What happens at a free consult?
It's a free 20-minute video call to see if we're a good fit. Ask me anything about how I work. No paperwork and no pressure.
Why are sessions 53 minutes long?
Because therapy billing codes love a weird number. In billing land, 53 minutes is the magic threshold where a session officially counts as "an hour." Don't ask me who decided that. I assume it was a committee, and I assume they ran over time.
The other seven minutes go to writing notes, refilling my water, using the bathroom (all that water has to go somewhere), and staring thoughtfully at a wall. You get all 53. And yes, the clock is right there. I'm watching it so you don't have to.
Why is therapy so expensive?
It's a lot of money. Your $110 covers more than our 53 minutes together. It also pays for:
- Work I do for you outside of sessions: planning future sessions, writing treatment plans and progress notes, and researching to make sure I'm offering you the best care possible
- Clinical supervision while I work toward full licensure
- Licensing fees and continuing education
- Liability insurance
- A HIPAA-compliant records and telehealth platform
A therapist can only see so many people a week and still do good work, so those costs are split across fewer hours than people expect.
If cost is what's stopping you, tell me. I keep a limited number of sliding scale slots, I'm on Open Path, and insurance is available through Crescent Counseling. If none of those fit, I'll help you find a lower-cost option that does.
What does LLPC mean?
Limited Licensed Professional Counselor. It's the Michigan license for counselors who have completed a graduate counseling degree and are finishing supervised hours toward full licensure. I run our sessions, and a licensed supervisor consults on my work. My supervisor is bound by the same confidentiality rules I am.
Do I need a diagnosis?
Not for self-pay sessions. If you use insurance through Crescent Counseling, your insurance company requires a diagnosis on file, and it becomes part of your record with them. Self-pay keeps that between us.
For gender identity, I practice protective documentation. I don't diagnose gender dysphoria unless it's needed for a surgery letter.
Do you write letters for gender-affirming surgery?
For self-pay telehealth clients, I write letters of support for gender-affirming surgery after we've worked together for at least six months. That time lets me know you well enough to write a thorough, specific letter that holds up with surgeons. If you need a letter sooner, or you see me through Crescent Counseling, I keep a list of trusted therapists who write them after a single session, and I'm glad to connect you.
What's your cancellation policy?
Please give at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. No-shows and cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may be charged a $75 fee for self-pay clients. Exceptions apply for emergencies and illness, and charging the fee is at my discretion.
Two no-shows or late cancellations removes you from my recurring schedule, and four no-shows ends treatment. If we haven't met in over 30 days and the break wasn't planned, treatment ends. You're welcome to reach out if you'd like to start again.
Do you work with kids or teens?
No. I work with adults 18 and older.
Can I talk about embarrassing stuff in therapy?
Yes, please. Bodies, sex, the shocking amount of butt hair you've grown since starting testosterone, intrusive thoughts, the thing you've never told anyone. I've heard it, seen it, or experienced it myself, and I don't flinch or judge. You can also take your time and bring it up when you're ready.
Are you sex and kink positive?
Yes. Consensual sex and kink are welcome topics here. You won't have to explain or defend them, and we'll only focus on them if you want to.
Can I explore asexuality in therapy?
Absolutely. Whether you identify as asexual, somewhere on the ace spectrum, or you're still figuring it out, we can explore it with no pressure to land on a label. Asexuality is a valid orientation, and I won't treat it as something to fix.
Do you write ESA letters?
No. If you need an emotional support animal letter, I'm glad to refer you to clinicians who write them.
Do I have to like video games?
Nope. Game-informed work is one tool among many. If games aren't your thing, we'll use the stories, hobbies, and language that fit you.
Can you diagnose autism or ADHD?
I don't provide autism or ADHD assessments. I work with you whether you're formally diagnosed, self-identified, or still wondering, and I can refer you to providers who do assessments.
What if I need help between sessions?
I'm not available for emergencies. If you're in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911. For scheduling questions, email or text me.