What is Counseling?

Counseling is an opportunity for you to explore issues that are important to you, while having a trained and objective person guide you through the current situation and help you develop the tools to deal with similar situations in the future. Counseling provides an opportunity to understand and resolve underlying issues that cause problematic experiences, behaviors, or responses to situations. Although a counselor will not be able to solve your problems, they will be there to help guide you through the process. During the first couple of sessions, your therapist will obtain information about various areas of your life in order to determine the best course of therapy. Counseling is a collaborative process and it requires an active role from you for change to occur.

How should I pick a Counselor?

To choose the right counselor for you, start by considering your goals and find a counselor who specializes in your specific concerns. It is also important to find someone that you feel is approachable and compatible with you. Because the therapeutic process can be challenging and will likely bring up topics, thoughts, and feelings that are uncomfortable, it is vital that your are comfortable enough with your counselor in order to do this difficult work together. When you meet and begin to work with your counselor, some questions to ask yourself are:

• Do you feel comfortable with your counselor?

• Can you be honest and open with your counselor?

• Is your counselor responsive to your concerns and questions?

• Do you feel confident in their understanding and ability to help you with your counseling needs?

How long does Counseling last?

Counseling sessions are typically 45-50 minutes at a time, and depending on your needs, you’ll meet with your counselor weekly or every other week.  The length of time that you choose to be in therapy will depend on your unique circumstance and needs. You and your counselor will work together to determine the course and length of therapy.

How much does Counseling cost?

Individual counseling sessions with me are $150.00 per hour. At this time, I accept Aetna and Regence insurance. I also offer sessions on a sliding scale based on financial need for uninsured or underinsured individuals. Mental Health America offers some suggestions for where to seek support if financial considerations are prohibitive for 1:1 counseling.

Are my counseling sessions confidential?

Your counseling sessions are confidential and private, with the following exceptions: (a) you direct your counselor to tell someone else, (b) you are in imminent danger to yourself or others, such as suicidal or homicidal thoughts, (c) there is concern with regard to abuse to a child or an elder, (d) as ordered by a court to disclose information. Whenever you meet with a counselor, you will receive written documentation that outlines your right to confidentiality and you can always ask for further clarification and information from your counselor.

What the heck are all those acronyms after your name?!

I know, right?! It’s such an alphabet soup! However, each acronym relates to different areas of my skillset, so that you know where and how I’m qualified to do what I do. Here’s a brief breakdown of each acronym and associated links:

WA Mental Health Counselor License (LMHC) - This license is attained after completing supervised postgraduate counseling hours, plus a comprehensive knowledge test, to ensure the high standards and skills necessary to be an effective mental health counselor.

Certified Vocational Expert (CVE) - This certification is attained after completing postgraduate education specific for performing vocational evaluations, such as testing and assessment, analysis of national labor market information, and providing recommendations to help individuals make informed choices about their occupational futures.

Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) - This postgraduate certification is obtained by passing a comprehensive test assessing the knowledge and skills necessary for counseling and serving individuals with disabilities.