Starting therapy is a courageous and meaningful step. It’s natural to feel a mix of curiosity and uncertainty if this is your first time. My goal is to create a welcoming, supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered as we work toward your goals.

In therapy, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, identify patterns, and develop tools to support your growth and well-being. Therapy is a collaborative process, and your input is essential in shaping our work together.

Here’s what you can expect when beginning therapy with me:

Step 1: Schedule a Free Consultation
Before scheduling new client appointments, I require a free 15-minute consultation call. This initial conversation is an important step to ensure that my approach aligns with your needs and goals. During the call, we’ll discuss what brings you to therapy, explore how I can support you, and determine if working together feels like the right fit.

Step 2: Arrange Your Intake Session
If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a 90-minute intake session. During this time, you’ll also be set up in my electronic health records system, SimplePractice, which serves as your portal for scheduling, documentation, and communication. If you’re using insurance, you’ll need to create an account with Headway for billing purposes. Headway handles all claims and processes any copays or deductibles required by your insurance provider.

Step 3: Complete Intake Forms
Before the intake session, you’ll receive intake forms via SimplePractice to complete. These forms include a comprehensive questionnaire and important policies to review. Completing these forms at least 24 hours before your session ensures a smooth intake process. If the forms are not submitted on time, we’ll need to reschedule your intake session, which could delay your start.

Step 4: Attend Your Intake Session
The intake session is our first full meeting, lasting 90 minutes. During this session, we’ll explore your experiences, discuss the reasons you’re seeking therapy, identify your goals, and address any questions or concerns you may have. This session will help me gain a deeper understanding of your needs and set the stage for our work together.

Step 5: Plan Your Therapy Journey
Following the intake session, we’ll determine the frequency of your sessions based on your goals, availability, and financial considerations. Whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, we’ll work together to create a plan that feels right for you.

Your Tools: SimplePractice and Headway

• SimplePractice: This platform manages your scheduling, telemedicine sessions, and intake forms. It’s where you’ll review documents, and manage out-of-pocket payments.

• Headway: If you’re using insurance, Headway handles billing and claims. They process your copays or deductibles and ensure everything runs smoothly with your insurance provider.

Starting therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown, but it’s also a powerful act of hope. If you’re ready to take this step, I’m here to guide and support you with compassion and professionalism every step of the way. Let’s work together to create the life you envision.

I currently exclusively offer telemedicine sessions through my private practice. Virtual therapy offers flexibility, accessibility, and convenience, enabling clients to receive high-quality care from the comfort of their own space.

While some individuals prefer in-person sessions, telemedicine allows me to support clients across Florida without geographical limitations. If you have any concerns or questions about virtual therapy, I’d be happy to discuss how it works. All online sessions are conducted through a secure, confidential, HIPAA-compliant video platform.

To participate in telehealth sessions, you’ll need:

• Technology Access: A computer with audio and camera capabilities and high-speed internet. Alternatively, you can use your smartphone with SimplePractice’s HIPAA-compliant app to attend sessions.

• Session Link: Before each session, a unique and secure link will be sent to your preferred email.

Creating a Private and Distraction-Free Environment
Given the sensitive nature of therapy, it’s essential to join sessions from a quiet space with minimal distractions and interruptions. This helps ensure your privacy and allows us to focus on your therapeutic goals effectively.

For more information about telehealth and its best practices, visit this resource: Telehealth FAQs for Clients.

When the weather is nice, you may prefer to conduct your telehealth session outdoors—whether walking, meeting in your car, or sitting on a park bench or patio. While this is an option, I am only in agreement to facilitate these sessions when you are in a private, quiet setting, free from significant interruptions that could impact the quality of the therapy session.

Important Considerations:

• Privacy and Confidentiality: Outdoor sessions should be conducted in a setting where you are alone, such as a private patio, parked car, or secluded area. Public spaces, such as parks or other populated locations, may compromise confidentiality and are not recommended.

• No Driving During Sessions: For your safety and the integrity of our work together, I do not facilitate therapy sessions while you are driving. Driving during therapy poses risks and creates distractions that interfere with the quality and focus of the session.

• Environmental Distractions: Outdoor settings may include noise, connectivity challenges, or other environmental factors that could disrupt the session. Please ensure that your chosen location is as distraction-free as possible.

Acknowledging Risks:
By choosing to have your session outdoors, you acknowledge and accept the potential risks to confidentiality and session quality.

If you have questions or need guidance about conducting outdoor telehealth sessions, please feel free to ask for clarification. My goal is to ensure that our work together remains effective, safe, and private, regardless of the setting.