Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

I’ve had frustrating experiences with therapists not returning my calls. If I reach out, can I expect a response?

Absolutely. I know how discouraging it can be to finally take the step of reaching out for help, only to never hear back. You deserve a therapist who is responsive, reliable, and respectful of your time.

The easiest way to get started is by scheduling a free 15-minute phone consultation through my website. I’ll review your request as soon as possible and call you at your scheduled time. During our conversation, we’ll discuss what’s bringing you to counseling, explore how I may be able to help, answer any questions you have, and, if we’re a good fit, schedule your first appointment.

If you prefer, you’re also welcome to call or leave me a voicemail. If I’m unavailable, I’ll return your call or send a text to arrange a convenient time for your complimentary consultation.

From your very first contact, my goal is to make the process as simple, responsive, and welcoming as possible.

I’ve heard that counselors want to create dependence and keep people in counseling forever. Is this true?

It’s not true of me or my beliefs as a counselor.  My goal with each client is to help them heal and move forward with strength, ultimately putting myself out of a job.  It is considered unethical in our field to create dependence in clients.  One of the best parts of my job is to see a client incorporate healthy changes and go out and live life fully as a result, without the “training wheels” of a counselor.  I don’t cut clients off from support if they still need it, but I’m there to help people find their freedom and peace of mind again.

What is your style?

I believe in growth, truth, and doing the work. I’m down-to-earth, practical, and caring.  (And sometimes I bring in humor!)  Bottom line, I help people identify their goals and achieve them.  I show up with compassion and understanding, and I help people gain insight and start healing.  While I am a very caring person, I don’t coddle or pity my clients, because I disagree with any approach that weakens people.  I strongly encourage my clients to find what’s standing in the way of growth and then overcome it.  In many ways, I am my clients’ biggest fan—but I don’t avoid telling the truth about what’s getting in their way.

What is your clinical approach?

I’ve been trained in many approaches, but the ones I most commonly use with couples are Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman method.

With individuals, I use an integrative approach, drawing from multiple modalities to tailor therapy to each client’s personality and goals.  I commonly use principles of relational therapy, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Because you’re a female counselor, do you favor women over men in couples’ counseling?

Absolutely not. My commitment is to the relationship and to each partner equally. I strive to remain objective, creating a space where both individuals feel heard, understood, and respected.

Rather than taking sides, I help each partner better understand the other’s perspective, communicate more effectively, and develop healthier ways of navigating conflict. Taking one person’s side rarely leads to lasting change and can undermine the trust that’s essential to successful couples therapy.

My role is to help you move from feeling like opponents to becoming teammates again. Together, we’ll identify unhealthy patterns, strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and foster greater love, respect, and connection. My goal is to equip you with the tools and insight to create a healthier, more fulfilling relationship—long after therapy ends.

Are you comfortable helping couples through sexual challenges?

Absolutely. A healthy sexual relationship is an important part of overall relationship health, and I believe couples deserve a therapist who is comfortable addressing this aspect of their relationship with openness, sensitivity, and professionalism.

Sex can be a difficult topic to discuss, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable in therapy. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free environment where both partners can talk honestly about concerns such as differences in desire, intimacy, trust, communication, sexual pain, infidelity, or other challenges affecting their connection.

Whether sexual concerns are the primary issue or one part of a larger relationship dynamic, we’ll work together to better understand the underlying causes, improve communication, and strengthen emotional and physical intimacy.

I’ve had a hard time finding a counselor who respects my traditional values or faith. Can you help?

Absolutely. I understand that many people are concerned about finding a therapist who will respect—not dismiss—their values and beliefs. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood, regardless of your background or worldview.

If your faith or traditional values are important to you, I am happy to incorporate them into our work together. If they aren’t, that’s okay too. Therapy should be tailored to you, your goals, and what matters most in your life.

My role isn’t to persuade you to adopt my beliefs or anyone else’s. It’s to help you heal, strengthen your relationships, and become the healthiest, most resilient version of yourself while honoring the values that are important to you.