True North Counseling and Consulting
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FAQs

What can I expect during the first session?
Meeting with a new therapist can be uncomfortable for many people, so my first priority is to put you at ease. During the initial consultation session, we will get to know each other, discuss the reason(s) you’re seeking counseling and what you hope to gain from the experience, and review your Client Intake Questionnaire. You will have a chance to ask any questions you may have about me, my practice, the counseling process, and our time together. We will also determine how frequently we will meet and other logistics.

Is there any paperwork I need to complete?
Yes, there are three forms I ask my clients to complete before our initial session.

Do you accept health insurance?
I do not accept insurance. I strongly believe that counseling should remain as confidential as possible and that I should do everything I can to protect your private information. When you file a medical claim through your insurance, your confidential records are partially exposed to your insurance company and the people who work there. However, I am happy to provide you with a receipt that you may submit to your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement, should you choose to do so. I also accept Health Savings/Flexible Spending Account debit cards. Please see the Investment section of my website for more information.

How much does each sessions cost?
The initial session costs $150. Each additional session is $120.

Do you offer a sliding scale or discounts for someone who can’t afford the session fees?
Yes, I offer a discount on the 50-minute sessions for clients who are 65 and older, active or veteran military personnel, and active or veteran first responders. I am also a registered therapist with Open Path, a non-profit organization that helps people find low-cost mental health care. Please visit www.openpathcollective.org for more information.

What are your office hours?
I prefer to maintain flexible hours in order to cater to my clients’ needs. I offer day, evening, and weekend appointments. Please note: I am currently only working Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Do you offer online/virtual sessions?
Yes, I do offer virtual therapy sessions. However, whenever possible, I recommend in-person sessions. I strongly believe that in-person therapy is most effective, as it allows me to learn and read your individual non-verbal cues that online sessions don’t always allow. I strive to maintain a personal, energy-driven connection with each of my clients and eliminate any external barriers to that connection.

Is your office in compliance with the CDC public health crisis guidelines for in-person sessions?
Yes, my office is social-distancing compliant, where we will sit 6 feet apart from one another, I clean/sanitize thoroughly before/after each session, and I have hand sanitizer available. Should we agree to meet for in-person sessions, you will complete a COVID-19 Informed Consent Form, which will outline all of the necessary precautions we will take to ensure everyone’s safety to the best of our ability.

What happens if I have to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
I understand that sickness and emergencies arise, therefore I offer a very lenient, 4-hour cancellation policy. However, if you cancel your appointment within 4 hours of your appointment or do not show up without notice, you will be charged a “No-Show/Late Cancellation Fee.”

Do you work with other therapists?
My office is located in a suite that houses myself and three other mental health therapists, where we share office expenses such as rent and utilities. However, we each have our own individual practices and work independently from one another. I also have an extensive professional network, should you need a referral.

Why did you choose to work independently and not for an agency?
I prefer to be involved in all aspects of the counseling process in order to provide each of my clients with customized, personal care and maintain the most confidential environment possible. At larger agencies, there are often administrative assistants who handle reception, scheduling, billing, etc. with whom you need to speak about your case. I want my clients to feel comfortable in knowing that they will not have to speak to anyone but me about their care, and their private information will never be shared with anyone else.
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