There are lots. For some, they want help managing symptoms of mental health distress. This could include depressive or anxious thoughts, anxiety attacks, low self-esteem, or even more acute presentations including paranoia, hallucinations, self harm, or suicidal or homicidal ideations. These individuals tend to utilize therapy as a regular part of their wellness routine. For others, their desire for therapy is focused on a more short term need. Often times this involves grief, life transition, a specific conflict, or anything else that is causing present distress. Some of these individuals and/or relationships decide to leave therapy once their initial goal is complete, while others continue on for further exploration. There are also those who utilize therapy as a way of exploring themselves more- to get a better understanding of who they are and how their brain works. Often times these individuals are dissatisfied with one or more aspects of their life and seek to gain more peace and a greater sense of self. A commonality among all my clients is a commitment to themselves, a desire to improve in a way that is meaningful and authentic.

Every instance is different, but the short answer is you'll be in therapy as long as you've got work to do and a desire to do it. As the therapist, it is my job to help you identify and reach your goals, however, sometimes those goals change, which can extend or reduce our relationship. When asked I may offer recommendations or estimates for treatment length, but as the client you make the ultimate decision around this.

Frequency of service varies on a case by case basis. When first getting started, most clients chose to meet weekly, though some prefer every other week. At the start of the relationship it is essential to meet with consistency to develop rapport and identify goals. Once we get in the groove, we can play around with session frequency and adjust them to meet your needs.

As an LCSW medication management is outside of my scope of practice. I am happy to offer referrals to medication providers for any clients who are interested. For clients who currently see a medication provider I always encourage them to give permission for the provider and I to coordinate care.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker. This is the licensure required in the state of Tennessee for a social worker to independently provider psychotherapy services.

Crucial to offering competent and ethical therapy services is the utilization of evidence based frameworks and interventions with a clear goal related to treating mental health distress. Essentially, I'm not just shooting from the hip, or giving you advice, or even making you feel better. Rather, I am intentionally employing methods and techniques in which I have been trained in order to help you achieve your goals. Personally, I love talking shop and am always willing to explain the rationale behind my engagement in session for those interested. Click here to learn more about the modalities I utilize.

Consulting, on the other hand, takes a much different approach. Unlike therapy, there are no legal requirements or trainings that are mandatory to provide consultation services. Rather than treating mental health concern, the focus tends to be more solution oriented. A major difference here is that in therapy I help you develop your own view of a given situation; in consulting I often give my opinions and suggestions directly, in many cases this is the reason for the relationship in the first place. As consulting does not require evidence based frameworks, we can be very creative in designing a plan that makes the most sense for you and your needs. Of note: I am licensed to provide psychotherapy services to individuals in Tennessee only. Consulting services are available to anyone regardless of location.

I do not work with insurance. There are many reasons for this, but primarily it is based around maintaining confidentiality and the ability to pursue treatment in the way I deem most appropriate. When working with an insurance company, clients are required to receive a diagnosis after the first appointment, as well as meet often arbitrary standards of progress that detract from the actual goals.

In the event your insurance plan offers out of network mental health benefits, I am more than happy to provide all documentation required so you are reimbursed appropriately. For those with financial barriers, I offer a sliding scale service ranging from $50-175 session based on availability and an individual's situation. I am always willing to have a conversation if finances are the primary obstacle in receiving care.

I do not determine if I will work with someone solely based on diagnosis. Every potential client is able to have a free consultation to determine if we are a good fit. In some cases, during treatment a need arises for a more specific approach to address symptoms that is outside of my scope of practice. When this happens, I work with the client on securing a more appropriate resource.

I primarily work with adult individuals. I do work with older adolescents on a case by case basis.

No. While I work with many clients on issues of spiritual and/or religious integrity, my approach is not rooted in any faith tradition. I see clients from multiple faith traditions and many with no faith tradition at all. Even in instances where a client is working through an issue of faith, I emphasize that my job is not one of a religious leader/advisor- rather, I help the client find their own sense of truth.