addiction, financial secrets. Those usually come out. Honesty helps; secrets undermine progress.

What if we decide to separate?

Therapy can help you separate with dignity, clarity, and minimal damage. You'll have tools to co-parent respectfully, navigate logistics compassionately, and move forward without ongoing conflict.

How many couples stay together after therapy?

Most do. But some realize they need to separate. Both outcomes are valid. My goal is to help you make that decision clearly, not to "save" your relationship at all costs.

Can you see both of us as individual therapists after couples therapy?

No. Once we've done couples work, I can't ethically see both of you separately—I'd have information from each person that affects how I work with the other. I can refer one of you to a colleague if you both need individual therapy.

What happens in the first couples session?

I'll ask about your relationship history, current challenges, and what you each want to change. You'll leave with at least one practical tool you can use immediately—not weeks from now.