Frequently Asked Questions

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I have a dual PhD in Clinical and Community Psychology and have completed extensive training in a variety of evidence-based therapies.

I work with individuals and couples from late adolescents to older adults.

I work effectively in counseling that is completed in brief time periods, as well as more in-depth treatment.  I typically recommend meeting once per week for at least 3-4 sessions until solid rapport and momentum have been built.  I strive to provide motivation and ideas for "homework" between appointments to foster the most efficient route possible.  At the same time, I am patient and understand that while it is my job to ask difficult questions or suggest possible treatment ideas, it is your job to decide if and/or how you would like to answer or proceed, and this needs to go at your pace.   

I am passionate about couples therapy. My approach focuses on addressing the relationship as the client. This means interaction patterns are explored so couples know where they are getting stuck and know where they can intervene. My focus is on healing and never blaming an individual. I am not the judge or jury; I am your relationship advocate/guardian. Couples typically find this therapy enables them to understand each other better, feel more compassion for one another, and feel their connection is deeper and more secure. 

Psychologists in Texas cannot prescribe medication, but we are trained to recognize when we should suggest to patients to pursue investigating this route.  There are many good psychiatrists in the area, and I welcome collaborating with them for your care.  I would be happy to provide you with some referrals.  I also welcome consulting with your family physician, if you prefer.  

Health insurance typically covers therapy services provided by a licensed psychologist if you qualify for a mental health diagnosis, such as major depression. If you would prefer not to have your diagnosis recorded in your insurance file or shared with the Medical Information Bureau, you may choose not to use your health insurance. 

Many of my patients find that they can get reimbursed for out-of-network services, and they use health savings or flexible spending accounts. I encourage you to check with your insurance provider for details about your out-of-network benefits.  I’m happy to provide a detailed invoice, called a "superbill," to help with your reimbursement process!

For many years, I accepted various insurance plans, but I’ve come to realize that this approach doesn’t align with the way I want to run my practice. I strive to create a focused and empathetic connection with each of my patients, which can be tough when dealing with low insurance reimbursement rates and all the paperwork involved. While I would love to offer the convenience of insurance, I truly believe that the quality of services I provide justifies the investment you make in your mental health.

I do not offer crisis services. If you struggle to manage your emotions without someone immediately available to you, are experiencing suicidality, or have significant difficulty completing daily life tasks, you will need a higher level of care than I can provide. 

If you or someone you know has begun the process of harming themselves, immediately call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.  

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide: contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, visit https://988lifeline.org/, or text "HOME" to 741741.