Frequently Asked Questions

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How will I know if this is the right place for me?

The only way to know for sure is to come in for a session.  If you feel that we are not a good fit, that is OKAY!  As therapists, we understand that we may not be everyone’s cup of tea.  We will gladly assist in finding another therapist they may be a better fit for you. 

Do you provide in-person or online counseling?

We currently providing both in-person and online counseling.  

Is online counseling right for me?

Although there are many advantages of online counseling (it’s convenient, effective, keeps us safe from infectious diseases such as COVID-19), it’s not right for everyone. Online counseling (teletherapy) works best for those with mild symptoms (not people who are suicidal or in crisis), are comfortable using technology, and have a quiet, private place to have their sessions.

Who do you work with?

We provide counseling for adults who reside in Florida, who have been affected by traumatic life events. These individuals may suffer from PTSD, depression, anxiety, anger issues, grief, and substance abuse.  We also specialize in the actively serving military, veterans, and first responder populations. 

Isn’t it better for me to solve my own problems?

We won’t solve your problems for you. Rather, we will help you clarify issues so you can solve problems on your own with our guidance, support, and expertise. The goal of therapy is to make you more self-sufficient, not more dependent.

What can I expect from therapy?

Once you have made a decision to see a therapist, you still might be apprehensive about the process. Many people feel nervous before their first appointment. Therapy is a shared journey; a shared process. And, although we will work together, it is ultimately your journey and you will make your own decisions on how the treatment is done.  

What happens during the first session?

The initial session may seem like an interview.  During this time, we may ask you to share your story, talk about your goals and expectations, and gather important information for treatment planning purposes. Another important aspect of the first session is deciding if we are a good fit.  Is your therapist someone you feel comfortable working with?  The therapeutic relationship that is established will be the building blocks for healing.  We believe it is the most fundamental part of the process.  

How long do appointments last?

The initial intake/first session will be a 60-minute session. After the initial session, your therapist may recommend weekly 45-minute, 60-minute, or 75-minute sessions depending on your goals and type of therapy being done.  

How often will we meet?

Typically, we will meet with you once a week, however, if needed, we can meet twice a week or every other week.

Do you accept insurance?

We are not currently accepting insurance. However, we operate as out-of-network providers for various insurance plans. In this arrangement, clients directly pay the full fee to us. We then furnish a comprehensive statement containing all the necessary information for insurance companies to process your reimbursement request. If your insurance provider requires any specific forms to be completed, kindly provide them to us, as it will streamline the process.

To ensure we provide you with the precise documentation you need, it's helpful for you to be aware of your insurance company's requirements. Reimbursement amounts hinge on your insurance plan and its coverage level. We recommend reaching out to your insurance provider to inquire about their policies regarding out-of-network mental health services and the corresponding reimbursement rates. For a detailed comparison between self-pay and insurance, please click here.

What is your rate?

• Phone Consultation (15 minutes): 
  •  Free 
• Initial Intake Session: 
  •  $175 (60 minute session) 
• Individual Sessions:
  •  $150 (45 minute session)
  •  $175 (60 minute session)
  •  $215 (extended 75 minute session)              
• EMDR Intensives (in-person and weekends only):
  •  $750 (Half Day, 3 hours)  
  •  $1500 (Full Day, 6 hours)

What is your cancellation policy?

We require 24 hours notice of cancellation or you will need to pay for the appointment. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. It’s important that we meet consistently in order for you to make progress.

What theoretical approach do you use?

We take a holistic approach as we believe that without complete balance within ourselves, we can never have complete balance outside of ourselves. However, we pull from a variety of theories and techniques.

Do you prescribe medication?

No, we currently do not have a medical practitioner on staff and we cannot prescribe medications. If you are interested in being prescribed medications, we can offer referrals to local psychiatrists.

Who do you not work with?  

We do not conduct child custody evaluations nor do we provide custody recommendations.  We also don’t provide treatment for eating disorders, or psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, etc).  Due to state licensing laws, we can only provide therapy and counseling to individuals in Florida.

