Frequently Asked Questions
We are taking a break from your regularly scheduled programming today to answer some logistical questions that come up often about my practice, policies, and treatment strategies. If you have questions that haven’t been covered here, please don’t hesitate to email me and let me know!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if counseling is right for my child?
I am a firm believer that everyone can benefit from counseling or therapy of some kind. Sometimes targeted, short-term treatment is most helpful, while others benefit from long-term support to address trauma or other complex concerns. If you are unsure based on your child and family’s specific needs, a quick consultation will help us determine together if what I offer is the best fit for you, or if there are other types of treatment that would be more ideal.
What can I expect from counseling?
A holistic approach to the family system is the cornerstone of my practice. This means that even though the presenting concerns might be child behavioral issues, it’s important to me to work with the child individually, the child and caregiver(s) together, and to provide targeted support to the caregiver(s) as well. We will start with an intake session and decide together what the best mix of treatment approaches is for your family.
How long will my child need counseling?
It depends! Therapy is a collaborative process, so we will establish treatment goals together and check in regularly on how things are progressing. Sometimes goals are achieved in just a few months, and sometimes we need a longer time frame to meet your needs.
What types of insurance do you take?
I am an out-of-network provider, which means I do not take insurance. This is a choice that I made because of the nature of my practice, and my ethical concerns with involving insurance companies in treatment. Insurance companies require that I give a “reimbursable” diagnosis in the first session, and with the types of complex issues I treat, there often isn’t an appropriate match in the DSM-V.
Also, issues with family cohesion or attachment, or support around things like parenting challenges and strategies are usually not covered by insurance. Insurance companies can also request access to your confidential records whenever they like, which impacts your/your child’s privacy. Being an out-of-network provider allows me the freedom to provide you with the most customized and targeted care possible.
For those clients who choose to use their out-of-network benefits, I am able to provide a “superbill” which you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. I also can accept HSA/FSA account funds if allowed by your plan. Cash, check, and credit/debit card are all okay methods of payment!
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes! Virtual appointments can be used in many cases when life gets in the way of coming to my office, or if you reside outside of the Roanoke Valley. I am licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of Virginia, so even you don’t live in Roanoke, we can make it work! I use a secure, encrypted system that allows me to protect your privacy while we meet virtually.
What is your specialization?
My niche is working with adoptive children and their families, especially those of elementary and preschool age. Whether dealing with past trauma, attachment issues, disruptive behaviors, or lack of connection within the family system, I can help you address many different needs and to build cohesion and harmony as a family.
What types of therapy do you use?
I use a mixture of Child-Centered Play Therapy (me + the child), Theraplay (me + the caregiver + the child), and Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (me + the caregiver(s) AND the caregiver(s) + the child). These are all evidence-based treatments that you can find specific information about via a web search, and are all focused on building healthy, positive, and nurturing relationships.
What is play therapy?
Briefly, play therapy is an evidence-based treatment model that uses the way children best communicate, which is through play, to allow them space to process emotions and difficult issues. The relationship between the child and the play therapist helps the child to build self-esteem, confidence, emotional regulation, and ability to independently problem solve. The Association for Play Therapy has a great FAQ about play therapy here.
Where is your office located?
My office is located in Roanoke, VA in the heart of historic Grandin Village. The address is 1402 Grandin Rd. SW, Suite #203, and the entrance can be found on the left side of the building on Westover Ave.
What are your hours?
My office is open (by appointment only) Monday – Thursday from 9 AM to 4 PM.
Tell me about your blog.
There is a new blog every Monday that is located on my website. My blogs focus on discussing the issues that commonly come up for parents and families, and strategies to make life easier for parents. If you have a parenting-related question or suggestion for a topic of a future blog, let me know!
