Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS ONLINE MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY?
Online mental health therapy (also known as telehealth or online mental health counseling) is the practice of psychotherapy via a videoconferencing platform. Sessions can occur while you are at home in your pajamas, on your lunch break, in your office, or sitting in your car (parked and not driving of course). All you need is a computer or smartphone, a good internet connection, and headphones for additional privacy. I use an easy, accessible and HIPAA compliant video platform meaning the session is just as confidential as if it were in person. More importantly, it removes barriers that can keep a person from seeking help. These include (but are not limited to):
· Transportation (including access, costs for transit and/or parking, vehicle dependability)
· Caregiver responsibilities (including eldercare, childcare, and partner care)
· Accessibility (including physical/mobility limitations, mental health limitations)
· Convenience (squeezing in a session during lunch hour and baby's nap)
· Weather (weather is either unpredictable and driving in it is no fun)
· Work/Life balance (asking for time off work can be difficult)
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?
I provide initial diagnostic evaluations to determine your mental health needs as well as individual psychotherapy to address the identified needs.
All services are provided via online video sessions/telemental health and available to residents of Virginia and Washington D.C.
Prior to your first appointment, I will email you my privacy policy, terms and conditions, and consent forms to review and sign. We cannot begin working together until these forms are complete. My scheduling system will send you a reminder of your appointment 24 hours in advance and the day of your appointment, you will receive a receipt of payment for the session.
IS THERAPY CONFIDENTIAL?
Confidentiality is one of the many priorities throughout our work together. The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without your written permission. A full copy of the Privacy Policy will be provided with intake paperwork.
Exceptions Include:
Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety.
ARE YOU ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS?
As of February 2023, I am fully booked and not taking on new clients. Please refer back to this website at a later date for updates on my availability.
DO YOU PROVIDE SERVICES OUTSIDE OF VIRGINIA?
I am currently licensed in Virginia and Washington D.C. and per social work board regulations, I can only provide services to clients that are physically in Virginia or Washington D.C.