Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy in Maine

Who knew when you started Googling “find a therapist near me” that you would find so many options, and be left with SO many questions? I am here to help! Therapy is a big decision and I want to make sure you find the right fit.

I do my best to update this regularly if any information changes, or if I hear from a few people asking the same questions.

If you’d like an answer to a question and you can’t find it here, please feel free to send me an email or schedule a phone consult.

How do I choose the right Therapist in Maine?

There are numerous factors to consider when selecting the right therapist in Maine and research highlights that clinical fit plays a pivotal role in achieving progress in therapy. That's why I'm committed to connecting you with the most suitable therapist in Maine, even if it means referring you elsewhere.

Everyone has a unique story and deserves an individualized approach to care. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey. It’s important to me that we communicate openly and you feel respected in our relationship. I’ll be there to listen to you, challenge you, and support you along the way.

I always start with an introductory session, where you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and your desired outcome from therapy. From there, we’ll work together in the sessions that follow to make your outcome become a reality for you. I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment that allows you to feel comfortable bringing your whole self into session and to be authentically you.

How long does therapy take?

Research shows that committing to at least three months of therapy can lead to meaningful improvements. During our time together, we’ll regularly check in on your progress to ensure we’re moving toward your goals.

At the end of 12 weeks (or another designated time we agree upon together), we’ll discuss next steps—whether that’s celebrating your progress and wrapping up therapy, transitioning to another provider, or continuing our work together to dive deeper into your desired outcomes. Many clients find value in extending therapy beyond the initial 12 sessions, but the choice is always yours, and I’m here to support whatever path feels right for you.

What if the therapy is not working?

In my experience, most adults I work with begin to notice improvements by session 2 or 3. However, if progress isn't evident after a month of therapy, we'll collaborate to adjust our approach and ensure we're effectively addressing your needs. If despite these adjustments, improvement remains elusive, I'll explore the possibility of referring you to another therapist or external resource.

How do I let you know that I’m ready to finish therapy?

While we usually notice clinical improvement by session 2 or session 3, it takes time to sustain that positive growth. That’s the goal - that you can handle challenges and stressors long term - not just feeling better once the crisis has passed.

To ensure a smooth conclusion to our work together, I kindly request a two-week notice if you intend for our session to be the final one. Therapy often delves into deep and meaningful topics, and it's essential to honor our therapeutic relationship by ensuring you're prepared to transition forward.

Do you provide online therapy or in person therapy?

I work with clients all over the state of Maine and am able to do so by providing a virtual office for my clients. All sessions are conducted virtually on a secure HIPAA compliant platform.

What’s your cancellation policy?

I require 24 hours’ notice for cancellation. If your plans change or you start to feel sick more than 24 hours before our appointment, let me know and I’m happy to take you off the schedule! It’s a lot easier for me to fit in another client who needs to meet when you give me enough advanced notice. If you do not cancel with 24 hours notice, you will be charged the full session amount.

In the event that I am unwell or need to cancel, you will not be charged for the missed session.

Why do you suggest weekly therapy sessions?

In my experience, weekly sessions work best for my clients. We actually progress a lot faster instead of taking two steps forward and one step back. Sessions are typically 50 minutes long on a weekly basis.

Ok, that’s great, but actually I think I might need more of your time?

If you feel you might need more time, adding an extra 25 minutes to make it a 75-minute session could be a great option. Some individuals also find success in meeting twice a week.

What’s your availability for therapy?

Instead of dealing with the hassle of scheduling a different time every week, I reserve a dedicated weekly appointment slot exclusively for you, ensuring no one else is scheduled during that time.

I offer appointments throughout the week at various times to suit diverse schedules. However, I understand the importance of finding the right fit for your availability. If you're unable to commit to a weekly slot from my available options, I'll gladly refer you to another therapist who may better accommodate your scheduling needs.

Once you become an established client, I prioritize offering you any new appointment times before opening them to the public, ensuring you have first access to available slots that may better fit your needs.

I’m moving to a new state/I don’t live in Maine. Can you still be my therapist?

Therapists are typically not allowed to work with clients across state lines unless they are licensed in that state. I am licensed in Maine, meaning I can only provide therapy to individuals who live in Maine.

If you live outside of Maine, I can work with you as a coach. Contact me to learn more.

What’s the difference between working with you as a Therapist vs Coach?

Therapy and coaching offer distinct approaches to support individuals in achieving their personal and professional goals. Here's a brief overview of the differences:

Therapy:

If you choose to work with me as a therapist (only available to individuals in Maine), our therapeutic work may encompass both past and future-oriented goals. Therapy typically delves into emotional, psychological, and mental health issues, often addressing past traumas and deep-seated patterns to promote healing and personal growth. While fostering a strong therapeutic relationship is a priority, it's important to note that this relationship often maintains a professional tone rather than fostering camaraderie. You may seek reimbursement for out-of-network services through your insurance provider.

Coaching:

If you choose to work with me as a coach, our approach will focus on present and future-oriented goals, emphasizing personal and professional development. Coaching does not involve diagnosing or treating mental health illnesses but rather supports you in achieving your desired outcomes and growth. The coaching relationship is collaborative and may involve self-disclosure and a more relational dynamic. Unlike therapy, coaches are not bound by strict professional boundaries regarding dual relationships, although ethical considerations are still prioritized to ensure your well-being and the integrity of our work together.

How do you keep my therapy and treatment information secure?

All client records are stored in a cloud based system with bank level encryption that is HIPAA certified, encrypted, and kept secure.

What happens during the first therapy session?

I always start with an introductory session, where you’ll have the opportunity to share your story and your desired outcome from therapy. From there, we’ll work together in the sessions that follow to make your outcome become a reality for you. I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment that allows you to feel comfortable bringing your whole self into session and to be authentically you,

How much do sessions cost and do you take insurnace?

I work with a limited number of insurance plans, which include: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Point 32 Healthcare (Harvard Pilgrim and Tufts Health Care), and Quest Behavioral Health.

Billing for insurance is provided through Headway, making this process transparent and efficient for my clients.

If you are not insured through one of the mentioned providers, my hour rates are as follows:

50-Minute Session - $150

75-Minute Session - $225

What do I need to know about the No Surprises Act and my right to a Good Faith Estimate?

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost.

How do I schedule my initial 15 minute phone call with you?

You can contact me here to schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation for therapy in Maine.