Frequently Asked Questions

Virtual.

Early mornings 7-9 am and 5–7 pm; Saturdays.

45–60 min.

We communicate on the Spruce Health App/Platform, which is HIPAA compliant.

First, download the Spruce Health app (blue), which is free, and you will receive my invitation once I have your contact details.

$100–$150.

Zelle or Venmo.

No.

Yes, with 24-hour notice.

I spend 20 minutes listening to why you are reaching out at this time and your most pressing challenge. I explain general details of how therapy works and my approach. I always normalize and provide hope and encouragement that processing through the challenge can help you gain more awareness and clarity first, and also that your challenge is something you can learn skills to gain more control over.

About 21–70. Mostly 25–50.

Tell your story, tell why you reached out for help. I will listen and ask questions to understand more.

Clarify your goals.

I may offer insight and some initial coping skills/skills.

Clients usually say they feel better after a session. They have more clarity and decreased anxiety. That is because I provide empathy and validation and normalize that they are not the only people going through these challenges, and it makes sense that if they are dealing with a difficult parent/boss/partner, for example, of course they would be a little anxious.

They also understand anxiety more and that it has a purpose (it’s not all bad), which helps to lessen the anxiety. They also become more clear and can identify more of what is at the heart of their anxiety/depression because of the questions I ask and the client then being able to talk through it. They feel more in control also because we work on skills to set boundaries or skills to manage anxiety.

Depends. Some people just need a few sessions and they get enough tools. Others, depending on the challenge and the level of conflict (not knowing what to do or how they feel), may need longer. Sessions are mostly weekly, but it really is all individual based on your needs.

Yes. Emotion is positive. It means you are at the core of what is challenging you. It means you are being vulnerable, and this is where progress happens.

No. It is up to you what you feel comfortable sharing; however, when a person is vulnerable then clarity, growth, and movement toward goals happen.

Video.

A consultation can help clarify that. You should feel comfortable and supported and feel like you can be yourself and share your story. If you like a little direction, meaning I provide some education on depression and anxiety and relationships for more understanding, I also provide skills to use for anxiety/depression/relationships and help clients set the right goals for themselves and provide a supportive, positive, challenging environment to help them move forward.

Not at all. In fact, people who go to therapy are people who desire something more for themselves. They know something may not feel right but they do not know exactly what it is and first just need a little help clarifying it. And they know they want something more but just don’t know HOW to get there. I can help them set goals and action steps to get there.

Your family and friends tell you what to do and give advice. I listen, ask questions to help you clarify what you need, and coach you to come up with what is best for you. It gives you more confidence and is more empowering to propel you forward.

No.

Yes.

Since 2016 a licensed counselor, but a professional coach since 2010

Empathetic, provide hope and encouragement, positive, good at helping get to a core issue. Good at setting the right goals and strategies. I have a lot of anxiety/depression skills and tools.

I help people, see them progress and grow, and achieve their goals.

Yes.

Bachelors Physical Therapy, Univ. Illinois Chicago

Masters in Physical Therapy, Univ. Indianapolis

Wellcoaches – Health and Wellness Coach

Life Coach Certification

Fairfield University – Mental Health Counseling

No.

A psychiatrist is an MD and prescribes meds.

A psychotherapist helps through talk therapy, etc.

Yes.

Some, but not during session usually.