Is it necessary to tell my therapist all the details about my problems in order for them to be processed?

No, it is not necessary to talk about all the details of your experiences for them to be processed.

Will I get emotional?

Yes, you may. Emotions and sensations may come up during processing; although, you will be prepared and your therapist will help you safely manage them. Once they are processed, they rarely come back!

Is EMDR like hypnosis?

They are similar in that they both can unlock the subconscious, however they use completely different methods to achieve this.

Is EMDR a brief treatment?

EMDR, as with all treatment approaches, will help you accomplish your treatment goals.  The length of time that it takes is dependent upon the complexity of your problems.

For more information on EMDR, please visit our EMDR page here.

Do I have to live in Florida to become an Intensive client?

No, you do not have to reside in Florida, however you must be present in-person in-office in order to receive intensive treatment.  

• Half-day and Full-day Intensives (in-person and weekends only) = $750 half-day $1,500 full-day (6-hours of therapy per day) 
• A non-refundable 50% deposit will be required to confirm your appointment times.
• The remaining 50% will be paid on the first day of the EMDR Intensive.
• We are happy to provide a receipt for services if you’d like to submit an out-of-network claim to your insurance provider.

Where do Intensives take place? 

Sessions take place in our clinician's office in Bradenton, FL. 

What is included in an Intensive?

Each experience is highly personalized based upon your strengths and challenges, but generally includes:

• A comfortable, safe environment to engage in the work.
• Tea, water, and snacks to support you during the day.
• Ample breaks for your comfort.
• Walks outdoors.
• Experiential exercises to embody what is being learned.
• A free consultation appointment to determine if intensives are the best form of therapy for your needs. This also gives you a chance to ask me questions and sense if you think intensives are a good match for you.
• A follow-up appointment to support your growth and assess any future needs.

How long do Intensives take? 

Full day intensives (in-person) take between 1-3 days. Typically, sessions will begin around 9:30AM and last until about 5:00PM, with several breaks in between (a total of 6 hours of therapy throughout the day). Intensives are individualized different for various needs of the client. Half-day sessions (3 hours) are available to clients who are already working on trauma weekly using EMDR, and wish to have longer sessions. 

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How do I schedule an Intensive?

First, schedule a free 45-minute telehealth consultation. Consultations are NOT therapy - they are an exploration to see if an intensive is a good fit for you. Once determined if you will be a good fit, the clinician will schedule you for your intensive session/s.  

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How do I prepare for an Intensive? 

Prior to your intensive, you will receive a packet to fill out to help you prepare. Treat the days surrounding intensive sessions like a personal retreat. This is a time for you to really focus on healing yourself. Schedule activities you enjoy around your sessions such as massages, yoga, and hiking. 

What is GEMDR?

Utilizes the 8 phase, 3-pronged EMDR approach in a group setting.  

Do I have to share my trauma with others in the group?

No! The great thing about EMDR is that you do not have to verbalize any details about your trauma.  At no point are GEMDR members required, asked, or encouraged to discuss any details of their traumatic episode with others in the group.

What is the advantage of group EMDR vs individual EMDR sessions with a therapist?

Performing EMDR in a group setting allows the therapist to treat more clients who have similar experiences. The group setting also helps to normalize the reactions that clients may experience. Groups often build trust and become a source of support for clients.  

What should I expect during GEMDR?

The first session will consist of creating and accessing positive resources to help learn and practice stabilization skills. The next session will consist of targeting traumatic incidents that you would like to process and determining the negative cognition that effects you due to those past experiences. The following sessions consist of bi-lateral stimulation, which is done by tapping your legs or arms. The technique will be demonstrated by the clinician. Your therapist will guide you through repeated sets while you think of the incident and negative cognition and occasionally reporting your level of distress from 0-10.  Each group will end with a grounding exercise and discussion of overall experience with other group members.